The Farmers Bank Westfield Financial Center, located at 17370 Farmers Bank Way, is marking a milestone – its first year of redefining community banking in Westfield.
Since opening in December 2023, this modern, customer-focused branch has quickly become a financial hub for local households, businesses and nonprofits. Led by Westfield resident and Center Director Steve Latour, and Assistant Director Megan Lowe, the center’s mission goes beyond traditional banking; it’s about fueling Westfield’s growth by investing back into the community with every deposit, loan and partnership.
As part of The Farmers Bank’s 11-branch network, the Westfield Financial Center brings a fresh, innovative approach as a bank with deep roots. Founded in 1876, The Farmers Bank has grown from its humble agricultural beginnings into a powerhouse with over $1 billion in assets. In the last three years alone it has seen a surge of $450 million in growth, expanding its services to meet the evolving needs of today’s consumers. Now, with its sights set on Westfield, the bank is combining its century-old legacy with cutting-edge financial solutions to help the community thrive.
“We offer concierge banking at Westfield Financial Center,” says Latour. “It’s having a relationship with your banker in the same way you would grow to have a relationship with your doctor, investor or neighborhood bakery. When we meet with individuals, businesses or nonprofits, we have a conversation about their specific needs. We ask about their long-term goals and what they are trying to accomplish. Besides offering savings and checking accounts, we have ideas, tools, and opportunities to lower banking fees, earn interest, or consolidate debt.”
The newly built facility is situated just south of State Road 32 and Spring Mill Road, in the geographical center of Westfield. With a wood-beamed ceiling and a light-filled lobby, it doesn’t seem like a typical bank branch. Fresh-baked cookies are available, and the airy conference room offers a place to sit down and have a conversation.
Outside the building is a structure that looks like an art installation. However, it’s a solar energy device known as Smartflower. The moving, petal-like panels track the sun’s movement across the sky, producing energy savings for Westfield Financial Center. Not only is it a nod to sustainability, but it also serves as an educational tool for schools who wish to come and view it.
“We are extremely involved in the community,” says Latour. “Before taking the position of Westfield Financial Center director, I had the honor of leading the Westfield Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Association. Together, Megan and I have a lot of experience with the businesses and organizations in Hamilton County. Given our location, we also work with companies, nonprofits, and residents of Carmel and Zionsville.”
“When we opened our doors, we started from the ground up,” Latour adds. “I am so proud that within our first year, we have been able to welcome many of the community’s movers and shakers as new bank customers, investing the money they’ve banked with us to help grow Westfield. Additionally, we have given back by supporting local events and fundraisers. Within a month after opening, it started a $15,000 scholarship with the Westfield Education Foundation, for an endowment supporting a reoccurring $1,000 scholarship awarded to a Westfield graduating high school senior pursuing a business or accounting degree. In addition, our location has become a year-round drop-off location for school supply donations.”
“I love the impact we are already making in the community,” says Lowe. “We are fostering growth by engaging our customers on a personal level.”
Latour shares that during the Christmas season, visitors to the facility can get information about adopting a family in need of assistance, or they can drop off donations of toys and clothes. The bank will also be sponsoring one of five trees in this year’s Westfield Washington Library Foundation’s annual Christmas Tree Raffle. The event will be held from November 2 to December 1, and funds raised will benefit the library’s programs.
“Community engagement helps growth,” says Latour. “For example, when we are a sponsor of an event held by the Westfield Chamber of Commerce, it helps offset the ticket prices, and then more people in the community can attend. In this first year we have been able to demonstrate community impact and growth. As we look to the year ahead, we’d like to double our impact.”
“As we celebrate the success of our first year at the Westfield Financial Center, we’re proud of the impact we’ve made, helping local businesses thrive, supporting nonprofits and building personal relationships with our customers,” Latour continues. “This is just the beginning. The possibilities ahead are limitless, and we’re excited to continue growing alongside this incredible community. Whether you’re looking to elevate your personal finances, expand your business or invest in your future, we invite you to stop by and meet with us. Let’s have a conversation about how The Farmers Bank can help you achieve your goals and be a part of Westfield’s continued growth. Together we’ll create a brighter future, right here in the heart of the city.”
Visit their website at thefarmersbank.com to schedule an appointment, or call 765-654-8731. The Westfield Financial Center is located at 17370 Farmers Bank Way in Westfield.
