We spoke with Pilot Bank President Rita Lowman about COVID-19 and its economic impact on businesses and our local community.

Over the past few weeks Pilot Bank has opened the drive-through at each bank location and have utilized appointments for inside assistance, as have most US banks. The banking industry, like most, has made the shift towards Zoom calls with teams and clients. Pilot Bank in particular has also strived to keep the community informed by having colleagues serve on panels and host webinars.

While working remotely might be a fact of professional life for the weeks or months to come, the team at Pilot Bank has continued to assist businesses in the local communities they serve.  Pilot Bank is pleased to have assisted over 780 businesses secure Paycheck Protection Loans.

In these times, Rita recommends businesses continue to stick to the basic fundamentals of growth.

“I always recommend businesses to have three partners whether starting out or in business.  Those partners are your banker, attorney and accountant.  Many other partners make you complete,” said Rita.

She also urges firms to remember your local bankers as an asset to lean on when in need of assistance or celebration, in challenging times and good times. The Small Business Administration team and local bankers are always an important asset. Pilot Bank is committed to working with legislatures to assist our local businesses, communities and citizens as we look to recover and reopen. While these are difficult times for many industries, local banks like Pilot Bank always meet their clients with responsive and top-quality service.