UCB to Provide Free Banking Services For One Year

United Community Bank has agreed to waive the fee for banking services it will provide to Forsyth County government for the next 12 months.

County Commissioners created a storm of controversy in April when they voted 2-1 (with Commissioners Pete Amos and Todd Levent absent) to approve a request for proposal submitted by UCB against the recommendation of the county Procurement Department (see story).

UCB initially offered to provide the services for up to $50,000 annually. Procurement Director Donna Kukarola recommended Sun Trust Bank because Sun Trust offered to provide the same services for free.

But Commissioners Patrick Bell and Brian Tam agreed to go with UCB based on, what they say, was a better customer service record.

That decision sparked a backlash from the citizens, angered over what appeared to be a waste of taxpayer dollars in the midst of a sinking economy.

But, during Tuesday's work session, it was revealed that UCB has now agreed to waive its fee for the next year. It was on that basis commissioners voted 3-1 to place the issue back on the July 7th agenda. Bell recused himself because a relative recently received a loan from UCB.

The contract that will be voted on Thursday is renewable annually for up to four years and has a 30-day "out" clause if the county is not satisfied with its service.

Commissioner Todd Levent speculated that public opinion may have caused UCB officials to waive their fee.

"A lot of people were angry," he said. "Their customers may have put pressure on them to give taxpayers a break. Whatever caused them to change their minds and provide the services for free, I applaud them. Now we're in a situation where we will be banking with a local business, get good customer service and it won't cost taxpayers a dime. It's a win-win. UCB officials are to be commended."