Availa Bank made a presentation of the building located at 628 Second St., in downtown Webster City, to the Webster City Area Chamber of Commerce. The building has been home to the Chamber of Commerce for many years.

“Availa Bank is very pleased with our investment and presence in the Webster City community. We are very happy to be donating this building to the Webster City Area Chamber of Commerce and trust that it will assist them in their mission to serve the community,” said Availa Bank President and Chief Executive Officer Jeff Scharfenkamp in a statement. “As a long time community bank, we realize that a strong community bank requires a strong investment back into the places where we work and live. We are proud to be a part of the Webster City area and believe this donation is a tangible way to show our commitment.”

“We are thrilled to be entrusted with the stewardship of this wonderful historic building,” said Linda Christensen, Chamber Executive Director.

Scott Bargfrede, Availa Bank’s Webster City Market President and Senior Loan officer said, “We are honored to be donating this building to the Webster City Area Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber has a long history of hard work and commitment to our community and it is with great pride that we are able to give back to them. I hope this donation reflects Availa Bank’s commitment to our local community as we look forward to our continued partnership with the Chamber for many years to come.”

The Webster City Area Chamber of Commerce now owns the office building it calls home at 628 Second St., Webster City. The building was donated to the Chamber Thursday morning by Availa Bank officials.

Availa Bank acquired the building during its purchase of First American Bank earlier this year. From that time Availa management and staff have been focused on ensuring a smooth transition for all of their customers.

“We’re about a year out from our announcement last December that we were acquiring three branches from First American Bank. So we wanted to come here today say thank you,” said Jackie Mahler, Availa Bank chief financial officer. “We’re excited to be here as a community bank. We wanted to thank the communities for welcoming us.”

The bank officials presented members of the Chamber board of directors with a plaque commemorating the donation.

Christianson said she and her staff are pleased to continue operating from the building.

“It’s the only stone building downtown,” she said. “We’re looking at doing some updates coming in 2018.”

Availa Bank has roots dating back to 1870. Besides Webster City Availa Bank has locations in the following communities: Carroll, Coon Rapids, Arcadia, Council Bluffs, Jewell, Fort Dodge, Roland, Jewell and Pocahontas.