Frustration is mounting at Bonnechere Valley council over the pending closure of the community’s Bank of Montreal branch and what officials describe as a lack of willingness by the bank to reconsider its decision.
The branch is scheduled to close in early summer, a move that councillors say will leave residents with limited access to in-person banking services. Mayor Jennifer Murphy said council met late last year with bank representatives and was told follow-up discussions would take place, but correspondence since then suggests the decision is final.
Murphy said council is planning a public town hall to gather community input and explore options to advocate for the branch to remain open, though she acknowledged expectations are low.
Murphy goes on to say that rural municipalities across Ontario are facing similar challenges as financial institutions consolidate services. She suggested bringing the issue to the Rural Ontario Municipal Association to seek broader advocacy.
A public meeting is scheduled for Feb. 19, beginning at 5:30 p.m., and will be held in an open house and town hall format to allow residents to attend as their schedules permit. Murphy said the session will provide an opportunity for residents to share how the closure could affect them.
(Richard Evans)