Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Comprehensive Banking Solutions
Founded in 1907 as Cambridge State Bank, First Central Bank has deep roots in Southwest Nebraska. Our locally owned and operated institution has served communities for over a century, prioritizing personalized financial solutions and exceptional service. In 1992, we expanded to Arapahoe and Edison, followed by the 1998 chartering of First Central Bank McCook. By 2017, our Curtis location evolved into a full-service bank. Both chartered banks remain locally owned by Central Bancshares, Inc., with shareholders including local farmers, ranchers, business owners, and employees.This structure ensures our decisions align with community needs. We offer comprehensive services including consumer, farm, business, and real estate loans, alongside innovative online banking tools. Our team of experienced professionals, including Certified Financial Planner Steve Lind, provides investment guidance and tailored financial strategies. With five locations across southwest Nebraska, we remain committed to exceeding expectations through community-focused banking.
Services
Checking Accounts
Savings Accounts
Consumer Loans
Farm Loans
Business Loans
Real Estate Loans
Online Banking
Investment Services
Mobile Banking
Loan Calculators
Details
- Year established: 1907
Highlights and features
- We maintain local ownership ensuring community-focused financial decisions
- Our team includes Certified Financial Planner professionals for investment guidance
- We offer 24/7 online banking with bill pay and mobile app functionality
- Our expanded services include specialized farm, business, and real estate loans
- We operate five conveniently located branches across Southwest Nebraska
Associations and certifications
- FDIC
Services
Checking Accounts
We offer multiple checking account options including eChecking, Simply Checking, and First Star Gold Checking. These accounts provide features like direct deposit, automatic payments, and debit card access. Our business and payroll accounts cater to commercial needs with specialized tools for managing company finances.
Loan Services
Our loan services include consumer, farm, business, and real estate financing. Options range from automobile and household goods loans to agricultural equipment financing and commercial real estate mortgages. We offer flexible terms for both new ventures and business expansion projects.
Online Banking
Our online banking platform enables account management, bill payment, and fund transfers 24/7. Mobile app users can access real-time balances, deposit checks remotely, and receive transaction alerts. Business clients benefit from specialized eBusiness tools for managing multiple accounts.
Investment Services
Through Cambridge Investment Research, we provide stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and annuities. Our Certified Financial Planner offers college savings plans, estate planning, and insurance solutions. All investments receive personalized evaluation and strategic recommendations.
Savings Accounts
We offer traditional savings accounts, Christmas Club accounts, and Health Savings Accounts. Certificate of Deposit options provide competitive rates for fixed-term deposits. Our IRA accounts help customers plan for retirement with tax-advantaged savings tools.
People
Jason Houghtelling
President & CEO
Jason Houghtelling leads First Central Bank with over 25 years of banking experience. He oversees strategic operations across all locations while maintaining community engagement through local business development initiatives.
Steve Lind
Certified Financial Planner
Steve Lind, CFP, manages investment services with expertise in college planning and estate strategies. He has provided personalized financial guidance to Nebraska residents for 15+ years through our Cambridge Investment Research partnership.
Clint Bryant
Branch President
Clint Bryant serves as Branch President for First Central Bank McCook. With 20 years in agricultural lending, he specializes in farm loans and rural business financing solutions for southwest Nebraska clients.
Tammy Sexton
Chief Financial Officer
Tammy Sexton oversees financial operations and compliance for First Central Bank. Her 18-year banking career includes extensive experience in regulatory reporting and strategic financial management.
Jeff Ommert
Chief Technology Officer
Jeff Ommert leads our technology initiatives, managing online banking systems and cybersecurity protocols. He has implemented digital transformation projects that enhanced mobile banking capabilities across all branch locations.
Questions
What loan options are available for new businesses?
We offer business loans for new ventures including lines of credit, equipment financing, and SBA-guaranteed loans. Our local loan officers work closely with entrepreneurs to develop customized financing solutions.
How can I access online banking services?
Visit our website to enroll in online banking or download the First Central Bank mobile app. Both platforms offer 24/7 account access, bill payment, and fund transfer capabilities.
Do you offer investment advisory services?
Yes, through our partnership with Cambridge Investment Research, we provide investment services including portfolio management, retirement planning, and insurance products with Certified Financial Planner Steve Lind.
What are your branch locations and hours?
We operate five branches in McCook, Curtis, Cambridge, Arapahoe, and Edison. Most locations are open Monday-Friday 8am-4pm, with McCook offering Saturday drive-thru service.
Can I apply for a mortgage online?
While applications require in-person verification, our website provides mortgage calculators and pre-approval options. Contact our real estate loan department to start the application process.
Are my deposits FDIC insured?
Yes, all eligible deposit accounts at First Central Bank are FDIC-insured up to $250,000 per depositor, ensuring your funds are protected by federal government backing.
