Editor,
I am writing to express my concerns over the closure of the Bank of Montreal (BMO) branch in 100 Mile House, B.C.
It may not be apparent to those who have made this decision, but this branch is the only one in a large geographical area.
The proposal is to transfer all accounts from the 100 Mile House branch to Williams Lake. This decision for my husband and I, and I believe many others in our area, means a journey of at least one hour and 15 minutes or more one way averaging out to a four-hour return trip. This is a big chunk of a person's day.
As well, I believe this will take business away from 100 Mile. Why travel all this way for one errand, why not do all our shopping in Williams Lake and at the same time, have lunch as well? In the winter this can be a tiring, stressful and potentially dangerous journey as winter roads in our area are often impassable due to weather.
I can see no reason to close this branch and no explanation has been given. We have been customers of BMO for many years and have always enjoyed courteous service from the employees there. Point, do they now lose their jobs?
We are considering moving our business to another financial institution. Again, this means considerable effort and stress on our part re: changing LOC/bill payments, deposits, and for many others, mortgages and loans. It is not something I would choose to do at this time of my life.
I courteously request BMO review its actions and reverse this decision.
Sincerely,
Dyanne Dahl
Forest Grove
