FROM THE TOP
Let’s Keep Georgia’s Financial Industry Going Strong
Ron Quinn President & CEO Peach State Bank & Trust, Gainesville 2019-2020 CBA Chairman
As we get full swing into the Summer following a very ever-changing Spring, with a pandemic that we have all been preparing for over the last twenty years, but never expecting that it would really occur, things are slowly getting back to more of a normal. Bankers around Georgia have worked together through tough unknowns to go above and beyond to serve our communities and help maintain jobs in numerous types of businesses and industries. Although our unemployment statewide is still over three times what it was pre-Covid-19, people are getting back to work, and companies are again beginning to hire new workers. The setback experienced in our State has caused our State government to take a hard stand to reduce our State budget across the board for all State agencies. These budget cuts are necessary to keep Georgia’s financial condition strong going into the future. We all have enjoyed the benefits of having a strong efficient ally in the Georgia Department of Banking and Finance over the past decade. I would urge all Bankers around our State to ask your legislators to continue to support our Department of Banking as they are being hit by an unforeseen pandemic and the loss of SunTrust Bank as our state’s largest financial institution. We have all been made better bankers and stronger banks since the
Great Recession from 2008-2010. The guidance we have all received over the last ten years from the Department of Banking and Finance will help to ensure that we are all better prepared as unknowns’ surface in the banking industry. We will begin to see a new norm in the examination process with virtual examinations. Let’s not forget the value of having a strong state regulatory body to keep the financial industry in Georgia strong. A strong banking system statewide will continue to bring new businesses to Georgia and keep Georgia as the best state in the USA to do business. On a different note, I hope everyone is making plans now to attend our Annual Convention this year at the Hilton Sandestin, September 24th - September 27th. The program line up will be one of the best in years with great speakers, and great educational sessions geared for your Directors and your entire management team. Also, some great social events throughout the convention and a strong finale on the beach after the Chairman’s Dinner on Saturday night. A special announcement will be coming soon, so be on the lookout. The convention will be a great opportunity to gather for some good fellowship, education, socialization and relaxation. Hope to see you there!
J u ly/ A u g u s t 2 0 2 0 | G e or g i a C o m m un i ti es F i rs t | 3
