Coastal Bend Bancshares, the holding company for Corpus Christi-based First Community Bank, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Port Lavaca-based First National Bank. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2026.
“Our roots along the Texas Gulf Coast run deep at First Community Bank,” notes Wes Hoskins, First Community Bank president and CEO. “The acquisition of First National Bank in Port Lavaca brings together two like-minded community banks that share the same values: local decision-making by bankers who truly know and care about the individuals, families and businesses that make up our communities along the Texas Gulf Coast. We are strengthening our ability to expand our services, invest in our people and support the long-term economic vitality of South Texas.”
“Becoming part of First Community Bank ensures that our customers will continue to be served by a locally owned and operated community bank for generations to come,” says Terry Cullen, First National Bank president and CEO. “Our customers can be confident they will be working with their same experienced and trusted local bankers, supported by expanded resources and modern technologies.”
Cullen will retain his leadership role in the market as regional president and will continue serving on First National Bank’s board of directors. Bill Bauer, current chairman of First National Bank, will continue as board chairman emeritus and will serve in an advisory role.
Established in 1957, First National Bank has four branches in Port Lavaca, Seadrift, Port O’Connor and Victoria, with total assets of $368 million as of December 31, 2025.
Established in 1983 in Alice, First Community Bank currently has 12 branch locations—four in Corpus Christi and eight along the Texas Gulf Coast, including Alice, Kingsville, Padre Island, Pearland, Portland, Premont, Rockport and Victoria. First Community Bank’s total assets were $661 million as of December 31, 2025.
Upon closing, both banks will operate independently with First National Bank customers continuing to use their same online and mobile banking, debit cards, checks and other services until the anticipated final acquisition is complete in the first quarter of 2027 and First National Bank begins operating as First Community Bank. Customers will then be able to conduct business at any of the 16 First Community Bank branches along the Texas Gulf Coast, as there are no changes planned for locations or personnel.
