Sierra Central, First U.S. Community Announce Merger
By CU Today Staff —
YUBA CITY, Calif.—Sierra Central Credit Union and First U.S. Community Credit Union have announced plans to merge, creating a Northern California credit union with more than $2 billion in assets, 114,000 members and 23 branches, pending regulatory and member approvals.
Sierra Central, headquartered in Yuba City, would be the continuing institution. Shonna Shearson, CEO of Sacramento-based First U.S., would lead the combined organization, while Sierra Central CEO Ron Sweeney would retire after the merger is approved and completed.
“At First U.S., our purpose has always been to help people build better lives through trusted financial guidance and genuine relationships,” Shearson said. “By bringing together two strong, community-focused credit unions, we're creating an organization that's better equipped to serve our members today while preparing for the needs of tomorrow. This is about honoring what makes each organization special and building an even stronger future together.”
“This is a partnership, both organizations are uniting under a shared vision to better serve our members and communities,” Sweeney said. “This merger brings together the talents, expertise, and resources of both organizations. The combined presence in Northern California creates exciting growth opportunities, and together we can deliver more innovative solutions and enhanced member experiences than either organization could achieve alone.”
The credit unions expect to complete the legal merger during the first half of 2027, with operational integration continuing through 2027 and 2028. No layoffs are anticipated. Sierra Central has more than $1.5 billion in assets, approximately 86,000 members and 18 branches, while the combined organization would employ more than 300 people. First U.S. members must approve the transaction under NCUA merger requirements.
Originally reported by CU Today.