Two Eastern Oregon credit unions have announced their intent to merge.

Under the intended merger, Union Wallowa Baker Federal Credit Union would merge into Old West Federal Credit Union. This would create a membership of over 12,000 that would have access to seven branches throughout Eastern Oregon.

“Both credit unions share a common heritage and great reputations,” Ken Olson, President and CEO of Old West stated in a press release. “I was impressed by Union Wallowa Baker board’s commitment to their members and employees. I’m humbled that they would choose Old West as a potential merger partner.”

Carol Kroll, Board Chair of Union Wallowa Baker, was enthusiastic about the potential merger.

“Being able to offer the products and services that members want while maintaining a local, personalized presence is an expensive proposition for any credit union,” Kroll stated in a press release, “and combining our assets with Old West will help ensure that a local, accountable cooperative is here to serve our members.”

The combined credit union would have assets of over $160,000,000 and serve eight Oregon counties. Pending regulatory and member approval, the merger could be completed as early as December.

“It’s not been an easy time for small credit unions in this regulatory economic environment,” Olson said in a follow-up interview. “I think they wanted to ensure that their members in that area a would be continue to be serviced by a local financial institution.”

Olson added that he didn’t anticipate any jobs being lost in the merger and that they may even add a few people to the La Grande office.