In 1973, Sacramento broadcasting icon Jon S. Kelly set out to fill a void in the region by establishing a strong, locally owned bank dedicated to serving the thriving business community surrounding the state capital. With unwavering passion and persistence, Jon brought his vision to life. The result: River City Bank. Fifty years later, we continue to embrace Jon's vision by remaining steadfast in our commitment to the communities we serve—and exceeding client expectations year after year.
“We’ve followed a simple yet effective formula for 50 years: ensuring our business clients receive innovative banking solutions, competitive financing, industry-leading expertise, and responsive service at every step of their financial journey.”
Steve FlemingPresident and CEORiver City Bank
Highlights from Our First Fifty Years
A Legacy of Putting Clients First
As we reflect on our first five decades, we attribute our longevity in great part to establishing clear-cut business values and remaining laser-focused on being a financial partner that companies can trust to move their businesses forward. By consistently delivering exceptional service, employing the very best, and taking the long view, we've built a solid reputation as the bank that cultivates and maintains client relationships that stand the test of time.
Since our inception, we've been deeply committed to helping businesses thrive by immersing ourselves in the ins and outs of each client's specific industry. Our dedicated bankers bring a wealth of experience and keen insights—helping ensure clients in commercial real estate, construction, clean energy, healthcare, manufacturing and distribution, agribusiness, and professional services are well-positioned to seize opportunities as they arise.
Earning Client Trust One Interaction at a Time
We're proud of the number of businesses that have established long-standing relationships with us. Over the years, we've built—and added to—that list by striving to be the one banking partner clients can count on time and time again.
“Since 1973, River City Bank has met all our needs from daily banking to securing a PPP loan. Their service, professionalism, and community involvement are exceptional.”
Jerry FatPresidentFrank S. Fat Inc & Frank Fat Properties
“As a business partner, River City Bank has consistently gone well beyond expectations. The level of trust, engagement, and integrity from all levels of the bank help us reach our potential.”
Neal Cordeiro and Brad DesJardinOwnersDesCor Builders
A Rich History of Fueling Local Progress
Over the course of fifty years, we've watched the Sacramento region boom—and we're honored to have played a role in that growth by financing a range of high-profile projects that have helped shape the communities we serve.
- We ensured the Paragary Group received the necessary financing to develop the Fort Sutter Hotel, Sacramento's first new boutique lodging in decades.
- When ACC Renewable Resources began planning for its 3MW bioenergy plant in Colusa County, we delivered the funding necessary to help ACC turn rice hull waste into renewable energy.
- To keep water flowing even when emergency power shutoffs occur, we stepped up with a term loan to get five Tesla Powerpack battery storage projects in Ventura County up and running.
Paving the Way for the Next Generation of Banking Leaders
A bank is only as strong as its employees. We've always sought out ambitious, talented individuals who have what it takes to deliver solutions at the speed of business. Over the years, we've established a robust college recruiting program that has connected us with the brightest undergrads and recent grads—opening the door to many financial services careers.
Our commitment to nurturing talent doesn't stop with recruitment. To help ensure emerging professionals have a solid platform to launch their careers, we established our Banking Academy in 2013—connecting motivated individuals interested in exploring commercial banking with mentors from the River City Bank leadership team.
A Heritage of Giving Back
Since our inception, we've always been devoted to keeping the communities we serve healthy and vibrant. Our employees are living proof of this commitment, sharing their time and talents to make a difference where we live and work. From 2017 to 2022, our team members have donated over 3,200 hours of their time to more than 30 worthy organizations in our region.
This dedication to service extends from neighborhoods to boardrooms, with many River City Bank officers serving as leaders and advisors for organizations such as Easterseals of Superior California, First Tee—Greater Sacramento, and the Sacramento Region Community Foundation.
Philanthropy has also been engrained in our culture from the beginning. This belief in giving back was one of the primary motivations for Jon S. Kelly creating the Kelly Foundation—a nonprofit organization that provides grants to charitable enterprises devoted to the environment, education, arts and culture, health and human services, and other commendable causes. In 2022 alone, the Foundation awarded more than $2 million in grants to difference makers across the Sacramento and Bay Area regions.
Lending a Hand When It's Needed
Embracing our role as a community leader, we've always tried to step up in challenging times—including in 2020 when COVID first made its presence felt. Early in the pandemic, we awarded five grants to local food banks, providing critical financial support to help secure food supplies, get that food where it was most needed, and pay front-line workers.
As a California-based business, drought and the resulting increase in wildfires are unfortunate realities we face. In response to the human impact of these environmental challenges, we've awarded grants to the American Red Cross to help ensure they're able to assist victims in rebuilding their lives.
Looking Forward to a Vibrant Future
While we cherish our rich history, we're actively looking ahead and building on the promise of tomorrow. By staying true to our time-tested values and continuing to deliver innovative solutions and exceptional service at every turn, we’re in prime position to serve our current and future business clients for the next fifty years—and beyond.
