Bank First to move Iola branch

By Holly Neumann

The Iola Village Board has accepted Bank First National’s offer to purchase a lot located at 295 E. State St.

Currently, the bank’s facilities are located at 148 N. Main St.

“The building is too big for modern, efficient banking,” said attorney Bruce Meagher. “They want someone who can be a teller and at the drive-up window at the same time.”

“As a relationship-based community bank we are committed to serving the Iola-Scandinavia communities today and for many years to come,” CEO Michael B. Molepske told the Waupaca County Post. “Over the last several years the bank has invested in our facilities, as well as our people. The current location in downtown Iola is a very large space that does not allow our staff to serve our customers in an efficient manner.”

Molepske noted concerns with the lobby and drive-thru spaces that are exceedingly far apart.

“With our new branch design, our staff will be able to tend to customer’s needs in one concentrated area,” he said.

They hope to break ground in early spring of 2019, with a move-in date of early fall of 2019.

Their current building on Main St. will be placed n the market.

Village President Joel Edler said the bank has also offered to put up a clock with time and temperature at a separate location.

The property was sold at $40,000 and is subject to standard contingencies.

A Phase 1 environmental assessment will be done at Bank First National’s expense.

Currently the lot is being used as overflow parking for Iola Living Assistance.