Public Notice: Town of Falher Opposes Closure of BMO Falher Branch
Update on Town of Falher’s Opposition to BMO Falher Branch Closure
Posted February 13, 2025
The Town of Falher Council remains steadfast in its opposition to BMO Bank of Montreal’s decision to close its Falher branch on July 25, 2025.
Representation from Town Council and staff attended BMO’s information session on February 11, 2025. Unfortunately, the discussions did not yield any meaningful progress in persuading BMO to reconsider its decision. BMO representatives appeared indifferent to the significant impact this closure will have on our small community and did not demonstrate a clear understanding of the banking habits and needs of our rural residents and businesses.
Additionally, BMO confirmed that no automated banking machine (ABM) will remain in Falher after the branch closure, further limiting access to essential financial services in our community.
BMO has provided contact information for a representative based in the Edmonton region, and the Town encourages all residents and businesses to reach out directly to share your concerns. It is important that the voices of our small-town community are heard by those making decisions from afar.
Colin Lechelt
Regional Vice President
BMO Bank of Montreal
Edmonton West and Peace Country
colin.lechelt@bmo.com
587 920 3686
Council is disappointed by BMO’s stance and will continue to advocate for the needs of our residents. We urge the community to make your concerns known and ensure that the impact of this decision is clearly communicated to BMO leadership.
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Public Notice: Town of Falher Opposes Closure of BMO Falher Branch
Posted January 15, 2025
(Updated January 22, 2025)
The Town of Falher Council is deeply disappointed by the recent announcement of BMO Bank of Montreal’s decision to close its Falher branch on July 25, 2025. This decision will have a significant negative impact on our community, particularly on vulnerable populations, local businesses, and agricultural operations that rely on accessible financial services.
Council strongly opposes this closure and is actively advocating for BMO to reconsider. A detailed letter outlining our concerns and opposition has been sent to BMO leadership. You can read the full letter on the Town of Falher’s website here.
We also encourage residents to attend BMO’s informal session on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at the Falher branch to express their concerns and learn about how this decision may affect them.
Additionally, BMO representatives have been invited to present at the next Regular Council Meeting on Wednesday, February 12, 2025. This meeting will be open to the public, and we urge residents to attend to show their support for keeping banking services in Falher.
(January 22nd Update: Colin Lechel, Regional Vice President of BMO Bank of MOntreal Edmonton West and Peace Country has reponded to the Town of Falher’s invitation to present as a delegation. In part: “While I understand the desire to further discuss BMO’s decision, I respectfully decline the invitation to appear before Council, as I do not have any further commentary beyond the notifications sent to our customers and public officials.”)
Together, we can advocate for the sustainability and vitality of our community.
For further updates, please visit the Town of Falher’s website or contact the Town Office.
