Banks complete merger; combined entity boasts 12 branches, $3B in assets

TAMPA — The Bank of Tampa and Hillsboro Bank have officially merged, completing a deal first announced in April.

The combined entity, according to a news release, will now operate as The Bank of Tampa, with assets exceeding $3 billion and 12 offices located in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Sarasota counties. Hillsboro Bank CEO Mike Ward will remain with the organization as The Bank of Tampa’s Plant City market president.

“The completion of our merger with Hillsboro Bank unites two strong, local community banks, both committed to serving their communities,” The Bank of Tampa CEO Bill West states in the release. “We are excited to welcome Hillsboro Bank clients, employees and shareholders to The Bank of Tampa, and we look forward to working with Mike Ward, Pam Warnock, Matt Buzza and their team to continue the great work they are doing in the Plant City market.”

Also remaining on board in a leadership role is Gary Boothe, chairman of Hillsboro Bank’s board of directors, who will serve as chairman of The Bank of Tampa’s newly formed Plant City advisory board.

“We are looking forward to joining The Bank of Tampa and expanding the products and services we can bring to the Plant City market, which has been our home for the past 23 years,” Ward states in the release. “We are looking forward to continuing to serve our clients with our vision for community-minded banking, as well as reach new business and families.”