If you have not heard by now, our local American Marine Bank was involved in a recent changeover to Columbia Bank. In part, my biggest fear for Poulsbo is that we may lose some of the most incredible, knowledgeable and helpful banking employees I have ever conducted business with. The amazing staff including Gwen, Misty, Tiffany, Elisa and Carissa have served our community with the utmost highest costumer service.

My hope is that five outstanding employees will continue to serve our community as Columbia Bank states “We are about the people, the customers we serve, the team members who are Columbia Bank, and the communities we are a part of, not just in.”

If Columbia Bank wants to maintain its “highest priority in customer service, great people to best serve our communities” then they should be over the moon to already have employees in place to be our “local bank dedicated to our customers.”

As many of you know, with my job and involvement in the community I am in a strong position to hear an enormous amount of feedback. I know I am not alone in my feelings so I strongly urge you to contact www.columbiabank.com with your own comments.

Shelly Bratlien

Poulsbo