CMCU offers high-tech options

by Mike Knaak

editor@thenewsleaders.com

Central Minnesota Credit Union’s new Sartell branch features first-of-its kind technology that gives customers more options for managing their money.

The branch’s lobby features two large digital kiosks that provide information about the credit union’s services. A few feet away, an interactive ATM does more than just pump out cash.

If you leave your debit card at home, you can still log in using your eyes. There’s a biometric iris scanner at each of the two stations. Customers can also log in with their debit card and PIN or by scanning a driver’s license and entering a password. Available transactions include withdrawing cash, making deposits, paying loans and credit card bills, transferring funds and checking balances.

The Sartell branch’s technology is a first for the credit union, which has 21 locations throughout Minnesota, stretching from Brooklyn Center to Moorhead.

There’s more new technology outside. At the drive-thru stations, customers can interact face-to-face with a teller thanks to a video screen. The drive-thru ATMs are available 24 hours a day and the video service is available 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m.-noon Saturday.

“The technology allows us to serve members the way they want to be served,” Branch Manager Tami Mesker said. “Members have the options of self-service, assisted service or full service.” Members entering a lobby are greeted by a consultant who can handle their transactions or direct them to the appropriate services.

The Sartell branch at 300 Pinecone Road S. opened in late June. There are 66 credit union employees at the Sartell Financial Center. Of the 66 employees, 15 of them work directly with members and the others in operations.

Before the Sartell branch opened, the St. Joseph branch was the closest office for the credit union’s 3,600 members in the Sartell area.

Central Minnesota Credit Union started in 1939 in Melrose with the philosophy of “people helping people.”