GOSHEN, Ind.—The $2-billion Interra Credit Union here is reaching across state lines to buy the $225-million The Hicksville Bank, based in Hicksville, Ohio, the CU announced.
The deal marks the first credit union acquisition of a bank in Ohio.
Interra will purchase substantially all the assets and liabilities of The Hicksville Bank in an all-cash transaction.
The buy marks Interra’s first expansion into Northeast Indiana and Northwest Ohio.
While the agreement is contingent on obtaining regulatory and Empire stockholder approvals, the proposed transaction has been approved by both institutions’ board of directors, Interra said.
“From the start, this was about people, our members, our employees, and the communities who trust us,” said Amy Sink, CEO of Interra Credit Union. “This is about honoring the legacy of two organizations that share a deep commitment to their communities and build a new future together. We’re excited to build on that foundation and continue delivering the service, trust, and support our members and customers expect.”
“This partnership keeps our passion exactly where it belongs—on our customers and our communities,” said Greg Smitley, CEO of The Hicksville Bank. “Interra shares our belief that banking should be personal, accessible, and deeply connected to the places we serve.”
The Hicksville Bank made $1.5 million in net income in 2025, according to FDIC data.
“The pace in the marketplace remains elevated and there are plenty of banks looking to sell,” said Michael Bell, a partner and chair of the Financial Institutions Practice Group at Honigman, LLP, which is representing Interra. “Some sellers see advantages and make the free market choice to transact with a Credit Union partner.”
Bell, the pioneer of CU purchases of banks, has been part of more than 75 whole-bank agreements plus additional bank branch purchases.