Published: November 23, 2007 11:21 pm         

5/3 to stay in Effingham

Regardless of what happens in negotiations with Helen Matthes Library officials, 5/3 Bank will stay in Effingham, according to a marketing director for the financial institution.

Library officials announced Tuesday at the Effingham City Council meeting they were currently negotiating with bank officials to obtain that facility as its new home if voters approve a hike in the operating tax in February.

Although it had been rumored the bank was planning to build at another site in Effingham, that could not be confirmed until late Wednesday afternoon.

“We will stay in Effingham regardless of what happens with the library,” Lloyd Winnecke, vice president marketing director, said late Wednesday afternoon. “We’re not near an agreement ... if the project proceeds and if the library and bank can reach an agreement, our intention is to build close to where we are located now.”

He would not say where the bank planned to build a new facility, but it does not currently own all the land needed.

Winnecke added if the deal with the library does not go through, the bank will stay in its current location on Third Street.

“Our intention is to stay in Effingham,” Winnecke said.

Donna Riley-Gordon can be reached at 217-347-7151 ext. 129 or driley-gordon@effinghamdailynews.com.