Ask Our Experts

Ask Our Experts2021-11-01T14:24:24-07:00

First Federal

First Federal
Why should I choose a Community Bank?2018-12-19T03:01:48-08:00

Community banks are depository financial institutions that focus on the needs of families and small businesses in their communities. They are integral to local economies through their community giving, dedication as good neighbors, and above all, their critical role in providing reliable financial services to Oregonians. Community banks, particularly through lending to small businesses, play a significant role in local economic development efforts and job creation. They help build the communities they also call home.

What can I do to keep my business banking information secure?2018-12-19T03:01:38-08:00

There are several things you can do to protect your identification and password.

  • Make your passwords long, strong and complex. That means at least twelve characters, with uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid common words, phrases or information.
  • Do not open emails or click links from unknown senders.
  • Double check that no one is watching when you enter your username and password.
  • Try to memorize your username and password rather than writing them down.
  • If you do write down your username and password, store that document in a secure place.
  • Do not share your username and/or password with others.
  • Report any unusual account activity immediately.
  • Do not give your information to anyone requesting it over the phone unless you have initiated the call.
  • Always log out of the system when you are done.
What is Mobile Deposit?2018-12-19T02:59:40-08:00

Mobile deposit is a convenient feature that makes it simple to quickly and securely deposit checks using your smartphone or tablet. You just take a photo of the front and back of your check and follow the instructions you see on-screen.

How do I select the right business banking account(s) for my business?2019-01-02T14:47:52-08:00

Business banking can be a bit different than your personal banking. You’ll find that many of the needs are similar, they just serve a different purpose. It is important to write down your list of must-haves in order to do business with a banking institution. Here are some things to consider:

  • Fraud Protection: This is an absolute must. In the event of an account breach, theft, or unauthorized charges how quickly will the bank be able to act?
  • Check Signing Authorization: If your business includes a partner or staff members, will your business checks require one signature or two? Make these decisions before opening your account and you’ll avoid the headaches of making changes later.
  • Minimum Monthly Balance: You’ll want to ensure you can maintain the minimum daily or monthly balance in your business accounts. Some business accounts offer monthly fee waivers if the account balance stays above a specific amount every month.
  • Fees: Every banking institution has different fees, and some don’t offer any type of incentive or option to waive them.
  • Account Services: Don’t forget to consider what additional services might the banking institution offer, such as mobile and online capabilities, foreign currency exchange, ordering checks, and digital statements.
  • Reputation: Take the time to check out positive, negative, and neutral reviews online. Negative reviews do not always mean it’s a bad bank, just a bad situation.

Do not feel pressured to open an account with the first bank you sit down with. Explore your options with both large and small financial institutions. Some smaller banks may offer more options and better incentives. Their size may also allow them to have better safety protocols in place.

Where can I find information about First Federal’s business banking options?2019-07-29T16:01:21-07:00

You can visit our website at www.FirstFedWeb.com, stop by one of our six branches in Yamhill County, or give us a call at 888-317-8333.

Recology

Recology
Where can I find my collection calendar?2019-10-04T16:21:03-07:00

Not sure which calendar is yours?  Contact customer service at  rwoinfo@recology.com  or 503-472-3176. Office Hours  Monday-Friday 8am – 5pm

https://www.recology.com/recology-western-oregon/collection-calendar/

 

Why Recycle?2019-10-04T16:22:27-07:00
  • Saves water, energy and other natural resources like trees, minerals, natural gas and oil.
  • Reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills.
  • Prevents pollution by reducing the need to collect new raw materials.
  • Helps create jobs in recycling and manufacturing.
  • May help lower your garbage bill by allowing you to switch to a smaller container or less frequent service.
How do I find out which bin to put an item in?2019-10-04T16:24:34-07:00

whatbin.com

Where can I locate my recycling guide?2019-10-04T16:26:23-07:00

You can access your recycling at:  https://www.recology.com/recology-western-oregon/guides/

 

I’m new to the area and want to start garbage service. How do I contact Recology?2019-10-04T16:30:33-07:00

Recology Western Oregon

1850 NE Lafayette Avenue, McMinnville

Phone: (503) 472-3176

Email: rwoinfo@recology.com

Office Hours:  Monday – Friday,  8am – 5pm

McMinnville Water & Light

McMinnville Water & Light
What services does McMinnville Water and Light provide?2019-10-04T15:56:06-07:00

McMinnville Water and Light (MW&L) was established in 1889 as a municipal utility and is responsible for providing water and electric service for the City of McMinnville.

How can I access/pay my bill online?2019-10-04T16:01:44-07:00

SmartHub is our online payment gateway that can be accessed from your smartphone with a free app or via your computer with a web browser. We also offer a pay by phone option (Customers pay a $3.95 Convenience Fee for each transaction).

  • Go Paperless!
  • Pay Your Bill
  • Check Your Usage
  • Compare Past Usage
  • Contact our Office

Download the SmartHub App Today!

What conservation rebates are available to make my home/business more energy efficient?2019-10-04T16:01:23-07:00

McMinnville Water & Light offers a variety of incentives to help make your home more energy efficient. Below you will find a list of conservation measures for your home and current rebate amounts. To qualify for incentives, your home must be electrically heated, and all projects must be pre-approved. If you have gas heat, you can contact the Energy Trust of Oregon (energytrust.org or 1-866-368-7878). Or consider upgrading your gas furnace by adding a heat pump, which would then qualify you for MW&L incentives.

Insulation: Signs of an under-insulated home include: cold floors, drafty and cool walls in the winter, as well as hot ceilings in the summer. Current rebates average about 30% of project costs.

Windows: MW&L offers $2 per sq. ft. to replace existing single pane windows, single pane with storms, or double pane metal. New windows must have a u-value of 0.30 or lower (0.35 for patio doors), and must be installed in a heated space.

Doors: $30 incentive for every Energy Star qualified single entry door in site built and manufactured homes.

Duct Sealing: Duct systems are notoriously leaky, dumping the hot/cold air under your home or in your attic (the national average is 30%) instead of in your living space. The current rebate for manufactured homes is $150 and site-built homes $190.

Ductless Heat Pumps: Want a heat pump and A/C without ducts? MW&L is currently offering between $600 and $900 for homes with existing zonal heat (permanently installed baseboard, ceiling or wall heat or a forced air electric furnace).

Ducted Heat Pumps: Many things effect how efficiently your new ducted heat pump will work, an important one is to have it tested to MW&L “PTCS” specifications, which will qualify for a rebate between $200 and $1200.

Heat Pump Water Heaters: Cut your water heating bill by more than ½, $375 for Tier 2 or 3 and $225 for Tier 1.

Conservation Loan: Qualification is based on your utility payment performance. Loans can carry an interest rate of 6.5%, up to $7,500 unsecured, with 5 years to pay. The monthly payment rule of thumb is $20 per $1,000.

We currently have commercial HVAC and lighting incentives available.  Please contact our office for more information.

We look forward to helping you save energy! Please call Sara Bernards at 503-435-3115 or email sarab@mc-power.com for more information, or if you have any questions.

How much of the power I consume is “Clean and Green”?2019-10-04T16:02:37-07:00

97% of MW&L’s purchased power comes from RENEWABLE sources, mainly hydro generated by the Columbia River Hydro System.

What do I do if my power goes out?2019-10-04T16:16:20-07:00

McMinnville Water and Light is committed to providing safe and reliable energy, but unfortunately, power outages do occur.  If your power goes out, here are some helpful tips to follow:

  • Don’t call 911 to ask about the power outage. Call MWL at 503-472-6158 to report any problems.
  • Shut-off your electronic equipment such as computers, televisions, and microwaves.
  • Leave one light on so you know when power is restored.
  • Turn off any heat-producing electric equipment such as toaster ovens, electric stove tops, irons or hair curlers.
  • Stay out of elevators – use the stairs instead.
  • Use extreme caution, especially on roads without working traffic signals.
  • Use flashlights instead of candles to minimize fire hazards.
  • Keep your refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to prevent food spoilage.
  • Shut-off any electronic equipment that was operating when the power went off.
  • Shut-off major electric appliances as well. This will help to stabilize the electric system when power is restored.
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