Municipal Financing

FINANCING YOUR MUNICIPALITY’S NEXT PROJECT

Bank First is proud to partner with municipalities across Wisconsin to provide reliable, flexible, and cost-effective funding solutions. When planning for capital improvements or infrastructure projects, it’s important to understand the difference between the two primary financing options: Direct Bank Purchase and Publicly Sold Bonds. Each approach carries unique features, costs, and complexities, and understanding these two options can help you choose the solution that best aligns with your community’s goals.

UNDERSTANDING THE OPTIONS

Direct Bank Purchase: A direct bank purchase involves your municipality working directly with Bank First to issue debt. The bank purchases the bonds or notes and holds them on its balance sheet, eliminating the need to access the public market.

Publicly Sold Bonds: This option involves selling bonds to the public through an underwriter and typically involves a municipal advisor who collects a large fee to help facilitate the process. It requires more parties, higher regulatory compliance, and a formal offering document to attract investors in the municipal bond market.

WHY CHOOSE A DIRECT BANK PURCHASE WITH BANK FIRST

• Simplified Process: With a single lender, the issuance and administration process is streamlined, making it easier and faster to secure financing.
• Customized Financing Solutions: Tailor financing terms to suit your municipality’s needs, with features such as drawdown financing and flexible payment structures.
• Lower Transaction Costs: You avoid the extra fees tied to underwriters, bond issuers, rating agencies, and disclosure counsel. When working with Bank First, your fee structure is straightforward. You will only incur a Bond Counsel Fee (typically much lower than public sales) and a Bank Fee (clearly disclosed with no additional costs).
• Local Expertise & Accessibility: We live and work in the communities we serve and are readily available to answer questions, offer guidance, and provide responsive support during and after the financing process. We are deeply committed to the success of our communities and will work alongside you every step of the way.

HOW TO GET STARTED

Every project is unique, and we’re here to help you determine the best financing path forward. If you’re considering upcoming capital projects, contact us early in your planning process. We’d be happy to walk through your options and deliver a proposal that meets your needs and timeline.

CONTACT A BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP MANAGER TODAY!

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