What's Happening

BY: GEOFF PICKLE, DIGITAL EDITORGPICKLE@SBJ.NET Posted online September 4, 2024 | 12:09 pm Last edited 12:29 p.m., Sept. 4, 2024 [Editor's note: More information has been added.] After the merger of two Branson-area banks was announced in 2023, the holding company of the businesses is set to finalize the deal by year's end. Table Rock Community Bank and First Community Bank of the Ozarks are set to officially combine in December, according to a news release. The merger is set to commence at the close of business on Dec. 6 and wrap up by the open of business on Dec. 9, with Table Rock Community Bank to serve as the name of the combined entity. Southeast Missouri operation Alton Bancshares Inc., which bought Kimberling City-based Table Rock Community Bank in summer 2022, announced in July 2023 that the newly purchased company would merge with its First Community Bank of the Ozarks brand in Branson. "This merger marks a significant milestone for our organization and the communities we serve,” said Kendall Combs, chair of Alton Bancshares, in the release. “By uniting First Community Bank of the Ozarks and Table Rock Community Bank under one brand, Table Rock Community Bank, we are better positioned to serve our customers with expanded resources and a steadfast commitment to local values." In announcing the merger last year, Alton Bancshares projected it would be completed in November. Shannon Dotson, marketing and business development officer for Table Rock Community Bank, said this morning that the merger expanded into 2024. "Due to the scope of work involved in converting both banking systems, as well as all that goes into completing a merger, it was decided to break it up in phases in order to limit the impact on our customers and staff," Dotson said in an email. The combined Table Rock Community Bank would have more than $345 million in assets and seven branches, according to the release. The combined organization would have around 75 employees, with no positions to be eliminated, said Dotson, noting Charles Hachtel will be CEO of the merged entity. Table Rock Community Bank this spring opened a new branch in Springfield at 3550 S. National Ave., Ste. 100, according to past reporting.