New Consumers National Bank taking shape

Staff Reports

SALEM -- The new building for the Salem branch of Consumers National Bank is taking shape in the parking lot behind the existing bank at the corner of West State and South Ellsworth.

The framework for the structure is up and customers can watch the progress as the construction continues. Currently customers are restricted to the drive-thru only.

A press release issued in October, when the groundbreaking was celebrated, said the existing building will remain in operation during construction and then will be razed. The new building is expected to open later this year.

"Our decision to maintain and expand the Salem branch in its present location exemplifies our commitment to the community and to our customers. The existing building, which has housed our Salem operation in various formats since 1975, has become obsolete from an employee, customer, and efficiency perspective," Consumers National Bank President and CEO Ralph Lober II said. "Our new facility will feature the most up-to-date equipment plus a customer-oriented design and functionality."

Architect Milton Studer of Minerva designed the structure and J. Herbert Construction Company of Salem was chosen as the general contractor, meaning work for local subcontractors and local workers.

"Consumers National Bank is proud to invest in the local economy through this building project. We are making this investment in Salem and Columbiana County because of our long history in the community and because of our belief in its future," Lober said, adding that "doing business with other local businesses is essential to Consumers Bank."

In the press release, Grant Mingus, Vice President of Operations of J. Herbert Construction, said the company was grateful to Consumers National Bank for the opportunity to construct the new building and "for their continued investment into our hometown."

A description of the new building said the branch will "feature a modern banking lobby with six stations where relationship bankers can assist with all types of banking transactions, four private offices, and a conference room. The three-lane drive-thru teller windows and night depository will be separated from the drive-up ATM to facilitate traffic flow around the building."

The building will include separate office space for the Salem Community Foundation, with private offices, a separate entrance and signage. The bank has been providing rent-free space to SCF for many years.

"The Salem Community Foundation's board of directors and staff are extremely grateful for the kindnesses extended by Consumers National Bank for the generous office and meeting space. We are very excited for our continued relationship with Consumers National Bank as we continue to serve and make a positive difference in the community of Salem. The expanded office space will most definitely be a highlight of our community foundation's 55th year," SCF President John Tonti said in the press release.