OHIO – Citizens First State Bank is closing its Ohio branch, effective Sept. 10, because of rising operating expenses and the poor economy, Kent J. Stillman, its president and CEO, said in a letter to customers dated June 18.

The branch is at 113 N. Main St. The bank also has branches in Walnut and Wyanet.

“This has not been an easy decision for the bank’s board of directors or management team,” Stillman wrote. “However, the small size of the branch combined with the ever-increasing operating expenses, even after cutting back operating hours and staffing, necessitates taking this action.”