Downtown Podcast Features Lewis Renollet
Newest Episode of Downtown Lowdown Shines a Spotlight on Lewis Renollet – and Monroe Federal’s Community Roots
The latest episode of the Downtown Lowdown podcast, the official show of the Downtown Tipp City Partnership, brought listeners a lively and insightful conversation with Lewis Renollet, President of Monroe Federal Savings & Loan. Hosted by Tasha Weaver, Executive Director of the Downtown Tipp City Partnership, the episode offered a behind-the-scenes look at the people and stories that keep Tipp City’s downtown vibrant.
A Hometown Institution Turns 150
Monroe Federal, a cornerstone of Tipp City since 1875, is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year—a milestone that’s as much about community as it is about banking. Renollet, who’s been at the helm for over a decade, shared the bank’s rich history, from its humble beginnings as the Monroe Building and Loan Association to its current status as the oldest savings and loan financial institution in Miami County. “We started right downtown, and we’ve been here ever since,” Renollet said, noting how Monroe Federal has played a role in financing many of the city’s historic buildings and first homes. The bank’s ledgers, some dating back to its earliest days, are still stored in a vault downtown—a testament to its deep local roots.
More Than Mortgages: A Personal Touch
Weaver and Renollet traded stories about the unique role Monroe Federal plays in the community. Unlike many banks, Renollet is often found in the downtown Tipp City office. “People just see you as the really cool president of the bank sitting there that anybody can talk to,” Weaver joked, highlighting the approachable, small-town spirit that defines Monroe Federal.
The bank’s growth has mirrored Tipp City’s own, with four locations now serving Miami and Montgomery counties. Despite expansion, Renollet emphasized the bank’s commitment to staying local, resisting the urge to “get huge” in favor of serving the needs of area residents and businesses.
A Banker, a Farmer, and a Community Builder
Listeners got to know Renollet beyond the boardroom, as he shared tales of his farming background, love for dune buggies, and even his ownership of the mysterious “Holcomb Woods” in Wood County. His journey from computer programming student to bank president is peppered with small-town connections and a passion for helping others succeed—a quality that’s helped generations of Tipp City families buy homes and start businesses.
Giving Back, One Block Party at a Time
Monroe Federal’s commitment to Tipp City extends far beyond banking. The bank is a proud sponsor of the upcoming Monroe Federal Block Party and supports a variety of local organizations, often without fanfare. “We like to donate and not have a lot of attention behind it,” Renollet said.
A Place Where Everybody Knows Your Name
As Weaver wrapped up the episode, she praised Monroe Federal for making customers feel valued—noting the friendly faces and the bank’s willingness to “think outside the box” for its clients. “We’re always accessible and we’re always out and about,” Renollet said, summing up the bank’s philosophy. “We plant the seed. It may take two to three years to grow, but we’ve been here 150 years. It’s working.”
Connect with the Downtown Tipp City Partnership
Want to keep up with all things downtown? Follow the Downtown Tipp City Partnership on social media:
https://www.facebook.com/DowntownTippCity
https://www.instagram.com/downtowntippcity
https://downtowntippcity.org/get-involved/become-a-member/
For more about Monroe Federal and their community programs, visit their website at monroefederal.com or stop by one of their four local branches. And don’t forget to subscribe to the Downtown Lowdown podcast for more stories behind Tipp City’s storefronts—new episodes drop every Wednesday! Listen, like, and subscribe—and see you downtown!
