Unique marketing and networking efforts in 2007 underscored Bank of Belleville’s successful business development. The result was a solid year of growth and an optimistic outlook for 2008. In addition to the bank adding three new board members, we added key banking professionals to our staff to increase business referrals.
We are branding the bank through our extensive community involvement. In November, the bank once again sponsored two meetings of The Alternative Board (TAB). TAB is composed of local CEOs and business owners that meet monthly to exchange business strategy ideas, advice and solutions.
| We are branding the bank through our extensive community involvement. |
Involvement with the business community is emphasized at our local Rotary clubs. We were proud last July when one of our officers became president of the St. Clair County East Rotary Club.
Shortly after the bank’s debut, we became the annual sponsor of the popular horse-drawn trolley for downtown holiday shoppers. This past holiday season marked our third year of involvement with this signature event.
Bank of Belleville earned recognition last year for its sponsorship of an electronic message sign at the region’s leading parochial high school. The sponsorship was announced at the school’s Vision & Values dinner, which many business and community leaders also attended.
Our staff stayed late in November creating a gingerbread likeness of the bank building to be displayed in a local merchant’s front window during the annual Gingerbread Walk. This tradition recalls Belleville’s heritage. In the 1850s, the city had a large population of German immigrants and many of the buildings feature gingerbread architecture.
We have seen the loan portfolio grow and diversify through the addition last year of two experienced commercial lenders and a talented mortgage lender. The addition of an investment executive with Capitol Wealth Advisors will further diversify our revenue stream while providing us with many excellent opportunities to expand our existing customer relationships and develop new ones.
The past year was a period of growth for Bank of Belleville. The future remains bright as we heighten our community presence and more fully service our customers.
— Kevin M. Pesko, President