Sonoma’s Wells Fargo branch shuts its doors

Wells Fargo Bank is reducing the number of branches it keeps open in Sonoma County in the face of challenges of keeping its customers and employees safe, according to a corporate spokeperson for the bank.

The local West Napa Street branch, the only Wells Fargo location within a 13-mile radius of downtown Sonoma, closed its doors earlier this week, while its ATMs remain open and stocked. The closure is described by the company as “temporary.” Branches in Petaluma and Napa remain open.

When asked for comment Thursday on the closure, the corporate press office for the Wells Fargo in the North Bay said that the company’s top priority is safety during the rapidly evolving COVID-19 situation.

“Until further notice, we will be serving our Sonoma County customers through a reduced number of branches, along with our online, mobile and ATM options,” said Wells Fargo spokesperson Ruben Pulido. “We recommend that customers check Wells Fargo’s branch locator for ATM locations and the status of branches.”

Nationwide, the bank is adjusting branch operating hours, enhancing social distancing measures, staggering staff and shifts, relocating employees to busier branches, and temporarily closing some branches, according to Pulido.

As for when the branch might reopen, he said, “We are in close contact with local authorities, including public health officials, and will return to normal business operations when possible.”