Frontier Credit Union To Acquire First Citizen’s Bank Of Butte, Expanding Community-Focused Financial Services To Montana

IDAHO FALLS, ID – Frontier Credit Union, led by Montana-native Dan Thurman, announced today that it has entered into an agreement to acquire First Citizens Bank of Butte, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Butte Bank Shares, Inc. This acquisition marks Frontier’s first expansion into the Treasure State.

Headquartered in Idaho Falls, the strategic move aims to bring Frontier's 90-year legacy of member-focused financial services to a new market while honoring First Citizens Bank of Butte's tradition of community banking.

With this acquisition, customers of First Citizens Bank of Butte will gain access to Frontier's full suite of financial products, enhanced technology, competitive rates, and quick online loan applications, all while maintaining a commitment to personalized service.

"As we bring Frontier to Montana, we're not just expanding our footprint—we're extending our mission of helping people build better lives," stated Dan Thurman, CEO of Frontier Credit Union. "Having grown up in Dillon, it’s a dream to share Frontier with my home state. We can’t wait to be a part of the fabric here in Butte and serve this great community."

"This transaction brings tremendous opportunities for our customers and employees," said Casey Reilly, CEO of First Citizens Bank of Butte. "It’s a natural fit. I’m excited our customers will be in the hands of someone who knows what makes Montana special and appreciates the uniqueness of Butte."

The transaction is subject to approval by bank and credit union regulators as well as the shareholders of Butte Bank Shares, Inc. Until the acquisition is finalized, both organizations will continue to conduct business as usual. First Citizens Bank of Butte customers can expect communication from their banking team during the transition, and the local branch will remain open, ensuring the personalized banking experience that customers value.

The CEO Advisory Group and McQueen Financial Advisors served as financial advisors to Frontier Credit Union, while Luse Gorman, PC acted as its legal advisor in the proposed acquisition. Olsen Palmer LLC served as financial advisor to First Citizens Bank of Butte and Butte Bank Shares, Inc., with Spierer Woodward Corbalis Goldberg as its legal advisor.

For more information about Frontier Credit Union and the acquisition, please visit frontiercreditunion.com/blog/expanding-to-butte-montana or email contactus@frontiercreditunion.com.

About Frontier Credit Union:

Founded in 1935, Frontier Credit Union helps members build better lives through personalized financial services, competitive rates, and active community investment. Recognized as Idaho's fastest-growing credit union, Frontier combines modern banking technology with traditional member-focused service.

About First Citizens Bank of Butte:

First Citizens Bank of Butte, an FDIC insured Montana State-chartered commercial bank, was founded in 1977 and is headquartered in Butte, Montana, where it operates one branch. Learn more at fcbob.com.