Franklin First Federal Credit Union has long been a trusted part of the Franklin County community, serving members for nearly 70 years with strong local service, personal relationships, and high member satisfaction.
Members are now being asked to approve a merger into Greylock Federal Credit Union — a decision that would dissolve a longstanding local institution at a time when leadership has described it as “the strongest it has ever been.”
Mergers like this are not uncommon, and they can strengthen financial stability, expand services, and improve long-term sustainability. Often, the rationale in cases like this is not that an institution is failing today, but that it may struggle over time to invest in technology and remain competitive. That may well be true here — but if so, why hasn’t the board said so clearly and trusted members with that explanation?
The board describes the merger as “in the best interests of members” and points to “improved rates” and “lower fees,” yet has provided no meaningful comparison of how accounts, fees, or terms would change. Many members rely on features such as high-yield checking and ATM fee reimbursements — benefits that may disappear with real financial impact. If this merger is as beneficial as described, why hasn’t the board shown what members’ accounts will become?
This may ultimately be the right path. But members deserve enough information to make that determination for themselves.
A special meeting will be held April 15 at 5:30 p.m. at 57 Newton Street in Greenfield. Members should attend, ask questions, and make an informed decision.
Hew Hart
South Deerfield