O’FALLON, Mo.–Two Missouri credit unions, one of which has been operating in the red, have announced merger plans.
The $491-million West Community Credit Union in O’Fallon and the $173-million Gateway Metro Credit Union in St. Louis said they are seeking to combine. The two CUs are approximately 40 minutes apart.
West Community CU posted $1.83 million in net income through Sept. 30, with net worth of 8.38%. Gateway Metro CU reported a $146,274 loss and had net worth of 7.99% as of the same date. GMFCU lost $940,528 in 2024.
In a statement, the CUs said the proposed merger combines the strengths of two well-established credit unions “known for their member-first approach and commitment to financial empowerment.”
‘Something Stronger’
“This is not about one credit union absorbing another,” Jason Peach, president/CEO of West Community Credit Union, said in a statement. “It’s about two successful credit unions coming together to build something stronger and greater—for our members, our employees, and the communities we serve.”
The credit unions said that by joining forces the newly unified credit union will offer expanded access to branches, greater innovation and efficiency, and a broader range of financial products—”without compromising the quality, personalized service members have come to trust”
‘Shared Values’
Added Jay Lewis, president and CEO of Gateway Metro FCU, in a statement, “Our combination is built on a foundation of shared values and cultural alignment. By coming together, we’re not only expanding our capabilities, but we are also reinforcing our commitment to empowering our teams and enriching the lives of our members, staff and community.”
Pending regulatory and member approval, the credit unions said the legal merger is expected to be finalized in the second quarter of 2026. A combined CU would have more than 42,000 members and 16 branches.
