Rebranding of Santa Cruz County Bank and 1st Capital Bank to West Coast Community Bank Marks a New Era

West Coast Community Bank Officially Launches

On April 1, 2025, a significant transformation took place in the financial landscape of California's Central Coast with the official launch of West Coast Community Bank (WCCB). This bank emerges from the merger of Santa Cruz County Bank and 1st Capital Bank, combining their strengths to serve businesses and individuals across several counties including Santa Cruz, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, and Santa Clara.

The rebranding encapsulates a major shift in both name and mission. WCCB represents the commitment to not just local clients but also sets the stage for future expansion in the region. According to Krista Snelling, President and CEO of WCCB, this merger is more than just a name change; it’s a strengthening of relationships with clients and communities.

Commitment to Community and Growth

WCCB is dedicated to empowering local businesses and individuals through personalized banking solutions, which have been foundational to the success of its predecessor institutions. The merger introduces a new identity, but it also maintains the same high standards for client service that have become a hallmark over the past 21 years. Krista Snelling reassured clients that they can expect continuity: “Though our name may be new, the best-in-class team of bankers our clients and communities have depended on remains unchanged.”

With the rebranding comes a new logo that connects visually with the previous Santa Cruz County Bank emblem, symbolizing both continuity and change. The bank has updated branch signs and ATM surrounds, launched an enhanced online banking experience, a mobile application, and revamped their website for improved user navigation.

Expanding Services

Despite the changes, current clients can expect their account numbers, routing numbers, and online credentials to remain unaffected. Furthermore, they will be able to continue using existing checks and debit cards. The merger has increased WCCB’s branch network, expanding it to 10 locations, thus broadening access to customizable financial solutions. Regular business hours remain unchanged, operating 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays to ensure continuous community support.

Stephen Pahl, the Chairman of WCCB, highlighted the significance of this merger, heralding it as a pivotal moment for a community bank that originated in Santa Cruz. He noted the expanded strength and stability the merger brings, enabling better support for the growth of the local economy.

To celebrate the new brand, WCCB has planned a series of events across its service area during April and May. Ribbon-cutting ceremonies will take place at each branch in collaboration with local chambers of commerce, inviting community members to join in the festivities and learn more about what’s next for their banking partner.

Awards and Recognitions

WCCB has added to its credibility through various recognitions, including being named one of Newsweek Magazine’s Top 500 Regional Banks in the U.S. for 2025, ranking #62 among the top U.S. community banks under $3 billion in assets according to SP Global Market Intelligence, and being honored as Best Local Bank for 13 consecutive years by Good Times readers’ poll.

Looking Ahead

West Coast Community Bank, previously known as Santa Cruz County Bank and its 1st Capital Bank division, has positioned itself as a proactive and engaged community bank with a commitment to local clients. With its focus on relationship-driven banking and community investments, WCCB aims to set new standards in customer service and community involvement.

For anyone interested in learning more about the offerings of West Coast Community Bank or its community initiatives, visit their official website at wccb.com. With a renewed commitment to excellence, WCCB looks forward to not just serving but enhancing its communities in the years to come.