FERGUSON, Mo.—Although Ferguson experienced another night of violent protests Tuesday, Alliance CU plans to open the doors of its branch here Friday.
The CU made the decision after most of the clashes with police, and the destruction, have happened away from the credit union’s office the past two nights, reported Human Resource Director Frank Evans.
Alliance Monday decided to close its Jennings office out of concern for the safety of employees and members. Violence in Ferguson heated up Monday night after a St. Louis County grand jury recommended that Ferguson police officer Darren Wilson, who is white, not face charges for the fatal shooting of teenager Michael Brown, who is black.
Alliance CU's Jennings, Mo., office touches the border of Ferguson and the city of Jennings, the point where on Aug. 9 police began their pursuit of Brown.
“We’re planning to open Friday morning, as long as it appears to be safe for our employees and members,” said Evans. “In the meantime, we continue to remind our members about other options to accomplish much of what they might need to do, whether it’s online, by phone or at other branches. Member service is our mission, but safety is our first thought right now.”
The presence of hundreds of additional National Guard troops Tuesday appeared to help contain the unrest, despite a series of tense confrontations, leading police to report that Tuesday was a better night for Ferguson and surrounding areas.
Police arrested 61 people Monday night in protests that included at least 150 gunshots, tear gas volleys, looting and at least a dozen burned businesses—44 people were arrested Tuesday night.
St. Louis Community Credit Union closed all 11 of its branches Tuesday, according to a notice on its website yesterday. The website statement did not share a reason for the closings, saying only: “Community Credit Union is closed at this time. For additional service options, the Shared Branch network, Online Banking and ATMs remain available. Check back for updates.”
Wednesday morning the website notice was taken down, but the CU’s phone system at 10 a.m. ET said the credit union was closed.
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