California to get cfsbank branch
It will make up for the loss of KeyBank, which will be closing Aug. 28.
By the MVI
California Borough will not be losing its only bank after all.
On Monday, cfsbank announced plans to open a full-service branch in California, marking the community bank’s newest expansion and reaffirming its commitment to serving communities throughout the Mon Valley and Southwestern Pennsylvania.
The decision follows a “highly successful” community town hall hosted by cfsbank earlier this month, where residents, business owners, community organizations and local leaders gathered to learn more about the bank and share their vision for the future of banking in California.
The overwhelming response, along with nearly 100 of statements of interest submitted by attendees, demonstrated strong community support for bringing a locally focused financial institution to the borough.
The town hall was held following news that Key-Bank’s California branch will permanently close Aug. 28. The branch, located at 256 Third St., will consolidate into KeyBank’s Monongahela branch at 318 W. Main St., approximately 11.8 miles away.
The new branch of cfsbank will provide personal and business banking, mortgage lending, commercial lending and other financial services, while continuing cfsbank’s tradition of local decision-making and community involvement.
“From the moment we began meeting with borough leadership, it was clear that California is a community that values relationships, local investment, and personal service— values that have defined cfsbank for more than 90 years,” said John Gill, president and CEO of cfsbank. “The response we received at our community town hall exceeded our expectations and confirmed that this is the right opportunity at the right time.
“Even with a heat advisory in effect that evening, residents came out to share their ideas, ask thoughtful questions and let us know they wanted a community bank they could call their own. That level of engagement spoke volumes and played an important role in our decision to move forward.”
The opportunity emerged after California Borough Administrator Dr. Richard H. Martin wrote a letter to cfsbank about establishing a banking presence in California following the announcement that the community’s only bank branch would be closing later this year. After touring the community and meeting with local leaders, cfsbank committed to first listening to residents before making a final decision.
“One of the things that impressed me most throughout this process was how passionately the California community rallied around the idea of keeping community banking local,” said Danielle Maurer, chief operating and chief retail officer for cfsbank. “The town hall wasn’t about us presenting a finished plan — it was about listening. The feedback we received, the conversations we had, and the incredible level of support shown by residents made it clear that California isn’t just looking for another bank; they’re looking for a true community partner. We’re honored they see that in cfsbank.”
Planning is underway for the new branch, with additional details regarding the location, timeline and grand opening to be announced in the coming weeks.
