UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, DC 20549

 

SCHEDULE 14A

(RULE 14a-101)

 

Information required in proxy statement

 

SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION

 

Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the

Securities Exchange Act of 1934

 

Filed by the Registrant:x

 

Filed by a party other than the Registrant:¨

 

Check the appropriate box:

 

¨Preliminary Proxy Statement

 

¨Confidential, for Use of the Commission Only (as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2))

 

xDefinitive Proxy Statement

 

¨Definitive Additional Materials

 

¨Soliciting Material Pursuant to §240.14a-12

 

LANDMARK BANCORP, INC.

(Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)

 

 

(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if Other Than the Registrant)

 

Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box):

 

xNo fee required.

 

¨Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(1) and 0-11.

 

(1)Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies:

 

 

(2)Aggregate number of securities to which transaction applies:

 

 

(3)          Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (set forth the amount on which the filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined):

 

 

(4)Proposed maximum aggregate value of transaction:

 

 

(5)Total fee paid:

 

 

¨Fee paid previously with preliminary materials.

 

¨Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange Act Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting fee was paid previously. Identify the previous filing by registration statement number, or the Form or Schedule and the date of its filing.

 

(1)Amount Previously Paid:

 

 

(2)Form, Schedule or Registration Statement No.:

 

 

(3)Filing Party:

 

 

(4)Date Filed:

 

 

 
 

 

LANDMARK BANCORP, INC.

701 Poyntz Avenue

Manhattan, Kansas 66502

(785) 565-2000

 

April 16, 201414, 2016

 

Dear Stockholder:

 

On behalf of the board of directors and management of Landmark Bancorp, Inc., we cordially invite you to attend our annual meeting of stockholders, to be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 21, 2014,18, 2016, atthe Kansas State University Alumni Center, 17th and Anderson Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas.Kansas. The accompanying notice of annual meeting of stockholders and proxy statement discuss the business to be conducted at the meeting. At the meeting, we will also report on our operations and the outlook for the year ahead.

 

We have nominated three persons to serve as Class I directors.III directors, each of whom is an incumbent director. We have also included a non-binding, advisory proposal to approve the compensation of our named executive officers, or “say-on-pay” proposal. Additionally, our Audit Committee has selected, and we recommend that you ratify, the appointment of KPMGCrowe Chizek LLP to continue as our independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2014.2016.

 

We encourage you to attend the meeting in person.Whether or not you plan to attend, however,please complete, sign and date the enclosed proxy card and return it in the accompanying postage-paid return envelope as promptly as possible. This will ensure that your shares are represented at the meeting.

 

We look forward with pleasure to seeing and visiting with you at the meeting.

 

 Very truly yours,
  
 LANDMARK BANCORP, INC.
 
/s/ Michael E. Scheopner
 Michael E. Scheopner
 President and Chief Executive Officer

 

 

LANDMARK BANCORP, INC.

701 Poyntz Avenue

Manhattan, Kansas 66502

(785) 565-2000

 

NOTICE OF

ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

TO BE HELD MAY 21, 201418, 2016

 

To the stockholders of

 

LANDMARK BANCORP, INC.

 

The annual meeting of the stockholders of Landmark Bancorp, Inc., a Delaware corporation, will be held at theatthe Kansas State University Alumni Center, 17th and Anderson Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas, on Wednesday, May 21, 2014,18, 2016, at 2:00 p.m., local time, for the following purposes:

 

1.to elect three Class IIII directors for a term of three years;

 

2.to approve, in a non-binding, advisory proposal, the compensation of our named executive officers, as described in the accompanying proxy statement, which is referred to as a “say-on-pay” proposal;

3.to ratify the appointment of KPMGCrowe Chizek LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2014;2016; and

 

3.4.to transact such other business as may properly be brought before the meeting and any adjournments or postponements of the meeting.

 

We are not aware of any other business to come before the annual meeting. Any action may be taken on any one of the foregoing proposals at the annual meeting on the date specified above, or on any date or dates to which the annual meeting may be adjourned or postponed. The board of directors has fixed the close of business on April 2, 2014,March 30, 2016, as the record date for the determination of stockholders entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the meeting. In the event there are an insufficient number of votes for a quorum or to approve or ratify any of the foregoing proposals at the time of the meeting, the meeting may be adjourned or postponed to permit our further solicitation of proxies.

 

 By order of the Board of Directors
 
/s/ Michael E. Scheopner
 Michael E. Scheopner
 President and Chief Executive Officer

 

Manhattan, Kansas

April 16, 201414, 2016

 

WHETHER OR NOT YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THE ANNUAL MEETING IN PERSON, PLEASE TAKE THE TIME TO VOTE BY COMPLETING AND MAILING THE ENCLOSED PROXY CARD IN THE ENCLOSED, SELF-ADDRESSED ENVELOPE, WHICH REQUIRES NO POSTAGE IF MAILED IN THE UNITED STATES. WE HOPE THAT YOU WILL BE ABLE TO ATTEND THE MEETING, AND, IF YOU DO, YOU MAY VOTE YOUR STOCK IN PERSON IF YOU WISH. YOU MAY REVOKE YOUR PROXY AT ANY TIME PRIOR TO ITS EXERCISE.

 

 

LANDMARK BANCORP, INC.

 

 

 

PROXY STATEMENT

 

ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

May 21, 201418, 2016

 

 

 

This proxy statement is furnished in connection with the solicitation by the board of directors of Landmark Bancorp, Inc. of proxies to be voted at the annual meeting of stockholders to be held at the Kansas State University Alumni Center, 17th and Anderson Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas, on Wednesday, May 21, 2014,18, 2016, at 2:00 p.m., local time, and at any adjournments or postponements of the meeting. Our 20132015 annual report, which includes consolidated financial statements of Landmark Bancorp and Landmark National Bank, is also enclosed. This proxy statement is first being mailed to Landmark Bancorp’s stockholders on or about April 16, 2014.14, 2016.

 

The following is information regarding the meeting and the voting process, presented in a question and answer format.

 

Why am I receiving this proxy statement and proxy card?

 

You are receiving a proxy statement and proxy card from us because on April 2, 2014,March 30, 2016, the record date for the annual meeting, you owned shares of Landmark Bancorp’s common stock. This proxy statement describes the matters that will be presented for consideration by the stockholders at the annual meeting. It also gives you information concerning the matters to be voted on at the meeting to assist you in making an informed decision.

 

When you sign the enclosed proxy card, you appoint the proxy holder as your representative at the meeting. The proxy holder will vote your shares as you have instructed, thereby ensuring that your shares will be voted whether or not you attend the meeting. Even if you plan to attend the meeting, you should instruct the proxy holder how to vote your shares in advance of the meeting in case your plans change.

 

If you have instructed the proxy holder how to vote your shares and an issue comes up for a vote at the meeting that is not identified on the card, the proxy holder will vote your shares, pursuant to your proxy, in accordance with his or her judgment.

 

What matters will be voted on at the meeting?

 

You are being asked to vote on: (i) the election of three Class IIII directors of Landmark Bancorp for a term expiring in 2017;2019; (ii) a non-binding, advisory proposal on the compensation of our named executive officers (referred to as a “say-on-pay” proposal); and (ii)(iii) the ratification of the appointment of KPMGCrowe Chizek LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for the 20142016 fiscal year. These matters are more fully described in this proxy statement.

 

If I am the record holder of my shares, how do I vote?

 

You may vote either by mail or in person at the meeting. To vote by mail, complete and sign the enclosed proxy card and mail it in the enclosed postage-paid, pre-addressed envelope to our transfer agent, Registrar and Transfer Company, 10 Commerce Drive, Cranford, New Jersey, 07016.Computershare.

 

If you sign and return your proxy card but do not mark the card to provide voting instructions, the shares represented by your proxy card will be voted “FOR” all nominees named in this proxy statement, “FOR” the say-on-pay proposal, and “FOR” the ratification of KPMGCrowe Chizek LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm.


If you want to vote in person, please come to the meeting. We will distribute written ballots to anyone who wants to vote at the meeting. Even if you plan to attend the meeting, you should complete, sign and return your proxy card in advance of the meeting in case your plans change. Please note, if your shares are held in the name of your broker (or in what is usually referred to as “street name”), you will need to arrange to obtain a “legal proxy” from your broker in order to vote in person at the meeting.

 

If I hold shares in the name of a broker or fiduciary, who votes my shares?

 

If you received this proxy statement from your broker, trustee or other fiduciary who may hold your shares, your broker, trustee or fiduciary should have given you instructions for directing how they should vote your shares. It will then be their responsibility to vote your shares for you in the manner you direct. As discussed above, if you want to vote in person at the meeting, you will need to arrange to obtain a “legal proxy” from your broker, trustee or fiduciary in order to vote in person at the meeting.

 

Brokers may generally vote on routine matters, such as the ratification of our independent registered public accounting firm, but cannot vote on non-routine matters, such as certain amendmentsan amendment to our certificate of incorporation or the adoption or amendment of an equity compensation plan, unless they have received voting instructions from the person for whom they are holding shares. If your broker does not receive instructions from you on how to vote particular shares on a matter on which your broker does not have discretionary authority to vote, your broker will return the proxy card to us, indicating that he or she does not have the authority to vote on these matters. This is generally referred to as a “broker non-vote” and will affect the outcome of the voting as described under “How many votes are needed for approval of each proposal?”

 

The election of directors isand the say-on-pay proposal are both considered a non-routine matter.matters. We therefore encourage you to provide directions to your broker as to how you want your shares voted on all matters to be brought before the meeting. You should do this by carefully following the instructions your broker, trustee or fiduciary gives you concerning its procedures. This ensures that your shares will be voted at the meeting.

 

What does it mean if I receive more than one proxy card?

 

It means that you have multiple holdings reflected in our stock transfer records and/or in accounts with stockbrokers. Please sign and return ALL proxy cards to ensure that all your shares are voted.

 

What options do I have in voting on each of the proposals?

 

You may vote “FOR,” “AGAINST” or “ABSTAIN” on any proposal that may properly be brought before the meeting.

 

How many votes may I cast?

 

Generally, you are entitled to cast one vote for each share of stock you owned on the record date. The proxy card included with this proxy statement indicates the number of shares owned by an account attributable to you.

 

How many votes are needed for approval of each proposal?

 

All matters properly brought before the meeting must receive the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares present in person or by proxy at the meeting and voting.

 

Please note, however, that because the say-on-pay proposal is advisory, the outcome of such vote will not be binding on the board of directors or the Compensation Committee.


Please also note that the election of directors isand the say-on-pay proposal are both considered to be a non-routine matter.matters. As a result, if your shares are held by a broker or other fiduciary, it cannot vote your shares on this matterthese matters unless it has received voting instructions from you.

 

Broker non-votes will not be counted as entitled to vote and therefore will not have an effect on any matter presented at the annual meeting, but will count for purposes of determining whether or not a quorum is present since a routine matter (the ratification of the appointment of our independent registered public accounting firm) is on the proxy ballot. Similarly, abstentions will be considered in determining the presence of a quorum, but will not affect the outcome of any of the proposals considered at the meeting.

 

What if I change my mind after I return my proxy?

 

If you hold your shares in your own name, you may revoke your proxy and change your vote at any time before the polls close at the meeting. You may do this by:

 

·signing another proxy with a later date and returning that proxy to our transfer agent at:
Computershare
P. O. Box 30170
College Station, TX 77842;

Registrar and Transfer Company
10 Commerce Drive
Cranford, New Jersey, 07016;

 

·sending notice to our transfer agent that you are revoking your proxy; or

 

·voting in person at the meeting.

 

If you hold your shares in the name of your broker and desire to revoke your proxy, you will need to contact your broker to revoke your proxy.

 

How many shares do we need to have represented at the meeting to hold the annual meeting?

 

A majority of the shares that are outstanding and entitled to vote as of the record date must be present in person or by proxy at the meeting in order to hold the meeting and conduct business.

 

Shares are counted as present at the meeting if the stockholder either:

 

·is present in person at the meeting; or

 

·has properly submitted a signed proxy card or other proxy.

 

On April 2, 2014,March 30, 2016, the record date, there were 3,174,6403,580,826 shares of common stock issued and outstanding. Therefore, at least 1,587,3211,790,414 shares need to be present at the annual meeting to hold the meeting and conduct business.

 

What happens if a nominee is unable to stand for election?

 

The board may, by resolution, provide for a lesser number of directors or designate a substitute nominee. In the latter case, shares represented by proxies may be voted for a substitute nominee. Proxies cannot be voted for more than three nominees. The board has no reason to believe any nominee will be unable to stand for election.

 

Where do I find the voting results of the meeting?

 

If available, we will announce voting results at the meeting. The voting results will also be disclosed in a Current Report on Form 8-K that we will file within four business days after the annual meeting.

 

Who bears the cost of soliciting proxies?

 

We will bear the cost of soliciting proxies. In addition to solicitations by mail, officers, directors or employees of Landmark Bancorp or its subsidiaries may solicit proxies in person or by telephone. These persons will not receive any special or additional compensation for soliciting proxies. We may reimburse brokerage houses and other custodians, nominees and fiduciaries for their reasonable out-of-pocket expenses for forwarding proxy and solicitation materials to stockholders.

 

PROPOSAL 1 – ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

 

At the annual meeting of the stockholders to be held on May 21, 2014,18, 2016, our stockholders will be entitled to elect three Class IIII directors for a term expiring in 2017.2019. Landmark Bancorp’s directors are divided into three classes having staggered terms of three years. As described further below, each of the three nominees for election as Class IIII directors is an incumbent director. We have no knowledge that any ofanyof the nominees will refuse or be unable to serve, but if any of the nominees becomes unavailable for election, the holders of the proxies reserve the right to substitute another person of their choice as a nominee when voting at the meeting.

 

Set forth below is information concerning the nominees for election and for the other directors whose terms of office will continue after the meeting, including their age, the year first elected as director and their business experience during the previous five years. Unless otherwise noted, nominees for director have been employed in their principal occupation with the same organization for at least the last five years. The nominees, if elected at the annual meeting of stockholders, will serve as Class IIII directors for three-year terms expiring in 2017.2019.

 

We unanimously recommend that you vote “FOR” each of the nominees for director. Unless authority toyou vote for“AGAINST” or “ABSTAIN” the nominees, is withheld, the shares represented by the enclosed proxy card, if executed and returned, will be voted “FOR” the election of the nominees proposed by the board of directors.

 

NOMINEES
       
Name Age 

Position with Landmark Bancorp

and Landmark National Bank

 Director
Since(1)
       

CLASS I

(Term Expires 2017)

      
       
Brent A. Bowman 64 Director of Landmark Bancorp and Landmark National Bank 1987
       
Sarah Hill-Nelson 44 Director of Landmark Bancorp and Landmark National Bank 2011
       
David H. Snapp 58 Director of Landmark Bancorp and Landmark National Bank 1986
       
CONTINUING DIRECTORS
 
Name Age 

Position with Landmark Bancorp

and Landmark National Bank

 Director
Since(1)
       

CLASS III

(Term Expires 2016)

 

 

 

    
       
Patrick L. Alexander 61 Executive Chairman and Director of Landmark Bancorp and Landmark National Bank 1990
       
Jim W. Lewis 58 Director of Landmark Bancorp and Landmark National Bank 1991
       
Michael E. Scheopner 52 President, Chief Executive Officer and Director of Landmark Bancorp and Landmark National Bank 2013
Name Age 

Position with Landmark Bancorp

and Landmark National Bank

 Director
Since(1)
       

CLASS II

(Term Expires 2015)

      
       
Richard A. Ball 61 Director of Landmark Bancorp and Landmark National Bank 1995
       
Susan E. Roepke 74 Director of Landmark Bancorp and Landmark National Bank 1997
       
Wayne R. Sloan 60 Director of Landmark Bancorp and Landmark National Bank 2013
NOMINEES
 
Name Age 

Position with Landmark Bancorp

and Landmark National Bank

 Director
Since(1)
       

CLASS III

(Term Expires 2019)

     
       
Patrick L. Alexander 63 Executive Chairman and Director of Landmark Bancorp and Landmark National Bank 1990
       
Jim W. Lewis 60 Director of Landmark Bancorp and Landmark National Bank 1991
       
Michael E. Scheopner 54 President, Chief Executive Officer and Director of Landmark Bancorp and Landmark National Bank 2013

CONTINUING DIRECTORS
 
Name Age 

Position with Landmark Bancorp

and Landmark National Bank

 Director
Since(1)
       

CLASS I

(Term Expires 2017)

      
       
Brent A. Bowman 66 Director of Landmark Bancorp and Landmark National Bank 1987
       
Sarah Hill-Nelson 46 Director of Landmark Bancorp and Landmark National Bank 2011
       
David H. Snapp 60 Director of Landmark Bancorp and Landmark National Bank 1986

Name Age 

Position with Landmark Bancorp

and Landmark National Bank

 Director
Since(1)
       

CLASS II

(Term Expires 2018)

      
       
Richard A. Ball 63 Director of Landmark Bancorp and Landmark National Bank 1995
       
Susan E. Roepke 76 Director of Landmark Bancorp and Landmark National Bank 1997
       
Wayne R. Sloan 62 Director of Landmark Bancorp and Landmark National Bank 2013

 

 

(1)Indicates the year first elected or appointed to the board of directors of Landmark Bancorp, MNB Bancshares, Inc. or Landmark Bancshares, Inc. (or their respective banking subsidiaries). MNB Bancshares, Inc. and Landmark Bancshares, Inc. are the predecessor companies to Landmark Bancorp.

 

All of our directors will hold office for the terms indicated, or until their earlier death, resignation, removal or disqualification, or until their respective successors are duly elected and qualified. There are no arrangements or understandings with any of the directors or nominees pursuant to which they have been selected as nominees or directors. No director or executive officer is related to any other director or executive officer of Landmark Bancorp or Landmark National Bank by blood, marriage or adoption. No nominee or director has been a director of another “public corporation” (i.e. subject to the reporting requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the “Exchange Act”) or of any investment company within the past five years.

 

The business experience of each nominee and continuing director, as well as their qualifications to serve on the board, are as follows:

Patrick L. Alexander has served as Executive Chairman of Landmark Bancorp and Landmark National Bank since January 1, 2014. Mr. Alexander previously served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Landmark Bancorp and Landmark National Bank from October 2001 until stepping down as President in May 2013 and as Chief Executive Officer effective January 2014. Mr. Alexander has also served on the boards of directors of Landmark Bancorp and Landmark National Bank since October 2001, becoming Chairman in May 2013. Mr. Alexander became President and Chief Executive Officer of the Manhattan Federal Savings and Loan Association (the predecessor to Security National Bank) in 1990, and became the President and Chief Executive Officer of MNB Bancshares and Security National Bank in 1992 and 1993, respectively. From 1986 to 1990, Mr. Alexander served as President of the Kansas State Bank of Manhattan. We consider Mr. Alexander to be a qualified candidate for service on the board due to his experience in the financial services industry and the intimate familiarity with Landmark Bancorp’s operations he has acquired in senior leadership positions with Landmark Bancorp.

Richard A. Ball, a certified public accountant, is the President of Ball Consulting Group, Ltd. He has served as a Board Chairman of the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, Great Bend United Way, Petroleum Club and Barton County Community College Academic Fund Campaign. He has also served on the boards of the Kiwanis Club, Cougar Booster Club, Downtown Development, Mid-Kansas Economic Development and the Kansas Oil & Gas Museum Committee. We consider Mr. Ball to be a qualified candidate for service on the board, the Audit Committee and the Compensation Committee due to his prominence in the Great Bend market area, as well as his familiarity with accounting principles and his general business experience.

Brent A. Bowman has been President of Bowman, Bowman and Novick,BBN Architects Inc., an architectural firm, since its incorporation in 2004.firm. Previously, he was the President of BrentBowman, Bowman and Associates Architects, P.A.Novick, Inc. He serves on the board of directors of Big Lakes Developmental Center, Inc. We consider Mr. Bowman to be a qualified candidate for service on the board and the Compensation Committee due to the skills and expertise he has acquired in leadership roles at successful local businesses.

Sarah Hill-Nelson is the President and Chief Executive Officer of The Bowersock Mills & Power Company, a hydroelectric power plant, in Lawrence, Kansas. Ms. Hill-Nelson is a member of the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce and has served in leadership positions on several boards, including President of the Douglas County CASA Board and Vice President of the City of Lawrence Sustainability Advisory Board. We consider Ms. Hill-Nelson to be a qualified candidate for service on the board, the Audit Committee, and the Nominating and Governance Committee due to the skills and expertise she has acquired in running a successful local business, as well as her involvement in the Lawrence market.

Jim W. Lewis is the owner of Lewis Automotive Groups, which includes several dealerships in Western Kansas. Mr. Lewis is a member of the Dodge City Area Chamber of Commerce.Commerce and the Governor’s Council of Economic Advisors for the State of Kansas. He was a founding member of The Alley, a community teen center in Dodge City. We consider Mr. Lewis to be a qualified candidate for service on the board, the Audit Committee, and the Nominating and Governance Committee due to the skills and expertise he has demonstrated in running a successful local business, as well as his prominence in several of our market areas.

Susan E. Roepke is a former Vice President of MNB Bancshares, serving in that capacity from its inception in 1992 until she retired as an officer of MNB Bancshares and Security National Bank at the end of 1998. She also served in a number of senior management positions with Security National Bank since 1970, including Senior Vice President, Secretary and Cashier beginning in 1993. We consider Ms. Roepke to be a qualified candidate for service on the board, the Audit Committee, and the Compensation Committee due to the financial skills and extensive expertise she has acquired in her leadership roles in the financial services industry and with Landmark Bancorp.

Michael E. Scheopner has served as President of Landmark Bancorp and Landmark National Bank since May 2013 and as Chief Executive Officer since January 2014. Previously, he had served as an Executive Vice President and Credit Risk Manager of Landmark National Bank from October 2001 to May 2013. Mr. Scheopner served as an Executive Vice President of Security National Bank from March 1998 to October 2001 and as a Senior Vice President of Security National Bank from May 1996 to March 1998. We consider Mr. Scheopner to be a qualified candidate for service on the board due to his experience in the financial services industry and the intimate familiarity with our organization’s operations he has acquired in senior leadership positions within our organization.

Wayne R. Sloanhas been President of BHS Construction, Inc., a general construction firm in Manhattan, Kansas, since 1982. He currently serves on the board of the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce and is the President of the State Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs. He also served as President of the Associated General Contractors of Kansas and the President of the Boys and Girls Club of Manhattan. We consider Mr. Sloan to be a qualified candidate for service on the board, the Audit Committee and the Nominating and Governance Committee due to the skills and expertise he has acquired in running a successful local business, as well as his involvement in the Manhattan market.

David H. Snapp is the owner of the David H. Snapp, LC law firm in Dodge City, Kansas. Mr. Snapp serves as a board member of the Community Foundation of Southwest Kansas, Arrowhead West, Inc., a mental and physical rehabilitation center, and the Catholic Social Service. Mr. Snapp is also a member of the Kansas Title Standards Committee for real estate transactions. We consider Mr. Snapp to be a qualified candidate for service on the board due to his legal skills and expertise, along with the expertise he has acquired in running a successful local business, and his prominence in the Dodge City market.

 

In addition, the business experience for each of our executive officers not otherwise discussed above is as follows:

6

 

Bradly L. Chindamo, age 45,47, has served as an Executive Vice President and Credit Risk Manager of Landmark National Bank since May 2013. He has served as a Market President of Landmark National Bank since January 2008. Prior to joining Landmark National Bank, Mr. Chindamo served as a Community/Regional Bank President for Central National Bank in Lawrence, Kansas from 1995 to January 2008.

Mark A. Herpich, age 46,48, has served as Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer of Landmark Bancorp and as Executive Vice President, Secretary and Chief Financial Officer of Landmark National Bank since October 2001. Previously, he held these same positions at MNB Bancshares and Security National Bank from September 1998 to October 2001. Mr. Herpich served as a Senior Manager and certified public accountant at KPMG LLP from August 1989 to September 1998.

Mark J. Oliphant, age 61,63, has served as the Executive Vice President – Retail Banking of Landmark National Bank since 2012. He has served as a Market President of Landmark National Bank since October 2001. Prior to joining Landmark National Bank, Mr. Oliphant served as a Market President for Bank of America in Dodge City, Kansas from January 1998 to October 2001 and as Senior Vice President – Head of Commercial Lending from July 1997 to January 1998 for Bank of America in Dodge City.

Dean R. Thibault, age 62,64, has served as Executive Vice President-Commercial Banking of Landmark National Bank since January 2006. He had served as a Market President for Landmark National Bank since October 2001. Mr. Thibault served as Senior Vice President for Security National Bank from March 1998 to October 2001.

Larry R. Heyka, age 67, has served as a Market President of Landmark National Bank since January 2006. Prior to joining Landmark National Bank, Mr. Heyka served as a director and the President and Chief Executive Officer of First Savings Bank, F.S.B. in Manhattan, Kansas from December 1999 to December 2005.

Gary L. Johnson, age 60, has served as a Market President of Landmark National Bank since May 2013. He had served as Senior Vice President for Landmark National Bank since October 2001. Mr. Johnson also served as Senior Vice President for Landmark Federal Savings Bank from 1997 to October 2001.

 

None of the executive officers were selected as an officer pursuant to any arrangement or understanding with any other person.

 

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

 

We currently have nine directors serving as our board, a majority of whom are deemed to be “independent,” as that term is defined by NASDAQ. Mr. Snapp is not deemed to be “independent” because Landmark Bancorp has regularly engaged the law firm of David H. Snapp, LC, of which he is the owner, in the past. Additionally, Mr. Alexander and Mr. Scheopner are not deemed to be “independent” because of their respective positions as executive officers of Landmark Bancorp and its affiliates.


Generally, the board oversees our business and monitors the performance of our management. In accordance with our corporate governance procedures, the board does not involve itself in the day-to-day operations of Landmark Bancorp, which are monitored by our executive officers and management. Our directors fulfill their duties and responsibilities by attending regular meetings of the full board, with additional special meetings held from time to time. Our directors also discuss business and other matters with Mr. Scheopner, other key executives and our principal external advisers (legal counsel, auditors and other consultants) at times other than regularly scheduled meetings when appropriate.

 

The board of directors has, in addition to other committees, an Audit Committee, a Nominating and Governance Committee and a Compensation Committee. The current charters of each of these committees are available on Landmark Bancorp’s website at www.landmarkbancorpinc.com. Our website also contains a general description about us, as well as our Code of Business Conduct and Ethics. Additionally, we maintain a separate website for Landmark National Bank at www.banklandmark.com that contains a description of our banking services and products.

The board held sevensix regularly scheduled and special meetings during 2013.2015. In 2014,2016, the full board intends to meet six times with special meetings held from time to time when necessary and through committee membership, which is discussed below. During 2013,2015, all directors attended at least 75 percent of the meetings of the board and the committees on which they served. Although we do not have a formal policy regarding director attendance at the annual meeting, we encourage and expect all of our directors to attend. Last year, all of the directors serving at that time were present at the annual meeting.

 

Audit Committee

 

Messrs. Ball, Lewis, and Sloan and Mmes. Hill-Nelson and Roepke served as members of the Audit Committee in 2013. Messrs. Jerry R. Pettle and Larry L. Schugart also served on the Audit Committee until their respective retirements in May 2013. During 2013, Mr. Pettle served as Chairman of the Audit Committee until his retirement from the board,2015, with Ms. Roepke serving as Chairperson thereafter.Chairperson. Each current member of the Audit Committee is expected to serve throughout 2014.2016. Each of these members is considered “independent,” according to the listing standards set forth by NASDAQ and Rule 10A-3 of the Exchange Act, and the board believes that each member of the committee possesses the necessary skills and qualifications to critically analyze our financial statements and financial reporting process. Further, the board has determined that Ms. Roepke qualifies as an “audit committee financial expert” under the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission. The board based this decision on Ms. Roepke’s education and professional experience as a former senior financial executive of a financial institution.

 

The functions performed by the Audit Committee include, but are not limited to, the following:

 

·selecting and managing the relationship with our independent registered public accounting firm;

 

·reviewing the independence of the independent registered public accounting firm;

 

·reviewing actions by management on recommendations of the independent registered public accounting firm and internal audit staff;

 

·meeting with management, internal audit staff and the independent registered public accounting firm to review the effectiveness of our system of internal control over financial reporting and internal audit procedures;

 

·reviewing our earnings releases and reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission; and

 

·reviewing reports of bank regulatory agencies and monitoring management’s compliance with recommendations contained in those reports.


To promote independence of the audit function, the Audit Committee consults separately and jointly with the independent registered public accounting firm, internal audit staff and management. Our internal audit staff reports directly to the committee on audit and compliance matters. The committee also reviews and approves the scope of the annual external audit and consults with the independent registered public accounting firm regarding the results of their auditing procedures. We have adopted a written charter, which sets forth the Audit Committee’s duties and responsibilities. A copy of the charter is currently available on our website at www.landmarkbancorpinc.com. The Audit Committee for Landmark Bancorp met eight times in 2013.2015.

 

Compensation Committee

 

Messrs. Ball and Bowman and Ms. Roepke served on the Compensation Committee in 2013,2015, with Mr. Ball serving as Chairman. Messrs. Pettle and Schugart also served on the Compensation Committee until their respective retirements in May 2013. Each current member of the Compensation Committee is expected to serve throughout 2014.2016. Each of the members is considered “independent,” as such term is defined by NASDAQ listing requirements, an “outside” director pursuant to Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, and a “non-employee” director under Section 16 of the Exchange Act.

The Compensation Committee has overall responsibility for evaluating the compensation plans, policies and programs relating to the Chief Executive Officer and executive officers of Landmark Bancorp. The Chief Executive Officer conducts annual performance reviews for the executive officers, and the Compensation Committee considers the Chief Executive Officer’s assessment of each executive officer’s individual performance and his salary recommendations for the other executive officers in determining executive officer compensation. The Compensation Committee evaluates the Chief Executive Officer’s performance and establishes his compensation. The Chief Executive Officer does not participate in Compensation Committee discussions or decisions relating to his compensation. In assessing the compensation paid to the executive officers of Landmark Bancorp, the Compensation Committee typically makes use of general survey data from various sources. The Compensation Committee also has the authority to retain inside advisors and the sole authority to retain and pay outside advisors at its discretion, althoughdiscretion.

In 2015, Blanchard Consulting Group, an independent compensation consultant, was engaged to perform a comparative analysis of our compensation programs for our executive management and our board of directors relative to our peer group and to assist with the design and adoption of our 2015 Stock Incentive Plan. The Compensation Committee determined that Blanchard Consulting Group had no such advisors were retained during 2013.known conflicts of interest that would have impaired its independence in advising the committee.

 

The Compensation Committee’s responsibilities and functions are further described in its charter, which is available on our website at www.landmarkbancorpinc.com. The Compensation Committee met twosix times in 20132015.

 

Nominating and Governance Committee

 

Messrs. Lewis and Sloan and Ms. Hill-Nelson served on the Nominating and Governance Committee in 2013. Messrs. Bowman and Schugart also each served on the Nominating and Governance Committee until May 2013, when Mr. Schugart retired from the board and Mr. Bowman was appointed to the Compensation Committee to fill a vacancy on that committee. During 2013, Mr. Schugart served as the Chairman of the Nominating and Governance Committee until his retirement from the board,2015, with Mr. Lewis serving as Chairman thereafter.Chairman. Each current member of the Nominating and Governance Committee is expected to serve throughout 2014.2016. Each of the members is deemed to be “independent,” as such term is defined by NASDAQ. The Nominating and Governance Committee is charged with overseeing our corporate governance programs as well as nominating directors to serve on the board of directors. The Nominating and Governance Committee’s responsibilities and functions are further described in its charter, which is available on our website at www.landmarkbancorpinc.com. The Nominating and Governance Committee met one timetwo times in 2013.2015.

 

Director Nominations and Qualifications

 

In carrying out its nominating function, the Nominating and Governance Committee evaluates all potential nominees for election, including incumbent directors, board nominees and stockholder nominees, in the same manner, although it is not currently seeking candidates to serve on the board and we did notreceive any stockholder nominations for the 20142016 annual meeting. Generally, the Nominating and Governance Committee believes that, at a minimum, directors should possess certain qualities, including the highest personal and professional ethics and integrity, a sufficient educational and professional background, demonstrated leadership skills, sound judgment, a strong sense of service to the communities which we serve and an ability to meet the standards and duties set forth in our code of conduct. While we do not have a separate diversity policy, the committee does consider the diversity of its directors and nominees in terms of knowledge, experience, skills, expertise, and other demographics which may contribute to the board. The committee also evaluates potential nominees to determine if they have any conflicts of interest that may interfere with their ability to serve as effective board members and whether they are “independent” in accordance with NASDAQ requirements (to ensure that at least a majority of the directors will, at all times, be independent).


The committee identifies nominees by first evaluating the current members of the board whose term is set to expire at the upcoming annual stockholder meeting and who are willing to continue in service. Current members of the board with skills and experience that are relevant to our business and who are willing to continue in service are considered for re-nomination. If any member of the board does not wish to continue in service or if the committee or the board decides not to re-nominate a member for re-election, the committee would identify the desired skills and experience of a new nominee in light of the criteria above. The committee has not, in the past, retained a third party to assist it in identifying candidates, but it has the authority to retain a third party firm or professional for the purpose of identifying candidates. The committee evaluated the incumbent directors whose terms expire in 20142016 and determined that they should be nominated for re-election as directors.

Stockholder Communication with the Board, Nomination and Proposal Procedures

General Communications with the Board.Stockholders may contact our board of directors by contacting Mark A. Herpich, Corporate Secretary, Landmark Bancorp, Inc. at 701 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502 or (785) 565-2000.

Nominations of Directors. In order for a stockholder nominee to be considered by the Nominating and Governance Committee to be one of its nominees and included in our proxy statement, the nominating stockholder must file a written notice of the proposed director nomination with our Corporate Secretary, at the above address, at least 120 days prior to the anniversary of the date the previous year’s proxy statement was mailed to stockholders. Nominations must include the full name and address of the proposed nominee and a brief description of the proposed nominee’s business experience for at least the previous five years. All submissions must be accompanied by the written consent of the proposed nominee to be named as a nominee and to serve as a director if elected. The committee may request additional information in order to make a determination as to whether to nominate the person for director. To be considered by the committee as a nominee for inclusion in next year’s proxy statement, stockholder nominations must be received no later than December 17, 2014.15, 2016.

 

In accordance with our bylaws, a stockholder may otherwise nominate a director for election at an annual meeting of stockholders by delivering written notice of the nomination to our Corporate Secretary, at the above address, not less than 60 days nor more than 90 days prior to the first anniversary date of the previous year’s annual meeting, which means such notice must be delivered to our Corporate Secretary no earlier than February 20, 201517, 2017 and no later than March 22, 201519, 2017 for the 20152017 annual meeting of stockholders. The stockholder’s notice of intention to nominate a director must include: (a) for each person to be nominated: (i) the name, age and business and residence address of each nominee; (ii) the principal occupation or employment of each nominee; (iii) the class and number of shares of stock owned by the nominee on the date of the notice; and (iv) any information that would be required to be disclosed on Schedule 13D pursuant to Regulation 13D-G under the Exchange Act, in connection with the acquisition of stock, and pursuant to Regulation 14A under the Exchange Act, in connection with the solicitation of proxies with respect to nominees for election as directors, regardless of whether the person is subject to the provisions of such regulations; and (b) as to the stockholder: (i) the name and address of record of the nominating stockholder and the names and addresses of any other stockholders supporting each respective nominee; and (ii) the class and number of shares of stock owned by the nominating stockholder and any other stockholders supporting the nominees on the date of the notice. We may request additional information after receiving the notification for the purpose of determining the proposed nominee’s eligibility to serve as a director. Persons nominated for election to the board pursuant to this paragraph will not be included in our proxy statement.

10 

Other Stockholder Proposals.To be considered for inclusion in our proxy statement and form of proxy for our 20152017 annual meeting of stockholders, stockholder proposals must be received by our Corporate Secretary, at the above address, no later than December 17, 2014,15, 2016, and must otherwise comply with the notice and other provisions of our bylaws, as well as Securities and Exchange Commission rules and regulations.

 

For proposals to be otherwise brought by a stockholder and voted upon at an annual meeting, the stockholder must file written notice of the proposal to our Corporate Secretary on or before 60 days in advance of the first anniversary of the previous year’s annual meeting, which, for the 20152017 annual meeting of stockholders, means such notice must be filed with our Corporate Secretary on or before March 22, 2015.19, 2017.

 

Board Leadership Structure

 

Following the retirement of Mr. Schugart, our previous Chairman of the Board, immediately after our annual meeting of stockholders on May 22, 2013 and continuing through December 31, 2013, Mr. Alexander served as both our Chairman of the Board as well as our Chief Executive Officer. While these positions had historically been held by separate people in our organization, our board believed that combining these roles in Mr. Alexander until his retirement as Chief Executive Officer would most efficiently utilize Mr. Alexander’s extensive experience and knowledge regarding Landmark Bancorp, provide for efficient leadership of the board and the company and facilitate the transition of the company’s leadership.

Following Mr. Scheopner’s appointment as Chief Executive Officer effective January 1, 2014,Currently, the positions of Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer once again becameare held by separate people, with Mr. Alexander serving as Executive Chairman of the Board and Mr. Scheopner serving as Chief Executive Officer. We currently believe this is the most appropriate structure for Landmark Bancorp. The Executive Chairman of the Board provides leadership to the board and works with the board to define its structure and activities in the fulfillment of its responsibilities. The Executive Chairman of the Board also provides input to management with respect to setting the board agendas, facilitates communication among directors, works with the Chief Executive Officer to provide an appropriate information flow between management and the board and presides at meetings of the board of directors and stockholders. With the Executive Chairman of the Board’s assumption of these duties, the Chief Executive Officer may place a greater focus on the strategic and operational aspects of Landmark Bancorp. We also believe that ultimately our board feels a greater sense of involvement and brings a wider source of perspective as a result of this structure, from which Landmark Bancorp benefits.and its stockholders benefit.

 

Independent Director Sessions

 

Because the Executive Chairman of the Board is not an independent director, we have a separate lead independent director who organizes and presides at sessions of our independent directors. Currently, Ms. Roepke serves as our lead independent director and she is expected to continue in this role throughout 2014.2016. Consistent with NASDAQ listing requirements, the independent directors regularly have the opportunity to meet without the non-independent directors present and in 20132015 there were twothree such sessions.

 

Board’s Role in Risk Oversight

 

Risk is inherent with every business, and how well a business manages risk can ultimately determine its success. We face a number of risks, including general economic risks, credit risks, regulatory risks, audit risks, reputational risks and others, such as the impact of competition. Management is responsible for the day-to-day management of risks the company faces, while the board, as a whole and through its committees, has responsibility for the oversight of risk management. In its risk oversight role, the board of directors has the responsibility to satisfy itself that the risk management processes designed and implemented by management are adequate and functioning as designed.

 

While the full board of directors is charged with ultimate oversight responsibility for risk management, various committees of the board and members of management also have responsibilities with respect to our risk oversight. In particular, the Audit Committee plays a large role in monitoring and assessing our financial, legal, and organizational risks, and receives regular reports from the management team regarding comprehensive organizational risk as well as particular areas of concern. The board’s Compensation Committee monitors and assesses the various risks associated with compensation policies, and oversees incentives that encourage a level of risk-taking consistent with our overall strategy. Additionally, our Chief Lending OfficerCredit Risk Manager and loan review staff are directly responsible for overseeing our credit risk.


We believe that establishing the right “tone at the top” and providing for full and open communication between management and our board of directors are essential for effective risk management and oversight. Our executive management meets regularly with our other senior officers to discuss strategy and risks facing the company. Senior officers attend many of the board meetings or, if not in attendance, are available to address any questions or concerns raised by the board on risk-management-related and any other matters. Additionally, each of our board-level committees provides regular reports to the full board and apprises the board of our comprehensive risk profile and any areas of concern.

 

Code of Business Conduct and Ethics

 

We have a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics in place that applies to all of our directors and employees. The code sets forth the standard of ethics that we expect all of our directors and employees to follow, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. The code is posted on our website at www.landmarkbancorpinc.com. We intend to satisfy the disclosure requirements under Item 5.05(c) of Form 8-K regarding any amendment to or waiver of the code with respect to our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, and persons performing similar functions, by posting such information on our website.

 

DirectorCompensation

 

In 2013,2015, the directors of Landmark Bancorp received a monthly feequarterly retainer of $1,750$5,000 for serving on the board of directors, and they will receivesupplemented by a monthly$1,000 fee of $2,000 in 2014.paid for attending non-telephonic board meetings. Landmark Bancorp has assumed deferred compensation agreements entered into by Messrs. Ball Schugart and Snapp as directors of Landmark Bancshares, Inc. Landmark Bancorp has also assumed deferred compensation agreements entered into by Mr. Schugart as an executive officer of Landmark Bancshares, Inc. The following table illustrates the compensation of our non-employee directors in 2013.2015.

 

Name Fees earned or
paid in cash
($)
 Stock awards
($)
 Option awards
($)
 All other 
compensation
($)
 Total
($)
  Fees earned or
paid in cash
($)
 Stock awards
($)
 Option awards
($)
 All other
compensation
($)
 Total
($)
 
(a) (1) (b) (c) (d) (g) (h)  (b) (c) (d) (g) (h) 
Richard A. Ball  21,000   -0-   -0-   -0-   21,000   26,000   - 0 -   - 0 -   - 0 -   26,000 
Brent A. Bowman  21,000   -0-   -0-   -0-   21,000   25,000   - 0 -   - 0 -   - 0 -   25,000 
Sarah Hill-Nelson  21,000   -0-   -0-   -0-   21,000   26,000   - 0 -   - 0 -   - 0 -   26,000 
Jim W. Lewis  21,000   -0-   -0-   -0-   21,000   26,000   - 0 -   - 0 -   - 0 -   26,000 
Jerry R. Pettle(2)  8,750   -0-   -0-   -0-   8,750 
Susan E. Roepke  21,000   -0-   -0-   -0-   21,000   26,000   - 0 -   - 0 -   - 0 -   26,000 
Larry L. Schugart(2)  8,750   -0-   -0-   -0-   8,750 
Wayne R. Sloan(3)  15,750   -0-   -0-   -0-   15,750 
Wayne R. Sloan  26,000   - 0 -   - 0 -   - 0 -   26,000 
David H. Snapp  21,000   -0-   -0-   -0-   21,000   26,000   - 0 -   - 0 -   - 0 -   26,000 

 

 

(1)At December 31, 2013,2015, Mr. Snapp and Ms. Hill-Nelson held 1,5936,147 and 1,757 options, 796respectively, all of which were exercisable. Messrs. Pettle and Schugart both retired from the board in May 2013, pursuant to the board’s retirement policy, and their options were exercised or expired prior to December 31, 2013. Each of the remaining non-employee directors, except Mr. Sloan, held 13,53810,537 options, 12,742all of which were exercisable, as of December 31, 2013.2015. Additionally, in 2011, each non-employee director, except Mr. Sloan who was not a director at that time, was granted 229240 shares of restricted stock, of which 50%all had vested as of December 31, 2013, with the remainder vesting in equal parts on each of April 20, 2014 and 2015. As of their respective retirement dates, Messrs. Pettle and Schugart became fully vested in their respective shares of restricted stock.

(2)Reflects monthly director fees received by each of Messrs. Pettle and Schugart through their retirement in May 2013, pursuant to the board’s retirement policy.
(3)Reflects monthly director fees received by Mr. Sloan subsequent to joining the board in March 2013.

12

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

 

Regulatory Impact on Compensation

 

As a publicly-traded financial institution, Landmark Bancorp must contend with several often overlapping layers of regulations when considering and implementing compensation-related decisions. These regulations do not set specific parameters within which compensation decisions must be made, but do require Landmark Bancorp and the Compensation Committee to be mindful of the risks that often go hand-in-hand with compensation programs designed to incentivize the achievement of better-than-average performance. While the regulatory focus on risk assessment has been heightened over the last several years, the incorporation of general concepts of risk assessment in our compensation decisions is not a recent development.

 

Under its long-standingInteragency Guidelines Establishing Standards for Safety and Soundness(the “Safety and Soundness standards”), the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the “FDIC”) has long held that excessive compensation is prohibited as an unsafe and unsound practice. In describing a framework within which to make a determination as to whether compensation is to be considered excessive, the FDIC has indicated that financial institutions should consider whether aggregate cash amounts paid, or non-cash benefits provided, to employees are unreasonable or disproportionate to the services performed by an employee. The FDIC encourages financial institutions to review an employee’s compensation history and to consider internal pay equity, and, as appropriate, to consider benchmarking compensation to peer groups. Finally, theThe FDIC provides that, in order to give proper context, such an assessment must be made in light of the institution’s overall financial condition.

 

In addition to the Safety and Soundnessstandards, the Compensation Committee must also take into account the joint agencyGuidance on Sound Incentive Compensation Policies(the “Guidance”). Various financial institution regulatory agencies worked together to issue the Guidance, which is intended to serve as a complement to the Safety and Soundness standards. The Guidancesets forth a framework for assessing and mitigating risk associated with incentive compensation plans, programs and arrangements maintained by financial institutions. The Guidanceis narrower in scope than the Safety and Soundnessstandards because it applies only to senior executive officers and those other individuals who, either alone or as a group, could pose a material risk to an institution. With respect to such individuals, the Guidance is intended to focus an institution’s attention on balanced risk-taking incentives, compatibility of incentives with effective controls and risk management, and a focus on general principles of strong corporate governance in establishing, reviewing and maintaining incentive compensation programs.

 

The Compensation Committee, with the assistance of its advisors and Landmark Bancorp management, continues to monitor the status of compensation-related rules and regulations expected to be finalized or issued under the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 (the “Dodd-Frank Act”). While the Compensation Committee believes its own risk assessment procedures are effective, it is prepared to implement any additional steps that may be deemed necessary to fully comply with such rules and regulations when finalized or issued. The Compensation Committee does note, however, that the proposed risk assessment rules issued under the Dodd-Frank Act nearly mirror the Safety and Soundness standards and the framework of the Guidance. As such, the Compensation Committee already adheres, in many respects, to the proposed rules and regulations under the Dodd-Frank Act.

 

Finally, in addition to the foregoing, asAs a publicly-traded corporation, Landmark Bancorp is also subject to the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules regarding risk assessment. Those rules require a publicly-traded company to determine whether any of its existing incentive compensation plans, programs or arrangements create risks that are reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on the company. We do not believe that our incentive compensation plans, programs or arrangements create risks that are reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on the Company


The Compensation Committee continues to believe in and practice a sensible approach to balancing risk-taking and rewarding reasonable, but not necessarily easily attainable, goals and this has always been a component of its overall assessment of the compensation plans, programs and arrangements it has put in place for Landmark Bancorp’s named executive officers. In this regard, the Compensation Committee has regularly revisited the components of the frameworks set forth in the Safety and Soundnessstandards and the Guidance as an effective tool for conducting its own assessment of the balance between risk and reward built into Landmark Bancorp’s compensation programs for our named executive officers. The Compensation Committee believes Landmark Bancorp has adequate policies and procedures in place to balance and control any risk-taking that may be incentivized by the employee compensation plans. The Compensation Committee further believes that such policies and procedures will work to limit the risk that any employee would manipulate reported earnings in an effort to enhance his or her compensation.

 

In making decisions about executive compensation, in addition to the above, we also consider the impact of other regulatory provisions, including: the provisions of Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code (the "Code") that may limit the tax deductibility of certain compensation unless it is considered performance-based; Section 409A of the Code regarding nonqualified deferred compensation; and Section 280G of the Code regarding excise taxes and deduction limitations on golden parachute payments made in connection with a change in control. In making decisions about executive compensation, we also consider how various elements of compensation will impact our financial results. For example, we consider the impact of FASB ASC Topic 718, which requires us to recognize the compensation cost of grants of equity awards based upon the grant date fair value of those awards.

Prior Year’s Say-on-Pay Vote

 

At Landmark Bancorp’s 2013 annual meeting of stockholders, the stockholders overwhelmingly approved the non-binding advisory proposal on the 2012 compensation of our named executive officers required pursuant to Section 14Aof the Exchange Act (the “say-on-pay proposal”).with more than 92% in favor of the proposal. Other than this approval, we received no specific feedback from our stockholders concerning our executive compensation program during the past year. The Compensation Committee considered this approval a reflection of the stockholders’ favorable view of our compensation program. The Compensation Committee did not specifically rely on the results of the vote in making any compensation-related decisions during 2013. In addition, basedBased on the preference expressed by stockholders at the 2013 annual meeting in their vote regarding the frequency of future say-on-pay votes required by Section 14A of the Exchange Act, and consistent with the board’s previous recommendation, the board determined to conduct an advisory vote on executive compensation every three years. Accordingly, the next non-binding, advisory vote on executive compensation will beis being held at ourthe 2016 annual meeting of stockholders. In addition, in 2015, the Compensation Committee engaged Blanchard Consulting Group, an independent compensation consultant, to perform a comparative analysis of our compensation programs for our executive management and board of directors relative to our peer group.

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Summary of Compensation Paid to Named Executive Officers

 

The table below sets forth the following information:information for our Chief Executive Officer and our two other most highly paid executive officers: (i) the dollar value of base salary and bonus earned during the years ended December 31, 20132015 and 2012;2014; (ii) the aggregate grant date fair value of stock awards and option awards during these years, computed in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718; (iii) the dollar value of earnings for services pursuant to awards granted during these years under non-equity incentive plans; (iv) all other compensation for these years; and (v) the dollar value of total compensation for these years.


Summary Compensation Table

 

Name and principal
position(1)
 Year Salary
($)
 Bonus
($)
 Stock
awards
($)(2)
 Option
awards
($)(2)
 

Non-equity
incentive plan
compensation
($)(3)

 All other
compensation
($)(4)
 Total ($)  Year Salary ($) Bonus ($) 

Non-equity
incentive plan
compensation
($)

(2)

 All other
compensation
($)
(3)
 Total ($) 
(a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) (i) (j)  (b) (c) (d) (g) (i) (j) 
Patrick L. Alexander  2013   343,333   18,820   -0-   -0-   7,058   38,035   407,246 
Executive Chairman  2012   333,332   23,050   -0-   -0-   34,575   37,184   428,141 
Michael E. Scheopner  2013   205,000   15,720   -0-   -0-   5,895   35,134   261,749   2015   275,000   38,812   58,218   53,213   425,243 
President and Chief Executive Officer  2012   188,250   19,250   -0-   -0-   28,875   24,792   261,167   2014   250,000   31,897   47,750   50,011   379,658 
Mark A. Herpich  2013   193,875   15,720   -0-   -0-   5,895   18,075   233,565   2015   204,875   32,424   48,636   23,562   309,497 
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer  2012   188,250   19,250   -0-   -0-   28,875   21,362   257,737   2014   199,750   26,647   39,890   20,138   286,425 
Patrick L. Alexander  2015   190,000   65,000   - 0 -   42,272   297,272 
Executive Chairman  2014   225,000   50,000   - 0 -   41,043   316,043 

 

 

(1)Mr. Alexander served as Chief Executive Officer from October 2001 until January 2014 and as President from October 2001 until May 2013. Mr. Alexander was appointed as Executive Chairman in January 2014. Mr. Scheopner served as Executive Vice President and Credit Risk Manager of Landmark National Bank from October 2001 until May 2013. Mr. Scheopner was appointed as President of Landmark Bancorp.Bancorp in May 2013 and as Chief Executive Officer in January 2014.

 

(2)No grants of options or shares of restricted stock were made in 2012 or 2013.

(3)Represents annual non-equity incentive plan awards paid as a result of the attainment of specific earnings per share growth, return on average equity,specific asset quality goals, and return on average assets goals relating to the prior fiscal year. The objective performance goals are set at the beginning of each year by the Compensation Committee.

 

(4)Amounts included for Messrs. Alexander, Scheopner and Herpich include company contributions to Landmark Bancorp’s 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan of $15,300, $12,492 and $11,825, respectively in 2013 and $15,000 each in 2012. Additionally, with respect to Mr. Alexander, the amount reported includes board fees of $21,000 in 2013 and $20,400 in 2012, and with respect to Mr. Scheopner, the amount reported includes board fees of $12,250 in 2013. The remainder of the amounts reported in all other compensation, except as noted in this Footnote (4), include perquisites in the form of country club dues and a car allowance.

(3) Amounts included for Messrs. Scheopner, Herpich and Alexander include company contributions to Landmark Bancorp’s 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan of $15,900, $15,900 and $14,400, respectively, in 2015, and $15,600, $13,282 and $15,052, respectively, in 2014. Additionally, with respect to Mr. Scheopner, the amount reported includes board fees of $26,000 in 2015 and $24,000 in 2014, and with respect to Mr. Alexander, the amount reported includes board fees of $26,000 in 2015 and $24,000 in 2014. The remainder of the amounts reported in all other compensation, except as noted in this Footnote (4), includes perquisites in the form of country club dues and a car allowance.

 

In October 2001,December 2013, we entered into employment agreements with each of Messrs. Alexander, Scheopner, and Herpich. Mr. Alexander’s agreement provided for an initial three-year term that renewed for additional one-year terms on each anniversary of its original effective date (so that, as of each anniversary date of the effective date, the agreement would always have a three-year term), unless either party gave notice of its intention to terminate the agreement not less than 90 days prior to the anniversary date. Mr. Alexander was entitled to receive a base salary of $335,000 pursuant to his employment agreement, subject to increase in accordance with our management compensation policies and plans. Mr. Alexander was also entitled to receive a performance bonus based on performance criteria selected by the Compensation Committee, a country club membership, an annual car allowance and such other benefits as provided to our other executive officers.

Mr. Herpich’s and Mr. Scheopner’s agreements each provided for an initial one-year term that automatically renewed on each anniversary of its original effective date unless either party gave notice of its intention to terminate the agreement not less than 90 days prior to the anniversary date. Each of Mr. Herpich and Mr. Scheopner were entitled to receive a minimum base salary of $191,000 pursuant to their respective employment agreements, subject to increase in accordance with our management compensation policies and plans. They were also entitled to receive a performance bonus based on performance criteria selected by the Compensation Committee, a country club membership, an annual car allowance and such other benefits as provided to our other executive officers.

Each of Mr. Alexander, Mr. Herpich and Mr. Scheopner was also subject to a one-year non-compete restrictive covenant following termination of employment pursuant to his prior employment agreement.

In December 2013, we entered into new employment agreements with each of Messrs. Alexander, Scheopner and Herpich, which superseded their prior employment agreements described above. The new employment agreements became effective as of January 1, 2014 for Messrs. Alexander and Scheopner, and as of November 1, 2013 for Mr. Herpich.Alexander. Mr. Scheopner’s agreement provides for an initial two-year term that renews for an additional one-year term on each anniversary of its original effective date (so that, as of each anniversary date of the effective date, the agreement will always have a two-year term), unless either party gives notice of its intention to terminate the agreement not less than 90 days prior to the anniversary date. Pursuant to his employment agreement, Mr. Scheopner is entitled to receive a base salary of $250,000, subject to increase in accordance with our management compensation policies and plans. Mr. Scheopner is also entitled to receive a performance bonus based on performance criteria selected by the Compensation Committee, a country club membership, an annual car allowance and such other benefits as are provided to our other executive officers.

 

Mr. Alexander’sHerpich’s and Mr. Herpich’s newAlexander’s employment agreements each provide for an initial one-year term that automatically renews on each anniversary of its original effective date unless either party gives notice of its intention to terminate the agreement not less than 90 days prior to the anniversary date. Pursuant to their respective employment agreements, each of Mr. AlexanderHerpich and Mr. HerpichAlexander are entitled to receive a minimum base salary of $225,000$196,750 and $196,750,$190,000, respectively, subject to increase in accordance with our management compensation policies and plans. They are also entitled to receive a performance bonus based on performance criteria selected by the Compensation Committee, a country club membership, an annual car allowance and such other benefits as are provided to our other executive officers.


The new employment agreement for each of Messrs. Alexander, Scheopner, Herpich and HerpichAlexander provide for severance benefits in the event of termination by the Company other than for cause or by the officer for good reason, and enhanced severance benefits in the event of either type of termination within six months prior to or 24 months following a change in control of the Company or in the event of a voluntary termination by the officer within 29 days following a change in control. All severance benefits under the agreement are contingent upon the officer’s execution and non-revocation of a general release and waiver of claims against the Company and its affiliates. Each agreement includes a “clawback” provision should any severance benefits require recapture under any applicable law. Each agreement also provides that, if necessary, severance benefits will be reduced to an amount that is one dollar less than the maximum amount payable without loss of a deduction under Section 280G of the Internal Revenue Code.

 

Each of Mr. Alexander,Scheopner, Mr. Herpich and Mr. ScheopnerAlexander is also subject to an 18-month non-compete restrictive covenant following termination of employment pursuant to his new employment agreement.


Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End

 

The following table sets forth information on outstanding options and unvested restricted stock held by the individuals named in the Summary Compensation Table at December 31, 2013,2015, including the number of shares underlying both exercisable and unexercisable portions of each stock option as well as the exercise price and the expiration date of each outstanding option.

 

  Option Awards Stock Awards 
Name Number of
securities
underlying
unexercised
options 
(#)
exercisable
  Number of
securities
underlying
unexercised
options 
(#)
unexercisable
  Option
exercise
price
($)
  Option
expiration
date (1)
 Number
of shares
or units
of stock
that have
not
vested
(#)(2)
  Market
value of
shares or
units of
stock
that have
not
vested
($)(3)
 
(a) (b)  (c)  (e)  (f) (g)  (h) 
Patrick L. Alexander  14,239(4)  -0-   17.92  3/29/2014        
   36,553   -0-   18.38  4/19/2016        
   36,553   -0-   17.15  4/23/2018        
   7,316   7,317(5)  14.04  4/20/2021      
                 1,064   20,854 
Michael E. Scheopner  12,496(4)  -0-   17.92  3/29/2014        
   23,652   -0-   18.38  4/19/2016        
   23,652   -0-   17.15  4/23/2018        
   4,735   4,734(5)  14.04  4/20/2021      
                 688   13,485 
Mark A. Herpich  23,652   -0-   18.38  4/19/2016        
   23,652   -0-   17.15  4/23/2018        
   4,735   4,734(5)  14.04  4/20/2021      
                 688   13,485 

Option Awards

Name Number of
securities
underlying
unexercised
options
(#)
exercisable
  Option
exercise
price
($)
  Option
expiration
date(1)
(a) (b)  (e)  (f)
Michael E. Scheopner  22,475   16.67  4/19/2016
   26,075   15.55  4/23/2018
   10,439   12.73  4/20/2021
           
Mark A. Herpich  26,075   16.67  4/19/2016
   26,075   15.55  4/23/2018
   10,439   12.73  4/20/2021
           
Patrick L. Alexander  20,759   16.67  4/19/2016
   40,300   15.55  4/23/2018
   16,133   12.73  4/20/2021

 

 

(1)All options expire 10 years after the grant date.

 

(2)All remaining unvested shares were granted on April 20, 2011 and vest in equal parts on each of April 20, 2014 and 2015.

(3)Based on Landmark Bancorp’s closing price of $19.60 on December 31, 2013, the last trading day of the year.

(4)All options expiring on March 29, 2014 were subsequently exercised prior to expiration in March 2014.

(5)All remaining unvested options were granted on April 20, 2011 and vest in equal parts on each of April 20, 2014 and 2015.

All equity awards made to Messrs. Alexander, Scheopner, Herpich and HerpichAlexander were made pursuant to the 2001 Stock Incentive Plan, which authorized the issuance of up to 340,000 shares of our common stock, as adjusted subsequently for the impact of our annual 5% stock dividends, including the granting of incentive stock options, non-qualified stock options, restricted stock and stock appreciation rights.Plan. The options were granted with an exercise price equal to the fair market value of the stock on the date of grant.

Equity Compensation Plans

2001 Stock Incentive Plan.

The Company maintains the Landmark Bancorp, Inc. 2001 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2001 Stock Incentive Plan”). Our 2001 Stock Incentive Plan, which has now expired, allowed for the granting of awards including stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units, stock appreciation rights, stock awards and cash incentive awards. Though no new awards can be granted under the 2001 Stock Incentive Plan, there remain currently outstanding awards under the plan.

2015 Stock Incentive Plan.

On May 20, 2015, the Company stockholders approved Landmark Bancorp, Inc. 2015 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2015 Stock Incentive Plan”). The 2015 Stock Incentive Plan allows for the granting of awards including stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units, stock appreciation rights, stock awards and cash incentive awards. Under the 2015 Stock Incentive Plan, 250,000 shares of Company common stock have been reserved for the granting of awards.

17 

 

401(k) Profit Sharing Plan

 

All eligible employees, including our named executive officers, may participate in the Landmark Bancorp, Inc. 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan and are permitted to make elective contributions up to the maximum limits of the Internal Revenue Code. We make a matching contribution to the plan equal to 100% of each participant’s first 6% of compensation deferred. During the first quarter of each year, we typically make a profit sharing contribution to the plan. Our named executive officers were eligible for participation in accordance with the plan’s provisions.

 

17

Benefits upon Termination or a Change of Control

 

As described above in the narrative to the Summary Compensation Table, Mr. Alexander entered into a new employment agreement in December 2013 that became effective January 1, 2014. As such, if Mr. Alexander experienced a termination of employment as of December 31, 2013, he would have been entitled to severance benefits under his prior employment agreement entered into in October 2001. These benefits are described below. Please note, if Mr. Alexander were to experience a termination of employment during the effective period of his new employment agreement, the severance benefits to which he would be entitled may be different than those described below.Employment Agreements

 

If Mr. Alexander’s employment had been terminated without cause or if he had been constructively discharged, or upon voluntary termination within six months following a change of control of Landmark Bancorp, Landmark Bancorp would have been obligated to pay or to provide to him, as applicable, a cash severance amount equal to three times the sum of (a) his then-current annual salary, (b) an amount equal to the average of the annual performance bonuses paid to him for the most recent three fiscal years, and (c) the contributions made for his benefit under all employee retirement plans during the most recently ended fiscal year. Landmark Bancorp would also have provided Mr. Alexander and his immediate family continued insurance coverage for three years after termination of employment. Landmark Bancorp would have had no continuing obligation to Mr. Alexander if he had voluntarily terminated his employment (other than following a change in control) or if he had been terminated for cause, except that Landmark Bancorp would have been obligated to pay him his accrued salary and benefits through the effective date of his termination of employment.

Except as described below, the employment agreement for Mr. Scheopner that was effective as of December 31, 2013 (which was the agreement he entered into in October 2001) contained substantially the same provisions as those included in Mr. Alexander’s employment agreement. If Mr. Scheopner had been terminated without cause or is constructively discharged during the term of his agreement, he would have beenwill be entitled to receive an amount equal to the sum of (a) his then-current annual salary, (b) an amount equal to the average of the annual performance bonuses paid to him for the most recently ended three fiscal years, and (c) the contributions made for his benefit under all employee retirement plans during the most recently ended fiscal year. Landmark Bancorp would have also provided Mr. Scheopner and his immediate family with continued insurance coverage for one year after termination of employment. The payment to be made to Mr. Scheopner upon voluntary termination of employment within six months after a change of control of Landmark Bancorp or his involuntary termination without cause within one year of a change of control would have been equal to two times the sum of (a) his then-current annual salary, (b) an amount equal to the average of the annual performance bonuses paid to him for the most recently ended three fiscal years, and (c) the contributions made for his benefit under all employee retirement plans during the most recently ended fiscal year. Landmark Bancorp would havewill also providedprovide Mr. Scheopner and his immediate family with continued insurance coverage for two yearsone year after termination of employment. As noted above with respectThe payment to be made to Mr. Alexander, if Mr. Scheopner were to experience aupon voluntary termination of employment within 29 days after a change in control of Landmark Bancorp or his involuntary termination without cause or constructive discharge within six months prior to or 24 months following a change in control would be equal to three times the sum of (a) his then-current annual salary, (b) an amount equal to the average of the annual performance bonuses paid to him for the most recently ended three fiscal years, and (c) the contributions made for his benefit under all employee retirement plans during the effective period ofmost recently ended fiscal year. Landmark Bancorp will also provide Mr. Scheopner and his new employment agreement, the severance benefits to which he would be entitled may be different than those described in this paragraph.

As described above in the narrative to the Summary Compensation Table, Mr. Herpich entered into a new employment agreement in December 2013 that became effective November 1, 2013. As such, if Mr. Herpich experienced aimmediate family with continued insurance coverage for one year after termination of employment as of December 31, 2013, he would have been entitled to severance benefits under his new employment agreement. These benefits are described below.employment.

 

If Mr. Herpich ishad been terminated without cause or is constructively discharged during the term of his agreement, he will be entitled to receive an amount equal to the sum of (a) his then-current annual salary, (b) an amount equal to the average of the annual performance bonuses paid to him for the most recently ended three fiscal years, and (c) the contributions made for his benefit under all employee retirement plans during the most recently ended fiscal year. Landmark Bancorp will also provide Mr. Herpich and his immediate family with continued insurance coverage for one year after termination of employment. The payment to be made to Mr. Herpich upon voluntary termination of employment within 29 days after a change in control of Landmark Bancorp or his involuntary termination without cause or constructive discharge within six months prior to or 24 months following a change in control would be equal to two times the sum of (a) his then-current annual salary, (b) an amount equal to the average of the annual performance bonuses paid to him for the most recently ended three fiscal years, and (c) the contributions made for his benefit under all employee retirement plans during the most recently ended fiscal year. Landmark Bancorp will also provide Mr. Herpich and his immediate family with continued insurance coverage for one year after termination of employment.

With respect

If Mr. Alexander had been terminated without cause or is constructively discharged during the term of his agreement, he will be entitled to receive an amount equal to the unvested stock options granted to Messrs. Alexander, Herpich and Scheopner under our 2001 Stock Incentive Plan, pursuantsum of (a) his then-current annual salary, (b) an amount equal to the termsaverage of the award agreementsannual performance bonuses paid to him for those stock options, the unvested stock optionsmost recently ended three fiscal years, and (c) the contributions made for his benefit under all employee retirement plans during the most recently ended fiscal year. Landmark Bancorp will become immediatelyalso provide Mr. Alexander and fully vestedhis immediate family with continued insurance coverage for one year after termination of employment. The payment to be made to Mr. Alexander upon a change of control. Upon avoluntary termination of employment other thanwithin 29 days after a change in control of Landmark Bancorp or his involuntary termination for “cause,” any vested stock options willwithout cause or constructive discharge within six months prior to or 24 months following a change in control would be exercisable for 90 days following such termination and will then expire if not exercised. The unvested restricted stock granted pursuantequal to two times the sum of (a) his then-current annual salary, (b) an amount equal to the 2001 Stock Incentive Plan will become immediatelyaverage of the annual performance bonuses paid to him for the most recently ended three fiscal years, and fully vested upon a change of control if(c) the award is not assumed bycontributions made for his benefit under all employee retirement plans during the acquiring entity. The unvested restricted stockmost recently ended fiscal year. Landmark Bancorp will also immediatelyprovide Mr. Alexander and fully vest upon the death or disabilityhis immediate family with continued insurance coverage for one year after termination of a named executive officer.employment.


The employment agreements for each of Messrs. Alexander,Scheopner, Herpich and ScheopnerAlexander (in each case, both prior and current) provide for a benefit cutback in the event any amounts are non-deductible due to the golden parachute payment restrictions of Section 208G280G of the Internal Revenue Code.

2015 Stock Incentive Plan

Under the 2015 Stock Incentive Plan, unless otherwise provided in an award agreement, all stock options and stock appreciation rights shall become fully exercisable, and all stock awards and cash incentive awards shall become fully earned and vested, immediately if (1) the plan and award agreements are not the obligation of the Company or a successor immediately following a change in control, or (2) the plan and award agreements are the obligation of the Company or a successor immediately following a change in control and within 24 months following the change in control the participant is terminated by the Company without cause or resigns for good reason.  Additionally, if the vesting of an outstanding award is conditioned upon the achievement of performance measures then such vesting shall be subject to the following: (1) if the performance measures of an award are less than 50% attained at the time of the change in control then such award shall become vested and exercisable on a fractional basis with the numerator equal to the percentage of attainment and the denominator equal to 50% upon the change of control, and (2) if the performance measures of an award are at least 50% attained at the time of the change in control then such award shall become fully vested and earned upon the change of control.

The following table sets forth the potential payments payable to each of the individuals named in the Summary Compensation Table upon termination of employment, change of control, disability and death, assuming the events occurred on December 31, 2013.2015.

 

Name Benefit 

Involuntary
Termination (1)

 

Termination Following
Change of Control(2)

 Termination Due to
Disability or Death
  Benefit 

Involuntary
Termination(1)

 

Termination During a
Covered Period(2)

 
         
Patrick L. Alexander Base Salary $1,035,000  $1,035,000  $-0- 
 Short-Term Incentive  119,183   119,183   -0- 
 Benefit Plan  45,900   45,900   -0- 
 Medical  9,763   9,763   -0- 
 Stock Options(3)  -0-   40,683   -0- 
 Restricted Stock(4)  -0-   -0-   20,854 
 Total $1,209,846  $1,250,529  $20,854 
            
Michael E. Scheopner Base Salary $215,000  $430,000  $-0-  Base Salary $550,000  $825,000 
 Short-Term Incentive  33,167   66,333   -0- 
 Benefit Plan  12,492   24,984   -0- 
 Medical  10,435   20,538   -0-  Short-Term Incentive  132,195   198,292 
 Stock Options(3)  -0-   26,321   -0-  Benefit Plan  31,800   47,700 
 Restricted Stock(4)  -0-   -0-   13,485  Medical(3)  4,728   4,728 
 Total $271,094  $568,176  $13,485  Total $718,723  $1,075,720 
                      
Mark A. Herpich Base Salary $196,750  $393,500  $-0-  Base Salary $207,000  $414,000 
 Short-Term Incentive  33,167   66,333   -0-  Short-Term Incentive  56,404   112,808 
 Benefit Plan  11,825   23,650   -0-  Benefit Plan  15,900   31,800 
 Medical  10,435   10,435   -0-  Medical(3)  7,193   7,193 
 Stock Options(3)  -0-   26,321   -0-  Total $286,497  $565,801 
 Restricted Stock(4)  -0-   -0-   13,485           
Patrick L. Alexander Base Salary $190,000  $380,000 
 Total $252,177  $520,239  $13,485  Short-Term Incentive  46,959   93,919 
 Benefit Plan  14,400   28,800 
 Medical(3)  3,679   3,679 
 Total $255,038  $506,398 

 

 

(1)This column includes amounts payable upon a termination without cause by Landmark Bancorp or a resignation with good reason by the executive.
(2)Under Landmark Bancorp’s 2001 Stock Incentive Plan, unvested stock options become fully vestedAmounts payable upon a termination within the 6 months preceding, or the 24 months following, a change in control irrespectiveare subject to reduction to avoid the loss of whethera deduction under Section 280G of the holder experiences an employment termination.Internal Revenue Code.
(3)Based on Landmark Bancorp’s closing price of $19.60 on December 31, 2013, the last trading day of the year.Our named executive officers are only entitled to medical benefits upon an Involuntary Termination, as that term is defined in their respective employment agreements.
(4)Based on Landmark Bancorp’s closing price of $19.60 on December 31, 2013, the last trading day of the year. The unvested restricted stock will vest upon a change of control only if such awards are not assumed by an acquiror.

19 

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS

 

The following table sets forth certain information regarding our common stock beneficially owned on April 2, 2014March 30, 2016 with respect to all persons known to us to be the beneficial owner of more than five percent of our common stock, each director and nominee, each executive officer named in the Summary Compensation Table above and all directors and executive officers of as a group. Beneficial ownership has been determined for this purpose in accordance with Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act, under which a person is deemed to be the beneficial owner of securities if he or she has or shares voting power or investment power with respect to such securities or has the right to acquire beneficial ownership of such securities within 60 days of April 2, 2014.March 30, 2016.

 

Name of Individual and
Number of Persons in Group
 Amount and Nature of
Beneficial Ownership(1) 
  Percent
of Class
  

Amount and Nature of

Beneficial Ownership(1)

 

Percent

of Class

 
          
Directors and Named Executive Officers              
                
Patrick L. Alexander  230,412(2)  7.1%  211,753(2)  5.8%
Richard A. Ball  102,471(3)  3.2%  118,729(3)  3.3%
Brent A. Bowman  16,034(4)  *   18,113(4)  * 
Sarah Hill-Nelson  5,495(5)  *   7,233(5)  * 
Jim W. Lewis  76,997(6)  2.4%  85,459(6)  2.4%
Susan E. Roepke  137,006(7)  4.3%  151,484(7)  4.2%
Michael E. Scheopner  109,654(8)  3.4%  109,580(8)  3.0%
Wayne R. Sloan  3,228(9)  *   5,608(9)  * 
David H. Snapp  62,229(10)  2.0%  69,041(10)  1.9%
Mark A. Herpich  110,172(11)  3.4%  114,133(11)  3.1%
                
All directors and executive officers as a group (15 persons)  976,256(12)  28.0%
All directors and executive officers as a group (13 persons)  1,002,729(12)  26.0%

 

 

*Less than 1%

 

(1)The information contained in this column is based upon information furnished to us by the persons named in this table and the members of the designated group. The nature of beneficial ownership for shares shown in this column is sole voting and investment power, except as otherwise set forth. Inclusion of shares in this table shall not be deemed to be an admission of beneficial ownership of such shares.

 

(2)Includes 84,08056,433 shares presently obtainable through the exercise of options granted under our stock option plan. Also includes 32,582shares35,921shares owned in an individual retirement account over which Mr. Alexander has shared voting and investment power with the third-party custodian of such account. 45,97624,724 shares are pledged as collateral in connection with a line of credit from an unrelated financial institution. Also includes 2,128 shares of restricted stock, of which 50% have vested, with the remainder vesting in equal parts on each of April 20, 2014 and 2015.

 

(3)Includes 9,15910,537 shares presently obtainable through the exercise of options granted under our stock option plan. Also includes 7,5718,664 shares owned in a simplified employee pension individual retirement account over which Mr. Ball has voting and investment power, 448527 shares held as a trustee over which he has shared voting and investment power, 8,2079,048 shares held by a company in which he has a controlling position or interest, 10,416 shares12,520shares in an individual retirement account over which he has shared voting and investment power, 224264 shares owned by his spouse directly and 755890 shares owned in his spouse’s individual retirement account over which he has no voting or investment power. Also includes 229 shares of restricted stock, of which 50% have vested, with the remainder vesting in equal parts on each of April 20, 2014 and 2015.

 

(4)Includes 9,15910,537 shares presently obtainable through the exercise of options granted under our stock option plan.

(5)Includes 1,757 shares presently obtainable through the exercise of options granted under our stock option plan. Also includes 2295,226 shares of restricted stock, ofowned in individual retirement accounts over which 50% have vested, with the remainder vesting in equal parts on each of April 20, 2014Ms. Hill-Nelson has shared voting and 2015.investment power.

 

(5)(6)Includes6,147 shares presently obtainable through the exercise of options granted under our stock option plan.

(7)Includes 1,19510,537 shares presently obtainable through the exercise of options granted under our stock option plan. Also includes 4,071 shares owned in an individual retirement account over which Ms. Hill-Nelson has shared voting and investment power. Also includes 229 shares of restricted stock, of which 50% have vested, with the remainder vesting in equal parts on each of April 20, 2014 and 2015.
(6)Includes9,159 shares presently obtainable through the exercise of options granted under our stock option plan. Also includes 229 shares of restricted stock, of which 50% have vested, with the remainder vesting in equal parts on each of April 20, 2014 and 2015.

(7)Includes 9,159 shares presently obtainable through the exercise of options granted under our stock option plan. Also includes 38,94042,931 shares held in an individual retirement account of which the power to vote is shared with the individual retirement account administrator, 59,02365,072 shares owned by her spouse over which she has shared voting and investment power and 2,0202,227 shares held in her spouse’s individual retirement account and of which Ms. Roepke disclaims beneficial ownership. 66,78840,708 shares are pledged as collateral in connection with a line of credit from an unrelated financial institution. Also includes 229 shares of restricted stock, of which 50% have vested, with the remainder vesting in equal parts on each of April 20, 2014 and 2015.

 

(8)Includes 54,40548,672 shares presently obtainable through the exercise of options granted under our stock option plan. Also includes 44,39251,469 shares owned jointly with his spouse over which Mr. Scheopner shares voting and investment power and 7,1897,925 shares owned in an individual retirement account over which he has shared voting and investment power. 45,078 shares are pledged as collateral in connection with a line of credit from an unrelated financial institution. Also includes 1,374 shares of restricted stock, of which 50% have vested, with the remainder vesting in equal parts on each of April 20, 2014 and 2015.

 

(9)Represents shares held by Mr. Sloan and his spouse as trustees, over which Mr. Sloan has shared voting and investment power. Allof such shares are pledged as collateral in connection with a security agreement with an unrelated financial institution.

 

(10)Includes 9,1591,757 shares presently obtainable through the exercise of options granted under our stock option plan. Also includes 4,7855,275 shares held in an individual retirement account over which he has shared voting and sole investment power. Also includes 1,1191,232 shares owned by his spouse over which he has shared voting and investment power; Mr. Snapp disclaims beneficial ownership of such shares. Also includes 229 shares of restricted stock, of which 50% have vested, with the remainder vesting in equal parts on each of April 20, 2014 and 2015.

 

(11)Includes 54,40552,655 shares presently obtainable through the exercise of options granted under our stock option plan. Also includes 51,54756,828 shares Mr. Herpich owns with his spouse over which he has shared voting and investment power and includes 2,8453,136 shares owned in an individual retirement account over which he has shared voting and investment power. 49,74721,604 shares are pledged as collateral in connection with a line of credit from an unrelated financial institution. Also includes 1,374 shares of restricted stock, of which 50% have vested, with the remainder vesting in equal parts on each of April 20, 2014 and 2015.

 

(12)Includes an aggregate of 312,368277,614 shares presently obtainable through the exercise of options granted under the Landmark Bancorp, Inc. 2001 Stock Incentive Plan.

 

Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance

 

Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act requires that our executive officers, directors and persons who own more than 10% of our common stock file reports of ownership and changes in ownership with the Securities and Exchange Commission and with the exchange on which our shares of common stock are traded. These persons are also required to furnish us with copies of all Section 16(a) forms they file. Based solely on our review of the copies of these forms, we are not aware that any of our directors, executive officers or 10% stockholders failed to comply with the filing requirements of Section 16(a) during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2013,2015, except for Mr. Ball, who had twoone late filingsForm 5 filing relating to twelvetwenty-four acquisitions of additional shares that should have been reported on Form 4 and two late Form 4 filings each relating to five acquisitions, and Ms. Hill-Nelson, who had one late Form 5 filing relating to one acquisition of additional shares, Mr. Sloan, who filed one late initial filing on Form 3, and Mr. Johnson whose Form 3 was in the process of being filed as of the date of this proxy statement.shares.

 

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

 

Our directors and officers and their associates were customers of and had transactions with Landmark Bancorp and Landmark National Bank during 2013.2015. Additional transactions are expected to take place in the future. All outstanding loans, commitments to loan, and certificates of deposit and depository relationships, were made in the ordinary course of business, on substantially the same terms, including interest rates and collateral, as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with other persons not related to Landmark Bancorp or Landmark National Bank and did not involve more than the normal risk of collectability or present other unfavorable features. All such loans are approved by Landmark National Bank’s board of directors in accordance with the bank regulatory requirements.

 

22

21 

 

AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT

 

The Audit Committee assists the board in carrying out its oversight responsibilities for our financial reporting process, audit process and internal controls. The Audit Committee also reviews the audited financial statements and recommends to the board that they be included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K. The committee is currently comprised of Messrs. Ball, Lewis and Sloan and Mmes. Hill-Nelson and Roepke. All of the members are deemed “independent,” as defined by NASDAQ.

 

The Audit Committee has reviewed and discussed our audited financial statements for 20132015 with our management and KPMGCrowe Chizek LLP, our independent registered public accounting firm. The committee has also discussed with KPMGCrowe Chizek LLP the matters required to be discussed by Auditing Standard No. 16 (Communications With Audit Committees) and received and discussed the written disclosures and the letter from KPMGCrowe Chizek LLP required by Public Company Accounting Oversight Board Rule 3526 (Communication with Audit Committees Concerning Independence). Based on the review and discussions with management and KPMGCrowe Chizek LLP, the committee has recommended to the board that the audited financial statements be included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for 20132015 for filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

Audit Committee:
 
Richard A. BallSarah Hill-Nelson

Jim W. Lewis

Susan E. Roepke
Wayne R. Sloan

Susan E. Roepke


PROPOSAL 2 –NON-BINDING, ADVISORY PROPOSAL ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

Section 14A of the Exchange Act, as created by Section 951 of the Dodd-Frank Act, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder by the Securities and Exchange Commission, require publicly traded companies, such as Landmark Bancorp, to conduct a separate stockholder advisory vote to approve the compensation of certain executive officers, as disclosed pursuant to the Securities and Exchange Commission’s compensation disclosure rules, commonly referred to as a “say-on-pay” vote. In accordance with these requirements, we are providing stockholders with an advisory vote on the compensation of our named executive officers. We hold a “say-on-pay” vote every three years. The next “say-on-pay” vote, as well as the next vote on the frequency of “say-on-pay” votes, will occur at our annual meeting of stockholders to be held in 2019.

The overall objectives of Landmark Bancorp’s compensation programs have been to align executive officer compensation with the success of meeting long-term strategic operating and financial goals. Stockholders are urged to read carefully the “Executive Compensation” section of this proxy statement, including the Summary Compensation Table and other related compensation tables and narrative disclosure that describe the compensation of our named executive officers in 2015. The Compensation Committee and our board of directors believe that the policies and procedures for determining executive compensation are effective in implementing our compensation philosophy and achieving its goals, and that the compensation of our named executive officers in 2015 reflects and supports these compensation policies and procedures.

In accordance with the requirements of the Dodd-Frank Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, the following resolution is submitted for stockholder approval:

“RESOLVED, that Landmark Bancorp, Inc.’s stockholders approve, on an advisory basis, its executive compensation as described in the section captioned ‘Executive Compensation’ contained in the company’s proxy statement dated April 14, 2016.”

Approval of this resolution requires that the majority of the shares present in person or by proxy and voting at the annual meeting vote in favor of the resolution.  While this say-on-pay vote is required, as provided in Section 14A of the Exchange Act, it is not binding on the Compensation Committee or our board of directors and may not be construed as overruling any decision by the Compensation Committee or our board. However, the Compensation Committee will take into account the outcome of the vote when considering future compensation arrangements.

The board of directors recommends stockholders vote to approve the overall compensation of our named executive officers, as described in this proxy statement, by voting “FOR” this proposal. Proxies properly signed and returned will be voted “FOR” this proposal unless stockholders specify otherwise.


PROPOSAL 23 – RATIFICATION OF KPMGCROWE CHIZEK LLP AS OUR INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

General

On October 1, 2014, at the recommendation of the Audit Committee, the board formally engaged Crowe Chizek LLP, to perform the audit of our consolidated financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2014, replacing KPMG LLP, which was dismissed as our independent registered public accounting firm on September 26, 2014. Stockholders will be asked to ratify the appointment of KPMGCrowe Chizek LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for 2014.2016. If the appointment of KPMGCrowe Chizek LLP is not ratified, the matter of the appointment of our independent registered public accounting firm will be considered by the Audit Committee. Representatives of KPMGCrowe Chizek LLP are expected to be present at the meeting and will be given the opportunity to make a statement if they desire to do so and will be available to respond to appropriate questions.We recommend that you vote “FOR” the ratification of KPMGCrowe Chizek LLP to serve as our independent registered public accounting firm.

Change in Principal Accountants

KPMG LLP served as our independent registered public accounting firm since 1993, auditing our financial statements and the report on such financial statements appearing in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for each fiscal year ending during that period, including for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2013.  The Audit Committee sought competitive proposals for audit services from a group of independent registered public accounting firms and the process resulted in a change in our independent registered public accounting firm for 2014.

For our two most recent fiscal years prior to the change, KPMG LLP’s reports on our consolidated financial statements did not contain an adverse opinion or a disclaimer of opinion, nor were they qualified or modified as to uncertainty, audit scope or accounting principles.  During the fiscal years ended December 31, 2012 and 2013 and the subsequent interim period preceding KPMG LLP’s dismissal, there were no reportable events described in Item 304(a)(1)(v) of Regulation S-K, as promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission.  Additionally, there were no disagreements with KPMG LLP on any matter of accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure or auditing scope or procedure, which disagreements, if not resolved to the satisfaction of KPMG LLP, would have caused KPMG LLP to make reference thereto in its reports on our financial statements for such years.

We provided KPMG LLP with a copy of the foregoing disclosures set forth above and requested that KPMG LLP review such disclosures and furnish a letter addressed to the Securities and Exchange Commission stating whether or not KPMG LLP agrees with such statements. The response letter from KPMG LLP was attached as an exhibit to the Form 8-K filed on October 2, 2014.

During the fiscal years ended December 31, 2012 and 2013 and subsequent interim period preceding Crowe Chizek LLP’s engagement, we did not consult Crowe Chizek LLP with respect to the application of accounting principles to a specified transaction, either completed or proposed, or the type of audit opinion that might be rendered on our consolidated financial statements, or regarding (i) the application of accounting principles to a specified transaction, either completed or proposed, or the type of audit opinion that might be rendered on the our financial statements, and no written report or oral advice was provided to us by Crowe Chizek LLP that it concluded was an important factor considered by us in reaching a decision as to the accounting, auditing or financial reporting issue or (ii) any matter that was either the subject of a disagreement (as described in Item 304(a)(1)(iv) of Regulation S-K and the related instructions) or a reportable event (as described in Item 304(a)(1)(v) of Regulation S-K).any other matters or reportable events described under Item 304(a)(2) of Regulation S-K.

24 

 

Accountant Fees

 

Audit Fees. The aggregate amounts of audit fees billed by Crowe Chizek LLP for 2015 and 2014 were $170,000 and $137,500, respectively, and by KPMG LLP for 2013 and 20122014 were $346,000 and $192,000, respectively,$69,000, for their audit of our annual financial statements for 20132015 and 20122014 and their required reviews of our unaudited interim financial statements included in our quarterly reports filed during 20132015 and 2012.2014. Crowe Chizek LLP’s engagement began with our third quarter 2014 Form 10-Q filing.

 

Audit-Related Fees. The aggregate amountamounts of audit-related fees billed by KPMGCrowe Chizek LLP for 20132015 and 2012 was $13,0002014 were $10,000 and $12,500,$10,000, respectively, for professional services relating to their auditits audits of our compliance with certain U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development requirements.

 

Tax Fees.The aggregate amounts of tax related services billed by Crowe Chizek LLP for 2015 and 2014 were $0 for each year, and by KPMG LLP for 2013 and 20122014 were $48,615 and$44,500, respectively,$48,493, for professional services rendered for tax compliance, tax advice and tax planning. The services provided included assistance with the preparation of our tax return and guidance with respect to estimated tax payments.

 

All Other Fees.We did not incur fees from KPMGCrowe Chizek LLP for 20132015 or 20122014 or from KMPG LLP for 2014 other than the fees reported above.

 

The Audit Committee, after consideration of these matters, does not believe that the rendering of these services by KPMGCrowe Chizek LLP is incompatible with maintaining their independence as our principal accountants.

 

AuditCommittee Pre-Approval Policy

 

Among other things, the Audit Committee is responsible for appointing, setting compensation for and overseeing the work of the independent registered public accounting firm. We have adopted a pre-approval policy under which the Audit Committee approves in advance all audit and non-audit services to be performed by our independent registered public accounting firm. As part of its pre-approval policy, the Audit Committee considers whether the provision of any proposed non-audit services is consistent with the Security and Exchange Commission’s rules on auditor independence. In accordance with the pre-approval policy, the Audit Committee has pre-approved certain specified audit and non-audit services to be provided by KPMGCrowe Chizek LLP for up to twelve months from the date of the pre-approval. All of the services referred to above for 20132015 were pre-approved by the Audit Committee.


Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Material for the Stockholder Meeting to be Held on May 21, 201418, 2016

 

Full copies of the proxy statement, the proxy card and other materials for the annual meeting are available on the internet at www.landmarkbancorpinc.com. Stockholders will receive a full set of these materials through the mail from us or from your broker.

For directions to attend the annual meeting in person, please contact Cathy HarmanVanna McCarter at (785) 565-2000.

 

 By order of the Board of Directors
 
/s/ Michael E. Scheopner
 Michael E. Scheopner
 President and Chief Executive Officer

 

Manhattan, Kansas

April 16, 201414, 2016

 

ALL STOCKHOLDERS ARE URGED TO SIGN

AND MAIL THEIR PROXIES PROMPTLY

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PROXY FOR COMMON SHARES ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
FOR THE ANNUAL MEETING OF THE STOCKHOLDERS OF
LANDMARK BANCORP, INC. TO BE HELD MAY 21, 2014

The undersigned hereby appoints Mark A. Herpich, Richard A. Ball and Susan E. Roepke, or any two of them acting in the absence of the other, with power of substitution, attorneys and proxies, for and in the name and place of the undersigned, to vote the number of shares of common stock that the undersigned would be entitled to vote if then personally present at the annual meeting of the stockholders of Landmark Bancorp, Inc., to be held at the Kansas State University Alumni Center, 17th and Anderson Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas, on Wednesday, May 21, 2014, at 2:00 p.m., local time, or any adjournments or postponements of the meeting, upon the matters set forth in the notice of annual meeting and proxy statement, receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, as follows:

1.ELECTION OF DIRECTORS:

 ForAgainstAbstain
   
IMPORTANT ANNUAL MEETING INFORMATION 

Brent A. Bowman¨¨¨

Electronic Voting Instructions

Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!

Instead of mailing your proxy, you may choose one of the voting methods outlined below to vote your proxy.

VALIDATION DETAILS ARE LOCATED BELOW IN THE TITLE BAR.

Proxies submitted by the Internet or telephone must be received by 11:59 p.m., Eastern Time, on May 17, 2016.

 
Sarah Hill-Nelson¨¨¨

Vote by Internet

• Go towww.investorvote.com/LARK

• Or scan the QR code with your smartphone

• Follow the steps outlined on the secure website

 
David H. Snapp¨¨¨

Vote by telephone

• Call toll free 1-800-652-VOTE (8683) within the USA, US territories & Canada on a touch tone telephone

• Follow the instructions provided by the recorded message

 

Using ablack ink pen, mark your votes with anX as shown in this example. Please do not write outside the designated areas.2.x

Annual Meeting Proxy Card

IF YOU HAVE NOT VOTED VIA THE INTERNETOR TELEPHONE, FOLD ALONG THE PERFORATION, DETACH AND RETURN THE BOTTOM PORTION IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE.

Proposals — The Board of Directors recommends a voteFOR all the nominees listed andFOR Proposals 2 and 3.

1. Election of Directors:For  Against  AbstainFor  Against  AbstainFor  Against  Abstain
01 - Patrick L. Alexander¨¨¨02 - Jim W. Lewis¨¨¨03 - Michael E. Scheopner¨¨¨

2. APPROVAL, IN A NON-BINDING, ADVISORY VOTE, OF THE COMPENSATION OF OUR NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS, AS DESCRIBED IN THE ACCOMPANYING PROXY STATEMENT:

For  Against  Abstain

¨¨¨
3. RATIFICATION OF THE APPOINTMENT OF KPMGCROWE CHIZEK LLP AS OUR INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM FOR THE YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2014:

¨2016:

For  Against  Abstain

¨
¨¨
ForAgainstAbstain

3.In

4.In accordance with their discretion, upon all other matters that may properly come before the meeting and any adjournments or postponements of the meeting.

THIS PROXY WHEN PROPERLY EXECUTED WILL BE VOTED IN THE MANNER DIRECTED HEREIN BY THE UNDERSIGNED STOCKHOLDER. IF NO DIRECTION IS MADE, THIS PROXY WILL BE VOTED “FOR” THE NOMINEES LISTED UNDER PROPOSAL 1 AND “FOR” PROPOSAL 2.

Dated:, 2014
Signature(s)
  

 

Non-Voting Items

Change of Address— Please print new address below.

Authorized Signatures — This section must be completed for your vote to be counted. — Date and Sign Below

NOTE: PLEASE DATE THIS PROXY CARD AND SIGN IT EXACTLY AS NAME OR NAMES APPEAR ABOVE. ALL JOINT OWNERS OF SHARES SHOULD SIGN. STATE FULL TITLE WHEN SIGNING AS EXECUTOR, ADMINISTRATOR, TRUSTEE, GUARDIAN, ETC. PLEASE RETURN YOUR SIGNED PROXY CARD IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE.

 

Date (mm/dd/yyyy) — Please print date below.Signature 1 — Please keep signature within the box.Signature 2 — Please keep signature within the box.

                         /                        /

02CEIB

Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Material for

the Stockholder Meeting
to Be Held on May 21, 2014.
18, 2016.

 

Full copies of the proxy statement, the proxy card and other materials for the annual meeting are available on the internet at www.landmarkbancorpinc.com. Stockholders will receive a full set of these materials through the mail from us or from your broker.

 

IF YOU HAVE NOT VOTED VIA THE INTERNETOR TELEPHONE, FOLD ALONG THE PERFORATION, DETACH AND RETURN THE BOTTOM PORTION IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE.

 

PROXY — LANDMARK BANCORP, INC.

PROXY FOR COMMON SHARES ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR THE ANNUAL MEETING OF THE STOCKHOLDERS OF LANDMARK BANCORP, INC. TO BE HELD MAY 18, 2016

The stockholder(s) hereby appoint(s) Mark A. Herpich, Richard A. Ball and Susan E. Roepke, or any two of them acting in the absence of the other, with power of substitution, attorneys and proxies, for and in the name and place of the stockholder(s), to vote, as designated on the reverse side of this proxy, the number of shares of common stock that the stockholder(s) would be entitled to vote if then personally present at the annual meeting of the stockholders of Landmark Bancorp, Inc., to be held at the Kansas State University Alumni Center, 17th and Anderson Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas, on Wednesday, May 18, 2016, at 2:00 p.m., local time, or any adjournments or postponements of the meeting, upon the matters set forth in the notice of annual meeting and proxy statement, receipt of which is hereby acknowledged.

THIS PROXY WHEN PROPERLY EXECUTED WILL BE VOTED IN THE MANNER DIRECTED HEREIN BY THE STOCKHOLDER(S). IF NO DIRECTION IS MADE, THIS PROXY WILL BE VOTED “FOR” THE NOMINEES LISTED UNDER PROPOSAL 1, “FOR” THE SAY-ON-PAY PROPOSAL IN PROPOSAL 2 AND “FOR” THE RATIFICATION OF CROWE CHIZEK LLP IN PROPOSAL 3.

In their discretion, the proxies are authorized to vote upon such other business as may properly come before the meeting.

(Items to be voted appear on reverse side.)