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WHEELING - When Main Street Bank opened its doors in June 2001, it was the first new bank in the Northern Panhandle in 34 years.
“Main Street” refers to a place of traditional small-town values and social life, representing the interests of everyday people.
This has remained a part of the core values of Main Street Bank over two decades helping it achieve impressive success. After beginning from zero, the business has grown to more than $600 million in total assets.
"We know that a locally based bank staffed by seasoned banking professionals has a greater understanding of what local people need," said Richard Lucas, Main Street Bank president and CEO. "We think the interaction is just as important as the transaction. Technology throughout the industry has made banking become less personal. So we offer a bank that not only provides the technical conveniences that people demand, but the personal support and assistance that people need."
He continued, "Our customers know that the best bankers in the Ohio Valley work at Main Street Bank. We make decisions quickly and respond rapidly to advancements in the banking industry. And we always remember that technology is very important, but can never replace sincere, personal service."
The philosophy has worked. The bank is currently at 85 employees after starting out with just 12, and has grown to five full service branches including four in West Virginia - Wheeling, Elm Grove, Moundsville and Wellsburg - and one in Toronto. After turning a profit in its ninth month in 2021, the bank had record earnings of $5.4 million.
Part of Main Street Bank's success is due to its many long-standing relationships with day-to-day customers. In addition, no commission, sales or deadline goals need to be met, allowing employees to be focused on customers' banking needs.
Another reason is great relationships between staff and employees at every level. In fact, the employees seem to be extremely grateful for the manner in which Main Street Bank acknowledges employees for hard work and dedication including luncheons, Christmas parties and summer picnics.
Finally employees are also recognized for their substantial community involvement.
That involvement is a guiding principle and point of pride for Main Street Bank both financially and by sponsoring local events.
Lucas explained, "We're committed to dedication and support for our communities and each other."
Lucas, a native of Wellsburg and a resident of Wheeling, graduated from West Liberty University in 1986 with a bachelor of science degree specializing in accounting, and passed the Certified Public Accounting Exam in 1990.
He began his accounting career with S R Snodgrass, CPAs, in 1986 and worked there until 1994. In 1994, Lucas accepted the position of vice president with One Valley Bank - North Inc. and remained there until October 2000, leaving the bank as senior vice president.
Lucas is currently president and CEO and a member of the board of directors of Main Street Bank, positions he has held since the bank started.
Lucas has been active in the local community, as evidenced by his service to the West Liberty University Board of Governors, the Greater Wheeling Sports and Entertainment Authority, the Wheeling Chapter of CPAs, the Hockey Club of the Ohio Valley, the Regional Economic Development Partnership, the Wheeling Amateur Hockey Association, and the Seeing Hand Association.