Garufis: Bankers want to fund small business loans
By Janet Garufis Last week, Henry Dubroff stepped out of his usual pundit role to share his impression of the Paycheck Protection Program rollout. I echo his sentiments and agree that it has been “a nightmare for many small business owners.” It has also been a challenging experience for many of your local bankers. I Read More →
Banks struggling with PPP loans for tri-county small businesses
Last-minute rules changes and a messy rollout mean small businesses and nonprofits will have to wait a little longer to get the help they’ve been promised under the CARES Act. The $349 billion Payroll Protection Program, a key part of the act, went live on April 3, but few banks were in a place where Read More →
Few tri-county lenders ready to accept CARES Act loan applications
April 3 was the first day small businesses could apply for new programs under the CARES Act, but last-minute changes meant only a few financial institutions in the Tri-Counties were able to roll out those options on opening day. Through hard work and preparation, Montecito Bank & Trust was able to accept initial applications when Read More →
Garufis: Loans available to help businesses survive
By Janet Garufis We have all witnessed first-hand the serious and immediate impacts of the pandemic on local small businesses, our friends, neighbors and ourselves. Many workers have been furloughed or are now unemployed as non-essential businesses close and others learn to operate under restrictions that provide safe social distancing. At Montecito Bank & Trust, Read More →
Garufis: Reflections on leadership
By Janet Garufis This week, Pacific Coast Business Times is celebrating 20 years in business. When most newspapers are facing existential moments, the PCBT thrives, bringing the business community essential news and reporting for the Central Coast. Congratulations to Henry and Linda and the team on your success. And on March 17, Montecito Bank & Read More →