Can anyone give me a good definition of what constitutes being a 'community bank'? - I have looked everywhere and can't seem to find anything.

Thanks in Advance

In the CRA definition it is $250MM in assets. But is that a good test, NO. When I have taught on community bank subject matter, a poll will often show banks of $1B in there because they consider themselves to be community (oriented) banks in the way they service their customers.

So in other words, it's more or less self-defined - one of those feel=good marketing terms.

Yes, that's it. Size of the service area is another self-test that's sometimes used. As your "footprint" becomes statewide or regional it gets harder to call yourself a "community bank."

Cool - Thanks guys - first time I've posted a question - what quick response!!!!

Please don't make it the last - - # 99,591

You'll find this to be a good group of folks. Y'all come back now, y'hear.

Here's the best I've been:

A bank that gets its deposits from friends, neighbors and customers. That makes loans in the community. Whose community involvement is more than just money - it is time, energy and long term commitment. That is locally owned and managed. Where customers, employees and shareholders are equally important.

That's actually phenomenal T - I am going to save that one.