Central California Bank To Be Purchased By Umpqua

Sonora, CA — Central California Bank will soon be under new ownership, however Bank President Fred Rowden says things will only change for the better.

Rowden says Umpqua Holdings Corporation out of Oregon will acquire Western Sierra Bancorp in a transaction valued at more than $335 million.

Central California Bank is one of four banks within the holding company, all of which will be called Umpqua Bank in the future.

Rowden says none of the 14 Central California Bank branches will be affected by the change when it comes to employment, services, or products. He believes that Umpqua´s philosophy is the same as theirs, regarding community banking and one on one service.

When it comes to community involvement, Rowden says Umpqua is also a firm believer in giving back to the community and he says they will be giving more back in the form of donations and time than they have in the past. The transition is expected to happen between April and June.

Written by Sabrina Sabbagh