Dear Customers,

“Convenience” – it certainly can be a buzz word in banking and other service industries. But how do you view convenience? You lead a busy life so it’s a primary focus. But what does it mean…really? Some examples: Is it convenient to order a magazine subscription over the phone from a telemarketer with your credit card? Yes. But, is it convenient to order a magazine subscription from a telemarketer with your credit card…only to have your identity stolen? No. Is it convenient to go to the dry cleaner around the corner? Yes. But is it convenient to go to the dry cleaner around the corner… only for them to consistently misplace your clothes? I think we can all agree – no.

And how about…banking? Is it convenient to bank at the biggest credit union in town? Maybe. But is it convenient to bank at the biggest credit union in town…only to have to wait for five minutes to speak to a real person (yes, that really happened), or to pay to see a teller in the lobby or be treated as if you and your needs aren’t important – no.

At Better Banks, convenience is a primary focus, but so are you – and your needs. We never want to forsake service in favor of convenience and we believe convenience is best when it provides value to you. Here are three recent examples of improvements to convenience you’ll see: First, we have redone our website, adding several features such as online account opening and educational videos (to answer some of your anticipated questions). Secondly, we have extended our hours so that all branches now open at 8 am Monday-Friday. Lastly, we are adding to our account offerings and including ATM refunds to allow access to non-Better Banks ATMs free of charge. In addition, we have enhanced our Internet banking to include e-mail alerts and password reset.

Convenience is important to us and to you. And our promise is while we continually look for ways to become a more “convenient” bank – we’ll maintain “personal service” and “attention to you,” as our top priorities. And as we all search for more time in our day, let’s be reminded that time is precious and while we can’t have more of it, we can do more WITH it.

Sincerely,

Steve E. Backlund
Chairman