The Karnes County National Bank announced Monday that they are planning to open a branch location in Kenedy.

"After 105 years of banking in Karnes County we felt our roots were deep enough and that it was time to consider a branch," Bank President Trip Ruckman said. "In order to better serve our many customers to the south; we have entered into a contract to buy 1.8 acres of land next to the new Super Wal-Mart in Kenedy."

Ruckman said he has seen significant evidence of economic growth in the county and expect it to accelerate once the Super Wal-Mart is open. He also said that studies by national research firms confirm the fact that a Wal-Mart Supercenter changes everything – economically that is.

"We are in the process of obtaining approval for the branch from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (the National Bank Examiners)," Ruckman explained. "Due to our strong capital levels and performance, and the fact that Karnes County National would be the only locally owned and based bank in Kenedy, no problems are expected with that authorization."

Plans for a building are underway with Haltner HAI Architectural Firm from Houston that specializes in bank designs. This will be a full-service facility with lobby tellers and services and several drive-in lanes, a drive-up night depository and a drive-up ATM with construction to start as soon as practical.

Vice-President, Robert A. Homeyer, a lifelong Kenedy resident will manage the new branch. The location will be on the corner of the right hand side of the northbound lane of US Hwy 181 and on the new main road leading up to the new Super Wal-Mart.

"Just as our telephone banking, Internet and bill pay system helped extend our services electronically this new facility will offer even more convenience," Ruckman said. "Karnes County National is excited about this opportunity to better serve its many friends in Kenedy and contribute to its growth."