First Security Bank held a grand opening celebration for its Sour Lake branch, located at 185 State Highway 105 East, on Jan. 28.
In July 2024, the bank announced its plans for a branch in Sour Lake. The new 1,300 square-foot building has two drive-in lanes and an ATM machine. The stated intent is to build a brick-and-mortar branch within the next 3-5 years.
“This highly anticipated event marked a significant milestone in bringing personalized, community-centered banking back to the area,” Austin Williams, First Security Bank Vice President of Marketing and Business Development, said.
The Sour Lake Chamber of Commerce and BBB Southeast Texas hosted the ribbon cutting. There was free food and drinks, along with prizes and giveaways, including a Blackstone grill, crawfish cooker, or the $1,000 grand prize (no account required to enter).
“Meet our friendly team, take a tour of the new branch and experience the welcoming environment that defines First Security Bank,” Williams added.
Chairman and CEO Clint Walters said he’s excited about the grand opening and the bank in his hometown.
“I’ve been with community banks. I’ve been with regional banks. I’ve been with large banks and I’ve also been with credit unions,” said Walters at the grand opening. “My vision for this bank is that we take the best of of a truly locally owned community bank, how they support the business, the community, and we take the best of what the credit unions have to offer as far as member service, customer service, and put that together — and that’s the vision for our locally owned community bank.”
“This celebration is for you, Sour Lake. We’re not just opening a bank; we’re opening doors to stronger connections and opportunities for the people we proudly call our neighbors.Come out, bring your family, and help us make this a memorable event. Together, we can build a brighter future for our hometown,” Walters added, emphasized the importance of community involvement. Your support is what makes milestones like this possible. We want to celebrate with you and show our gratitude for trusting us to be your hometown bank.”
According to First Security Bank officials, during a time when banking often feels disconnected, the bank is renewing its commitment to hometown roots.
The new branch will reportedly strive to combine traditional, face-to-face banking with cutting-edge online and mobile solutions to meet the needs of today’s customers.
“This branch represents the perfect blend of tradition and innovation. It’s about providing the modern conveniences you need, without losing the personal touch you deserve. We’re here to serve Sour Lake with a passion for community and a dedication to excellence,” said First Security Bank President Melissa Domingues.
The bank officially opened Dec. 2, 2024.
“We did our soft opening and we’ve already been able to give back quite a bit to this community — and we’re going to continue to do that,” said Walters. “Our motto for 2025 is ‘First Security Bank is going to thrive in 2025’ and it doesn’t happen without the community support and without the staff that we have on board.”
The bank represented donations checks to the Hardin-Jefferson High School cheerleaders and marching band.
First Security Bank also has branches in Beaumont and Beaver, Oklahoma.
— Dannie Oliveaux
