Business Spotlight: Prime Security Bank
We were welcomed by Aimee and Jay for an overview of Prime Security Bank (PSB) and its history in Karlstad.
PSB was originally Karlstad Bank (est. ~1925) and became Prime Security Bank in 1993. The bank remains committed to keeping deposits and loans local, ensuring that revenue stays within our community. They are active supporters of local efforts through donations, sponsorships, scholarships, and community involvement.
Highlights shared:
- Competitive 4.25% interest checking account
- Specializes in daily deposits, home equity loans, and small consumer loans (vehicles, recreational vehicles, etc.)
- Capable of ag and large business lending as well
- Customers can meet in person locally — no required virtual/Zoom-only application process
- Strong emphasis on local relationship-building and outreach
We appreciate PSB hosting and their dedication to community investment.
Ribbon Cutting Program
- Matt will reach out to Jade Spilde to discuss a potential ribbon cutting and available dates.
- The Chamber will also identify newer Karlstad businesses (within the last 3 years) to invite for ceremonies.
- Ribbon Cutting Committee: Krista will serve on this committee and help coordinate supplies, including ordering a giant ceremonial scissors and ribbon.
Membership Update – March 1 Deadline
Our primary focus is increasing memberships before the March 1 deadline:
Action Items:
- Members are encouraged to generate word-of-mouth by personally reaching out to local businesses.
- Ashlee will create a membership flyer for distribution (email + in-store display).
- Membership applications are available:
- On the new Karlstad Chamber page on the City website
- Submitted online and emailed to Ashlee
- Dropped off with payment at the bank or city office
- Jordan/Brian will create a shared spreadsheet to track memberships and payments.
- Aimee may receive access to the spreadsheet to help reconcile bank deposits.
Job Fair Committee Formed
A new Job Fair Committee has been established:
Next Steps:
- Reach out to school contacts to determine potential dates.
- Begin building the framework with the intention of starting small and growing into an annual event.
- Possible format: tradeshow-style job fair with optional breakout sessions led by local business professionals.
- Goal is to include Tri-County, Heritage, and area homeschool students.
Board Update
- Ashlee has transitioned from Clerk to Marketing Director.
- Aimee was nominated and accepted the role of Clerk moving forward.
Overall Focus
The Chamber’s immediate priorities:
- Increase memberships by March 1.
- Develop a strong foundation for the local school job fair.
Next Meeting
March 3 at 4:00 PM
Hosted at Wiktel
Thank you all for your continued involvement and momentum as we grow the Chamber’s impact in Karlstad. Let’s keep pushing toward March 1 and continue building strong connections between our businesses and schools.
Warm regards,
Ashlee Anderson
Marketing Director
Karlstad Chamber of Commerce
