News

When First Federal Bank chose downtown Nampa for its newest location, the decision went beyond just adding another pin to the map. The bank saw an opportunity to serve a community that mirrors the values and character that have defined First Fed for over a century.

“Twin Falls and Nampa have a lot of the same type of soul,” explains Jess Flynn, First Federal Bank director and board member representing the Treasure Valley. “Both communities are proud of their agricultural roots while embracing growth from manufacturers, food producers, and technology companies. Nampa has become a gateway to Idaho’s wine country and agricultural communities, while also attracting families and businesses who are proud to call it home.”

The new branch, located in the heart of downtown Nampa, represents First Fed’s first location in Canyon County and reflects the bank’s strategic approach to growth in the Treasure Valley. Rather than simply following population trends, First Fed carefully considers how its community banking model can best serve emerging needs.

Relationships and Shared Values

“We have a lot of employees in the Treasure Valley who are from the Nampa area or Canyon County,” notes Jason Meyerhoeffer, President and CEO of First Federal Bank. “It was an opportunity for us to take advantage of those relationships. As a mutual bank, our interests are really well aligned with our customers, because we don’t have the challenges of trying to balance interests between shareholders and customers.”

The branch’s location was chosen with careful consideration for both accessibility and community connection. “If you take a pin and drop it on our new Nampa location and go out seven miles in a big circle, we cover all of Nampa,” explains Jim Reames, Senior Vice President and Treasure Valley Market President. “Logistically, it helps our bankers, officers, and clients. It gives them the opportunity to have a bank they trust close by and centered in the valley.”

“Frankly, this office is here because the Nampa community is more like Twin Falls,” Reames adds. “People in Nampa want a relationship with somebody. They want to stop by and have a cup of coffee with their banker, or just visit. When customers come to First Fed, they’re not just doing a transaction - they’re visiting friends. That’s who they are, that’s who we are, and that’s what makes this location special.”

Designed for the Community

While the branch offers full banking services, its design reflects First Fed’s commitment to everyone it serves. “This doesn’t feel like a standard bank,” explains Reames. “We’ve built a space for our community. If customers want to use our large conference room for a workshop, or if local groups need a meeting space, we have that available.”

The expansion comes at a time of significant growth for First Fed in the Treasure Valley. In just five years, the bank has grown to manage $100 million in deposits and nearly $400 million in loans in the region. While business banking and mortgage services are key focus areas for the new branch, the core mission remains serving all community members.

“Nampa has an amazing downtown core that has this great history and bones,” Flynn notes. “First Federal is taking on being right in the heart of downtown with a nod towards the history of that place, marked by a beautiful neon sign crafted by our longtime customer Lytle Signs (note: previously profiled in The Association). The location offers easy access for the wide variety of businesses and homeowners who call Nampa home.”

As First Fed continues to expand its presence in the Treasure Valley, its focus remains on enhancing the well-being of its customers and communities. This commitment to community banking, combined with local expertise and relationships, positions First Fed to serve Nampa’s growing needs with the personal touch the customers and community expects.