COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES INC
10-K405, 1999-03-23
STATE COMMERCIAL BANKS
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                          SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                               WASHINGTON, D.C.  20549

                                      FORM 10-K
     (MARK ONE)

        [X]      ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
                    SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 [FEE REQUIRED]

                     FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998

                                          OR
         [ ]    TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
                  SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 [NO FEE REQUIRED]
                  For the Transition period from           to

                            COMMISSION FILE NO.  000-19368

                           COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.
                (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

                     DELAWARE                      46-0391436     
          -------------------------------      -------------------
          (State or other jurisdiction of      (I.R.S. Employer
          incorporation or organization)       Identification No.)

                                   520 MAIN AVENUE
                                FARGO, ND   58124-0001 
              -----------------------------------------------------
              (Address of principal executive offices and zip code)     

REGISTRANT'S TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE:  (701) 298-5600

SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OF THE ACT:  NONE

SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO 
SECTION 12(g) OF THE ACT:                   COMMON STOCK, $.01 PAR VALUE 
                                            PREFERRED STOCK PURCHASE RIGHTS 
                                            8-7/8% CUMULATIVE CAPITAL 
                                            SECURITIES, $25 LIQUIDATION 
                                            AMOUNT(1)
                                            8.20% CUMULATIVE CAPITAL 
                                            SECURITIES, $25 LIQUIDATION 
                                            AMOUNT(2)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during
the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was
required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days.  YES   X    NO          
                                        -----     -----

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405
of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the
best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements
incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this
Form 10-K.  /X/

As of March 19, 1999, assuming as market value the price of $19.2815 per 
share, the average between the high and low sale prices on the Nasdaq 
National Market, the aggregate market value of shares held by nonaffiliates 
was approximately $828 million.

As of March 19, 1999, the Company had outstanding 47,177,803 shares of Common 
Stock, $.01 par value, net of treasury shares.

<PAGE>

                         DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Portions of the 1998 Annual Report to Shareholders and the 1999 Proxy Statement
for the Company's Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held April 27, 1999, 
are incorporated by reference into Parts II and III, respectively, of this 
Form 10-K, to the extent described in such Parts.

(1)  The 8-7/8% Cumulative Capital Securities (the "CFB I Capital Securities")
     were issued by CFB Capital I ("CFB Capital I"), a wholly owned Delaware
     business trust subsidiary of the Company.  The Company has also fully and
     unconditionally guaranteed all of CFB Capital I's obligations under the CFB
     I Capital Securities.

(2)  The 8.20% Cumulative Capital Securities (the "CFB II Capital Securities")
     were issued by CFB Capital II ("CFB Capital II"), a wholly owned Delaware
     business trust subsidiary of the Company.  The Company has also fully and
     unconditionally guaranteed all of CFB Capital II's obligations under the
     CFB II Capital Securities.

<PAGE>

                                  TABLE OF CONTENTS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                             PAGE NO.
<S>                                                                          <C>
PART I . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  4
      Item 1.  BUSINESS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  4
      Item 2.  PROPERTIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
      Item 3.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
      Item 4.  SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS . . . . . . . 17

PART II. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
      Item 5.   MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON
                 EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS. . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
      Item 6.   SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
      Item 7.   MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS . . . . . . . . . 18
      Item 7A.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES
                 ABOUT MARKET RISK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
      Item 8.   FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA. . . . . . . . . . . 18
      Item 9.   CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS
                 ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE. . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

PART III . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
      Item 10.  DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE
                 REGISTRANT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
      Item 11.  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
      Item 12.  SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN
                 BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
      Item 13.  CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS . . . . . . . . . 19

PART IV  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
      Item 14.  EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
                 AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

SIGNATURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
</TABLE>

                                       3
<PAGE>

                                    PART I

ITEM 1.  BUSINESS

GENERAL

     Community First Bankshares, Inc. (the "Company"), is a multi-bank holding
company that as of December 31, 1998 operated banks and bank branches (the
"Banks") in 154 communities in Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, New
Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, Wisconsin and Wyoming.  Total assets
of the Company were approximately $6.0 billion  as of December 31, 1998. The
Company acquired banks and bank branches in 50 communities in 1998.  See 
"Recent Significant Acquisitions."

     The Banks are community banks that provide a full range of commercial and
consumer banking services primarily to individuals and businesses in small and
medium-sized communities and the surrounding market areas.  The Company
encourages local autonomy by local Bank presidents, while providing to the Banks
the benefits of holding company affiliation.

NATIONAL COMMUNITY BANKING STRATEGY

     The Company's primary strategy is to operate and continue to acquire 
banks and bank branches in communities which generally have populations 
between 3,000 and 50,000 and are located in the Company's key target 
acquisition states of Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana, 
Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, Wisconsin and 
Wyoming, and additionally in the adjacent states of California, Idaho, 
Illinois, Missouri, Nevada, Oklahoma and Texas.  In addition, the Company has 
decided to adopt a national community banking strategy, expanding its search 
for bank acquisitions in similar communities in other states throughout the 
United States.  Such communities are believed to provide the Company with the 
opportunity for a stable, relatively low-cost deposit base. The individual 
banks and bank branches sought to be acquired in the past by the Company 
generally had approximately $20 million to $150 million in assets.  In 
pursuing its national community banking strategy, the Company intends to 
concentrate on a broader band of acquisition opportunities, focusing on banks 
and banking groups with $200 million to $500 million in assets.

     The Company provides the Banks with the advantages of affiliation with a
multi-bank holding company, such as access to its lines of financial services
including trust products and administration, insurance and investment services,
data processing services, credit policy formulation and review, investment
management and specialized staff support.  The Company grants substantial
autonomy to managers of the Banks with respect to day-to-day operations,
customer service decisions and marketing.  The Banks are encouraged to
participate in community activities, support local charities and community
development, and otherwise enhance their images in their communities.  The
Company maintains a subsidiary bank phantom stock program, pursuant to which
presidents of the subsidiary Banks participate in the equity appreciation of
their respective local Banks.  The Company believes this program is important to
provide these individuals with a direct incentive to improve the performance of
their Banks.

                                       4
<PAGE>

THE BANKS

     The Banks provide a full range of commercial and consumer banking services
primarily to individuals and businesses in small and medium-sized communities
and the surrounding market areas.  The Banks draw most of their deposits from
and make most of their loans within their respective market areas.  The Banks
owned by the Company as of December 31, 1998, were located in Arizona, Colorado,
Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah,
Wisconsin and Wyoming.

COMMUNITIES SERVED

     The Banks, as of December 31, 1998, were located in communities with
populations ranging from approximately 200 to 50,000, except for the larger
communities of Fargo, North Dakota; Denver and Englewood (a Denver suburb),
Colorado; Phoenix, Arizona; and Salt Lake City, Utah.  Each of the Banks seeks
to serve a market area with greater population because, in many cases, there are
few or no other financial institutions within a reasonable distance from the
community in which the Bank is located.  The economies of the Banks' smaller
communities, especially those in Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota, depend
primarily on farming, farm service and agricultural supply businesses. 
Agriculture in these communities is affected by many factors beyond the control
of the Banks, including weather, governmental policies, fluctuating commodity
prices, demand and production and natural disasters. As with other small,
nonmetropolitan communities, many of the communities in which the Banks
presently operate have experienced and are expected to experience no growth or a
decline in population.  The Company has operated profitably in these communities
and has continued to acquire institutions in larger markets.  However, if 
reductions in population or adverse economic trends in specific communities
result in decreased profitability in the Banks or offices located in those
communities, the Company may consider selling such Banks or offices or reducing
the level of services provided in such communities.

ACQUISITION STRATEGY

     The Company intends to continue its growth by making acquisitions of
community banks and other financial institutions in selected communities
nationwide.  The Company believes it is well-positioned to acquire and
profitably operate community banks because of its experience in operating
community banks, its ability to provide centralized management to those banks
and its access to capital.  The Company believes many owners of community banks
are seeking to sell their banks for a variety of reasons, including lack of
shareholder liquidity, management succession problems, the difficulty of
compliance with current multiple-layered bank regulations and increasing
competition from non-bank organizations.  The Company believes there are over
5,000 community banks that are possible acquisition candidates in its
twenty-state primary acquisition area described above and many other possible
candidates in similar communities nationwide.

     The Company competes with individuals and institutions, including major
regional bank holding companies, for suitable acquisition candidates. 
Acquisition competitors of the Company range from regional bank holding
companies to individual bank owners who own or control banks in the Acquisition
Area.  The process of industry consolidation has accelerated as a result of the
adoption of the Interstate Banking and Branching Efficiency Act of 1994
("IBBEA").  The IBBEA largely eliminated restrictions on interstate banking and
since June 1, 1997, has permitted interstate branching, subject to special
"opt-in" and "opt-out" provisions which states were able to enact by law.   Most
states have adopted implementing legislation.  Certain aspects of the IBBEA were
clarified and amended in 1997 with the passage of the Riegle-Neal 

                                       5
<PAGE>

Clarification Act.  The Economics and Growth Regulatory Paperwork Reduction 
Act of 1996 ("EGRPRA") streamlined application processes and eased 
regulations in several areas facilitating acquisitions and expansion of 
nonbanking activities.  The effect of this legislation has both facilitated 
the Company's acquisitions and increased the number of potential acquirers of 
banks. 

     The Company has established a due diligence review process to evaluate 
acquisition targets and has established acquisition parameters for target 
acquisitions relating to market factors, financial performance and certain 
nonfinancial factors.  Market factors considered by the Company include the 
size and long-term viability of the community and market area served by the 
target bank, the dominance of the acquisition target (which should be the 
largest or second largest financial institution in the market) and the 
proximity of other existing Banks owned by the Company.  In exploring markets 
in regions not currently served by the Company, management looks for 
similarities between the new market areas and the Company's existing market 
areas in terms of culture and economic bases.  Financial analyses performed 
by the Company in evaluating acquisition prospects include review of 
historical performance, comparison to peers and the Company's Banks in terms 
of key operating performance ratios (including earnings, staffing and loan 
quality) and target ratios.  The Company determines the price it is willing 
to pay for an institution based on, among other factors, cash flow and return 
on equity valuation models and an analysis of accretion/dilution on a 
marginal and a pro forma basis.  Nonfinancial considerations in evaluating an 
acquisition prospect include the quality of the management team's skill and 
the demand on management resources to integrate the target institution.  
Finally, each target acquisition must undergo an extensive review of loan 
asset quality, operating procedures and deposit structure before the Company 
commits to a purchase.  The Company's level of future acquisitions will 
depend, in part, on its ability to attract and retain management level 
employees capable of performing efficient review of credit quality standards 
of proposed acquisition candidates.  Acquisition opportunities presented to 
the Company that have not met the requirements described above have not been 
pursued.

     Because of limited growth opportunities in many of the existing markets 
served by the Company, management believes future growth in the business of 
the Company will largely depend on successful execution of the Company's 
strategies. In addition to Company-wide efforts to increase non-interest 
income through sales of investment products, trust services and insurance, 
the future growth of the Company will depend upon consummation of 
acquisitions consistent with the Company's acquisition strategy, and the 
future growth of recent and expected acquisitions in higher growth markets.  
Successful completion of acquisitions by the Company depends upon such 
factors as the availability of suitable acquisition candidates, necessary 
regulatory approvals and necessary approvals of holders of the Company's and 
other providers of credit, compliance with applicable capital requirements 
and, in the case of expansion into new states, the availability of additional 
management resources required to operate banks in widely dispersed 
geographical areas.

REVIEW OF ACQUISITION OPPORTUNITIES

     The Company routinely solicits and reviews acquisition opportunities and,
at any given time, may have bids outstanding or may be involved in negotiations
with the owners of financial institutions or other parties relative to a
particular financial institution, its branches or its deposit accounts.  The
Company currently has no agreements in place to acquire other banks but is in
the process of reviewing several opportunities.

                                       6
<PAGE>

RECENT SIGNIFICANT ACQUISITIONS

     On August 7, 1998, the Company acquired Guardian Bancorp ("Guardian"), 
the bank holding company for Guardian State Bank, headquartered in Salt Lake 
City, Utah, with banking offices in Salt Lake City and Sandy, Utah.  At 
closing, Guardian had total assets of approximately $99 million, total 
deposits of approximately $89 million, and total stockholders equity of 
approximately $8.5 million.  Upon completion of the merger, which was 
accounted for as a pooling of interests, the Company issued approximately 
1,526,000 shares of common stock to the former holders of Guardian common 
stock.  The value of the Company's common stock issued in the merger was 
approximately $38 million, based upon the trading value of the Company's 
common stock determined pursuant to the merger agreement.

     On July 1, 1998, the Company acquired Western Bancshares of Las Cruces, 
Inc. ("Western"), the bank holding company for Western Bank, headquartered in 
Las Cruces, New Mexico with offices in Anthony, Hatch and Las Cruces, New 
Mexico.  At closing, Western had total assets of approximately $159 million, 
total deposits of approximately $136 million, and total stockholders equity 
of approximately $16 million.  Upon completion of the merger, which was 
accounted for as a pooling of interests, the Company issued approximately 
1,932,000 shares of common stock to the former holders of Western common 
stock.  The value of the Company's common stock issued in the merger was 
approximately $48 million, based upon the trading value of the Company's 
common stock determined pursuant to the merger agreement.

     On May 7, 1998, the Company acquired FNB, Inc. ("FNB"), a two-bank 
holding company headquartered in Greeley, Colorado with offices in Greeley 
and Fort Collins, Colorado.  At closing, FNB had total assets of 
approximately $120 million, total deposits of approximately $109 million, and 
total stockholders equity of approximately $10 million.  Upon completion of 
the merger, which was accounted for as a pooling of interests, the Company  
issued approximately 1,135,000 shares of common stock to the former holders 
of FNB common stock.  The value of the Company's common stock issued in the 
merger was approximately $29 million, based upon the trading value of the 
Company's common stock determined pursuant to the merger agreement.

     On April 30, 1998, the Company acquired Pioneer Bank of Longmont 
("Pioneer"), Longmont, Colorado, with five banking offices in four Colorado 
communities.  At closing, Pioneer had total assets of approximately $138 
million, total deposits of approximately $128 million, and total stockholders 
equity of approximately $8.9 million.  Upon completion of the merger, which 
was accounted for as a pooling of interests, the Company issued 
approximately 1,432,000 shares of its common stock to the former holders of 
Pioneer common stock.  The value of the Company's common stock issued in the 
merger was approximately $36 million, based upon the trading value of the 
Company's common stock determined pursuant to the merger agreement.

     On April 3, 1998, the Company acquired Community Bancorp, Inc.  ("CBI"), 
the parent company of Community First National Bank, Thornton, Colorado, with 
offices in Thornton and Arvada, Colorado.  At closing, CBI had total assets 
of approximately $78 million, total deposits of approximately $72 million, 
and total stockholders equity of approximately $5.7 million.  Upon completion 
of the merger, which was accounted for as a pooling of interests, the Company 
 issued approximately 853,000 shares of common stock to the former holders of 
CBI common stock.  The value of the Company's common stock issued in the 
merger was approximately $22 million, based upon the trading value of the 
Company's common stock determined pursuant to the merger agreement.

                                       7
<PAGE>

     On January 23, 1998, the Company acquired 37 banking offices located in 
Arizona, Colorado and Utah (the "Bank One Branches") from three subsidiary 
banks of Banc One Corporation (the "Bank One Banks").  At closing, the Bank 
One Branches had total deposits of approximately $730 million and loans of 
approximately $61 million.  The Company paid a purchase price premium of 
approximately $44 million, equal to 6% of the deposits of the Bank One 
Branches at closing. The acquisition was accounted for as an acquisition of 
assets and assumption of liabilities and resulted in the recognition by the 
Company of deposit-based intangibles in an amount equal to the purchase price 
premium of approximately $44 million.  Following the closing, the 25 
Arizona offices and four Utah offices acquired from the Bank One Banks were 
merged into the Republic bank in Phoenix, Arizona that was recently acquired 
by the Company. The eight acquired Colorado offices were merged into the 
Company's existing Colorado affiliate bank.

     On December 1, 1997, the Company acquired First National Summit 
Bankshares, Inc., Gunnison, Colorado ("Summit"), a bank holding company that 
owned and operated a national bank with banking facilities in five Colorado 
communities. At closing, Summit had total assets of approximately $90 million,
total deposits of approximately $82 million and total stockholders' equity of 
approximately $7 million.  Upon completion of the merger, which was accounted 
for as a pooling of interests, the Company issued approximately 630,000 
shares of common stock to the former holders of Summit common stock 
and paid approximately $1 million in cash to holders of Summit preferred 
stock cancelled in the merger.  The value of the Company's common stock 
issued in the merger was approximately $15 million, based upon the trading 
value of the Company's common stock determined pursuant to the merger 
agreement.  
          
     On November 24, 1997, the Company acquired Republic National Bancorp, 
Inc., Phoenix, Arizona ("Republic"), a bank holding company that owned and 
operated a national bank  in Phoenix, Arizona.  At closing, Republic had 
total assets of approximately $54 million, total deposits of approximately 
$49 million and total stockholders' equity of approximately $4 million.  Upon 
completion of the merger, which was accounted for as a pooling of interests, 
the Company issued approximately 737,000 shares of common stock to the former 
holders of Republic common stock.  The value of the Company's common stock 
issued in the merger was approximately $17.4 million, based upon the trading 
value of the Company's common stock determined pursuant to the merger 
agreement. 

     On July 14, 1997, the Company purchased KeyBank National Association, 
Cheyenne, Wyoming ("KeyBank Wyoming"), from KeyCorp, its parent corporation, 
("KeyCorp"), for a purchase price of $135 million.  KeyBank Wyoming has been 
renamed "Community First National Bank."  At closing, KeyBank Wyoming had 
total assets of approximately $1.1 billion and 28 banking offices located in 
24 communities in Wyoming, including Cheyenne, Laramie, Casper, Sheridan and 
Jackson.  The Company believes its Wyoming banking network is the largest in 
Wyoming, providing a full range of commercial and consumer banking services 
throughout the state.  The transaction was accounted for as a business 
combination using the purchase method of accounting and resulted in the 
recognition of goodwill by the Company of approximately $60 million.

RECENT DIVESTITURES

     In July, 1998, the Company sold the operating assets of its two 
sub-prime lending subsidiaries.  In a cash transaction on July 27, 1998, the 
Company sold seven loan production offices of Equity Lending, Inc. ("ELI") to 
FIRSTPLUS Financial Group, Inc.  On July 31, 1998, the Company also sold 
servicing rights to the portfolio of automobile installment contracts 
originated by Mountain Parks Financial Services, Inc. ("MPFS") to Cygnet 
Financial Services, Inc.  The Company retained approximately $50 million in 
loans 

                                       8
<PAGE>

originated by ELI and servicing rights on an additional $100 million in ELI 
loans sold to other parties.  The Company also retained approximately $50 
million in auto installment contracts originated by MPFS.  ELI and MPFS were 
acquired in December 1996 as a result of the Company's merger with Mountain 
Parks Financial Corporation.  At December 31, 1998, the Company had 
approximately $25 million in performing sub-prime mortgages and $40 million 
in automobile installment contracts. The Company expects to sell these assets 
in the first half of 1999, and the Company anticipates that after the sale, 
it will not pursue further sub-prime lending activities. See "Sale of 
Sub-Prime Lending Business" in the 1998 Annual Report to Shareholders 
incorporated by reference in this Form 10-K.

     On June 12, 1998, the Company, through its Colorado subsidiary, completed
the sale of its office in Ault, Colorado.  The Ault office was acquired on
January 23, 1998 as part of the Company's purchase and assumption of 37 offices
of Banc One Corporation located in Arizona, Colorado and Utah.  The transactions
included the disposition of approximately $9 million in deposits.

ADMINISTRATION OF BANKS

     The Company provides policy and management direction and specialized staff
support in general areas while relying on Bank managers for day-to-day
operations, customer service decisions and community relations.  The Company is
responsible for policy-related functions, such as supervisory credit review,
audits, personnel policies and internal examination activities.  Resource
allocations for administrative support by the Company are balanced to provide
adequate support services for the Banks' operations, while carefully controlling
service costs charged to the Banks.  The major areas of administration are as
follows:

     CREDIT.  The Company's lending activities are guided by the general loan
policy established by the Board of Directors.  The Senior Credit Committee of
the Company has established loan approval limits for each region of the Company
and each subsidiary Bank.  Amounts in excess of the individual Bank lending
authority are presented to the Regional Credit Officers.  Loans above $1,500,000
per nonclassified borrower and $250,000 per classified borrower are presented to
the Senior Credit Committee for approval.  The Company's credit policy
establishes guidelines for approval of all credits, including local loans and
purchased loans and loan participations.  The credits of the Banks are subject
to internal review by Bank officers every 12 months.  The loan portfolios of the
Banks are subject to examination by the Company's credit examination staff every
12 to 24 months, the frequency of which is based on a variety of factors,
including the credit quality of the institution.  The credit examination staff
is also responsible for credit review with respect to the assets of banks to be
acquired by the Company.

     FINANCE.  The Board of Directors of the Company has established policies in
the areas of asset/liability management, investments, capital expenditures,
accounting procedures and capital and dividend management.  Policies are
implemented and monitored for compliance by the Chief Financial Officer and the
Asset/Liability Committee of the Company.

     OPERATIONS.  Community First Service Corporation ("CFSC"), a subsidiary of
the Company, provides data processing and operations support services to the
Banks by contract.  CFSC's system is designed to provide for all Bank and
customer data processing needs at the lowest possible cost and can be expanded
to accommodate future growth and additional service applications.  The Company
believes CFSC has sufficient capacity to provide services to the banks the
Company has agreed to acquire.  In addition to its own office facilities in
Fargo, North Dakota, CFSC also has a data processing facility in Golden,
Colorado.  Additional expenditures for equipment, consistent with the increased
data processing volumes, would likely be necessary if additional significant
acquisitions occur during 1999.

                                       9
<PAGE>

     OTHER SERVICES.  The Company provides other services for the benefit of the
Banks, such as outside professional services,  central human resources services,
benefits administration, marketing guidance and centralized purchasing of
supplies.

INSURANCE AGENCIES

     The Company currently owns and operates insurance agencies located in 32
communities served by the Banks through its subsidiaries, Community Insurance,
Inc. ("CII"), and Community First Insurance Agencies, Inc. ("CFIA").  These
agencies are primarily engaged in the sale of property and casualty insurance
and make some sales of other types of insurance, such as life, accident and crop
hail insurance.  The Company had commission revenue of $7.2 million in 1998.

OTHER ACTIVITIES
     
     The Company has steadily consolidated Banks located in each state into
single legal charters with multiple locations.  As of December 31, 1998, the
Company had 11 separately chartered  subsidiary Banks and 6 nonbank
subsidiaries.  Subsidiary Banks of the Company in seven locations maintain trust
departments, but their services are more broadly available and the Company may
expand its trust activities in the future. Trust services are made available to
customers in several locations through local trust officers or by appointment
with members of the trust department.  In 1999 the Company plans to consolidate
all of its trust activity administration in the trust department in Fargo, North
Dakota.  

     Most of the Banks also sell annuities and other permitted securities 
through an arrangement with INVEST Financial Corporation, a Delaware 
Corporation, and INVEST Financial Corporation Insurance Agency, Inc. of 
Illinois (collectively, "INVEST").  In March 1998, the Company entered into a 
three year agreement with INVEST under which INVEST would provide securities 
brokerage, insurance and investment advisory services to customers through 
INVEST centers located within the Company's subsidiary bank branches.  The 
agreement also provides for INVEST to share sales commissions with the 
Company pursuant to an agreed upon commission schedule and requires INVEST to 
perform various compliance and administrative functions related to its 
activities. Federal bank regulation permits bank holding companies to engage 
in other limited activities, such as the distribution of certain types of 
securities, and future changes in such regulation are expected to further 
expand the types of activities in which the Company may engage.  Although the 
Company intends to maintain its focus on the banking business in its targeted 
market areas, the Company will consider other permitted business activities 
as opportunities arise.  The non-interest income activities of the Company in 
insurance, trust and securities sales are expected to become collectively a 
material revenue and profit center of the Company within the next few years.

COMPETITION

     Commercial banking is highly competitive.  In the conduct of certain
aspects of their business, the Banks compete with other commercial banks,
savings and loan institutions, issuers of fixed income investments, finance
corporations, credit unions and money market funds, among other types of
institutions.  The Banks compete with these institutions in such areas as
obtaining new deposits, offering new types of services and setting loan rates
and interest rates on various types of deposits, as well as other aspects of the
banking business.  Management believes community residents and businesses prefer
to deal with local banks and the Banks have generally been able to compete
successfully in their respective communities because of the Company's emphasis
on local ownership and the autonomy of Bank management in community relations. 
At the same time, the Company provides the Banks with the advantages of
centralized 

                                       10
<PAGE>

sophisticated administration and the opportunity to make larger loans and 
diversify their lending activity through Bank group participations. Further, 
because most of the Banks have a significant market share in the communities 
they serve, the Company believes the Banks can, to a degree, influence 
deposit and loan pricing in their markets and are subject to less competition 
based on deposit and loan pricing than would be the case in larger 
metropolitan markets with more competitors.  However, the Banks have 
experienced increased price competition from credit unions in certain market 
areas in recent periods.  Recent changes in government regulation of banking, 
particularly the legislation which removes restrictions on interstate banking 
and permits interstate branching, or legislation in certain states to permit 
statewide branching, may increase competition by both out-of-state and 
in-state banking organizations and by other financial institutions.  See 
"Supervision and Regulation," below.  The Banks compete with other financial 
institutions, including government lending agencies, for high quality loans 
and the Company competes with securities and insurance firms and other 
banking institutions in the non-interest income activities of insurance, 
securities sales and trust activities in the Banks' market areas and for 
purchases of loan assets and investment assets.  While management believes 
the Banks will continue to compete successfully in their communities, there 
is no assurance that future competition will not adversely affect the Banks' 
earnings.

EMPLOYEES

     The Company had 2,839 employees at December 31, 1998, including 2,219 
full-time employees and 620 part-time employees.  Of these individuals, 291 
were employed at the holding company level, 2,147 (including 1,652 full-time 
employees) were employed at the Bank level, 299 were employed by CFSC and 102
were employed by CII and CFIA.

SUPERVISION AND REGULATION

     GENERAL.  As a bank holding company, the Company is subject to supervision
and examination by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System under
the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended (the "BHC Act").  The Company's
national bank subsidiaries are regulated by the Office of the Comptroller of the
Currency ("OCC") while its only state-chartered banking subsidiary is regulated
by the South Dakota Division of Banking.  The deposits of the Company's national
and state banking subsidiaries are insured by the Bank Insurance Fund ("BIF"),
which subjects such subsidiaries to regulation by the Federal Deposit Insurance
Corporation ("FDIC").  In addition to the impact of direct regulation,
commercial banks are affected significantly by action taken by the Federal
Reserve Board with respect to the money supply and credit availability.

     The Company has other financial services subsidiaries that are subject to
regulation by the Federal Reserve Board and other applicable federal and state
agencies.  For example, the Company's insurance subsidiary is subject to
regulation by the state insurance licensing and regulatory agencies having
jurisdiction in each office location.

     Congress continues to consider wide-ranging proposals for altering the
structure, regulation and competitive relationships of the nation's banking,
insurance and securities industries.  The extent to which the business of the
Company may be affected by these changes will depend upon when and in what form
any of these proposals will finally be adopted.

     HOLDING COMPANY REGULATION.  The Company is a bank holding company within
the meaning of the BHC Act.  As a result, the Company's activities are subject
to certain limitations under the BHC Act, and 

                                       11
<PAGE>

transactions between the Company and its affiliates are subject to certain 
restrictions.  Further, the Company is required to file periodic reports with 
the Federal Reserve Board and is subject to regular examination.  As a matter 
of policy, the Federal Reserve Board expects a bank holding company to act as 
a source of financial and managerial strength to each of its subsidiary banks 
and to commit capital and other resources to support each subsidiary bank.  
The Federal Reserve Board has the authority to issue cease and desist orders 
against the Company if the Federal Reserve Board determines that actions by 
the Company are unsafe, unsound or violate the law.  Under certain 
circumstances, stock redemptions and dividends or distributions by the 
Company with respect to its equity securities may be considered unsafe or 
unsound practices.

     Under the BHC Act, the Company must obtain prior Federal Reserve Board 
approval before the Company acquires direct or indirect ownership or control 
of 5% or more of the voting stock of any bank or bank holding company, or the 
Company merges or consolidates with another bank holding company.  Further, 
the bank holding company is generally prohibited from acquiring direct or 
indirect ownership or control of a company that is not a bank or bank holding 
company, unless the Federal Reserve Board has, by order or regulation, 
determined that the proposed non-banking activity is so closely related to 
banking or managing or controlling banks as to be a proper incident thereto.  
In reviewing any application or proposal by a bank holding company, the 
Federal Reserve Board is required to consider the financial and managerial 
resources and future prospects of the bank holding company and the banks 
concerned, the convenience and needs of the community to be served, as well 
as the probable effect of the transaction upon competition.

     BANK REGULATION.  The banks are subject to detailed federal and state 
laws and regulation.  National bank subsidiaries of the Company are primarily 
supervised by the OCC, a bureau of the United States Department of the 
Treasury. The OCC regularly examines national banks in such areas as 
reserves, loans, investments, trust services, management practices, 
compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act and other aspects of bank 
operations and policies.  These examinations are designed for the protection 
of the deposit insurance system and the enforcement of federal and state laws 
and regulations and not for the shareholders of the Company.  In addition to 
undergoing these regular examinations, national banks must furnish quarterly 
reports to the OCC containing detailed and accurate financial statements and 
schedules. 

     One bank subsidiary of the Company is chartered under South Dakota state 
law, and therefore regulated by the FDIC and the South Dakota Division of 
Banking.  Each of these agencies conducts regular examinations of the Bank, 
generally on an alternating basis, which are comparable in scope and purpose 
to the examinations of national banks by the OCC, discussed above.  

     Federal and state banking laws and regulations govern, among other 
things, the scope of a bank's business and investments a bank may make, 
reserves a bank must maintain, loans a bank may bank and the collateral it 
takes, activities of banks with respect to mergers and consolidations and the 
establishment and closure of branches.  The OCC, in the case of national 
banks, and the FDIC, in the case of state-chartered, nonmember banks, are the 
respective primary federal regulatory authorities under the Financial 
Institutions Supervisory Act, and are thereby provided authority under that 
Act to impose penalties, initiate civil and administrative actions and take 
other steps intended to prevent a bank from engaging in an unsafe or an 
unsound practice in the conduct of its business.

     With the adoption of the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and 
Enforcement Act of 1989, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation 
Improvement Act of 1991 ("FDICIA") and the Interstate Banking and Branching 
Efficiency Act of 1994 ("IBBEA"), Congress made comprehensive revisions to 
the bank regulatory and funding provisions of the Federal Deposit Insurance 
Act.  Under FDICIA and the IBBEA, the primary regulatory authorities are 
required to take "prompt corrective action" with respect to depository 
institutions insured by the FDIC that do not meet the criteria for 
classification as either "well capitalized" 

                                       12
<PAGE>

or "adequately capitalized," based upon the institution's leverage ratio, 
risk-adjusted Tier 1 capital ratio and risk-adjusted total capital ratio.  As 
of December 31, 1998, all of the Company's banking subsidiaries were 
classified as "well capitalized."  Under-capitalized depository institutions 
are subject to a wide range of limitations in operations and activities, 
including capital distributions, payment of management fees, and limitations 
upon institution growth.

     FDICIA, as amended by IBBEA, directs each primary federal regulatory 
agency to establish regulations or guidelines relating to operational and 
managerial standards.  The federal banking agencies have published final 
rules implementing the safety and soundness standards required by FDICIA in 
the areas of internal controls and information systems, internal audit 
systems, loan documentation, asset growth, asset quality, earnings and 
compensation, fees and benefits. The impact of such standards on the Company 
has not been material.

     FDIC INSURANCE.  The FDIC insures deposits of the Banks up to the 
prescribed limit per depositor through the BIF, and the amount of FDIC 
assessments paid by each BIF member institution is based upon its relative 
risk of default as measured by regulatory capital ratios and other factors.  
The BIF assessment rate currently ranges from zero to 27 cents per $100 of 
domestic deposits.  The FDIC may increase or decrease the assessment rate 
schedule on a semiannual basis.  As of December 31, 1998, each of the Banks 
qualified for the lowest BIF assessment rate. 

     Effective January 1, 1997, all FDIC-insured depository institutions are 
also required to pay an assessment to provide funds for payment of interest 
on Financing Corporation ("FICO") bonds.  Until December 31, 1999, or when 
the last savings and loan association ceases to exist, whichever occurs 
first, institutions must pay approximately 1.3 cents per $100 of 
BIF-assessable deposits.


                                       13
<PAGE>

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

     The executive officers of the Company are as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

Name                    Age  Position
- ----                    ---  --------
<S>                    <C>   <C>
Donald R. Mengedoth     54   President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the
                             Board

Mark A. Anderson        41   Vice Chairman - Corporate Services, Chief Financial
                             Officer, Chief Information Officer, Secretary and
                             Treasurer

Ronald K. Strand        52   Vice Chairman - Financial Services Division

David A. Lee            55   Executive Vice President of Regional Banking

Robert W. Jorgensen     51   Senior Vice President and Wyoming Region Manager

Thomas R. Anderson      43   Senior Vice President - Treasury

Cynithia U. Davis       46   Senior Vice President and Southwestern Region Manager

Keith A. Dickelman      44   Senior Vice President and Colorado Region Manager

Dan M. Fisher           44   President and Chief Executive Officer, Community First
                             Service Corporation

Thomas E. Hansen        46   Senior Vice President and Central Region Manager

Bruce A. Heysse         47   Senior Vice President - Acquisitions and Integration

Thomas A. Hilt          56   Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer

Gary A. Knutson         51   Senior Vice President and Eastern Region Manager

Charles A. Mausbach     47   Senior Vice President and Western Region Manager

Harriette S. McCaul     48   Senior Vice President - Human Resources

Brad J. Rasmus          37   Senior Vice President & Financial Services Sales 
                             Manager

Patricia J. Staples     43   Senior Vice President of Marketing

Craig A. Weiss          37   Senior Vice President - Finance

</TABLE>

     Donald R. Mengedoth has been President, Chief Executive Officer, Chairman
of the Board and a director of the Company since its organization in 1986.  He
was Senior Vice President of First Bank System, 

                                      14
<PAGE>

Inc. ("FBS"), currently known as U.S. Bancorp, from 1982 to 1987 and has 
worked in the banking business since 1966, including management positions in 
retail banking operations, human resources and commercial lending. From 1984 
to 1987, Mr. Mengedoth was Regional Managing Director of FBS.  From 1979 to 
1982, Mr. Mengedoth was Vice President - Operations for FBS.  Prior to that 
time, he was Senior Vice President of First Bank Milwaukee. He has been First 
Vice President of the American Bankers Association since October 1998.

     Mark A. Anderson has been Vice Chairman - Corporate Services of the 
Company since October 1998, Chief Financial Officer, Secretary and Treasurer 
of the Company since its organization in 1986 and Chief Information Officer 
since February 1998.  He was Vice President and Regional Controller for FBS 
from 1984 to 1987.  From 1979 to 1984, he held various positions with 
FBS-affiliated banks in the finance and credit analysis areas.  Mr. Anderson 
is a Chartered Financial Analyst and a Certified Management Accountant.

     Ronald K. Strand has been Vice Chairman - Financial Services Division 
since October 1998.  He was Executive Vice President - Banking Group since 
February 1993 and  was previously Senior Vice President and Region Manager 
for South Dakota and North Dakota for the Company from January 1991 to 
February 1993. Previously, Mr. Strand had been Vice President and Regional 
Manager for the Company and President, Chief Executive Officer and a director 
of the Company's affiliate bank in Wahpeton, North Dakota since 1988.  Prior 
to his affiliation with the Company, he served as President and Chief 
Executive Officer of Norwest Bank of North Dakota, N.A., Wahpeton, from 1985 
until 1988.  He was employed by Norwest for a total of 15 years, having 
previously worked in Norwest banks in Jamestown, North Dakota, and Moorhead, 
Minnesota.

     David A. Lee has been Executive Vice President of Regional Banking since 
October 1998.  He was previously Senior Vice President and Eastern Region 
Manager and had been a Region Manager of the Company since 1988.  He was 
President and Chief Executive Officer and a director of the Company's 
affiliate bank in Little Falls from 1987 to January 1991.  Mr. Lee held 
various positions with FBS from 1966 to 1987.

     Robert W. Jorgensen has been Senior Vice President and Wyoming Region 
Manager since January 1999.  He was previously President of Community First 
National Bank, Paynesville, Minnesota from 1989 to 1998.

     Thomas R. Anderson has been Senior Vice President - Treasury since 
February 1998.  He was previously Vice President/Funds Manager of the Company 
from 1988 to 1997 and Funds Management Officer from 1987 to 1988.  Prior to 
1987, he was employed by Norwest Corporation for seven years, most recently 
as a Senior Financial Analyst.

     Cynthia U. Davis has been Senior Vice President and Southwestern Region 
Manager since October 1997.  From October 1987 to October 1997, she held 
various positions with Banc One Corporation, including Vice President, Retail 
Delivery for Banc One Corporation and Vice President Region Manager for 36 
Bank One banking centers in Northern Arizona.  She has a total of 23 years of 
banking experience in Arizona, Idaho and California.

     Keith A. Dickelman has been Senior Vice President and Colorado Region 
Manager since January, 1998.  He was previously President of Community First 
National Bank, Fergus Falls, Minnesota from 1995 to 1997 and from 1992 to 
1995 served as a Senior Loan Officer and Senior Vice President of Community 
First National Bank, Fargo, North Dakota.

     Dan M. Fisher has been President and Chief Executive Officer of 
Community First Service Corporation since October 1998 and previously served 
as Executive Vice President - Bank Operations at the subsidiary.  Mr. Fisher 
was previously District Manager and Senior Vice President of Fiserv Inc., a 
financial services data and item processor from October 1996 to September 
1998.  Prior to that, he served as Senior 

                                      15
<PAGE>

Vice President and Operations Manager of Norwest Bank Minnesota, N.A. from 
August 1988 to October 1996.

     Thomas E. Hansen has been Senior Vice President and Central Region 
Manager since April 1993.  He also served as President, Chief Executive 
Officer and a director of the Company's affiliate bank in Fargo, North Dakota 
from April 1993 to December 1996.  Previously,  he was employed by Norwest 
Bank Fargo for 19 years, most recently as President.

     Bruce A. Heysse has been Senior Vice President  - Acquisitions and 
Integration since July 1996.  He was Senior Vice President and Integration 
Manager of the Company from November 1995 to June 1996.  He was Vice 
President and Senior Credit Officer of the Company from 1987 to November 
1995.  He began his banking career at the Company's affiliate bank in 
Wahpeton, North Dakota, and had a total of 11 years of banking experience 
prior to joining the Company.

     Thomas A. Hilt has been Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative 
Officer of the Company since 1987 and President of Community First Service 
Corporation, the Company's data processing subsidiary, since 1988.  He was 
Vice President and Manager - Operations Support for the Regional Division of 
FBS from 1984 to 1987.  Prior to 1984, he held various positions with FBS 
since 1967, including responsibility for systems development, programming, 
audit and examination functions.

     Gary A. Knutson has been Senior Vice President and Eastern Region 
Manager since July, 1996 and previously was Senior Vice President and Western 
Region Manager of the Company since September 1993.  He was President, Chief 
Executive Officer and a director of the Company's affiliate bank in Wahpeton, 
North Dakota from January 1991 to September 1993.  He began his banking 
career at the Company's affiliate bank in Lidgerwood, North Dakota, and had a 
total of 14 years of banking experience prior to joining the Company.

     Charles A. Mausbach has been Senior Vice President and Western Region 
Manager since March 1998.  He was President of Community First National Bank, 
Worthington, Minnesota from October 1992 to February 1998.

     Harriette S. McCaul, Ph.D., has been Senior Vice President - Human 
Resources since February 1997.  Previously, she was the Dean of the College 
of Business Administration at North Dakota State University in Fargo, North 
Dakota. She joined NDSU in 1983 and held various teaching and administrative 
positions in the Business Department and human resources area.  Prior to that 
time, she was an instructor at Moorhead State University, Moorhead, 
Minnesota, and the director of faculty and staff benefits at the University 
of Kansas.  

     Brad J. Rasmus has been Senior Vice President - Financial Services since 
February 1999. He was previously Vice President & Financial Services Sales 
Manager. Mr. Rasmus has been employed with the Company since 1995.

     Patricia J. Staples has been Senior Vice President of Marketing since 
July 1994.  Previously, Ms. Staples was employed as the public relations 
manager with MeritCare Health System in Fargo, North Dakota for 10 years.

                                      16
<PAGE>

     Craig A. Weiss has been Senior Vice President - Finance since February 
1998.  He was previously Vice  President Finance of the Company from 1988 to 
1997 and Finance and Accounting Manager from 1987 to 1998.  Prior to 1987, he 
was employed by First Bank System, most recently as a Regional Financial 
Analyst.  Mr. Weiss is a certified public accountant.

     ELECTION.  The Company's officers are elected by the Board of Directors. 
The officers serve until their successors are elected or until their earlier 
resignation, removal or death.

ITEM 2.  PROPERTIES

     In January 1996, the Company formed a new subsidiary, Community First 
Properties, Inc. ("CFPI"), for the purpose of acquiring and owning the space 
currently occupied by the Company.  CFPI owns all of the portions of the 
office building not owned by the Company's Fargo Bank subsidiary at 520 Main 
Avenue, Fargo, North Dakota.

     The Company maintains its offices at 520 Main Avenue, Fargo, North 
Dakota, consisting of approximately 34,000 square feet at an annual rental of 
$443,000, payable to its subsidiary, CFPI.  The Company believes these 
facilities will be adequate for the foreseeable future.  The Company also 
utilizes office space at affiliate banks located in Denver, Colorado and 
Cheyenne, Wyoming as well as leasing approximately 4,000 square feet of 
office space in Phoenix, Arizona at an annual rental of approximately 
$84,000.  Each of the Banks owns its main office and those of its branches, 
and these facilities range in size from approximately 1,200 to 36,000 square 
feet.  During 1997, the Company constructed and owns a 47,000 square foot 
two-story building in Fargo, North Dakota which is leased to CFSC.

ITEM 3.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

     From time to time, the Company and its subsidiaries are subject to 
various legal actions and proceedings in the normal course of business, some 
of which may involve substantial claims for compensatory damages.  In some 
cases, these actions and proceedings relate in whole or in part to activities 
of banks prior to their acquisition and may be covered by agreements of 
former owners of these banks to indemnify the Company.  Although litigation 
is subject to many uncertainties and the ultimate exposure with respect to 
current matters cannot be ascertained, management does not believe that the 
final outcome will have a material adverse effect on the financial condition 
of the Company.

ITEM 4.  SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

     None.


                                       PART II

ITEM 5.   MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

     Information as to the principal market on which the Company's common stock
is traded, market price information for the common stock of the Company, the
approximate number of holders of record as 

                                      17
<PAGE>

of December 31, 1998, and the Company's dividend policy is incorporated 
herein by reference from the inside back cover of the 1998 Annual Report to 
Shareholders.


ITEM 6.   SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

     Selected financial data for the five years ended December 31, 1998, 
consisting of data captioned "Financial Highlights" on the facing page to 
page 1 of the 1998 Annual Report to Shareholders, "Consolidated Statement of 
Condition--Five-Year Summary" on page 40 of the Annual Report and 
"Consolidated Statement of Income-Five Year Summary" on page 41 of the Annual 
Report are incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 7.   MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
          RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

     Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations on pages  11 through 22 of the 1998 Annual Report to Shareholders is
incorporated hereby by reference.

ITEM 7A.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

     The information set forth on pages 12 through 22 of the 1998 Annual Report
to Shareholders under the caption "Management's Discussion and Analysis -
Results of Operations, Financial Condition and  Asset/Liability Management" is
incorporated herein by reference. 

ITEM 8.   FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

     The Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition of the Company as of 
December 31, 1998 and 1997, and the related Consolidated Statements of 
Income, Shareholders' Equity and Cash Flows for each of the three years ended 
December 31, 1998, the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and the 
Report of Ernst & Young LLP, independent auditors, contained in the Company's 
1998 Annual Report to Shareholders on pages 23 through 39 and reconciliation 
of amounts previously reported in Form 10-Q to restated financial data as 
currently included in Exhibit 99.4, are incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 9.   CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
          FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

     None.


                                      18
<PAGE>

                                       PART III

ITEM 10.  DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

     The information set forth in the Company's 1999 Proxy Statement under 
the captions "Election of Directors" and "Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership 
Compliance" is incorporated herein by reference. Information regarding the 
executive officers of the Company is included under separate caption in Part 
I of this Form 10-K.


ITEM 11.  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

     The information set forth in the 1999 Proxy Statement under the caption
"Executive Compensation" is incorporated herein by reference, except that
information under the captions "Compensation Committee Report on Executive
Compensation" and "Comparative Stock Performance" is not so incorporated.

ITEM 12.  SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

     The information set forth in the 1999 Proxy Statement under the caption
"Security Ownership of Principal Shareholders and Management" is incorporated
herein by reference.

ITEM 13.  CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

     The information set forth in the 1999 Proxy Statement under the caption
"Certain Transactions" is incorporated herein by reference.


                                       PART IV

ITEM 14.  EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

(a)  DOCUMENTS FILED AS PART OF THIS FORM 10-K:
     
     1.   FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.  See Item 8, above.

     2.   FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES.  All financial statement schedules are
          omitted as the required information is inapplicable or the information
          is presented in the financial statements or related notes.

     3.   PRO FORMA FINANCIAL INFORMATION.  None.

(b)  REPORTS ON FORM 8-K.

      None.

(c)  EXHIBITS. 

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

Exhibit
Number    Description
- -------   -----------
<S>       <C>
  2.1     Agreement and Plan of Reorganization dated as of June 25, 1996 between
          the Registrant and Mountain Parks Financial Corp. (incorporated by
          reference to the Appendix to the Registrant's Joint Proxy Statement
          with Mountain Parks Financial Corp. included in the Registration
          Statement on Form S-4 [File No. 333-14439], as declared effective by
          the Commission on November 7, 1996).

                                      19
<PAGE>

<CAPTION>

Exhibit
Number    Description
- -------   -----------
<S>       <C>
  2.2     Stock Purchase Agreement dated as of February 18, 1997 by and among
          the Registrant, KeyCorp and Key Bank of the Rocky Mountains, Inc.
          (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.8 to the Registrant's
          Amendment No. 1 to its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year
          ended December 31, 1996, filed with the Commission as of May 8, 1997
          [the "1996 Form 10-K"]).
                                                                      
  2.3     Restated Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of August 22, 1997,
          including Agreement and First Amendment to Agreement dated as of the
          same date, between the Registrant and First National Summit
          Bankshares, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Appendices A and B to
          the Proxy Statement-Prospectus contained in the Registrant's
          Registration Statement on Form S-4 [File No. 333-38997] filed with the
          Commission on October 29, 1997).

  2.4     Restated Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of August 28, 1997
          between the Registrant and Republic National Bancorp, Inc.
          (incorporated by reference to Appendix A to the Proxy 
          Statement-Prospectus contained in the Registrant's Registration 
          Statement on Form S-4 [File No. 333-38225] filed with the Commission 
          on October 20, 1997).

  2.5     Office Purchase and Assumption Agreement dated as of the 10th day of
          September, 1997 by and between Bank One, Arizona, National
          Association, Bank One, Colorado, National Association, Bank One, Utah,
          National Association and the Registrant, (incorporated by reference to
          Exhibit 2.6 to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-4
          [File No. 333-36091], filed with the Commission on September 22,
          1997). 

  2.6     Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of November 6, 1997, among the
          Registrant, Community First National Bank and Pioneer Bank of Longmont
          (the "Parties")(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.7 to the
          Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-4 [File No. 333-37527],
          filed with the Commission on November 21, 1997), and as amended by
          First Amendment to Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of the 19th
          day of December, 1997, by and among the Parties (incorporated by
          reference to Appendix B to the Proxy Statement-Prospectus contained in
          the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-4 [File No. 
          333-48825] filed with the Commission on March 31, 1998).

  2.7     Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of January 8, 1998 by and
          between the Registrant and Community Bancorp, Inc. (incorporated by
          reference to Exhibit 2.14 to the Registrant's Registration Statement
          on Form S-4 [File No. 333-49367] filed with the Commission on June 9,
          1998 (the "June 1998 Form S-4")), and as amended by First Amendment to
          Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of the 9th day of March, 1998,
          between the Registrant and Community Bancorp, Inc. (incorporated by
          reference to Exhibit 2.15 to the June 1998 Form S-4).

  2.8     Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of April 2, 1998 between the
          Registrant and Western Bancshares of Las Cruces, Inc. (incorporated by
          reference to Exhibit 2.16 to the June 1998 Form S-4).

                                      20
<PAGE>

<CAPTION>

Exhibit
Number    Description                                                           
- -------   -----------
<S>       <C>
  2.9     Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of May 18, 1998 between the
          Registrant and Guardian Bancorp. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
          2.17 to the June 1998 Form S-4).

  2.10    Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of January 12, 1998 between 
          the Registrant and FNB, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 
          2.16 to the June 1998 Form S-4).

  3.1     Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant (incorporated
          by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the 1996 Form 10-K), as amended by a
          Certificate of Amendment to the Registrant's Certificate of
          Incorporation as filed with the Delaware Secretary of State on May 7,
          1998 and attached hereto.

  3.2     Bylaws of the Registrant (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to
          the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1 [File No. 
          33-41246], as declared effective by the Commission on August 13, 1991
          [the "1991 S-1"]).

  4.1     Certificate of Designations, Preferences and Rights of Series A Junior
          Participating  Preferred Stock of the Registrant (incorporated by
          reference to Exhibit A to Exhibit 1 to the Registrant's Registration
          Statement on Form 8-A, filed with the Commission on January 9, 1995
          [the "Form 8-A"]).

  4.2     Form of Rights Agreement dated as of January 5, 1995, between the
          Registrant, and Norwest Bank Minnesota, National Association ("Norwest
          Bank"), which includes as Exhibit B thereto the form of Rights
          Certificate (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1 to the Form 8-A.)

  4.3     Subordinated Indenture dated February 5, 1997, between the Registrant
          and Wilmington Trust Company, as Indenture Trustee, including form of
          Junior Subordinated Indenture (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
          4.1 to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-3 [File No.
          333-19921] filed with the Commission as of January 30, 1997 [the "1997
          CFB Capital I Form S-3"]).

  4.4     Amended and Restated Trust Agreement of CFB Capital I dated February
          5, 1997, including Form of Capital Security Certificate of CFB Capital
          I (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.5 to the 1997 CFB Capital I
          Form S-3).

  4.5     Capital Securities Guarantee Agreement dated as of February 5, 1997,
          between the Registrant and Wilmington Trust Company as Trustee
          (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.7 to the 1997 CFB Capital I
          Form S-3).
 
  4.6     Indenture dated June 24, 1997 relating to the Registrant's 7.30%
          Subordinated Notes Due 2004 (the "New Notes") between the Registrant
          and Norwest Bank, as trustee  (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
          4.1 to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-4 [File No.
          333-36091] as declared effective by the Commission on November 10,
          1997 [the "1997 Subordinated Note Form S-4"]).

  4.7     Subordinated Indenture dated December 10, 1997, between the Registrant
          and Wilmington Trust Company, as Indenture Trustee, including form of 
          Junior Subordinated Indenture (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 
          4.1 to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-3 [File No. 
          333-

                                      21
<PAGE>

<CAPTION>

Exhibit
Number    Description                                                           
- -------   -----------
<S>       <C>
          37521] as declared effective by the Commission on December 4, 1997 
          [the "1997 CFB Capital II Form S-3"]).

  4.8     Amended and Restated Trust Agreement of CFB Capital II dated December
          10, 1997, including Form of Capital Security Certificate of CFB
          Capital II (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.5 to the 1997 CFB
          Capital II Form S-3).

  4.9     Capital Securities Guarantee Agreement dated as of December 10, 1997,
          between the Registrant and Wilmington Trust Company as Trustee
          (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.7 to the 1997 CFB Capital II
          Form S-3).

 10.1     1998 Annual Incentive Plan for Holding Company Management.*        

 10.2     Restated 1987 Stock Option Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 
          10.7 to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-8 [File No. 
          33-46744], as declared effective by the Commission on May 6, 1992).*

 10.3     Form of Tax Sharing Agreement between the Registrant and each of its
          subsidiary Banks (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the 
          Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 
          31, 1995 [the "1995 Form 10-K"]).                                                              

 10.4     Form of Service Agreement for Data Processing between Community First
          Service Corporation and each of the subsidiary Banks of the Registrant
          (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the 1995 Form 10-K). 

 10.5     Form of Bank Services Agreement between the Registrant and each of its
          subsidiary Banks (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the 
          1995 Form 10-K).

 10.6     Form of Agency Agreement between the Registrant and each of its 
          subsidiary Banks, and Assignment of Agency Agreement and Second 
          Assignment of Agency Agreement, which assign the Registrant's interest
          in the Agency Agreement to Community First Financial, Inc. (relating 
          to the Registrant's subsidiary Banks) (incorporated by reference to 
          Exhibit 10.6 to the 1995 Form 10-K).

 10.7     Lease dated April 27, 1993, between Community First Properties, Inc.
          (formerly Fargo Tower Partners) and the Registrant (incorporated by
          reference to Exhibit 10.11 to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 
          10-K for the year ended December 31, 1994).

 10.8     Promissory Note dated July 14, 1997 (Term Note) in the principal 
          amount of $30,000,000, issued to Norwest Bank, as Agent, on behalf of 
          Harris Trust and Savings Bank ("Harris"), Band of America National 
          Trust and Savings Association ("Bank of America") and Norwest 
          (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to Registrant's Amendment 
          No. 1 to its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 
          21, 1997 [the "1997 Form 10-K"]).

                                      22
<PAGE>

<CAPTION>

Exhibit
Number    Description                                                           
- -------   -----------
<S>       <C>
 10.9     Promissory Notes dated July 14, 1997 (Current Notes), each in the 
          principal amount of $8,333,333.33, issued to each of Harris Bank of
          America, and Norwest (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to the
          1997 Form 10-K).

 10.10    Credit Agreement dated July 14, 1997 among the Company, Harris Bank
          of America, Norwest as a lender, and Norwest as Agent (incorporated by
          reference to Exhibit 10.10  to the 1997 Form 10-K). 

 10.11    Form of Indemnification Agreement entered into by and between the
          Registrant and the Registrant's officers and directors (incorporated
          by reference to Exhibit 10.33 to Registrant's Annual Report on Form
          10-K for the year ended December 31, 1992 [the "1992 Form 10-K"]).

 10.12    1996 Stock Option Plan, as approved by the Board of Directors on
          February 6, 1996 (incorporated by  reference to Exhibit 10.15 to the
          1995 Form 10-K), and as amended by resolution of the Board of
          Directors on February 1, 1999 in the form attached.

 10.13    Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan, effective as of August 1, 1995
          (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 to the 1997 Form 10-K).*  

 10.14    Registrant's Deferred Compensation Plan for Members of the Board of
          Directors, effective August 1, 1993, including First Amendment to the
          Registrant's Deferred Compensation Plan for Members of the Board of
          Directors, effective as of February 1, 1999.

 10.15.1  Change in Control Severance Agreement dated December 1, 1998 between
          the Registrant and Donald R. Mengedoth.*

 10.15.2  Change in Control Severance Agreement dated December 1, 1998 between
          the Registrant and Mark A. Anderson.*

 10.15.3  Form of Change in Control Severance Agreement dated December 1, 1998
          between the Registrant and Messrs. David A. Lee, Ronald K. Strand and
          Bruce A. Heysse.*

 10.15.4  Form of Change in Control Severance Agreement dated December 1, 1998
          between the Registrant and Registrant's executive officers.*

 13.1     Annual Report to Shareholders.                                  

 21.1     Subsidiaries of the Registrant.    

                                      23
<PAGE>

<CAPTION>

Exhibit
Number    Description
- -------   -----------
<S>       <C>
 23.1     Consent of Ernst & Young LLP.

 23.2     Consent of Baird, Kurtz & Dobson.

 23.3     Consent of Starr Colton Pena Vogel & Co.

 23.4     Consent of Simpson & Company.

 27.1     Financial Data Schedule relating to Financial Statements at December 
          31, 1998.

 27.2     Restated Financial Data Schedules relating to Restated Financial 
          Statements at December 31, 1997 and December 31, 1996.

 27.3     Restated Financial Data Schedules relating to Restated Financial 
          Statements at March 31, 1998, June 30, 1998 and September 30, 1998. 

 27.4     Restated Financial Data Schedules relating to Restated Financial 
          Statements at March 31, 1997, June 30, 1997 and September 30, 1997. 

 99.1     Report of Baird, Kurtz & Dobson regarding financial statements of 
          Community Bancorp, Inc.

 99.2     Report of Starr Colton Pena Vogel & Co. regarding financial statements
          of Western Bancshares of Las Cruces, Inc.

 99.3     Report of Simpson & Company regarding financial statements of Guardian
          Bancorp.

 99.4     Reconciliation of Amounts Previously Reported.

</TABLE>

- ----------------
*Executive compensation plans and arrangements.

                                      24
<PAGE>

                                      SIGNATURES

     Pursuant to the requirements of section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on
its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

                                            COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.
                                            ("Registrant")

Dated: March 22, 1999                       By  /s/ Donald R. Mengedoth
                                               ----------------------------
                                               Donald R. Mengedoth
                                               President, Chief Executive 
                                               Officer and Chairman of the 
                                               Board of Directors

     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this
Report has been signed by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant, in
the capacities and on the dates indicated.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

Signature and Title                                   Date
- -------------------                                   ----
<S>                                                   <C>
/s/ Donald R. Mengedoth                               March 22, 1999
- ---------------------------------------------
Donald R. Mengedoth
President, Chief Executive Officer and
Chairman of the Board of Directors
(Principal Executive Officer)


/s/ Mark A. Anderson                                  March 22, 1999
- ---------------------------------------------
Mark A. Anderson
Vice Chairman-Corporate Services, Chief Financial Officer,
Secretary, Treasurer and Chief Information Officer
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)


/s/ Patricia A. Adam                                  March 22, 1999
- ---------------------------------------------
Patricia A. Adam, Director


/s/ James T. Anderson                                 March 22, 1999
- ---------------------------------------------
James T. Anderson, Director


/s/ Patrick E. Benedict                               March 22, 1999
- ---------------------------------------------
Patrick E. Benedict, Director

                                      25
<PAGE>

<CAPTION>

Signature and Title                                   Date
- -------------------                                   ----
<S>                                                   <C>
/s/ Patrick Delaney                                   March 22, 1999
- ---------------------------------------------
Patrick Delaney, Director


/s/ John H. Flittie                                   March 22, 1999
- ---------------------------------------------
John H. Flittie, Director


/s/ Darrell G. Knudson                                March 22, 1999
- ---------------------------------------------
Darrell G. Knudson, Director


/s/ Dennis M. Mathisen                                March 22, 1999
- ---------------------------------------------
Dennis M. Mathisen, Director


/s/ Marilyn R. Seymann                                March 22, 1999
- ---------------------------------------------
Marilyn R. Seymann, Director


/s/ Thomas C. Wold                                    March 22, 1999
- ---------------------------------------------
Thomas C. Wold, Director


/s/ Harvey L. Wollman                                 March 22, 1999
- ---------------------------------------------
Harvey L. Wollman, Director
</TABLE>

                                      26
<PAGE>

                                EXHIBIT INDEX
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

Exhibit No.                     Description
- -----------                     -----------
<S>            <C>
      3.1      Certificate of Amendment to the Registrant's Certificate of
               Incorporation as filed with the Delaware Secretary of State on
               May 7, 1998

     10.1      1998 Annual Incentive Plan for Holding Company Management

     10.12     Amendments to 1996 Stock Option Plan Adopted on February 1, 1999

     10.14     Registrant's Deferred Compensation Plan for Members of the Board
               of Directors, effective August 1, 1993, including First Amendment
               to the Registrant's Deferred Compensation Plan for Members of the
               Board of Directors, effective as of February 1, 1999

     10.15.1   Change in Control Severance Agreement dated December 1, 1998
               between the Registrant and Donald R. Mengedoth

     10.15.2   Change in Control Severance Agreement dated December 1, 1998
               between the Registrant and Mark A. Anderson

     10.15.3   Form of Change in Control Severance Agreement dated December 1,
               1998 between the Registrant and Messrs. David A. Lee, Ronald K.
               Strand and Bruce A. Heysse

     10.15.4   Form of Change in Control Severance Agreement dated December 1,
               1998 between the Registrant and Registrant's executive officers

     13.1      Annual Report to Shareholders

     21.1      Subsidiaries of the Registrant

     23.1      Consent of Ernst & Young LLP

     23.2      Consent of Baird, Kurtz & Dobson

     23.3      Consent of Starr Colton Pena Vogel & Co.

     23.4      Consent of Simpson & Company

     27.1      Financial Data Schedule relating to Financial Statements at 
               December 31, 1998

     27.2      Restated Financial Data Schedules relating to Restated Financial
               Statements at December 31, 1997 and December 31, 1996.

                                     -i-
<PAGE>

     27.3      Restated Financial Data Schedules relating to Restated Financial
               Statements at March 31, 1998, June 30, 1998 and September 30, 
               1998. 

     27.4      Restated Financial Data Schedules relating to Restated Financial
               Statements at March 31, 1997, June 30, 1997 and September 30, 
               1997. 

     99.1      Report of Baird, Kurtz & Dobson regarding financial statements of
               Community Bancorp, Inc.

     99.2      Report of Starr Colton Pena Vogel & Co. regarding financial 
               statements of Western Bancshares of Las Cruces, Inc.

     99.3      Report of Simpson & Company regarding financial statements of 
               Guardian Bancorp 

     99.4      Reconciliation of Amounts Previously Reported

</TABLE>

                                    -ii-



<PAGE>

                                                                    EXHIBIT 3.1


                               CERTIFICATE OF AMENDMENT
                                          OF
                             CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
                                          OF
                           COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.


The undersigned, Mark A. Anderson, Executive Vice President of Community 
First Bankshares, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the "Company"), subject to 
the provisions of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, does 
hereby certify that the following resolutions were duly adopted by the Board 
of Directors of the Company on February 3, 1998, and duly approved by the 
shareholders of the Company on April 28, 1998, in accordance with Section 242 
of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware and that said 
resolutions are now in full force and effect:

     RESOLVED, that the first sentence of Article IV of the Company's 
  Restated and Amended  Certificate of Incorporation be, and it hereby is, 
  replaced with the following:

     "The total number of shares of stock which the corporation shall have 
  authority to issue is Eighty-Two Million (82,000,000) shares, divided 
  into Eighty Million (80,000,000) shares of Common Stock, $.01 par value 
  per share ("Common Stock"), and Two Million (2,000,000) shares of 
  Preferred Stock, $.01 par value per share ("Preferred Stock").

     RESOLVED FURTHER, that the officers of the Company be, and they hereby 
  are, authorized and directed to execute such documents and certificates 
  and take such other action as may be necessary or appropriate to give 
  effect to the foregoing resolution.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand on this 4th day of May, 1998.

                                      /s/ Mark A. Anderson
                                   ------------------------------------------
                                   Mark A. Anderson, Executive Vice President


STATE OF NORTH DAKOTA    )
                         ) ss.
COUNTY OF CASS           )

The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me this 4th day of May, 
1998, by Mark A. Anderson, Executive Vice President of Community First 
Bankshares, Inc., a Delaware Corporation, on behalf of the Corporation.

                                    /s/ Judy M. Smith
                                   ------------------------------------
                                   Notary Public
                                   My Commission:   [Notary stamp]     
                                                 ----------------------


<PAGE>

                                                                   EXHIBIT 10.1


                           COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

                                ANNUAL INCENTIVE PLAN

                                         1998

1998 AIP

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

     GROUP                    TARGET INCENTIVE                   MAXIMUM
     -----                    ----------------                   -------
     <S>                      <C>                                <C>    

I    CEO                           40%                              80%

II   EVP'S                         30%                              60%

III  SVP'S                         20%                              40%

IV   VP'S                          10%                              20%
</TABLE>

SPLIT 50% INTERNAL & 50% EXTERNAL

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

     TARGET                      INTERNAL                        EXTERNAL
     ------                      --------                        --------
     <S>                         <C>                             <C>     

I    40%                           20%                              20%

II   30%                           15%                              15%

III  20%                           10%                              10%

IV   10%                            5%                               5%
</TABLE>


<PAGE>

INTERNAL AWARD CALCULATION

Based on performance versus plan EPS as target.
No award if less than 90% of plan.
Double internal amount @ 110.6% of plan (see schedule).
Round up at .5 (plan) and down at < .5.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                   AWARD % OF BASE SALARY
                    FULLY DILUTED            ---------------------------------
% OF PLAN                EPS                  I         II       III       IV
- ---------           -------------            ----      ----      ----     ----
<S>                 <C>                      <C>       <C>       <C>      <C> 

Under 90.0               2.54                   0         0         0       0
      91.0               2.56                 2.0       1.5       1.0      .5
      92.0               2.59                 4.0       3.0       2.0     1.0
      93.0               2.62                 6.0       4.5       3.0     1.5
      94.0               2.65                 8.0       6.0       4.0     2.0
      95.0               2.68                10.0       7.5       5.0     2.5
      96.0               2.71                12.0       9.0       6.0     3.0
      97.0               2.74                14.0      10.5       7.0     3.5
      98.0               2.78                16.0      12.0       8.0     4.0
      99.0               2.99                18.0      13.5       9.0     4.5
     100.0               2.82                20.0      15.0      10.0     5.0
     101.0               2.84                21.3      16.0      10.7     5.3
     101.5               2.86                22.7      17.0      11.3     5.7
     102.1               2.88                24.0      18.0      12.0     6.0
     102.8               2.90                25.3      19.0      12.7     6.3
     103.5               2.92                26.7      20.0      13.3     6.7
     104.5               2.94                28.0      21.0      14.0     7.0
     105.0               2.96                29.3      22.0      14.7     7.3
     105.7               2.98                30.7      23.0      15.3     7.7
     106.4               3.00                32.0      24.0      16.0     8.0
     107.1               3.02                33.3      25.0      16.7     8.3
     107.8               3.04                34.7      26.0      17.3     8.7
     108.5               3.06                36.0      27.0      18.0     9.0
     109.2               3.08                37.3      28.0      18.7     9.3
     110.0               3.10                38.7      29.0      19.3     9.7
     110.6               3.12                40.0      30.0      20.0    10.0
</TABLE>

                                      -2-
<PAGE>

EXTERNAL AWARD CALCULATION

SNL peer group (20 banks) for CURRENT PERFORMANCE YEAR based on group as of
December 31, 1995.

Combines incentive for ROE and growth (see matrix).

SNL 20 BANK GROUP


Percentile      75th or higher  100%            150%            200%

ROE             50th            50%             100%            150%

                49th or lower   0%              50%             100%
                                49th or lower   50th            75th or higher

                                                Percentile asset growth rate

External award calculation:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                     % OF SALARY AT PERFORMANCE LEVEL
                              -------------------------------------------------
     TARGET                   50%            100%           150%           200%
     ------                   ---            ----           ----           ----
     <S>                      <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>

     I    20%                 10%            20%              30%          40%

     II   15%                 7.5%           15%            22.5%          30%

     III  10%                   5%           10%              15%          20%

     IV   5%                  2.5%            5%             7.5%          10%
</TABLE>

The SELECTED PEER GROUP reflects our selection of the NINETEEN OTHER
INSTITUTIONS most like the subject institution to be used as a peer group in
comparing relative compensation levels.  For banks with assets of less than $5
billion, the automated process searches in sequence for:

     1.   Banks in the same state within 40% of total assets.
     2.   Banks in the same region within 40% of total assets.
     3.   Banks in the same state within 80% of total assets.
     4.   Banks in the same region within 80% of total assets.


                                       -3-
<PAGE>

     5.   Any bank within 40% of total assets.
     6.   Any bank within 80% of total assets.
     7.   Banks closest in asset size.

If at any point in the sequence nineteen banks are found, the sequence stops 
and those banks form the Selected Peer Group.  If step six is reached and 
there are still not nineteen other banks, the banks closest in asset size 
anywhere in the country are chosen to round out the peer group.

                                       -4-


<PAGE>

                                                                 EXHIBIT 10.12


                         AMENDMENTS TO 1996 STOCK OPTION PLAN
                             Adopted on February 1, 1999

Article 6 of the Plan shall be amended to add a new Section 6.7 to read as
follows:

6.7  The Committee will have the authority, in its discretion, to award
     reload option rights ("Reload Option Rights") in conjunction with the
     grant of Options.  Reload Option Rights must be awarded at the time an
     Option is granted and each Option Agreement shall state whether the
     Committee has authorized Reload Option Rights with respect to the
     underlying Options. Reload Option Rights awarded with respect to an
     Option shall provide that the Optionee who is an employee and who
     exercises the Option by delivering (or attesting to ownership of)
     Common Stock that has been held for at least six months instead of
     paying cash, or who pays tax withholding by delivering Common Stock, or
     by having Common Stock withheld from exercise, shall automatically be
     granted on the date of such exercise (the "Reload Date") an additional
     Option (a "Reload Option") (a) for that number of shares of Common Stock
     of the Company equal to the number of shares of Common Stock of the
     Company used by the Optionee to exercise the underlying Option or to pay
     tax withholding due upon such exercise; (b) having an exercise price not
     less than 100% of the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock covered by
     the Reload Option on the Reload Date; (c) having an expiration date not
     later than the expiration date of the Option being exercised and (d)
     otherwise having terms permissible for the grant of an Option under the
     terms of this Plan.  Each Reload Option will become vested and
     exercisable, and shall have such additional terms and be subject to such
     additional restrictions and conditions, if any, as shall be determined,
     in its discretion, by the Committee, including, without limitation, a
     condition that the Optionee retain the shares issued upon exercise of
     the Option for a specified period of time.  No Reload Option shall
     provide for a grant, when exercised, of subsequent Reload Options.

Subsection (b) of the second sentence of Section 7 shall be amended to read as
follows:

     "(b) the term of such Option shall be ten years."

Such amendment shall be effective with respect to options granted after
December 31, 1998.


<PAGE>

                                                                 EXHIBIT 10.14


                        COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

                 DEFERRED COMPENSATION PLAN FOR MEMBERS OF THE
                             BOARD OF DIRECTORS


     THIS INSTRUMENT, ESTABLISHING THE COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC. 
DEFERRED COMPENSATION PLAN FOR MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS (THE 
"PLAN"), IS MADE AND ENTERED INTO BY COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC., A 
DELAWARE CORPORATION, AND SHALL BE EFFECTIVE AS OF AUGUST 1, 1993.

     1.   PURPOSE OF PLAN.  The purpose of this Plan is to provide 
Participants with supplemental retirement benefits in the form of deferred 
compensation as set forth herein.

     2.   DEFINITIONS.

     2.1  BOARD.  "Board" is the Board of Directors of Community First 
Bankshares, Inc.

     2.2  CFB.  "CFB" is Community First Bankshares, Inc., a Delaware 
corporation.

     2.3  CODE.  The "Code" is the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

     2.4  COMMITTEE.  "Committee" includes the following committees of the 
Board: Nominating Committee, Audit Committee, Finance & Loan Policy 
Committee, Personnel & Compensation Committee and Stock Option Committee.

     2.5  COVERED COMPENSATION. "Covered Compensation" is directors' 
retainers and fees for all Board and Committee meetings.

     2.6  COMPENSATION.  "Deferred Compensation" is the Participant's Covered 
Compensation which such Participant has elected to have treated as Deferred 
Compensation under Article 3 of this Plan.

     2.7  PARTICIPANT.  "Participant" is any non-employee Board member.  Each 
such individual shall continue to be eligible to participate in this Plan 
until such individual ceases to be a Board member as described above; 
provided, however, that an individual who has elected to defer Covered 
Compensation under the Plan shall continue to be a Participant in this Plan 
until benefits under this Plan are fully paid.

     3.   DEFERRED COMPENSATION BENEFITS.

     3.1  Each Participant may elect to have treated as Deferred Compensation 
up to 100% of such Participant's Covered Compensation which is earned 
subsequent to the date of such election and during the period covered by the 
election.

     3.2  Any election of Deferred Compensation pursuant to Section 3.1 shall 
be in writing, shall be made prior to the beginning of the calendar year and 
shall be applicable to all types of Covered Compensation earned for the next 
calendar year.  Such election shall remain in effect for and shall be 
irrevocable during the calendar year.  A new election shall be made for each 
calendar year in which a Participant elects to have all or part of his or her 
Covered Compensation for such year treated as Deferred Compensation under the 
Plan.

<PAGE>

Notwithstanding the foregoing, an election of Deferred Compensation for the 
period August 1, 1993 through December 31, 1993 shall be made prior to July 
31, 1993, and shall be applicable to all types of Covered Compensation earned 
during such period.

     3.3  On the date that an amount of Deferred Compensation under Section 
3.1 would otherwise be paid to the Participant, the amount of such Deferred 
Compensation shall be credited to an account on the books of CFB.  No 
Participant shall derive any rights or benefits in or to any assets of CFB 
solely from the establishment or maintenance of such accounts on the books of 
CFB.

     4.   DEEMED INVESTMENT OF DEFERRALS.

     4.1  Prior to the time any deferral is actually paid to the Participant 
as provided below, the deferral shall be credited with interest as provided 
in Section 4.2 of this Plan.

     4.2  Each amount deferred shall be deemed to bear and shall be credited 
with an amount equal to interest from the date such amount is deferred, 
compounded annually, at the interest rate payable on five-year U.S. Treasury 
Notes as announced by the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis on the last 
business day of the preceding year.  The deemed interest rate shall be 
specified in advance of each calendar year, except that the interest rate for 
the period August 1, 1993 through December 31, 1993 shall be specified prior 
to July 31, 1993.  CFB shall notify the Participant of the method for 
determining the interest rate with which Deferred Compensation will be deemed 
credited for the succeeding calendar year on or before the date the 
Participant makes his election of Deferred Compensation for such calendar 
year.

     The selection of an interest rate by which adjustments to the 
Participant's Deferred Compensation will be determined shall be solely for 
the purpose of establishing a method of calculating the increases in such 
Deferred Compensation and shall in no way obligate CFB to set aside any 
assets or to invest any assets it may set aside in any particular type of 
investment.  Adjustments shall be determined by CFB no less often than 
annually, and CFB's determination shall be final.

     5.   DISTRIBUTIONS FROM ACCOUNTS.

     5.1  Following the Participant's termination of directorship with CFB, a 
Participant shall receive a distribution of cash equal to the then-current 
value of the Participant's account at such time and in such manner as the 
Participant specifies, in accordance with Sections 5.2 and 5.3 of this Plan.  
Such election, once made, shall be irrevocable as to the amount deferred 
pursuant to that election.

     5.2  A Participant may elect to have the amounts deferred each year 
(plus deemed interest thereon, as provided in Article 4 hereof) distributed 
in one of the following forms, provided that such election is in writing, is 
irrevocable, and is executed prior to the first day of the taxable year to 
which such deferral applies:

          (a)  distribution in a single lump sum;
          (b)  distribution in five equal annual installments;
          (c)  distribution in ten equal annual installments; or
          (d)  distribution of $10,000.00 annually until the account is
               depleted.

Lump sum payments shall be made and installment payments shall commence on 
the 15th day of the first calendar month immediately following the date 
specified in the Participant's election, with succeeding installment amounts 
paid on each anniversary of such date.  The amount of each installment under 
(b) and (c) shall be determined each year by dividing the total of the 
account by the number of installments remaining to be paid, including the 
current installment.

<PAGE>

     5.3  A Participant may elect to have the amount deferred each year 
distributed at such time as provided below, provided that such election is in 
writing, is irrevocable, and is executed prior to the first day of the 
taxable year to which such deferral applies:

          (a)  in the year following the Participant's termination of
               directorship with CFB; or
          (b)  in the year in which the fifth anniversary of the Participant's
               termination of directorship occurs.

     5.4  If the Participant is deceased, the distribution shall be payable 
to the beneficiary or survivor of the Participant in the form payable to the 
Participant hereunder.  In the event a beneficiary dies before receiving all 
the payments due to such beneficiary, the then-remaining payments shall be 
paid to the legal representatives of the beneficiary's estate.  The Board, in 
its discretion, may accelerate the payment of benefits under this Plan to the 
Participant's beneficiary.

     5.5  In the event a benefit is payable to a minor or a person incapable 
of handling the disposition of his property, the Board may pay such benefit 
to the guardian, legal representative or person having the care or custody of 
such minor or incompetent person.  The Board may require proof of 
incompetency, minority or guardianship as it may deem appropriate prior to 
distribution of the benefit.  Such distribution shall completely discharge 
the Board and CFB from all liability with respect to such benefit.

     6.   FIDUCIARY DUTIES.  The Board shall have full power to construe, 
interpret and administer this Plan, including to make any determination 
required under this Plan and to make such rules and regulations as it deems 
advisable for the operation of this Plan.  A majority of the Board shall 
constitute a quorum. No member of the Board shall participate in any action 
to determine his or her individual rights or benefits under this Plan that 
does not apply equally to all Participants in the Plan.  Actions of the Board 
shall be by a majority of persons constituting a quorum and eligible to vote 
on an issue.  Meetings may be held in person or by telephone.

Action by the Board may be taken in writing without a meeting provided such 
action is executed by all disinterested members of the Board.  All 
determinations of the Board shall be final.

     7.   BENEFITS UNFUNDED.  The rights of beneficiaries, survivors and 
Participants to benefits from this Plan are solely as unsecured creditors of 
CFB.  Benefits payable under this Plan shall be payable from the general 
assets of CFB, and there shall be no fund or other assets securing the 
payment of such benefits.  Any and all assets used by CFB to provide for the 
payment of benefits hereunder shall in all cases remain assets of CFB.

     8.   BENEFICIARIES AND SURVIVORS.  Each Participant who elects to defer 
Covered Compensation under the Plan shall designate a beneficiary by filing a 
written notice of such designation with CFB in such form as CFB may 
prescribe. The Participant may revoke or modify said designation at any time 
by a further written designation.  The Participant's beneficiary designation 
shall be deemed automatically revoked in the event of the death of the 
beneficiary or, if the beneficiary is the Participant's spouse, in the event 
of dissolution of marriage.  If no designation shall be in effect at the time 
when any benefits payable under this Plan shall become due, the beneficiary 
shall be the spouse of the Participant or, if no spouse is then living, the 
Participant's children or their issue by right of representation or, if none, 
the legal representatives of the Participant's estate.

     9.   PLAN ADMINISTRATOR, AMENDMENT & CLAIMS PROCEDURE.

     9.1  The Plan Administrator of this Plan is the Board, which shall have 
full power to amend this

<PAGE>

Plan from time to time or to terminate this Plan, except what no such 
amendment or termination shall deprive a Participant or beneficiary or 
survivor thereof of any benefits accrued under this Plan prior to such 
amendment or termination without the written consent of such Participant or, 
if deceased, the beneficiary or survivor thereof.

     9.2  If the Participant or the Participant's beneficiary (the 
"Claimant") is denied all or a portion of an expected benefit under this Plan 
for any reason, he may file a claim with the Board.  The Board shall notify 
the Claimant within 60 days of allowance or denial of the claim, unless the 
Claimant receives written notice from the Board prior to the end of the 
60-day period stating that special circumstances require an extension of the 
time for decision.  The notice of the Board's decision shall be in writing, 
sent by mail to the Claimant's last known address and, if a denial of the 
claim, must contain the following information:
     (a)  the specific reasons for the denial;
     (b)  specific reference to pertinent provisions of the Plan on which the
          denial is based; and
     (c)  if applicable, a description of any additional information or 
          material necessary to perfect the claim, an explanation of why such 
          information or material is necessary, and an explanation of the 
          claims review procedure.

     9.3  A Claimant is entitled to request a review of any denial of his 
claim by the Board.  The request for review must be submitted in writing 
within 60 days of mailing of notice of the denial.  Absent a request for 
review within the 60-day period, the claim will be deemed to be conclusively 
denied.  The Claimant or his representative shall be entitled to review all 
pertinent documents and to submit issues and comments orally and in writing.

     If the request for review by a Claimant concerns the interpretation and 
application of the provisions of this Plan and CFB's obligations, then the 
review shall be conducted by a separate committee consisting of three persons 
designated or appointed by the Board.  The separate committee shall afford 
the Claimant a hearing and the opportunity to review all pertinent documents 
and submit issues and comments orally and in writing and shall render a 
review decision in writing, all within 60 days after receipt of a request for 
a review, provided that, in special circumstances (such as the necessity of 
holding a hearing) the committee may extend the time for decision by not more 
than 60 days upon written notice to the Claimant.  The Claimant shall receive 
written notice of  separate Committee's review decision, together with 
specific reasons for the decision and reference to the pertinent provisions 
of the Plan.  In the event the decision or review is not furnished to the 
Claimant within the time required, the claim shall be deemed denied on review.

10.  MISCELLANEOUS.

     10.1 Notices under this Plan to CFB or the Board shall be sent by 
certified mail, return receipt requested, to the following address (or to 
such other address as may be designated in writing from time to time):

     Community First Bankshares, Inc.
     Attn: Mark Anderson
     520 Main Avenue
     Fargo, ND 58124

Notices under this Plan to Participants or their beneficiaries or survivors 
shall be sent by certified mail to the last known address for such person(s) 
on the books and records of CFB.

     10.2 Neither this Plan nor any action taken hereunder shall be construed 
as giving a Participant the right to be retained or continue as a member of 
the Board of Directors.

<PAGE>

     10.3 Expenses of administering the Plan shall be borne by CFB.

     10.4 A Participant's benefits under this Plan may not be assigned, 
transferred, pledged or otherwise hypothecated by said Participant or the 
beneficiary or survivor thereof, nor shall any of said benefits be subject to 
seizure for the payment of any debts, judgments, alimony or separate 
maintenance, owed by the Participant or his or her beneficiaries, or be 
transferrable by operation of law in the event of bankruptcy, insolvency or 
otherwise of the Participant or any beneficiary.

     10.5 This Plan shall be governed by the laws of the State of Delaware 
except to the extent preempted by federal law.

     10.6 The captions at the head of an article, section or paragraph of 
this Plan are designed for convenience of reference only and are not to be 
resorted to for the purpose of interpreting any provision of this Plan.  
Where appropriate, the masculine includes the feminine, the singular includes 
the plural, and vice versa.

     10.7 The invalidity of any portion of this Plan shall not invalidate the 
remainder thereof, and said remainder shall continue in full force and effect.

     10.8 The provisions of this Plan shall be binding upon the Participant 
and CFB and their successors, assigns, heirs, executors and beneficiaries.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Board of Directors of Community First Bankshares,
Inc. has authorized its officer to execute this Plan, to be effective as of the
date first above written.

                                       COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.


                                       By:  /s/ Donald R. Mengedoth
                                            ---------------------------------
                                          It:  President
                                               ------------------------------

<PAGE>

                               FIRST AMENDMENT

                        COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

                 DEFERRED COMPENSATION PLAN FOR MEMBERS OF THE
                             BOARD OF DIRECTORS

     THIS INSTRUMENT, amending the Deferred Compensation Plan for Members of 
the Board of Directors (the "Plan"), is made and entered into by Community 
First Bankshares, Inc. ("CFB"), and shall be effective as of February 1, 1999.

                                  RECITALS

     WHEREAS, CFB adopted the Plan for the benefit of its nonemployee 
directors effective as of August 1, 1993; and

     WHEREAS, Section 9.1 of the Plan authorizes the Board of Directors to 
amend the Plan from time to time, provided such Amendment does not reduce the 
benefits accrued thereunder;

     NOW, THEREFORE, the Plan is hereby amended as follows:

1.   Section 3.2 is amended to add at the end thereof a new sentence to read 
     as follows:

     "Notwithstanding the foregoing, an election of Deferred Compensation for
     the period  February 1 to December 31, 1999 shall be made prior to January
     31, 1999, and shall be applicable to all types of Covered Compensation
     earned during such period."

2.   Article 4 is amended in its entirety to read as follows:

     "4.  DEEMED INVESTMENT OF DEFERRALS.

     4.1  Each Participant shall designate at the time of his or her initial 
   election to defer each year, that form or forms of investment specified in 
   Section 4.2 or 4.3 below in which such amounts deferred shall be deemed 
   invested during the period prior to the time any deferral is actually paid 
   to the Participant and the percentage deemed invested in each form, in 
   increments of 25%.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, each Participant may 
   designate, prior to February 1, 1999, that form or forms of investment 
   with respect to amounts deferred prior to February 1, 1999.  The 
   designation of the form or forms of investment, once made, shall remain in 
   effect, except that each Participant may, prior to  January 1 of any 
   subsequent year, change the deemed investment of amounts previously 
   deferred, Deferred Compensation, if any, for the next calendar year, or 
   both.

     4.2  If designated by the Participant, part or all of the amount 
   deferred shall be deemed to bear and shall be credited with an amount 
   equal to interest from the date such amount is deferred, compounded 
   annually, at the interest rate payable on five-year U.S. Treasury Notes as 
   announced by the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis on the last business 
   day of November of the preceding year.  The deemed interest rate shall be 
   specified in advance of each calendar year. CFB shall notify the 
   Participant of the method for determining the interest rate with which 
   Deferred Compensation will be deemed credited for the succeeding calendar 
   year on or before the date the Participant makes his election of Deferred 
   Compensation for such calendar year. Such amounts shall be designated as 
   the Participant's Deferred Cash Account.

     4.3  If designated by the Participant, part or all of the amount 
   deferred shall be deemed to bear and shall be credited with dividends and 
   appreciation as if invested in common stock of CFB. Deferred Compensation 
   shall be deemed invested in whole shares of common stock of CFB as of the 
   first business day of the month following

<PAGE>

   the date when such Compensation would otherwise be paid to the 
   Participant, by dividing the amount deferred by the closing sale price of 
   the common stock of CFB for such day, or if no such sale is made on such 
   day, the most recent previous day on which such sale occurred, in each 
   case as officially reported on the principal stock market on which the 
   common stock of CFB is then listed or admitted to trading. To the extent 
   dividends are paid on common stock of CFB, dividend equivalents shall be 
   calculated with respect to such shares of common stock of CFB then 
   credited to each Participant, which amounts shall be converted to 
   additional whole units of common stock of CFB as of the first business day 
   of the month following the date when such dividends would otherwise be 
   paid on such units. Any deferred amounts which are not deemed invested in 
   whole units of CFB stock and consequently represent less than a whole unit 
   of CFB stock shall be credited with interest at an annual rate of 3% until 
   additional deferred amounts accumulate to represent a whole unit. Such 
   amounts shall be designated as the Participant's Deferred Stock Account.

     4.4  The selection of a deemed rate of return by which adjustments to 
   the Participant's Deferred Compensation will be determined shall be solely 
   for the purpose of establishing a method of calculating the increases or 
   decreases in such Deferred Compensation and shall in no way obligate CFB 
   to set aside any assets or to invest any assets it may set aside in any 
   particular type of investment.  Adjustments shall be determined by CFB and 
   reported to Participants no less often than annually, and CFB's 
   determination shall be final.  CFB may, in its discretion, establish a 
   "grantor trust" for the payment of Deferred Compensation due hereunder, 
   the assets of which shall be at all times subject to the claims of 
   creditors of CFB as provided for in such trust, provided such trust does 
   not alter the characterization of the Plan as an "unfunded plan" for 
   purposes of the Internal Revenue Code.  Such trust shall make 
   distributions in accordance with the terms of the Plan.

3.     Section 5.1 of the Plan is hereby amended in its entirety to read as
       follows:

     "5.1    Following the Participant's termination of directorship with 
   CFB, a Participant shall receive a distribution in cash equal to the 
   then-current value of the Participant's account at such time and in such 
   manner as the Participant specifies, in accordance with Sections 5.2 and 
   5.3 of this Plan.  Such election, once made, may be changed as to all 
   amounts so deferred by the Participant, provided that no election shall be 
   made subsequent to the Participant's termination of directorship and any 
   election made during the calendar year shall be effective only as to 
   distributions that are made or begin on or after January 1 of the 
   following year."

4.     The first paragraph of Section 5.2 of the Plan is hereby amended in its
       entirety to read as follows:

     "5.2    A Participant may elect to have the amounts deferred under the 
   Plan (plus deemed rate of return thereon, as provided in Article 4 hereof) 
   distributed in one of the following forms, provided that such election is 
   in writing and is executed prior to January 1 of the year in which such 
   distribution would otherwise begin:"

5.     The first paragraph of Section 5.3 of the Plan is hereby amended in its
       entirety to read as follows:

     "5.3    A Participant may elect to have the under the Plan (plus deemed 
   interest thereon, as provided in Article 4 hereof) distributed as provided 
   below, provided that such election is in writing and is executed prior to 
   January 1 of the year in which such distribution would otherwise begin:"

6.     Sections 5.4 and 5.5 shall be renumbered as 5.5 and 5.6 respectively and
       a new Section 5.4 shall be added to read as follows:

     "5.4    The amounts in the Participant's Deferred Cash Account shall be 
   distributed in cash. The amounts in the Participant's Deferred Share 
   Account shall be distributed in the form of whole shares of common stock 
   of CFB and cash for any deferred amounts that equate to less than one 
   share. CFB may reserve the appropriate number of shares as may be 
   necessary to fund distributions hereunder.  The shares to be delivered 
   under the Plan may consist of authorized but unissued shares of common 
   stock of CFB or shares reacquired by CFB, including shares purchased in 
   the open market.

7.     Except as amended herein, the Plan shall remain in full force and 
       effect.


<PAGE>

                                                                EXHIBIT 10.15.1

                        COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.
                     CHANGE IN CONTROL SEVERANCE AGREEMENT

     THIS SEVERANCE AGREEMENT ("Agreement") is entered into effective as of 
December 1, 1998, by and between Community First Bankshares, Inc. a bank 
holding company organized under the laws of the state of Delaware ("CFB") and 
Donald Mengedoth, residing in Fargo, ND ("Executive"). 

     WHEREAS, CFB considers the establishment and maintenance of a sound and 
vital management to be essential to protecting and enhancing the best 
interests of CFB and its shareholders; and

     WHEREAS, the Executive has made and is expected to make, due to 
Executive's intimate knowledge of the business and affairs of CFB, its 
policies, methods, personnel, and problems, a significant contribution to the 
profitability, growth, and financial strength of CFB; and

     WHEREAS, CFB, as a publicly held corporation, recognizes that the 
possibility of a Change in Control may exist, and that such possibility and 
the uncertainty and questions which it may raise among management may result 
in the departure or distraction of the Executive in the performance of the 
Executive's duties, to the detriment of CFB and its shareholders; and

     WHEREAS, it is in the best interests of CFB and its stockholders to 
reinforce and encourage the continued attention and dedication of management 
personnel, including Executive, to their assigned duties without distraction 
and to ensure the continued availability to CFB of the Executive in the event 
of a Change in Control; and

     WHEREAS, CFB desires to assure Executive of certain benefits in the 
event of Executive's severance from employment with CFB without Cause 
following a Change in Control;

     NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants, 
representations, warranties and promises stated below, and for other valuable 
consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which are hereby acknowledged, CFB 
and Executive agree as follows:
     
1.   EMPLOYMENT.  To be eligible to receive benefits under this Agreement, 
     (a) Executive must maintain employment with CFB until after a Change in 
     Control and (b) a Severance of Executive's employment shall have 
     occurred during the Term of this Agreement and after a Change in 
     Control.  Prior to a Change in Control, Executive shall have no right to 
     benefits under this Agreement.

     For purposes of this Agreement, Severance shall mean either the 
     involuntary termination of Executive's employment with CFB  without 
     Cause or Executive's voluntary termination of employment with CFB 
     resignation for Good Reason; where Cause has the definition set forth in 
     Section 7(c)(ii) and Good Reason has the definition set forth in Section 
     7(a)(ii).

<PAGE>

2.   TERM OF AGREEMENT.  Subject to the provisions for earlier termination 
     provided in this Agreement, the Term of this Agreement shall commence on 
     the effective date of this Agreement as stated above and shall continue 
     through December 31, 2001, and shall be extended for successive one-year 
     periods thereafter unless the Board of Directors of CFB ("Board") shall 
     have given written notice to Executive not later than September 30 of 
     the last year of the original or extended Term of this Agreement of 
     CFB's election to discontinue the Term of this Agreement; provided, 
     however, that if a Change in Control shall have occurred during the 
     original or extended Term of this Agreement, the Term of this Agreement 
     shall continue, irrespective of any action of the Board of CFB, for a 
     period of not less than 24 months beyond the month in which such Change 
     in Control occurred.  In the event that more than one Change in Control 
     shall occur during the original or extended Term of this Agreement, the 
     24-month period shall follow the last Change in Control.  The Term of 
     this Agreement shall expire and this Agreement shall neither impose nor 
     confer any further rights or obligations on CFB or Executive on the day 
     after the end of the Term of this Agreement.  Expiration of the Term of 
     this Agreement of itself and without subsequent action by CFB or 
     Executive shall not end the employment relationship between CFB and 
     Executive.

     On or before the expiration of the Term of this Agreement, this 
     Agreement shall terminate due to the resignation of Executive as set 
     forth in Section 7(a), death of Executive as set forth in Section 7(b), 
     discharge of Executive as set forth in Section 7(c) or disability of 
     Executive as set forth in Section 7(d); provided that any rights or 
     obligations which expressly or impliedly survive termination of this 
     Agreement shall continue to be binding and enforceable by CFB and 
     Executive.

3.   EXECUTIVE'S DUTIES.  During the Term of this Agreement, Executive   
     shall serve as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer or such successor 
     position as Executive voluntarily accepts, with such customary duties 
     and responsibilities as may be assigned from time to time to Executive 
     by CFB, provided that such duties and responsibilities are at all times 
     consistent with the duties and responsibilities of such position.  
     Executive shall devote exclusive attention and time during normal 
     business hours to the business and affairs of CFB and, to the extent 
     necessary to discharge the duties and responsibilities of Executive's 
     position, shall perform faithfully and efficiently to the best of 
     Executive's abilities such duties and responsibilities.

4.   BASE COMPENSATION.  For services rendered by Executive, CFB shall pay 
     to Executive Base Compensation of $450,000 per annum payable in 
     accordance with CFB's customary payroll practice for its management 
     personnel.  Base Compensation shall be reviewed at least annually as of 
     the close of each fiscal year of CFB and may be increased to reflect 
     inflation or such other adjustments as CFB may deem appropriate, but 
     original Base Compensation or Base Compensation as subsequently 
     increased shall not be decreased thereafter, except for across-the-board 
     percentage salary reductions similarly affecting all management 
     personnel of CFB.

5.   ADDITIONAL BENEFITS.  In addition to Base Compensation, Executive shall 
     be entitled to receive all fringe benefits customarily offered by CFB to 
     its executives including, without 

                                      2
<PAGE>

     limitation, participation in CFB's Annual Incentive Compensation Plan at 
     the participation level established by CFB for Executive as of the date 
     of this Agreement, other incentive plans and perquisites offered 
     generally to key employees, the various employee benefit plans or 
     programs provided to the employees of CFB in general subject to the 
     eligibility requirements with respect to each of such benefit plans or 
     programs, and such other benefits or perquisites as may be approved by 
     the Board during the Term of this Agreement.  Nothing in this Section 5 
     shall prohibit CFB from making any changes in any of the plans, programs 
     or benefits described in this Section 5, provided the change similarly 
     affects all management personnel of CFB.

6.   CHANGE IN CONTROL.

     (a)   For purposes of this Agreement, "Change in Control" shall mean 
        the occurrence of one of the following events:

           (i)  any "person" [as such term is used in Section 13(d) and 4(d) of
                the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended ("Exchange 
                Act")], other than a trustee or other fiduciary holding 
                securities under an employee benefit plan of CFB is or becomes
                the "beneficial owner" (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the 
                Exchange Act), directly or indirectly of securities 
                representing 25% or more of the combined voting power of CFB's
                then outstanding securities;

           (ii) during any period of two consecutive years (not including any 
                period ending prior to the effective date of this Agreement),
                individuals who at the beginning of such period constitute the
                Board of Directors of CFB, and any new director [other than a 
                director designated by a person who has entered into agreement
                with CFB to effect a transaction permitted by Section 6(a)(I), 
                (iii) or (iv)] whose election by the Board of Directors of CFB
                or nomination for election by CFB's stockholders was approved 
                by vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then still in
                office who either were directors at the beginning of the period
                or whose election or nomination for election was previously so
                approved ("Continuing Directors"), cease for any reason to 
                constitute at least a majority of the Board of Directors of 
                CFB;

          (iii) the stockholders of CFB approve a merger or consolidation of 
                CFB with any other corporation, other than (A) a merger or 
                consolidation which would result in the voting securities of 
                CFB outstanding immediately prior thereto continuing to 
                represent (either by remaining outstanding or by being 
                converted into voting securities of the merged or 
                consolidated entity) 50% or more of the combined voting power 
                of the voting securities of CFB or such merged or 
                consolidated entity outstanding immediately after such merger 
                or consolidation, or (B) a merger or consolidation effected 
                to implement a recapitalization of CFB or similar transaction 
                in which no "person" acquires

                                      3
<PAGE>

                more than 25% of the combined voting power of CFB's then 
                outstanding securities;

          (iv)  the stockholders of CFB approve a plan of complete 
                liquidation or a sale or disposition by CFB of all or 
                substantially all of CFB's assets.  "The sale or disposition 
                by CFB of all or substantially all of CFB's assets" shall 
                mean a sale or other disposition transaction or series of 
                related transactions involving assets of CFB or of any direct 
                or indirect subsidiary of CFB (including the stock of any 
                direct or indirect subsidiary of CFB) in which the value of 
                the assets or stock being sold or otherwise disposed of (as 
                measured by the purchase price being paid therefor or by such 
                other method as the Board of Directors of CFB determines is 
                appropriate in a case where there is no readily ascertainable 
                purchase price) constitutes more than 50% of the fair market 
                value of CFB. For purposes of the preceding sentence, the 
                "fair market value of CFB" shall be the aggregate market 
                value of CFB's outstanding common stock (on a fully diluted 
                basis) plus the aggregate market value of CFB's other 
                outstanding equity securities. The aggregate market value of 
                CFB's common stock shall be determined by multiplying the 
                number of shares of CFB common stock (on a fully diluted 
                basis) outstanding on the date of the execution and delivery 
                of a definitive agreement ("Transaction Date") with respect 
                to the sale or disposition by CFB of all or substantially all 
                of CFB's assets by the average closing price for CFB's common 
                stock for the ten trading days immediately preceding the 
                Transaction Date.  The aggregate market value of any other 
                equity securities of CFB shall be determined in a manner 
                similar to that prescribed in the immediately preceding 
                sentence for determining the aggregate market value of CFB's 
                common stock or by such other method as the Board of 
                Directors of CFB shall determine is appropriate; and

          (v)   the Board of Directors of CFB determines, by a vote of a 
                majority of its entire membership, that a tender offer 
                statement by any person (as defined above) indicates an 
                intention on the part of such person to acquire control of 
                CFB.

     (b)  In the event of a Change in Control, any options granted to 
          Executive that are not vested on the date of a Change in Control 
          shall be immediately fully (100%) vested and shall be exercisable 
          in accordance with their respective terms and conditions.

7.   TERMINATION.  This Agreement may be terminated prior to the end of 
     the Term of this Agreement subject to the provisions of this Section 7.

     (a)  RESIGNATION.

          (i)   Executive may resign, including by reason of retirement, at 
                any time and thereby terminate this Agreement.  In the event 
                of such resignation, except

                                      4
<PAGE>

                in the case of resignation for Good Reason following a Change 
                in Control, all rights and obligations of CFB and Executive 
                under this Agreement shall cease on the date of resignation.

          (ii)  If Executive resigns for Good Reason following a Change in 
                Control, Executive shall be entitled to the compensation and 
                benefits provided in Section 7(c)(I).  "Good Reason" shall 
                mean (A) the material breach of any of CFB's obligations 
                under this Agreement without Executive's written consent or 
                (B) the occurrence of any of the following circumstances 
                without Executive's express written consent unless such 
                circumstances are fully corrected prior to the Date of 
                Termination specified in Executive's Notice of Termination:

                (1)   the assignment to Executive of any duties and 
                      responsibilities inconsistent with the position that 
                      Executive held immediately prior to the Change in 
                      Control, relocation of the Executive to an office or 
                      site more than 50 miles from the Executive's job 
                      location prior to the Change in Control, or a 
                      significant adverse alteration in the nature or status 
                      of Executive's duties and responsibilities or the 
                      conditions of Executive's employment from those in 
                      effect immediately prior to the Change in Control;

                (2)   a reduction by CFB in Executive's Base Compensation;

                (3)   the failure by CFB to pay to Executive any portion of 
                      Executive's current compensation or any portion of an 
                      installment of deferred compensation under any deferred 
                      compensation program of CFB within seven days of the 
                      date such compensation is due;

                (4)   the failure by CFB to continue in effect any 
                      compensation plan in which Executive participated 
                      immediately prior to a Change in Control if that 
                      compensation plan is material to Executive's total 
                      compensation unless an equitable arrangement (embodied 
                      in an ongoing substitute or alternative plan) has been 
                      made with respect to such plan, or the failure by CFB 
                      to continue Executive's participation in such 
                      compensation plan (or in such substitute or alternative 
                      plan) on a basis at least as favorable, both in terms 
                      of the amount of benefits provided and the level of 
                      Executive's participation relative to other 
                      participants, as existed prior to the Change in Control;

                (5)   the failure by CFB to continue to provide Executive 
                      with benefits substantially similar to those enjoyed by 
                      Executive under any of CFB's pension, savings, life 
                      insurance, medical, health, accident, or disability 
                      plans in which Executive was participating at the time 
                      of 

                                      5
<PAGE>

                      the Change in Control, the taking of any action by CFB 
                      which would materially reduce, directly or indirectly, 
                      any of such benefits or deprive Executive of any 
                      material fringe benefit or policy or program for the 
                      benefit of the management personnel of CFB enjoyed by 
                      Executive at the time of the Change in Control;

                (6)   the failure by CFB to provide Executive with the number 
                      of paid vacation days to which Executive is entitled in 
                      accordance with CFB's normal vacation policy in effect 
                      at the time of the Change in Control;

                (7)   the failure of CFB to obtain a satisfactory agreement 
                      from any successor to assume and agree to perform this 
                      Agreement, as contemplated in Section 12; or

                (8)   any purported termination of Executive's employment 
                      that is not effected pursuant to a Notice of 
                      Termination satisfying the requirements of Section 7(e).

          (iii) Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, during the 
                period commencing on the 90th day following a Change in 
                Control and ending on the 180th day following a Change in 
                Control, Executive may voluntarily terminate his employment 
                for any reason, and such termination shall be deemed "Good 
                Reason" for all purposes of this Agreement.

          (iv)  Executive's rights to resign pursuant to this Section 7(a) 
                shall not be affected by incapacity due to physical or mental 
                illness. Executive's continued employment shall not 
                constitute consent to, or a waiver of rights with respect to, 
                any circumstances constituting Good Reason.

     (b)  DEATH.  Upon Executive's death, this Agreement shall terminate and 
          CFB shall have no obligations to Executive or Executive's legal 
          representatives with respect to this Agreement.  Executive's death 
          prior to the Date of Termination stated in any Notice of 
          Termination given by CFB or Executive shall invalidate and 
          supersede the Notice of Termination.  Termination of this Agreement 
          shall not affect any of the death benefits payable to Executive's 
          dependents, survivors or beneficiaries under any plan or program 
          under which Executive was covered at the time of death.

     (c)  DISCHARGE.

          (i)   CFB may terminate, without any liability to Executive under 
                this Agreement, this Agreement and Executive's employment by 
                discharging Executive for any reason deemed sufficient by CFB 
                if the Date of Termination associated with such discharge 
                occurs prior to a Change in Control.  In the event that 

                                      6
<PAGE>

                this Agreement and Executive's employment are terminated by 
                discharge during the Term of this Agreement following a 
                Change in Control by CFB for any reason other than Cause 
                [as defined in Section 7(c)(ii)] or Disability 
                [as defined in Section 7(d)(I)], then, subject to Sections 
                7(c)(iii), 7(g) and 7(h):

                (A)   CFB shall pay to Executive, within 15 days of the Date 
                      of Termination, an amount in cash equal to the greater 
                      of four million and no/100 dollars ($4,000,000.00) or 
                      three (3) times the sum of:

                      (1)   the higher of (a) the Executive's annual Base 
                            Compensation as in effect immediately prior to 
                            the Notice of Termination, or (b) Executive's 
                            highest annual Base Compensation over the 
                            24-month period preceding the Notice of 
                            Termination; and

                      (2)   the maximum annual incentive award payable 
                            Executive (without giving any effect to any 
                            reduction that would constitute Good Reason under 
                            Section 7(a)(ii)(4) of this Agreement) under 
                            CFB's Annual Incentive Compensation Plan (or any 
                            substitute or alternative plan) for such year in 
                            lieu of any other payment thereunder; and

                      (3)   the average percentage of employer matching 
                            contributions to the CFB Retirement Savings Plan 
                            and Trust (as a percent of Compensation as 
                            defined in the Plan) and employer contributions 
                            to the CFB Employee Stock Ownership Plan and 
                            Trust on behalf of Executive for the three most 
                            recent Plan Years ending immediately prior to the 
                            Date of Termination.

                (B)   for the 36-month period after Date of Termination, CFB, 
                      at its cost, shall provide or arrange to provide 
                      Executive and Executive's dependents with life, 
                      disability, accident and group health insurance 
                      benefits substantially similar to those which Executive 
                      and Executive's dependents were receiving immediately 
                      prior to the Notice of Termination; benefits otherwise 
                      receivable by Executive pursuant to this Section 
                      7(c)(I)(B) shall be reduced to the extent comparable 
                      benefits are actually received by Executive and 
                      Executive's dependents during the 36-month period 
                      following Executive's Date of Termination from another 
                      employer or employer's plan or program, and any such 
                      benefits actually received by Executive and Executive's 
                      dependents shall be reported to CFB;

                (C)   in lieu of shares of restricted stock granted to 
                      Executive by CFB upon which the restricted period does 
                      not lapse upon Date of Termination, 

                                      7

<PAGE>

                      CFB shall pay to Executive within 30 days of the Date 
                      of Termination a lump-sum cash payment equal to the 
                      greater of (1) the highest quoted per share sales price 
                      for common shares on the New York Stock Exchange during 
                      the ten-day period commencing on the Date of 
                      Termination (or, if not listed on such exchange, on a 
                      nationally recognized exchange or quotation system on 
                      which trading volume of the common shares is highest), 
                      or (2) the fixed or formula price for the acquisition 
                      of common shares specified in an agreement in 
                      connection with any Change in Control;

                (D)   in lieu of shares of common stock of CFB ("Common 
                      Shares") issuable upon exercise of outstanding options 
                      ("Options"), if any, granted to Executive under a CFB 
                      Option Plan (which Options shall be canceled upon the 
                      making of the payment referred to below), within 15 
                      days of the Date of Termination CFB shall pay to 
                      Executive a lump-sum amount in cash equal to the 
                      product of:

                      (1)   the excess of, in the case of an "incentive stock
                            option" [as defined in Section 422A of the 
                            Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the 
                            "Code")] , the closing price of common shares as 
                            reported on the New York Stock Exchange on or 
                            nearest the Date of Termination (or, if not listed
                            on such exchange, on a nationally recognized or 
                            quotation system on which trading volume in the 
                            common shares is highest) and, in the case of all 
                            other Options, the greater of (a) the highest 
                            quoted per share sales price for common shares on 
                            the New York Stock Exchange during the ten-day 
                            period commencing on the Date of Termination (or, 
                            if not listed on such exchange, on a nationally 
                            recognized exchange or quotation system on which 
                            trading volume of the common shares is highest), 
                            or (b) the fixed or formula price for the 
                            acquisition of common shares specified in an 
                            agreement in connection with any Change in Control,
                            over the per share option price of each Option held
                            by Executive (whether or not then fully 
                            exercisable); and 

                      (2)   the number of common shares of CFB covered by each
                            such Option;

                (E)   for a period of 12 months following Date of 
                      Termination, CFB shall pay the expenses for such 
                      outplacement services as Executive may require, with 
                      such services to be performed by an agency CFB shall 
                      designate;

                                      8
<PAGE>

                (F)   CFB shall pay to Executive all legal fees and expenses 
                      incurred by Executive as a result of termination of 
                      employment (including, but not limited to, all such 
                      fees and expenses, if any, incurred in contesting or 
                      disputing any such termination or in seeking to obtain 
                      or enforce any right or benefit provided by this 
                      Agreement or in connection with any tax audit or 
                      proceeding to the extent attributable to the 
                      application of Section 4999 of the Code to any payment 
                      or benefit provided hereunder); and

                (G)   in the event any additional or new incentive 
                      compensation, deferred compensation or other type of 
                      bonus program is instituted by CFB ("New Incentive 
                      Program"), the maximum award payable to Executive under 
                      the New Incentive Program for such year in lieu of any 
                      other payment thereunder, assuming for purposes hereof 
                      that Executive had been employed for all of such year, 
                      that all performance objectives for such year had been 
                      met at the maximum levels and that Executive had been 
                      entitled to a full award thereunder.

                (ii)  None of the obligations imposed on CFB by Sections 7(c) 
                      (I) (A) through (G) shall apply in the event Executive 
                      is discharged for Cause, in which event this Agreement 
                      shall terminate on the Date of Termination without 
                      further rights or obligations on the part of Executive 
                      or CFB under this Agreement.  "Cause" shall mean:  (A) 
                      the willful and continued failure by Executive (other 
                      than any such failure resulting from (1) Executive's 
                      incapacity due to physical or mental illness, (2) any 
                      such actual or anticipated failure after the issuance 
                      of a Notice of Termination by Executive for Good Reason 
                      or (3) CFB's active or passive obstruction of the 
                      performance of Executive's duties and responsibilities) 
                      to perform substantially the duties and 
                      responsibilities of Executive's position with CFB after 
                      a written demand for substantial performance is 
                      delivered to Executive by the Board, which demand 
                      specifically identifies the manner in which the Board 
                      believes that Executive has not substantially performed 
                      the duties or responsibilities; (B) the conviction of 
                      Executive by a court of competent jurisdiction for 
                      felony criminal conduct; (C) the willful engaging by 
                      Executive in fraud or dishonesty which is demonstrably 
                      and materially injurious to CFB, monetarily or 
                      otherwise; No act, or failure to act, on Executive's 
                      part shall be deemed "willful" unless committed, or 
                      omitted by Executive in bad faith and without 
                      reasonable belief that Executive's act or failure to 
                      act was in the best interest of CFB.  Executive shall 
                      not be terminated for Cause unless and until CFB shall 
                      have delivered to Executive a copy of a resolution duly 
                      adopted by the affirmative vote of not less than 
                      three-quarters of the entire membership of the Board at 
                      a 

                                      9
<PAGE>

                      meeting of the Board called and held for such purpose 
                      (after reasonable notice to Executive and an 
                      opportunity for Executive, together with Executive's 
                      counsel, to be heard before the Board), finding that, 
                      in the good faith opinion of the Board, Executive's 
                      conduct was Cause and specifying the particulars 
                      thereof in detail.

     (d)  DISABILITY. If, following a Change in Control, Executive shall have 
          been absent from the substantial performance of Executive's duties 
          and responsibilities with CFB for six consecutive months as a 
          result of Executive's incapacity due to physical or mental illness, 
          as determined by Executive's physician and within 30 days after 
          written notice to return is given by CFB, Executive shall not have 
          returned to the substantial performance of the duties and 
          responsibilities, of Executive's position, CFB may terminate this 
          Agreement as of the end of the 30-day period, after which 
          termination neither CFB nor the Executive shall have rights or 
          obligations under this Agreement and Executive shall not be 
          entitled to any compensation or benefits pursuant to this 
          Agreement.  The termination of this Agreement shall not terminate 
          Executive's employment of itself and without further express action 
          by CFB or affect in any way Executive's rights or benefits under 
          CFB Long Term Disability Plan.

     (e)  NOTICE OF TERMINATION.  Any purported termination of this Agreement 
          by CFB or by Executive shall be communicated by written Notice of 
          Termination to the other party in accordance with Section 10.  
          Notice of Termination shall mean a notice given not less than 30 
          days prior to the Date of Termination stated in the notice which 
          shall set forth in reasonable detail the basis for termination of 
          this Agreement by CFB, or, in the case of resignation by Executive 
          for Good Reason, the basis for such resignation.  No purported 
          termination which is not affected pursuant to this Section 7(e) 
          shall be valid or effective.

     (f)  DATE OF TERMINATION.  Date of Termination shall mean the date 
          specified in the Notice of Termination.  Following a Change in 
          Control, either party may, within 15 days after any Notice of 
          Termination is given, provide notice to the other party pursuant to 
          Section 10 that a dispute exists concerning the termination of this 
          Agreement.  Notwithstanding the pendency of any such dispute, CFB 
          shall continue to perform CFB's obligations to Executive under this 
          Agreement, pay Executive full compensation in effect when the 
          Notice of Termination giving rise to the dispute was given 
          (including, but not limited to, Base Compensation) and continue 
          Executive as a participant in all compensation, benefit and 
          insurance plans in which Executive was participating when the 
          Notice of Termination giving rise to the dispute was given, and 
          Executive shall continue to perform Executive's duties and 
          responsibilities with CFB unless prevented or relieved by CFB from 
          so performing, until the dispute is finally resolved in accordance 
          with Section 16, but in no event after the expiration of the Term 
          of this Agreement.

                                      10

<PAGE>

     (g)  MITIGATION.  Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount 
          of any payment provided for in this Section 7 by seeking other 
          employment or otherwise, nor shall the amount of any payment 
          provided for in this Agreement be reduced by any compensation 
          earned by Executive as a result of employment by another employer, 
          by retirement benefits, by offset against any amount claimed to be 
          owing by Executive to CFB, or otherwise.  In the event that, 
          following a Notice of Termination given to Executive by CFB, 
          Executive elects to receive all payments and benefits provided by 
          CFB's severance plan or policy for employees in general in lieu of 
          any payments and benefits under this Agreement, Executive shall 
          receive no payments or benefits under this Agreement as a result of 
          Severance of the Executive by CFB.

     (h)  POTENTIAL EXCISE TAX.  Should any payments hereunder or 
          contemplated hereby be subject to excise tax pursuant to Section 
          4999 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as may be amended, or 
          any successor or similar provision thereto, or comparable state or 
          local tax laws, CFB shall pay to Executive such additional 
          compensation as is necessary (after taking into account all 
          federal, state and local income taxes payable by Executive as a 
          result of the receipt of such compensation) to place Executive in 
          the same after-tax position he would have been in had no such 
          excise tax (or any interest or penalties thereon) been paid or 
          incurred.  CFB shall pay such additional compensation upon the 
          earlier of

          (i)   the time at which CFB withholds such excise tax from any 
                payments to Executive; or

          (ii)  30 days after Executive notifies CFB that Executive has paid 
                such excise tax pursuant to a tax return filed by Executive 
                which takes the position that such excise tax is due and 
                payable in reliance on a written opinion of Executive's tax 
                counsel that it is more likely than not that such excise tax 
                is due and payable, or, if later, the date the IRS notifies 
                Executive that such amount is due and payable.

          Without limiting the obligation of CFB hereunder, Executive agrees, 
          in the event Executive makes any payment pursuant to the preceding 
          sentence, to negotiate with CFB in good faith with respect to 
          procedures reasonably requested by CFB which would afford CFB the 
          ability to contest the imposition of such excise tax; provided, 
          however, that Executive will not be required to afford CFB any 
          right to contest the applicability of any such excise tax to the 
          extent that Executive reasonably determines that such contest is 
          inconsistent with the overall tax interests of Executive.

          CFB agrees to hold in confidence and not to disclose, without 
          Executive's prior written consent, any information with regard to 
          Executive's tax position which CFB obtains pursuant to this 
          subsection.

                                      11
<PAGE>

8.   NON-EXCLUSIVITY OF RIGHTS.  Nothing in this Agreement shall prevent or 
     limit Executive's continuing or future participation in any benefit, 
     bonus, incentive or other plan or program provided by CFB or any of its 
     affiliated companies except as provided in Section 7 (g) with respect to 
     CFB's severance plan or policy and for which Executive may qualify.  
     Nothing in this Agreement shall limit or otherwise adversely affect such 
     rights as Executive may have under any stock option or other agreements 
     with CFB or any of its affiliated corporations.

9.   ASSIGNMENT AND DELEGATION.  The obligations of Executive under this 
     Agreement are personal and may not be delegated by Executive or 
     transferred in any manner whatsoever, nor are such obligations subject 
     to involuntary alienation, assignment, delegation or transfer.  CFB may 
     assign CFB's rights under this Agreement and delegate all obligations 
     under this Agreement, either in whole or in part, to any parent, 
     affiliate, or subsidiary organization or company of CFB, provided that 
     the obligations of CFB under this Agreement shall remain the obligations 
     of CFB for which CFB shall be primarily liable notwithstanding the 
     assignment and delegation.

10.  NOTICES.  Notices and all other communications provided for in this 
     Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly 
     given when delivered by hand or when mailed by United States registered 
     mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid, addressed to CFB as its 
     principal office address, directed to the attention of the Board, and to 
     Executive at Executive's residence address on the records of CFB or to 
     such other address as either party may have furnished to the other in 
     writing in accordance herewith except that notice of change of address 
     shall be effective only upon receipt.

11.  VALIDITY.  The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision of this 
     Agreement shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the other 
     provisions of this Agreement, which other provisions shall remain in 
     full force and effect.

12.  SUCCESSORS:  BINDING AGREEMENT.

     (a)  CFB shall require any successor (whether direct or indirect, by 
          purchase, merger, consolidation, contract or otherwise) to all or 
          substantially all of the business or assets of CFB expressly to 
          assume and agree to perform this Agreement in the same manner and 
          to the same extent that CFB would be required to perform it if no 
          such succession had taken place.  Failure of CFB to obtain such 
          agreement prior to the effective date of any such succession shall 
          be a breach of this Agreement and shall also entitle Executive to 
          resign for Good Reason.  CFB shall include any successor to its 
          business or assets which executes and delivers the Agreement 
          required by this Section 12 or which otherwise becomes bound by all 
          terms and provisions of this Agreement by operation of law.

     (b)  This Agreement and all rights of Executive hereunder shall inure to 
          the benefit of, and be enforceable by, Executive's personal or 
          legal representatives, executors, administrators, successors, 
          heirs, distributes, devises and legatees.  If Executive 

                                      12
<PAGE>

          should die while any amounts would be payable to Executive if 
          Executive had continued to live, all such amounts, unless otherwise 
          provided herein, shall be paid in accordance with the terms of this 
          Agreement to Executive's devisee, legatee, or other designee or, if 
          none of the foregoing, to Executive's estate.

13.  INDEMNIFICATION.

     (a)  CFB shall pay, on behalf of Executive and Executive's executors, 
          administrators or assigns, any amount which Executive is or becomes 
          legally obligated to pay as a result of any claim or claims made 
          against Executive by reason of Executive's service as an employee, 
          Director or Officer of CFB.  The payments that CFB will be 
          obligated to make shall include (without limitation) damages, 
          judgments, settlements, costs and expenses of investigation, costs 
          and expenses of defense of legal actions, claims and proceedings 
          and appeals therefrom, and costs of attachment and similar bonds; 
          provided, however, that CFB shall not be obligated to pay fines or 
          other obligations or fees imposed  by law or otherwise that CFB is 
          prohibited by applicable law from paying as indemnity or for any 
          other reason.

     (b)  Costs and expenses (including, without limitation, attorney fees) 
          incurred by Executive in defending or investigating any action, 
          suit, proceeding or claim shall be paid by CFB in advance of the 
          disposition of such matter upon receipt of a written undertaking by 
          or on behalf of Executive to repay any such amounts if it is 
          ultimately determined that Executive is not entitled to 
          indemnification under this Agreement.

     (c)  If a claim under this Agreement is not paid by or on behalf of CFB 
          within ninety days after a written claim has been received by CFB, 
          Executive may at any time thereafter bring suit or proceed under 
          Section 16 against CFB to recover the unpaid amount of the claim 
          and, if successful in whole or in part, Executive shall also be 
          entitled to be paid the expenses, including attorneys' fees, of 
          prosecuting such claim.

     (d)  In the event of payment under this Agreement, CFB shall be 
          subrogated to the extent of such payment to all of the rights of 
          recovery of Executive, who shall execute all documents required and 
          shall do everything that may be necessary to secure such rights, 
          including the execution of such documents necessary to enable CFB 
          effectively to bring suit to enforce such rights.

     (e)  CFB shall not be liable under this Agreement to make any payment in 
          connection with any claim made against Executive:

          (i)   for which payment is actually made to Executive under an 
                insurance policy maintained by CFB, except in respect of any 
                excess beyond the amount of payment under such insurance; 

                                      13
<PAGE>

          (ii)  for which Executive is indemnified by CFB otherwise than 
                pursuant to this Agreement;

          (iii) based upon or attributable to Executive's gaining in fact any 
                personal profit or advantage to which Executive was not 
                legally entitled;

          (iv)  for an accounting of profits made from the purchase or sale 
                by Executive of securities of CFB within the meaning of 
                Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act; or

          (v)   brought about or contributed to by the dishonesty of 
                Executive; provided, however, that notwithstanding the 
                foregoing, Executive shall be protected under this Agreement 
                as to any claims upon which suit may be brought alleging 
                dishonesty on the part of Executive, unless a judgment or 
                other final adjudication thereof adverse to Executive shall 
                establish that Executive committed acts of active and 
                deliberate dishonesty with actual dishonest purpose and 
                intent, which acts were material to the cause of action so 
                adjudicated.

     (f)  Executive, as a condition precedent to his right to be indemnified 
          under this Agreement, shall give to CFB notice in accordance with 
          Section 10 as soon as practicable of any claim made against 
          Executive for which indemnity will or could be sought under this 
          Agreement.  Executive shall give CFB such information and 
          cooperation as it may reasonably require and as shall be within 
          Executive's power.

     (g)  Nothing herein shall be deemed to diminish or otherwise restrict 
          Executive's right to indemnification under any provision of the 
          Certificate of Incorporation or Bylaws of CFB or under State of 
          Delaware law.

14.  MISCELLANEOUS.  No provision of this Agreement may be modified or waived 
     unless such waiver or modification is agreed to in writing and signed by 
     Executive and such officer of CFB as may be specifically authorized by 
     the Board.  No waiver by either party at any time of any breach by the 
     other party of any condition or provision of this Agreement  to be 
     performed by such other party shall be deemed a waiver of similar or 
     dissimilar provisions or conditions at the same or at any prior or 
     subsequent time.  This Agreement is an integration of the parties' 
     agreement; no agreement or representation, oral or otherwise, express or 
     implied, with respect to the subject matter of this Agreement have been 
     made by either party which are not set forth expressly in this 
     Agreement.  The validity, interpretation, construction and performance 
     of this Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of North 
     Dakota.

15.  COUNTERPARTS.  This Agreement may be executed in one or more 
     counterparts, each of which shall be an original document but all of 
     which together will constitute one instrument.

                                      14
<PAGE>

16.  DISPUTE RESOLUTION.  Executive shall be permitted (but not required) to 
     elect that any dispute or controversy arising under or in connection 
     with this Agreement be resolved in Fargo, North Dakota, by any 
     recognized method of alternative dispute resolution or by arbitration in 
     accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association then 
     in effect.  The parties shall select a mutually acceptable single 
     arbitrator to resolve the dispute or if they fail or are unable to do 
     so, each side shall within the following ten business days select a 
     single arbitrator and the two so selected shall select a third 
     arbitrator within the following ten business days. The arbitrator shall 
     have no power to award any punitive or exemplary damages.  The 
     arbitrator may construe or interpret, but shall not ignore or vary the 
     terms of this Agreement, and shall be bound by controlling law.  The 
     arbitration award or other resolution may be entered as a judgment at 
     the request of the prevailing party bay any court of competent 
     jurisdiction in North Dakota or elsewhere. All legal fees and costs 
     incurred by Executive in connection with the resolution of any dispute 
     or controversy under or in connection with this Agreement shall be 
     reimbursed by CFB as bills for such services are presented by Executive 
     to CFB.

17.  AUTHORITY.  The authority of CFB to execute and perform this Agreement 
     is contained in a resolution of the Board of Directors of CFB dated 
     December 1, 1998.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Community First Bankshares, Inc. and Executive have 
executed this Agreement on December 1,1998, to be effective for all purposes.

                                       COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

                                       By /s/ Mark A. Anderson
                                          ----------------------------------

                                       Its  Vice Chairman and CFO
                                           ----------------------------------


                                       EXECUTIVE:

                                       /s/ Donald Mengedoth
                                       ------------------------------
                                       Donald Mengedoth

                                      15


<PAGE>

                                                                EXHIBIT  10.15.2

                          COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.
                       CHANGE IN CONTROL SEVERANCE AGREEMENT

     THIS SEVERANCE AGREEMENT ("Agreement") is entered into effective as of
December 1, 1998, by and between Community First Bankshares, Inc. a bank holding
company organized under the laws of the state of Delaware ("CFB") and Mark
Anderson, residing in Fargo, ND ("Executive").

     WHEREAS, CFB considers the establishment and maintenance of a sound and
vital management to be essential to protecting and enhancing the best interests
of CFB and its shareholders; and

     WHEREAS, the Executive has made and is expected to make, due to Executive's
intimate knowledge of the business and affairs of CFB, its policies, methods,
personnel, and problems, a significant contribution to the profitability,
growth, and financial strength of CFB; and

     WHEREAS, CFB, as a publicly held corporation, recognizes that the
possibility of a Change in Control may exist, and that such possibility and the
uncertainty and questions which it may raise among management may result in the
departure or distraction of the Executive in the performance of the Executive's
duties, to the detriment of CFB and its shareholders; and

     WHEREAS, it is in the best interests of CFB and its stockholders to
reinforce and encourage the continued attention and dedication of management
personnel, including Executive, to their assigned duties without distraction and
to ensure the continued availability to CFB of the Executive in the event of a
Change in Control; and

     WHEREAS, CFB desires to assure Executive of certain benefits in the event
of Executive's severance from employment with CFB without Cause following a
Change in Control;

     NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants, representations,
warranties and promises stated below, and for other valuable consideration, the
receipt and adequacy of which are hereby acknowledged, CFB and Executive agree
as follows:

1.   EMPLOYMENT.  To be eligible to receive benefits under this Agreement, 
     (a) Executive must maintain employment with CFB until after a Change in 
     Control and (b) a Severance of Executive's employment shall have 
     occurred during the Term of this Agreement and after a Change in 
     Control.  Prior to a Change in Control, Executive shall have no right to 
     benefits under this Agreement.

     For purposes of this Agreement, Severance shall mean either the 
     involuntary termination of Executive's employment with CFB  without 
     Cause or Executive's voluntary termination of employment with CFB 
     resignation for Good Reason; where Cause has the definition set forth in 
     Section 7(c)(ii) and Good Reason has the definition set forth in Section 
     7(a)(ii).

<PAGE>

2.   TERM OF AGREEMENT.  Subject to the provisions for earlier termination 
     provided in this Agreement, the Term of this Agreement shall commence on 
     the effective date of this Agreement as stated above and shall continue 
     through December 31, 2001, and shall be extended for successive one-year 
     periods thereafter unless the Board of Directors of CFB ("Board") shall 
     have given written notice to Executive not later than September 30 of 
     the last year of the original or extended Term of this Agreement of 
     CFB's election to discontinue the Term of this Agreement; provided, 
     however, that if a Change in Control shall have occurred during the 
     original or extended Term of this Agreement, the Term of this Agreement 
     shall continue, irrespective of any action of the Board of CFB, for a 
     period of not less than 24 months beyond the month in which such Change 
     in Control occurred.  In the event that more than one Change in Control 
     shall occur during the original or extended Term of this Agreement, the 
     24-month period shall follow the last Change in Control.  The Term of 
     this Agreement shall expire and this Agreement shall neither impose nor 
     confer any further rights or obligations on CFB or Executive on the day 
     after the end of the Term of this Agreement.  Expiration of the Term of 
     this Agreement of itself and without subsequent action by CFB or 
     Executive shall not end the employment relationship between CFB and 
     Executive.

     On or before the expiration of the Term of this Agreement, this 
     Agreement shall terminate due to the resignation of Executive as set 
     forth in Section 7(a), death of Executive as set forth in Section 7(b), 
     discharge of Executive as set forth in Section 7(c) or disability of 
     Executive as set forth in Section 7(d); provided that any rights or 
     obligations which expressly or impliedly survive termination of this 
     Agreement shall continue to be binding and enforceable by CFB and 
     Executive.

3.   EXECUTIVE'S DUTIES.  During the Term of this Agreement, Executive shall 
     serve as Vice Chairman and Chief Financial Officer or such successor 
     position as Executive voluntarily accepts, with such customary duties 
     and responsibilities as may be assigned from time to time to Executive 
     by CFB, provided that such duties and responsibilities are at all times 
     consistent with the duties and responsibilities of such position.  
     Executive shall devote exclusive attention and time during normal 
     business hours to the business and affairs of CFB and, to the extent 
     necessary to discharge the duties and responsibilities of Executive's 
     position, shall perform faithfully and efficiently to the best of 
     Executive's abilities such duties and responsibilities.

4.   BASE COMPENSATION.  For services rendered by Executive, CFB shall pay to 
     Executive Base Compensation of $300,000 per annum payable in accordance 
     with CFB's customary payroll practice for its management personnel.  
     Base Compensation shall be reviewed at least annually as of the close of 
     each fiscal year of CFB and may be increased to reflect inflation or 
     such other adjustments as CFB may deem appropriate, but original Base 
     Compensation or Base Compensation as subsequently increased shall not be 
     decreased thereafter, except for across-the-board percentage salary 
     reductions similarly affecting all management personnel of CFB.

                                       2
<PAGE>

5.   ADDITIONAL BENEFITS.  In addition to Base Compensation, Executive shall 
     be entitled to receive all fringe benefits customarily offered by CFB to 
     its executives including, without limitation, participation in CFB's 
     Annual Incentive Compensation Plan at the participation level 
     established by CFB for Executive as of the date of this Agreement, other 
     incentive plans and perquisites offered generally to key employees, the 
     various employee benefit plans or programs provided to the employees of 
     CFB in general subject to the eligibility requirements with respect to 
     each of such benefit plans or programs, and such other benefits or 
     perquisites as may be approved by the Board during the Term of this 
     Agreement.  Nothing in this Section 5 shall prohibit CFB from making any 
     changes in any of the plans, programs or benefits described in this 
     Section 5, provided the change similarly affects all management 
     personnel of CFB.

6.   CHANGE IN CONTROL.

     (a)  For purposes of this Agreement, "Change in Control" shall mean 
          the occurrence of one of the following events:

          (i)    any "person" [as such term is used in Section 13(d) and 4(d) 
                 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended ("Exchange 
                 Act")], other than a trustee or other fiduciary holding 
                 securities under an employee benefit plan of CFB is or 
                 becomes the "beneficial owner" (as defined in Rule 13d-3 
                 under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly of 
                 securities representing 25% or more of the combined voting 
                 power of CFB's then outstanding securities;

         (ii)    during any period of two consecutive years (not including any 
                 period ending prior to the effective date of this 
                 Agreement), individuals who at the beginning of such period 
                 constitute the Board of Directors of CFB, and any new 
                 director [other than a director designated by a person who has 
                 entered into agreement with CFB to effect a transaction 
                 permitted by Section 6(a)(I), (iii) or (iv)] whose election by 
                 the Board of Directors of CFB or nomination for election by 
                 CFB's stockholders was approved by vote of at least 
                 two-thirds of the directors then still in office who either 
                 were directors at the beginning of the period or whose 
                 election or nomination for election was previously so 
                 approved ("Continuing Directors"), cease for any reason to 
                 constitute at least a majority of the Board of Directors of 
                 CFB;

          (iii)  the stockholders of CFB approve a merger or consolidation of 
                 CFB with any other corporation, other than (A) a merger or 
                 consolidation which would result in the voting securities of 
                 CFB outstanding immediately prior thereto continuing to 
                 represent (either by remaining outstanding or by being 
                 converted into voting securities of the merged or 
                 consolidated entity) 50% or more of the combined voting 
                 power of the voting securities of CFB or such merged or 
                 consolidated entity outstanding immediately after such 
                 merger or consolidation, or (B) a merger or consolidation 
                 effected to implement a 

                                       3
<PAGE>

                 recapitalization of CFB or similar transaction in which no 
                 "person" acquires more than 25% of the combined voting power 
                 of CFB's then outstanding securities;

          (iv)   the stockholders of CFB approve a plan of complete 
                 liquidation or a sale or disposition by CFB of all or 
                 substantially all of CFB's assets.  "The sale or disposition 
                 by CFB of all or substantially all of CFB's assets" shall 
                 mean a sale or other disposition transaction or series of 
                 related transactions involving assets of CFB or of any 
                 direct or indirect subsidiary of CFB (including the stock of 
                 any direct or indirect subsidiary of CFB) in which the value 
                 of the assets or stock being sold or otherwise disposed of 
                 (as measured by the purchase price being paid therefor or by 
                 such other method as the Board of Directors of CFB 
                 determines is appropriate in a case where there is no 
                 readily ascertainable purchase price) constitutes more than 
                 50% of the fair market value of CFB. For purposes of the 
                 preceding sentence, the "fair market value of CFB" shall be 
                 the aggregate market value of CFB's outstanding common stock 
                 (on a fully diluted basis) plus the aggregate market value 
                 of CFB's other outstanding equity securities. The aggregate 
                 market value of CFB's common stock shall be determined by 
                 multiplying the number of shares of CFB common stock (on a 
                 fully diluted basis) outstanding on the date of the 
                 execution and delivery of a definitive agreement 
                 ("Transaction Date") with respect to the sale or disposition 
                 by CFB of all or substantially all of CFB's assets by the 
                 average closing price for CFB's common stock for the ten 
                 trading days immediately preceding the Transaction Date.  
                 The aggregate market value of any other equity securities of 
                 CFB shall be determined in a manner similar to that 
                 prescribed in the immediately preceding sentence for 
                 determining the aggregate market value of CFB's common stock 
                 or by such other method as the Board of Directors of CFB 
                 shall determine is appropriate; and

          (v)    the Board of Directors of CFB determines, by a vote of a 
                 majority of its entire membership, that a tender offer 
                 statement by any person (as defined above) indicates an 
                 intention on the part of such person to acquire control of 
                 CFB.

     (b)  In the event of a Change in Control, any options granted to 
          Executive that are not vested on the date of a Change in Control 
          shall be immediately fully (100%) vested and shall be exercisable 
          in accordance with their respective terms and conditions.

7.   TERMINATION.  This Agreement may be terminated prior to the end of 
     the Term of this Agreement subject to the provisions of this 
     Section 7.

     (a)  RESIGNATION.

                                       4
<PAGE>

          (i)    Executive may resign, including by reason of retirement, at 
                 any time and thereby terminate this Agreement.  In the event 
                 of such resignation, except in the case of resignation for 
                 Good Reason following a Change in Control, all rights and 
                 obligations of CFB and Executive under this Agreement shall 
                 cease on the date of resignation.

          (ii)   If Executive resigns for Good Reason following a Change in 
                 Control, Executive shall be entitled to the compensation and 
                 benefits provided in Section 7(c)(I).  "Good Reason" shall 
                 mean (A) the material breach of any of CFB's obligations 
                 under this Agreement without Executive's written consent or 
                 (B) the occurrence of any of the following circumstances 
                 without Executive's express written consent unless such 
                 circumstances are fully corrected prior to the Date of 
                 Termination specified in Executive's Notice of Termination:

                 (1)  the assignment to Executive of any duties and 
                      responsibilities inconsistent with the position that 
                      Executive held immediately prior to the Change in 
                      Control, relocation of the Executive to an office or 
                      site more than 50 miles from the Executive's job 
                      location prior to the Change in Control, or a 
                      significant adverse alteration in the nature or status 
                      of Executive's duties and responsibilities or the 
                      conditions of Executive's employment from those in 
                      effect immediately prior to the Change in Control;

                 (2)  a reduction by CFB in Executive's Base Compensation;

                 (3)  the failure by CFB to pay to Executive any portion of 
                      Executive's current compensation or any portion of an 
                      installment of deferred compensation under any deferred 
                      compensation program of CFB within seven days of the 
                      date such compensation is due;

                 (4)  the failure by CFB to continue in effect any 
                      compensation plan in which Executive participated 
                      immediately prior to a Change in Control if that 
                      compensation plan is material to Executive's total 
                      compensation unless an equitable arrangement (embodied 
                      in an ongoing substitute or alternative plan) has been 
                      made with respect to such plan, or the failure by CFB 
                      to continue Executive's participation in such 
                      compensation plan (or in such substitute or alternative 
                      plan) on a basis at least as favorable, both in terms 
                      of the amount of benefits provided and the level of 
                      Executive's participation relative to other 
                      participants, as existed prior to the Change in Control;

                 (5)  the failure by CFB to continue to provide Executive 
                      with benefits substantially similar to those enjoyed by 
                      Executive under any of CFB's pension, savings, life 
                      insurance, medical, health, accident, or 

                                       5
<PAGE>

                      disability plans in which Executive was participating 
                      at the time of the Change in Control, the taking of any 
                      action by CFB which would materially reduce, directly 
                      or indirectly, any of such benefits or deprive 
                      Executive of any material fringe benefit or policy or 
                      program for the benefit of the management personnel of 
                      CFB enjoyed by Executive at the time of the Change in 
                      Control;

                 (6)  the failure by CFB to provide Executive with the number 
                      of paid vacation days to which Executive is entitled in 
                      accordance with CFB's normal vacation policy in effect 
                      at the time of the Change in Control;

                 (7)  the failure of CFB to obtain a satisfactory agreement 
                      from any successor to assume and agree to perform this 
                      Agreement, as contemplated in Section 12; or

                 (8)  any purported termination of Executive's employment 
                      that is not effected pursuant to a Notice of 
                      Termination satisfying the requirements of Section 7(e).

          (iii)  Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, during the 
                 period commencing on the 90th day following a Change in 
                 Control and ending on the 180th day following a Change in 
                 Control, Executive may voluntarily terminate his employment 
                 for any reason, and such termination shall be deemed "Good 
                 Reason" for all purposes of this Agreement.

          (iv)   Executive's rights to resign pursuant to this Section 7(a) 
                 shall not be affected by incapacity due to physical or 
                 mental illness. Executive's continued employment shall not 
                 constitute consent to, or a waiver of rights with respect 
                 to, any circumstances constituting Good Reason.

     (b)  DEATH. Upon Executive's death, this Agreement shall terminate and 
          CFB shall have no obligations to Executive or Executive's legal 
          representatives with respect to this Agreement.  Executive's death 
          prior to the Date of Termination stated in any Notice of 
          Termination given by CFB or Executive shall invalidate and 
          supersede the Notice of Termination.  Termination of this Agreement 
          shall not affect any of the death benefits payable to Executive's 
          dependents, survivors or beneficiaries under any plan or program 
          under which Executive was covered at the time of death.

                                       6
<PAGE>

     (c)  DISCHARGE.

          (i)    CFB may terminate, without any liability to Executive under 
                 this Agreement, this Agreement and Executive's employment by 
                 discharging Executive for any reason deemed sufficient by 
                 CFB if the Date of Termination associated with such 
                 discharge occurs prior to a Change in Control.  In the event 
                 that this Agreement and Executive's employment are 
                 terminated by discharge during the Term of this Agreement 
                 following a Change in Control by CFB for any reason other 
                 than Cause [as defined in Section 7(c)(ii)] or Disability 
                 [as defined in Section 7(d)(I)], then, subject to Sections 
                 7(c)(iii), 7(g) and 7(h):

                 (A)  CFB shall pay to Executive, within 15 days of the Date 
                      of Termination, an amount in cash equal to the greater 
                      of three million and no/100 dollars ($3,000,000.00) or 
                      three (3) times the sum of:

                      (1)  the higher of (a) the Executive's annual Base 
                           Compensation as in effect immediately prior to the 
                           Notice of Termination, or (b) Executive's highest 
                           annual Base Compensation over the 24-month period 
                           preceding the Notice of Termination; and

                      (2)  the maximum annual incentive award payable 
                           Executive (without giving any effect to any 
                           reduction that would constitute Good Reason under 
                           Section 7(a)(ii)(4) of this Agreement) under CFB's 
                           Annual Incentive Compensation Plan (or any 
                           substitute or alternative plan) for such year in 
                           lieu of any other payment thereunder; and

                      (3)  the average percentage of employer matching 
                           contributions to the CFB Retirement Savings Plan 
                           and Trust (as a percent of Compensation as defined 
                           in the Plan) and employer contributions to the CFB 
                           Employee Stock Ownership Plan and Trust on behalf 
                           of Executive for the three most recent Plan Years 
                           ending immediately prior to the Date of 
                           Termination.

                 (B)  for the 36-month period after Date of Termination, CFB, 
                      at its cost, shall provide or arrange to provide 
                      Executive and Executive's dependents with life, 
                      disability, accident and group health insurance 
                      benefits substantially similar to those which Executive 
                      and Executive's dependents were receiving immediately 
                      prior to the Notice of Termination; benefits otherwise 
                      receivable by Executive pursuant to this Section 
                      7(c)(I)(B) shall be reduced to the extent comparable 
                      benefits are actually received by Executive and 

                                       7
<PAGE>

                      Executive's dependents during the 36-month period 
                      following Executive's Date of Termination from another 
                      employer or employer's plan or program, and any such 
                      benefits actually received by Executive and Executive's 
                      dependents shall be reported to CFB;

                 (C)  in lieu of shares of restricted stock granted to 
                      Executive by CFB upon which the restricted period does 
                      not lapse upon Date of Termination, CFB shall pay to 
                      Executive within 30 days of the Date of Termination a 
                      lump-sum cash payment equal to the greater of (1) the 
                      highest quoted per share sales price for common shares 
                      on the New York Stock Exchange during the ten-day 
                      period commencing on the Date of Termination (or, if 
                      not listed on such exchange, on a nationally recognized 
                      exchange or quotation system on which trading volume of 
                      the common shares is highest), or (2) the fixed or 
                      formula price for the acquisition of common shares 
                      specified in an agreement in connection with any Change 
                      in Control;

                 (D)  in lieu of shares of common stock of CFB ("Common 
                      Shares") issuable upon exercise of outstanding options 
                      ("Options"), if any, granted to Executive under a CFB 
                      Option Plan (which Options shall be canceled upon the 
                      making of the payment referred to below), within 15 
                      days of the Date of Termination CFB shall pay to 
                      Executive a lump-sum amount in cash equal to the 
                      product of:

                      (1)  the excess of, in the case of an "incentive stock 
                           option" [as defined in Section 422A of the Internal 
                           Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code")], 
                           the closing price of common shares as reported on 
                           the New York Stock Exchange on or nearest the Date 
                           of Termination (or, if not listed on such 
                           exchange, on a nationally recognized or quotation 
                           system on which trading volume in the common 
                           shares is highest) and, in the case of all other 
                           Options, the greater of (a) the highest quoted per 
                           share sales price for common shares on the New 
                           York Stock Exchange during the ten-day period 
                           commencing on the Date of Termination (or, if not 
                           listed on such exchange, on a nationally 
                           recognized exchange or quotation system on which 
                           trading volume of the common shares is highest), 
                           or (b) the fixed or formula price for the 
                           acquisition of common shares specified in an 
                           agreement in connection with any Change in 
                           Control, over the per share option price of each 
                           Option held by Executive (whether or not then 
                           fully exercisable); and 

                      (2)  the number of common shares of CFB covered by each 
                           such Option;

                                       8

<PAGE>

                 (E)  for a period of 12 months following Date of
                      Termination, CFB shall pay the expenses for such 
                      outplacement services as Executive may require, with such 
                      services to be performed by an agency CFB shall designate;

                 (F)  CFB shall pay to Executive all legal fees and expenses
                      incurred by Executive as a result of termination of 
                      employment (including, but not limited to, all such fees 
                      and expenses, if any, incurred in contesting or disputing 
                      any such termination or in seeking to obtain or enforce 
                      any right or benefit provided by this Agreement or in 
                      connection with any tax audit or proceeding to the extent 
                      attributable to the application of Section 4999 of the
                      Code to any payment or benefit provided hereunder); and

                 (G)  in the event any additional or new incentive compensation,
                      deferred compensation or other type of bonus program is 
                      instituted by CFB ("New Incentive Program"), the maximum 
                      award payable to Executive under the New Incentive Program
                      for such year in lieu of any other payment thereunder, 
                      assuming for purposes hereof that Executive had been 
                      employed for all of such year, that all performance 
                      objectives for such year had been met at the maximum 
                      levels and that Executive had been entitled to a full 
                      award thereunder.

          (ii)   None of the obligations imposed on CFB by Sections 7(c) (I) 
                 (A) through (G) shall apply in the event Executive is 
                 discharged for Cause, in which event this Agreement shall 
                 terminate on the Date of Termination without further rights 
                 or obligations on the part of Executive or CFB under this
                 Agreement.  "Cause" shall mean:  (A) the willful and continued 
                 failure by Executive (other than any such failure resulting 
                 from (1) Executive's incapacity due to physical or mental 
                 illness, (2) any such actual or anticipated failure after the 
                 issuance of a Notice of Termination by Executive for Good 
                 Reason or (3) CFB's active or passive obstruction of the 
                 performance of Executive's duties and responsibilities) to 
                 perform substantially the duties and responsibilities of 
                 Executive's position with CFB after a written demand for 
                 substantial performance is delivered to Executive by the 
                 Board, which demand specifically identifies the manner in which
                 the Board believes that Executive has not substantially 
                 performed the duties or responsibilities; (B) the conviction of
                 Executive by a court of competent jurisdiction for felony 
                 criminal conduct; (C) the willful engaging by Executive in 
                 fraud or dishonesty which is demonstrably and materially 
                 injurious to CFB, monetarily or otherwise; No act, or 
                 failure to act, on Executive's part shall be deemed "willful" 
                 unless committed, or omitted by Executive in bad 


                                       9
<PAGE>

                 faith and without reasonable belief that Executive's act or 
                 failure to act was in the best interest of CFB.  Executive 
                 shall not be terminated for Cause unless and until CFB shall 
                 have delivered to Executive a copy of a resolution duly adopted
                 by the affirmative vote of not less than three-quarters of the 
                 entire membership of the Board at a meeting of the Board 
                 called and held for such purpose (after reasonable notice to 
                 Executive and an opportunity for Executive, together with 
                 Executive's counsel, to be heard before the Board), finding 
                 that, in the good faith opinion of the Board, Executive's 
                 conduct was Cause and specifying the particulars thereof in 
                 detail.

     (d)  DISABILITY. If, following a Change in Control, Executive shall have 
          been absent from the substantial performance of Executive's duties and
          responsibilities with CFB for six consecutive months as a result of 
          Executive's incapacity due to physical or mental illness, as 
          determined by Executive's physician and within 30 days after written 
          notice to return is given by CFB, Executive shall not have returned 
          to the substantial performance of the duties and responsibilities, of 
          Executive's position, CFB may terminate this Agreement as of the end 
          of the 30-day period, after which termination neither CFB nor the 
          Executive shall have rights or obligations under this Agreement and 
          Executive shall not be entitled to any compensation or benefits 
          pursuant to this Agreement.  The termination of this Agreement shall 
          not terminate Executive's employment of itself and without further 
          express action by CFB or affect in any way Executive's rights or 
          benefits under CFB Long Term Disability Plan.

     (e)  NOTICE OF TERMINATION.  Any purported termination of this Agreement 
          by CFB or by Executive shall be communicated by written Notice of
          Termination to the other party in accordance with Section 10.  Notice 
          of Termination shall mean a notice given not less than 30 days prior 
          to the Date of Termination stated in the notice which shall set forth 
          in reasonable detail the basis for termination of this Agreement by 
          CFB, or, in the case of resignation by Executive for Good Reason, the 
          basis for such resignation.  No purported termination which is not 
          affected pursuant to this Section 7(e) shall be valid or effective.

     (f)  DATE OF TERMINATION.  Date of Termination shall mean the date 
          specified in the Notice of Termination.  Following a Change in 
          Control, either party may, within 15 days after any Notice of 
          Termination is given, provide notice to the other party pursuant to 
          Section 10 that a dispute exists concerning the termination of this 
          Agreement.  Notwithstanding the pendency of any such dispute, CFB 
          shall continue to perform CFB's obligations to Executive under this 
          Agreement, pay Executive full compensation in effect when the Notice
          of Termination giving rise to the dispute was given (including, but 
          not limited to, Base Compensation) and continue Executive as a 
          participant in all compensation, benefit and insurance plans in which 
          Executive was participating when the Notice of Termination giving rise
          to the dispute was given, and Executive shall continue to perform 
          Executive's duties and responsibilities with


                                      10
<PAGE>

          CFB unless prevented or relieved by CFB from so performing, until the 
          dispute is finally resolved in accordance with Section 16, but in no 
          event after the expiration of the Term of this Agreement.

     (g)  MITIGATION.  Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount 
          of any payment provided for in this Section 7 by seeking other 
          employment or otherwise, nor shall the amount of any payment provided 
          for in this Agreement be reduced by any compensation earned by 
          Executive as a result of employment by another employer, by 
          retirement benefits, by offset against any amount claimed to be owing 
          by Executive to CFB, or otherwise.  In the event that, following a
          Notice of Termination given to Executive by CFB, Executive elects to 
          receive all payments and benefits provided by CFB's severance plan or 
          policy for employees in general in lieu of any payments and benefits 
          under this Agreement, Executive shall receive no payments or benefits 
          under this Agreement as a result of Severance of the Executive by CFB.

     (h)  POTENTIAL EXCISE TAX.  Should any payments hereunder or contemplated 
          hereby be subject to excise tax pursuant to Section 4999 of the
          Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as may be amended, or any successor or 
          similar provision thereto, or comparable state or local tax laws, CFB 
          shall pay to Executive such additional compensation as is necessary 
          (after taking into account all federal, state and local income taxes 
          payable by Executive as a result of the receipt of such compensation) 
          to place Executive in the same after-tax position he would have been 
          in had no such excise tax (or any interest or penalties thereon) been 
          paid or incurred.  CFB shall pay such additional compensation upon the
          earlier of 

          (i)   the time at which CFB withholds such excise tax from any 
                payments to Executive; or

          (ii)  30 days after Executive notifies CFB that Executive has paid 
                such excise tax pursuant to a tax return filed by Executive 
                which takes the position that such excise tax is due and 
                payable in reliance on a written opinion of Executive's tax 
                counsel that it is more likely than not that such excise tax is
                due and payable, or, if later, the date the IRS notifies 
                Executive that such amount is due and payable.

          Without limiting the obligation of CFB hereunder, Executive agrees, 
          in the event Executive makes any payment pursuant to the preceding 
          sentence, to negotiate with CFB in good faith with respect to 
          procedures reasonably requested by CFB which would afford CFB the 
          ability to contest the imposition of such excise tax; provided, 
          however, that Executive will not be required to afford CFB any right
          to contest the applicability of any such excise tax to the extent that
          Executive reasonably determines that such contest is inconsistent with
          the overall tax interests of Executive.


                                      11
<PAGE>

          CFB agrees to hold in confidence and not to disclose, without 
          Executive's prior written consent, any information with regard to 
          Executive's tax position which CFB obtains pursuant to this 
          subsection.

8.   NON-EXCLUSIVITY OF RIGHTS.  Nothing in this Agreement shall prevent or
     limit Executive's continuing or future participation in any benefit, bonus,
     incentive or other plan or program provided by CFB or any of its affiliated
     companies except as provided in Section 7 (g) with respect to CFB's 
     severance plan or policy and for which Executive may qualify.  Nothing in 
     this Agreement shall limit or otherwise adversely affect such rights as 
     Executive may have under any stock option or other agreements with CFB or 
     any of its affiliated corporations.

9.   ASSIGNMENT AND DELEGATION.  The obligations of Executive under this
     Agreement are personal and may not be delegated by Executive or transferred
     in any manner whatsoever, nor are such obligations subject to involuntary
     alienation, assignment, delegation or transfer.  CFB may assign CFB's 
     rights under this Agreement and delegate all obligations under this 
     Agreement, either in whole or in part, to any parent, affiliate, or 
     subsidiary organization or company of CFB, provided that the obligations of
     CFB under this Agreement shall remain the obligations of CFB for which CFB 
     shall be primarily liable notwithstanding the assignment and delegation.

10.  NOTICES.  Notices and all other communications provided for in this
     Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given
     when delivered by hand or when mailed by United States registered mail,
     return receipt requested, postage prepaid, addressed to CFB as its
     principal office address, directed to the attention of the Board, and to
     Executive at Executive's residence address on the records of CFB or to such
     other address as either party may have furnished to the other in writing in
     accordance herewith except that notice of change of address shall be
     effective only upon receipt.

11.  VALIDITY.  The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision of this
     Agreement shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the other
     provisions of this Agreement, which other provisions shall remain in full 
     force and effect.

12.  SUCCESSORS:  BINDING AGREEMENT.

     (a)  CFB shall require any successor (whether direct or indirect, by
          purchase, merger, consolidation, contract or otherwise) to all or 
          substantially all of the business or assets of CFB expressly to 
          assume and agree to perform this Agreement in the same manner and to 
          the same extent that CFB would be required to perform it if no such 
          succession had taken place.  Failure of CFB to obtain such agreement 
          prior to the effective date of any such succession shall be a breach 
          of this Agreement and shall also entitle Executive to resign for
          Good Reason.  CFB shall include any successor to its business or 
          assets which executes and delivers the Agreement required by this 
          Section 12 or which otherwise becomes bound by all terms and 
          provisions of this Agreement by operation of law.


                                      12
<PAGE>

     (b)  This Agreement and all rights of Executive hereunder shall inure to
          the benefit of, and be enforceable by, Executive's personal or legal
          representatives, executors, administrators, successors, heirs, 
          distributes, devises and legatees.  If Executive should die while any 
          amounts would be payable to Executive if Executive had continued to 
          live, all such amounts, unless otherwise provided herein, shall be 
          paid in accordance with the terms of this Agreement to Executive's 
          devisee, legatee, or other designee or, if none of the foregoing, to 
          Executive's estate.

13.  INDEMNIFICATION.

     (a)  CFB shall pay, on behalf of Executive and Executive's executors,
          administrators or assigns, any amount which Executive is or becomes 
          legally obligated to pay as a result of any claim or claims made 
          against Executive by reason of Executive's service as an employee, 
          Director or Officer of CFB.  The payments that CFB will be obligated 
          to make shall include (without limitation) damages, judgments, 
          settlements, costs and expenses of investigation, costs and expenses 
          of defense of legal actions, claims and proceedings and appeals
          therefrom, and costs of attachment and similar bonds; provided, 
          however, that CFB shall not be obligated to pay fines or other 
          obligations or fees imposed by law or otherwise that CFB is 
          prohibited by applicable law from paying as indemnity or for any 
          other reason.

     (b)  Costs and expenses (including, without limitation, attorney fees) 
          incurred by Executive in defending or investigating any action, suit, 
          proceeding or claim shall be paid by CFB in advance of the 
          disposition of such matter upon receipt of a written undertaking by 
          or on behalf of Executive to repay any such amounts if it is 
          ultimately determined that Executive is not entitled to 
          indemnification under this Agreement.

     (c)  If a claim under this Agreement is not paid by or on behalf of CFB 
          within ninety days after a written claim has been received by CFB, 
          Executive may at any time thereafter bring suit or proceed under 
          Section 16 against CFB to recover the unpaid amount of the claim and, 
          if successful in whole or in part, Executive shall also be entitled to
          be paid the expenses, including attorneys' fees, of prosecuting such 
          claim.

     (d)  In the event of payment under this Agreement, CFB shall be subrogated 
          to the extent of such payment to all of the rights of recovery of 
          Executive, who shall execute all documents required and shall do 
          everything that may be necessary to secure such rights, including the 
          execution of such documents necessary to enable CFB effectively to 
          bring suit to enforce such rights.

     (e)  CFB shall not be liable under this Agreement to make any payment in
          connection with any claim made against Executive:


                                      13
<PAGE>

          (i)   for which payment is actually made to Executive under an 
                insurance policy maintained by CFB, except in respect of any 
                excess beyond the amount of payment under such insurance;

          (ii)  for which Executive is indemnified by CFB otherwise than 
                pursuant to this Agreement;

          (iii) based upon or attributable to Executive's gaining in fact any 
                personal profit or advantage to which Executive was not 
                legally entitled;

          (iv)  for an accounting of profits made from the purchase or sale by 
                Executive of securities of CFB within the meaning of 
                Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act; or

          (v)   brought about or contributed to by the dishonesty of Executive; 
                provided, however, that notwithstanding the foregoing, 
                Executive shall be protected under this Agreement as to any 
                claims upon which suit may be brought alleging dishonesty on 
                the part of Executive, unless a judgment or other final
                adjudication thereof adverse to Executive shall establish that 
                Executive committed acts of active and deliberate dishonesty 
                with actual dishonest purpose and intent, which acts were 
                material to the cause of action so adjudicated.

     (f)  Executive, as a condition precedent to his right to be indemnified 
          under this Agreement, shall give to CFB notice in accordance with
          Section 10 as soon as practicable of any claim made against Executive 
          for which indemnity will or could be sought under this Agreement. 
          Executive shall give CFB such information and cooperation as it may 
          reasonably require and as shall be within Executive's power.

     (g)  Nothing herein shall be deemed to diminish or otherwise restrict
          Executive's right to indemnification under any provision of the 
          Certificate of Incorporation or Bylaws of CFB or under State of 
          Delaware law.

14.  MISCELLANEOUS.  No provision of this Agreement may be modified or waived
     unless such waiver or modification is agreed to in writing and signed by
     Executive and such officer of CFB as may be specifically authorized by the
     Board.  No waiver by either party at any time of any breach by the other 
     party of any condition or provision of this Agreement to be performed by 
     such other party shall be deemed a waiver of similar or dissimilar 
     provisions or conditions at the same or at any prior or subsequent time. 
     This Agreement is an integration of the parties' agreement; no agreement 
     or representation, oral or otherwise, express or implied, with respect to 
     the subject matter of this Agreement have been made by either party which 
     are not set forth expressly in this Agreement.  The validity, 
     interpretation, construction and performance of this Agreement shall be 
     governed by the laws of the State of North Dakota.


                                      14
<PAGE>

15.  COUNTERPARTS.  This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts,
     each of which shall be an original document but all of which together will
     constitute one instrument.

16.  DISPUTE RESOLUTION.  Executive shall be permitted (but not required) to
     elect that any dispute or controversy arising under or in connection with 
     this Agreement be resolved in Fargo, North Dakota, by any recognized method
     of alternative dispute resolution or by arbitration in accordance with the 
     rules of the American Arbitration Association then in effect.  The parties 
     shall select a mutually acceptable single arbitrator to resolve the dispute
     or if they fail or are unable to do so, each side shall within the 
     following ten business days select a single arbitrator and the two so 
     selected shall select a third arbitrator within the following ten business 
     days. The arbitrator shall have no power to award any punitive or exemplary
     damages.  The arbitrator may construe or interpret, but shall not ignore or
     vary the terms of this Agreement, and shall be bound by controlling law. 
     The arbitration award or other resolution may be entered as a judgment at 
     the request of the prevailing party bay any court of competent jurisdiction
     in North Dakota or elsewhere. All legal fees and costs incurred by 
     Executive in connection with the resolution of any dispute or controversy 
     under or in connection with this Agreement shall be reimbursed by CFB as 
     bills for such services are presented by Executive to CFB.

17.  AUTHORITY.  The authority of CFB to execute and perform this Agreement is
     contained in a resolution of the Board of Directors of CFB dated 
     December 1, 1998.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Community First Bankshares, Inc. and Executive have
executed this Agreement on December 1,1998, to be effective for all purposes.


                              COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

                              By      DONALD R. MENGEDOTH
                                 -----------------------------

                              Its       PRESIDENT AND CEO
                                 -----------------------------


                              EXECUTIVE:

                              /s/ MARK ANDERSON
                              --------------------------------
                              Mark Anderson

<PAGE>

                                                                Exhibit 10.15.3

                      COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.
                   CHANGE IN CONTROL SEVERANCE AGREEMENT

     THIS SEVERANCE AGREEMENT ("Agreement") is entered into effective as of 
December 1, 1998, by and between Community First Bankshares, Inc. a bank 
holding company organized under the laws of the state of Delaware ("CFB") and 
_____________, residing in Fargo, ND ("Executive"). 

     WHEREAS, CFB considers the establishment and maintenance of a sound and 
vital management to be essential to protecting and enhancing the best 
interests of CFB and its shareholders; and

     WHEREAS, the Executive has made and is expected to make, due to 
Executive's intimate knowledge of the business and affairs of CFB, its 
policies, methods, personnel, and problems, a significant contribution to the 
profitability, growth, and financial strength of CFB; and

     WHEREAS, CFB, as a publicly held corporation, recognizes that the 
possibility of a Change in Control may exist, and that such possibility and 
the uncertainty and questions which it may raise among management may result 
in the departure or distraction of the Executive in the performance of the 
Executive's duties, to the detriment of CFB and its shareholders; and

     WHEREAS, it is in the best interests of CFB and its stockholders to 
reinforce and encourage the continued attention and dedication of management 
personnel, including Executive, to their assigned duties without distraction 
and to ensure the continued availability to CFB of the Executive in the event 
of a Change in Control; and

     WHEREAS, CFB desires to assure Executive of certain benefits in the 
event of Executive's severance from employment with CFB without Cause 
following a Change in Control;

     NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants, 
representations, warranties and promises stated below, and for other valuable 
consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which are hereby acknowledged, CFB 
and Executive agree as follows:
     
1.   EMPLOYMENT.  To be eligible to receive benefits under this 
     Agreement, (a) Executive must maintain employment with CFB until after a 
     Change in Control and (b) a Severance of Executive's employment shall 
     have occurred during the Term of this Agreement and after a Change in 
     Control.  Prior to a Change in Control, Executive shall have no right to 
     benefits under this Agreement.

     For purposes of this Agreement, Severance shall mean either the 
     involuntary termination of Executive's employment with CFB  without Cause 
     or Executive's voluntary termination of employment with CFB resignation 
     for Good Reason; where Cause has the definition set forth in Section 
     7(c)(ii) and Good Reason has the definition set forth in Section 
     7(a)(ii).

2.   TERM OF AGREEMENT.  Subject to the provisions for earlier 
     termination provided in this Agreement, the Term of this Agreement shall 
     commence on the effective date of this Agreement as stated above and 
     shall continue through December 31, 2001, and shall be extended for 
     successive one-year periods thereafter unless the Board of Directors of 
     CFB ("Board") shall have given written notice 


                                       1

<PAGE>

     to Executive not later than September 30 of the last year of the original 
     or extended Term of this Agreement of CFB's election to discontinue the 
     Term of this Agreement; provided, however, that if a Change in Control 
     shall have occurred during the original or extended Term of this 
     Agreement, the Term of this Agreement shall continue, irrespective of any 
     action of the Board of CFB, for a period of not less than 24 months beyond
     the month in which such Change in Control occurred.  In the event that 
     more than one Change in Control shall occur during the original or 
     extended Term of this Agreement, the 24-month period shall follow the last
     Change in Control. The Term of this Agreement shall expire and this 
     Agreement shall neither impose nor confer any further rights or 
     obligations on CFB or Executive on the day after the end of the Term of 
     this Agreement. Expiration of the Term of this Agreement of itself and 
     without subsequent action by CFB or Executive shall not end the employment
     relationship between CFB and Executive.

     On or before the expiration of the Term of this Agreement, this Agreement
     shall terminate due to the resignation of Executive as set forth in 
     Section 7(a), death of Executive as set forth in Section 7(b), discharge 
     of Executive as set forth in Section 7(c) or disability of Executive as 
     set forth in Section 7(d); provided that any rights or obligations which 
     expressly or impliedly survive termination of this Agreement shall 
     continue to be binding and enforceable by CFB and Executive.

3.   EXECUTIVE'S DUTIES.  During the Term of this Agreement, Executive 
     shall serve as [title] or such successor position as Executive voluntarily
     accepts, with such customary duties and responsibilities as may be 
     assigned from time to time to Executive by CFB, provided that such 
     duties and responsibilities are at all times consistent with the duties 
     and responsibilities of such position.  Executive shall devote exclusive 
     attention and time during normal business hours to the business and 
     affairs of CFB and, to the extent necessary to discharge the duties and 
     responsibilities of Executive's position, shall perform faithfully and 
     efficiently to the best of Executive's abilities such duties and 
     responsibilities.

4.   BASE COMPENSATION.  For services rendered by Executive, CFB shall 
     pay to Executive Base Compensation of [$                  ] per annum 
     payable in accordance with CFB's customary payroll practice for its 
     management personnel. Base Compensation shall be reviewed at least 
     annually as of the close of each fiscal year of CFB and may be increased 
     to reflect inflation or such other adjustments as CFB may deem 
     appropriate, but original Base Compensation or Base Compensation as 
     subsequently increased shall not be decreased thereafter, except for 
     across-the-board percentage salary reductions similarly affecting all 
     management personnel of CFB.

5.   ADDITIONAL BENEFITS.  In addition to Base Compensation, Executive 
     shall be entitled to receive all fringe benefits customarily offered by 
     CFB to its executives including, without limitation, participation in 
     CFB's Annual Incentive Compensation Plan at the participation level 
     established by CFB for Executive as of the date of this Agreement, other 
     incentive plans and perquisites offered generally to key employees, the 
     various employee benefit plans or programs provided to the employees of 
     CFB in general subject to the eligibility requirements with respect to 
     each of such benefit plans or programs, and such other benefits or 
     perquisites as may be approved by the Board during the Term of this 
     Agreement.  Nothing in this Section 5 shall prohibit CFB from making any 
     changes in any of the plans, programs or benefits described in this 
     Section 5, provided the change similarly affects all management 
     personnel of CFB.

     6.   CHANGE IN CONTROL.


                                        2

<PAGE>

     (a)  For purposes of this Agreement, "Change in Control" shall mean 
          the occurrence of one of the following events:

          (i)  any "person" [as such term is used in Section 13(d) and 
               4(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended 
               ("Exchange Act")], other than a trustee or other fiduciary
               holding securities under an employee benefit plan of CFB is
               or becomes the "beneficial owner" (as defined in Rule 13d-3
               under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly of 
               securities representing 25% or more of the combined voting 
               power of CFB's then outstanding securities;

          (ii) during any period of two consecutive years (not including any 
               period ending prior to the effective date of this Agreement), 
               individuals who at the beginning of such period constitute the 
               Board of Directors of CFB, and any new director [other than a 
               director designated by a person who has entered into agreement 
               with CFB to effect a transaction permitted by Section 6(a)(I), 
               (iii) or (iv)] whose election by the Board of Directors of CFB 
               or nomination for election by CFB's stockholders was approved by
               vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then still in 
               office who either were directors at the beginning of the period 
               or whose election or nomination for election was previously so 
               approved ("Continuing Directors"), cease for any reason to 
               constitute at least a majority of the Board of Directors of CFB;

         (iii) the stockholders of CFB approve a merger or consolidation of 
               CFB with any other corporation, other than (A) a merger or 
               consolidation which would result in the voting securities of 
               CFB outstanding immediately prior thereto continuing to 
               represent (either by remaining outstanding or by being 
               converted into voting securities of the merged or consolidated 
               entity) 50% or more of the combined voting power of the voting 
               securities of CFB or such merged or consolidated entity 
               outstanding immediately after such merger or consolidation, or 
               (B) a merger or consolidation effected to implement a 
               recapitalization of CFB or similar transaction in which no 
               "person" acquires more than 25% of the combined voting power 
               of CFB's then outstanding securities;

          (iv) the stockholders of CFB approve a plan of complete liquidation 
               or a sale or disposition by CFB of all or substantially all of 
               CFB's assets.  "The sale or disposition by CFB of all or 
               substantially all of CFB's assets" shall mean a sale or other 
               disposition transaction or series of related transactions 
               involving assets of CFB or of any direct or indirect 
               subsidiary of CFB (including the stock of any direct or 
               indirect subsidiary of CFB) in which the value of the assets 
               or stock being sold or otherwise disposed of (as measured by 
               the purchase price being paid therefor or by such other method 
               as the Board of Directors of CFB determines is appropriate in 
               a case where there is no readily ascertainable purchase price) 
               constitutes more than 50% of the fair market value of CFB. For 
               purposes of the preceding sentence, the "fair market value of 
               CFB" shall be the aggregate market value of CFB's outstanding 
               common stock (on a fully diluted basis) plus the aggregate 
               market value of CFB's other outstanding equity securities. The 
               aggregate market value of CFB's common stock shall be 
               determined by multiplying the number of shares of 


                                            3
<PAGE>

               CFB common stock (on a fully diluted basis) outstanding on the 
               date of the execution and delivery of a definitive agreement 
               ("Transaction Date") with respect to the sale or disposition 
               by CFB of all or substantially all of CFB's assets by the 
               average closing price for CFB's common stock for the ten 
               trading days immediately preceding the Transaction Date.  The 
               aggregate market value of any other equity securities of CFB 
               shall be determined in a manner similar to that prescribed in 
               the immediately preceding sentence for determining the 
               aggregate market value of CFB's common stock or by such other 
               method as the Board of Directors of CFB shall determine is 
               appropriate; and

          (v)  the Board of Directors of CFB determines, by a vote of a 
               majority of its entire membership, that a tender offer 
               statement by any person (as defined above) indicates an 
               intention on the part of such person to acquire control of CFB.

     (b)  In the event of a Change in Control, any options granted to Executive
          that are not vested on the date of a Change in Control shall be 
          immediately fully (100%) vested and shall be exercisable in 
          accordance with their respective terms and conditions.

7.   TERMINATION.  This Agreement may be terminated prior to the end of the 
     Term of this Agreement subject to the provisions of this Section 7.

     (a)  RESIGNATION.

          (i)  Executive may resign, including by reason of retirement, at any
               time and thereby terminate this Agreement.  In the event of 
               such resignation, except in the case of resignation for Good 
               Reason following a Change in Control, all rights and 
               obligations of CFB and Executive under this Agreement shall 
               cease on the date of resignation.

          (ii) If Executive resigns for Good Reason following a Change in 
               Control, Executive shall be entitled to the compensation and 
               benefits provided in Section 7(c)(I). "Good Reason" shall mean 
               (A) the material breach of any of CFB's obligations under this 
               Agreement without Executive's written consent or (B) the 
               occurrence of any of the following circumstances without 
               Executive's express written consent unless such circumstances 
               are fully corrected prior to the Date of Termination specified 
               in Executive's Notice of Termination:

               (1)  the assignment to Executive of any duties and 
                    responsibilities inconsistent with the position that 
                    Executive held immediately prior to the Change in Control, 
                    relocation of the Executive to an office or site more than 
                    50 miles from the Executive's job location prior to the 
                    Change in Control, or a significant adverse alteration in 
                    the nature or status of Executive's duties and 
                    responsibilities or the conditions of Executive's 
                    employment from those in effect immediately prior to the 
                    Change in Control;

               (2)  a reduction by CFB in Executive's Base Compensation;


                                           4


<PAGE> 

                    (3)  the failure by CFB to pay to Executive any portion of 
                         Executive's current compensation or any portion of an 
                         installment of deferred compensation under any deferred
                         compensation program of CFB within seven days of the 
                         date such compensation is due;

                    (4)  the failure by CFB to continue in effect any 
                         compensation plan in which Executive participated
                         immediately prior to a Change in Control if that 
                         compensation plan is material to Executive's total 
                         compensation unless an equitable arrangement (embodied
                         in an ongoing substitute or alternative plan) has been
                         made with respect to such plan, or the failure by CFB 
                         to continue Executive's participation in such 
                         compensation plan (or in such substitute or alternative
                         plan) on a basis at least as favorable, both in terms 
                         of the amount of benefits provided and the level of 
                         Executive's participation relative to other 
                         participants, as existed prior to the Change in 
                         Control;

                    (5)  the failure by CFB to continue to provide Executive 
                         with benefits substantially similar to those enjoyed 
                         by Executive under any of CFB's pension, savings, life
                         insurance, medical, health, accident, or disability 
                         plans in which Executive was participating at the time
                         of the Change in Control, the taking of any action by 
                         CFB which would materially reduce, directly or 
                         indirectly, any of such benefits or deprive Executive 
                         of any material fringe benefit or policy or program for
                         the benefit of the management personnel of CFB enjoyed 
                         by Executive at the time of the Change in Control;

                    (6)  the failure by CFB to provide Executive with the number
                         of paid vacation days to which Executive is entitled in
                         accordance with CFB's normal vacation policy in effect
                         at the time of the Change in Control;

                    (7)  the failure of CFB to obtain a satisfactory agreement 
                         from any successor to assume and agree to perform this
                         Agreement, as contemplated in Section 12; or

                    (8)  any purported termination of Executive's employment
                         that is not effected pursuant to a Notice of 
                         Termination satisfying the requirements of 
                         Section 7(e).

          (iii) Executive's rights to resign pursuant to this Section 7(a) shall
                not be affected by incapacity due to physical or mental illness.
                Executive's continued employment shall not constitute consent 
                to, or a waiver of rights with respect to, any circumstances 
                constituting Good Reason.

     (b)  DEATH.  Upon Executive's death, this Agreement shall terminate
          and CFB shall have no obligations to Executive or Executive's legal
          representatives with respect to this Agreement.  Executive's death 
          prior to the Date of Termination stated in any Notice of Termination
          given by CFB or Executive shall invalidate and supersede the Notice of
          Termination. 


                                       5
<PAGE>

          Termination of this Agreement shall not affect any of the death 
          benefits payable to Executive's dependents, survivors or beneficiaries
          under any plan or program under which Executive was covered at the 
          time of death.

     (c)  DISCHARGE.

          (i)  CFB may terminate, without any liability to Executive under this
               Agreement, this Agreement and Executive's employment by 
               discharging Executive for any reason deemed sufficient by CFB if
               the Date of Termination associated with such discharge occurs 
               prior to a Change in Control.  In the event that this Agreement 
               and Executive's employment are terminated by discharge during the
               Term of this Agreement following a Change in Control by CFB for
               any reason other than Cause [as defined in Section 7(c)(ii)]
               or Disability [as defined in Section 7(d)(I)], then, subject
               to Sections 7(c)(iii), 7(g) and 7(h):

               (A)  CFB shall pay to Executive, within 15 days of the Date of 
                    Termination, an amount in cash equal to two (2) times the 
                    sum of:

                    (1)  the higher of (a) the Executive's annual Base 
                         Compensation as in effect immediately prior to the 
                         Notice of Termination, or (b) Executive's highest 
                         annual Base Compensation over the 24-month period 
                         preceding the Notice of Termination; and

                    (2)  the maximum annual incentive award payable Executive
                         (without giving any effect to any reduction that would
                         constitute Good Reason under Section 7(a)(ii)(4) of 
                         this Agreement) under CFB's Annual Incentive 
                         Compensation Plan (or any substitute or alternative 
                         plan) for such year in lieu of any other payment 
                         thereunder; and

                    (3)  the average percentage of employer matching 
                         contributions to the CFB Retirement Savings Plan and 
                         Trust (as a percent of Compensation as defined in the 
                         Plan) and employer contributions to the CFB Employee 
                         Stock Ownership Plan and Trust on behalf of Executive 
                         for the three most recent Plan Years ending immediately
                         prior to the Date of Termination.

               (B)  for the 24-month period after Date of Termination, CFB, at 
                    its cost, shall provide or arrange to provide Executive and
                    Executive's dependents with life, disability, accident and 
                    group health insurance benefits substantially similar to 
                    those which Executive and Executive's dependents were 
                    receiving immediately prior to the Notice of Termination; 
                    benefits otherwise receivable by Executive pursuant to this
                    Section 7(c)(I)(B) shall be reduced to the extent comparable
                    benefits are actually received by Executive and Executive's 
                    dependents during the 24-month period following Executive's 
                    Date of Termination from another employer or employer's plan
                    or program, and any such benefits actually received by 
                    Executive and Executive's dependents shall be reported to 
                    CFB;


                                       6
<PAGE>

               (C)  in lieu of shares of restricted stock granted to Executive 
                    by CFB upon which the restricted period does not lapse upon 
                    Date of Termination, CFB shall pay to Executive within 30 
                    days of the Date of Termination a lump-sum cash payment 
                    equal to the greater of (1) the highest quoted per share 
                    sales price for common shares on the New York Stock Exchange
                    during the ten-day period commencing on the Date of 
                    Termination (or, if not listed on such exchange, on a 
                    nationally recognized exchange or quotation system on which 
                    trading volume of the common shares is highest), or (2) the 
                    fixed or formula price for the acquisition of common shares 
                    specified in an agreement in connection with any Change in 
                    Control;

               (D)  in lieu of shares of common stock of CFB ("Common Shares") 
                    issuable upon exercise of outstanding options ("Options"), 
                    if any, granted to Executive under a CFB Option Plan (which 
                    Options shall be canceled upon the making of the payment 
                    referred to below), within 15 days of the Date of 
                    Termination CFB shall pay to Executive a lump-sum amount in 
                    cash equal to the product of:

                    (1)  the excess of, in the case of an "incentive stock 
                         option" [as defined in Section 422A of the Internal 
                         Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code")], the 
                         closing price of common shares as reported on the New 
                         York Stock Exchange on or nearest the Date of 
                         Termination (or, if not listed on such exchange, on a 
                         nationally recognized or quotation system on which 
                         trading volume in the common shares is highest) and, in
                         the case of all other Options, the greater of (a) the 
                         highest quoted per share sales price for common shares 
                         on the New York Stock Exchange during the ten-day 
                         period commencing on the Date of Termination (or, if 
                         not listed on such exchange, on a nationally recognized
                         exchange or quotation system on which trading volume of
                         the common shares is highest), or (b) the fixed or 
                         formula price for the acquisition of common shares 
                         specified in an agreement in connection with any Change
                         in Control, over the per share option price of each 
                         Option held by Executive (whether or not then fully 
                         exercisable); and 

                    (2)  the number of common shares of CFB covered by each
                         such Option;

               (E)  for a period of 12 months following Date of Termination, CFB
                    shall pay the expenses for such outplacement services as 
                    Executive may require, with such services to be performed by
                    an agency CFB shall designate;

               (F)  CFB shall pay to Executive all legal fees and expenses
                    incurred by Executive as a result of termination of 
                    employment (including, but not limited to, all such fees and
                    expenses, if any, incurred in contesting or disputing any 
                    such termination or in seeking to obtain or enforce any 
                    right


                                       7
<PAGE>

                    or benefit provided by this Agreement or in connection
                    with any tax audit or proceeding to the extent attributable 
                    to the application of Section 4999 of the Code to any 
                    payment or benefit provided hereunder); and

               (G)  in the event any additional or new incentive 
                    compensation, deferred compensation or other type of bonus 
                    program is instituted by CFB ("New Incentive Program"), the 
                    maximum award payable to Executive under the New Incentive 
                    Program for such year in lieu of any other payment 
                    thereunder, assuming for purposes hereof that Executive had 
                    been employed for all of such year, that all performance 
                    objectives for such year had been met at the maximum levels 
                    and that Executive had been entitled to a full award 
                    thereunder.

               (ii) None of the obligations imposed on CFB by Sections 7(c) (I)
                    (A) through (G) shall apply in the event Executive is 
                    discharged for Cause, in which event this Agreement shall 
                    terminate on the Date of Termination without further rights
                    or obligations on the part of Executive or CFB under this 
                    Agreement.  "Cause" shall mean:  (A) the willful and 
                    continued failure by Executive (other than any such failure
                    resulting from (1) Executive's incapacity due to physical 
                    or mental illness, (2) any such actual or anticipated 
                    failure after the issuance of a Notice of Termination by 
                    Executive for Good Reason or (3) CFB's active or passive 
                    obstruction of the performance of Executive's duties and 
                    responsibilities) to perform substantially the duties and 
                    responsibilities of Executive's position with CFB after a 
                    written demand for substantial performance is delivered to 
                    Executive by the Board, which demand specifically 
                    identifies the manner in which the Board believes that 
                    Executive has not substantially performed the duties or 
                    responsibilities; (B) the conviction of Executive by a 
                    court of competent jurisdiction for felony criminal 
                    conduct; (C) the willful engaging by Executive in fraud or 
                    dishonesty which is demonstrably and materially injurious 
                    to CFB, monetarily or otherwise; No act, or failure to act, 
                    on Executive's part shall be deemed "willful" unless 
                    committed, or omitted by Executive in bad faith and without 
                    reasonable belief that Executive's act or failure to act 
                    was in the best interest of CFB.  Executive shall not be 
                    terminated for Cause unless and until CFB shall have 
                    delivered to Executive a copy of a resolution duly adopted 
                    by the affirmative vote of not less than three-quarters of 
                    the entire membership of the Board at a meeting of the 
                    Board called and held for such purpose (after reasonable 
                    notice to Executive and an opportunity for Executive, 
                    together with Executive's counsel, to be heard before the 
                    Board), finding that, in the good faith opinion of the 
                    Board, Executive's conduct was Cause and specifying the 
                    particulars thereof in detail.

     (d)  DISABILITY. If, following a Change in Control, Executive shall have 
          been absent from the substantial performance of Executive's duties 
          and responsibilities with CFB for six consecutive months as a result 
          of Executive's incapacity due to physical or mental illness, as 
          determined by Executive's physician and within 30 days after written 
          notice to return is 


                                       8
<PAGE>

          given by CFB, Executive shall not have returned to the substantial 
          performance of the duties and responsibilities, of Executive's 
          position, CFB may terminate this Agreement as of the end of the 
          30-day period, after which termination neither CFB nor the Executive 
          shall have rights or obligations under this Agreement and Executive 
          shall not be entitled to any compensation or benefits pursuant to 
          this Agreement.  The termination of this Agreement shall not terminate
          Executive's employment of itself and without further express action by
          CFB or affect in any way Executive's rights or benefits under CFB Long
          Term Disability Plan.

     (e)  NOTICE OF TERMINATION.  Any purported termination of this Agreement by
          CFB or by Executive shall be communicated by written Notice of 
          Termination to the other party in accordance with Section 10.  
          Notice of Termination shall mean a notice given not less than 30 
          days prior to the Date of Termination stated in the notice which 
          shall set forth in reasonable detail the basis for termination of this
          Agreement by CFB, or, in the case of resignation by Executive for 
          Good Reason, the basis for such resignation.  No purported 
          termination which is not affected pursuant to this Section 7(e) 
          shall be valid or effective.

     (f)  DATE OF TERMINATION.  Date of Termination shall mean the date 
          specified in the Notice of Termination.  Following a Change in 
          Control, either party may, within 15 days after any Notice of 
          Termination is given, provide notice to the other party pursuant to 
          Section 10 that a dispute exists concerning the termination of this 
          Agreement.  Notwithstanding the pendency of any such dispute, CFB 
          shall continue to perform CFB's obligations to Executive under this 
          Agreement, pay Executive full compensation in effect when the Notice 
          of Termination giving rise to the dispute was given (including, but 
          not limited to, Base Compensation) and continue Executive as a 
          participant in all compensation, benefit and insurance plans in which 
          Executive was participating when the Notice of Termination giving 
          rise to the dispute was given, and Executive shall continue to 
          perform Executive's duties and responsibilities with CFB unless 
          prevented or relieved by CFB from so performing, until the dispute is 
          finally resolved in accordance with Section 16, but in no event after 
          the expiration of the Term of this Agreement.

     (g)  MITIGATION.  Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of
          any payment provided for in this Section 7 by seeking other 
          employment or otherwise, nor shall the amount of any payment provided 
          for in this Agreement be reduced by any compensation earned by 
          Executive as a result of employment by another employer, by 
          retirement benefits, by offset against any amount claimed to be owing 
          by Executive to CFB, or otherwise.  In the event that, following a 
          Notice of Termination given to Executive by CFB, Executive elects to 
          receive all payments and benefits provided by CFB's severance plan or 
          policy for employees in general in lieu of any payments and benefits 
          under this Agreement, Executive shall receive no payments or benefits 
          under this Agreement as a result of Severance of the Executive by CFB.

     (h)  POTENTIAL EXCISE TAX.  Should any payments hereunder or contemplated 
          hereby be subject to excise tax pursuant to Section 4999 of the 
          Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as may be amended, or any successor or 
          similar provision thereto, or comparable state or local tax laws, CFB 
          shall pay to Executive such additional compensation as is necessary 
          (after taking into account all federal, state and local income taxes 
          payable by Executive as a result of the 


                                       9
<PAGE>

          receipt of such compensation) to place Executive in the same 
          after-tax position he would have been in had no such excise tax (or 
          any interest or penalties thereon) been paid or incurred.  CFB 
          shall pay such additional compensation upon the earlier of

          (i)  the time at which CFB withholds such excise tax from any 
               payments to Executive; or

          (ii) 30 days after Executive notifies CFB that Executive has paid 
               such excise tax pursuant to a tax return filed by Executive 
               which takes the position that such excise tax is due and 
               payable in reliance on a written opinion of Executive's tax 
               counsel that it is more likely than not that such excise tax 
               is due and payable, or, if later, the date the IRS notifies 
               Executive that such amount is due and payable.

          Without limiting the obligation of CFB hereunder, Executive agrees, 
          in the event Executive makes any payment pursuant to the preceding 
          sentence, to negotiate with CFB in good faith with respect to 
          procedures reasonably requested by CFB which would afford CFB the 
          ability to contest the imposition of such excise tax; provided, 
          however, that Executive will not be required to afford CFB any 
          right to contest the applicability of any such excise tax to the 
          extent that Executive reasonably determines that such contest is 
          inconsistent with the overall tax interests of Executive.

          CFB agrees to hold in confidence and not to disclose, without 
          Executive's prior written consent, any information with regard to 
          Executive's tax position which CFB obtains pursuant to this 
          subsection.

8.   NON-EXCLUSIVITY OF RIGHTS.  Nothing in this Agreement shall prevent or 
     limit Executive's continuing or future participation in any benefit, 
     bonus, incentive or other plan or program provided by CFB or any of its 
     affiliated companies except as provided in Section 7 (g) with respect to 
     CFB's severance plan or policy and for which Executive may qualify.  
     Nothing in this Agreement shall limit or otherwise adversely affect such 
     rights as Executive may have under any stock option or other agreements 
     with CFB or any of its affiliated corporations.

9.   ASSIGNMENT AND DELEGATION.  The obligations of Executive under this 
     Agreement are personal and may not be delegated by Executive or 
     transferred in any manner whatsoever, nor are such obligations subject 
     to involuntary alienation, assignment, delegation or transfer.  CFB may 
     assign CFB's rights under this Agreement and delegate all obligations 
     under this Agreement, either in whole or in part, to any parent, 
     affiliate, or subsidiary organization or company of CFB, provided that 
     the obligations of CFB under this Agreement shall remain the obligations 
     of CFB for which CFB shall be primarily liable notwithstanding the 
     assignment and delegation.

10.  NOTICES.  Notices and all other communications provided for in this 
     Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly 
     given when delivered by hand or when mailed by United States registered 
     mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid, addressed to CFB as its 
     principal office address, directed to the attention of the Board, and to 
     Executive at Executive's residence address on the records of CFB or to 
     such other address as either party may have furnished to the other in 
     writing in accordance herewith except that notice of change of address 
     shall be effective only upon receipt.

                                     10
<PAGE>

11.  VALIDITY.  The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision of this 
     Agreement shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the other 
     provisions of this Agreement, which other provisions shall remain in 
     full force and effect.

12.  SUCCESSORS:  BINDING AGREEMENT.

     (a)  CFB shall require any successor (whether direct or indirect, by 
          purchase, merger, consolidation, contract or otherwise) to all or 
          substantially all of the business or assets of CFB expressly to 
          assume and agree to perform this Agreement in the same manner and 
          to the same extent that CFB would be required to perform it if no 
          such succession had taken place.  Failure of CFB to obtain such 
          agreement prior to the effective date of any such succession shall 
          be a breach of this Agreement and shall also entitle Executive to 
          resign for Good Reason.  CFB shall include any successor to its 
          business or assets which executes and delivers the Agreement 
          required by this Section 12 or which otherwise becomes bound by all 
          terms and provisions of this Agreement by operation of law.

     (b)  This Agreement and all rights of Executive hereunder shall inure to 
          the benefit of, and be enforceable by, Executive's personal or 
          legal representatives, executors, administrators, successors, 
          heirs, distributes, devises and legatees.  If Executive should die 
          while any amounts would be payable to Executive if Executive had 
          continued to live, all such amounts, unless otherwise provided 
          herein, shall be paid in accordance with the terms of this 
          Agreement to Executive's devisee, legatee, or other designee or, if 
          none of the foregoing, to Executive's estate.

13.  INDEMNIFICATION.

     (a)  CFB shall pay, on behalf of Executive and Executive's executors, 
          administrators or assigns, any amount which Executive is or becomes 
          legally obligated to pay as a result of any claim or claims made 
          against Executive by reason of Executive's service as an employee, 
          Director or Officer of CFB.  The payments that CFB will be 
          obligated to make shall include (without limitation) damages, 
          judgments, settlements, costs and expenses of investigation, costs 
          and expenses of defense of legal actions, claims and proceedings 
          and appeals therefrom, and costs of attachment and similar bonds; 
          provided, however, that CFB shall not be obligated to pay fines or 
          other obligations or fees imposed  by law or otherwise that CFB is 
          prohibited by applicable law from paying as indemnity or for any 
          other reason.

     (b)  Costs and expenses (including, without limitation, attorney fees) 
          incurred by Executive in defending or investigating any action, 
          suit, proceeding or claim shall be paid by CFB in advance of the 
          disposition of such matter upon receipt of a written undertaking by 
          or on behalf of Executive to repay any such amounts if it is 
          ultimately determined that Executive is not entitled to 
          indemnification under this Agreement.

     (c)  If a claim under this Agreement is not paid by or on behalf of CFB 
          within ninety days after a written claim has been received by CFB, 
          Executive may at any time thereafter bring suit or proceed under 
          Section 16 against CFB to recover the unpaid amount of the claim 
          and, if 

                                     11
<PAGE>

          successful in whole or in part, Executive shall also be entitled to 
          be paid the expenses, including attorneys' fees, of prosecuting 
          such claim.

     (d)  In the event of payment under this Agreement, CFB shall be 
          subrogated to the extent of such payment to all of the rights of 
          recovery of Executive, who shall execute all documents required and 
          shall do everything that may be necessary to secure such rights, 
          including the execution of such documents necessary to enable CFB 
          effectively to bring suit to enforce such rights.

     (e)  CFB shall not be liable under this Agreement to make any  payment 
          in connection with any claim made against Executive:

          (i)  for which payment is actually made to Executive under an 
               insurance policy maintained by CFB, except in respect of any 
               excess beyond the amount of payment under such insurance; 

          (ii) for which Executive is indemnified by CFB otherwise than 
               pursuant to this Agreement;

          (iii)based upon or attributable to Executive's gaining in fact any 
               personal profit or advantage to which Executive was not 
               legally entitled;

          (iv) for an accounting of profits made from the purchase or sale by 
               Executive of securities of CFB within the meaning of Section 
               16(b) of the Exchange Act; or

          (v)  brought about or contributed to by the dishonesty of 
               Executive; provided, however, that notwithstanding the 
               foregoing, Executive shall be protected under this Agreement 
               as to any claims upon which suit may be brought alleging 
               dishonesty on the part of Executive, unless a judgment or 
               other final adjudication thereof adverse to Executive shall 
               establish that Executive committed acts of active and 
               deliberate dishonesty with actual dishonest purpose and 
               intent, which acts were material to the cause of action so 
               adjudicated.

     (f)  Executive, as a condition precedent to his right to be indemnified 
          under this Agreement, shall give to CFB notice in accordance with 
          Section 10 as soon as practicable of any claim made against 
          Executive for which indemnity will or could be sought under this 
          Agreement.  Executive shall give CFB such information and 
          cooperation as it may reasonably require and as shall be within 
          Executive's power.

     (g)  Nothing herein shall be deemed to diminish or otherwise restrict 
          Executive's right to indemnification under any provision of the 
          Certificate of Incorporation or Bylaws of CFB or under State of 
          Delaware law.

14.  MISCELLANEOUS.  No provision of this Agreement may be modified or waived 
     unless such waiver or modification is agreed to in writing and signed by 
     Executive and such officer of CFB as may be specifically authorized by 
     the Board.  No waiver by either party at any time of any breach by the 
     other party of any condition or provision of this Agreement  to be 
     performed by such other party shall be deemed a waiver of similar or 
     dissimilar provisions or conditions at the same or at any prior 

                                     12
<PAGE>

     or subsequent time. This Agreement is an integration of the parties' 
     agreement; no agreement or representation, oral or otherwise, express or 
     implied, with respect to the subject matter of this Agreement have been 
     made by either party which are not set forth expressly in this 
     Agreement.  The validity, interpretation, construction and performance 
     of this Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of North 
     Dakota.

15.  COUNTERPARTS.  This Agreement may be executed in one or more 
     counterparts, each of which shall be an original document but all of 
     which together will constitute one instrument.

16.  DISPUTE RESOLUTION.  Executive shall be permitted (but not required) to 
     elect that any dispute or controversy arising under or in connection 
     with this Agreement be resolved in Fargo, North Dakota, by any 
     recognized method of alternative dispute resolution or by arbitration in 
     accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association then 
     in effect.  The parties shall select a mutually acceptable single 
     arbitrator to resolve the dispute or if they fail or are unable to do 
     so, each side shall within the following ten business days select a 
     single arbitrator and the two so selected shall select a third 
     arbitrator within the following ten business days. The arbitrator shall 
     have no power to award any punitive or exemplary damages.  The 
     arbitrator may construe or interpret, but shall not ignore or vary the 
     terms of this Agreement, and shall be bound by controlling law. The 
     arbitration award or other resolution may be entered as a judgment at 
     the request of the prevailing party bay any court of competent 
     jurisdiction in North Dakota or elsewhere. All legal fees and costs 
     incurred by Executive in connection with the resolution of any dispute 
     or controversy under or in connection with this Agreement shall be 
     reimbursed by CFB as bills for such services are presented by Executive 
     to CFB.

17.  AUTHORITY.  The authority of CFB to execute and perform this Agreement 
     is contained in a resolution of the Board of Directors of CFB dated 
     December 1, 1998.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Community First Bankshares, Inc. and Executive have 
executed this Agreement on December 1, 1998, to be effective for all purposes.


                              COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

                              By___________________________________

                              Its__________________________________


                              EXECUTIVE:

                              _____________________________________

                                     13

<PAGE>

                                                                EXHIBIT 10.15.4

                          COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.
                       CHANGE IN CONTROL SEVERANCE AGREEMENT

     THIS SEVERANCE AGREEMENT ("Agreement") is entered into effective as of 
December 1, 1998, by and between Community First Bankshares, Inc. a bank 
holding company organized under the laws of the state of Delaware ("CFB") and 
_____________________, residing in Fargo, ND ("Executive").

     WHEREAS, CFB considers the establishment and maintenance of a sound and 
vital management to be essential to protecting and enhancing the best 
interests of CFB and its shareholders; and

     WHEREAS, the Executive has made and is expected to make, due to 
Executive's intimate knowledge of the business and affairs of CFB, its 
policies, methods, personnel, and problems, a significant contribution to the 
profitability, growth, and financial strength of CFB; and

     WHEREAS, CFB, as a publicly held corporation, recognizes that the 
possibility of a Change in Control may exist, and that such possibility and 
the uncertainty and questions which it may raise among management may result 
in the departure or distraction of the Executive in the performance of the 
Executive's duties, to the detriment of CFB and its shareholders; and

     WHEREAS, it is in the best interests of CFB and its stockholders to 
reinforce and encourage the continued attention and dedication of management 
personnel, including Executive, to their assigned duties without distraction 
and to ensure the continued availability to CFB of the Executive in the event 
of a Change in Control; and

     WHEREAS, CFB desires to assure Executive of certain benefits in the 
event of Executive's severance from employment with CFB without Cause 
following a Change in Control;

     NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants, 
representations, warranties and promises stated below, and for other valuable 
consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which are hereby acknowledged, CFB 
and Executive agree as follows:

1.   EMPLOYMENT.  To be eligible to receive benefits under this Agreement, 
     (a) Executive must maintain employment with CFB until after a Change in 
     Control and (b) a Severance of Executive's employment shall have 
     occurred during the Term of this Agreement and after a Change in 
     Control.  Prior to a Change in Control, Executive shall have no right to 
     benefits under this Agreement.

     For purposes of this Agreement, Severance shall mean either the 
     involuntary termination of Executive's employment with CFB  without 
     Cause or Executive's voluntary termination of employment with CFB 
     resignation for Good Reason; where Cause has the definition set forth in 
     Section 7(c)(ii) and Good Reason has the definition set forth in Section 
     7(a)(ii).

<PAGE>

2.   TERM OF AGREEMENT.  Subject to the provisions for earlier termination 
     provided in this Agreement, the Term of this Agreement shall commence on 
     the effective date of this Agreement as stated above and shall continue 
     through December 31, 2001, and shall be extended for successive one-year 
     periods thereafter unless the Board of Directors of CFB ("Board") shall 
     have given written notice to Executive not later than September 30 of 
     the last year of the original or extended Term of this Agreement of 
     CFB's election to discontinue the Term of this Agreement; provided, 
     however, that if a Change in Control shall have occurred during the 
     original or extended Term of this Agreement, the Term of this Agreement 
     shall continue, irrespective of any action of the Board of CFB, for a 
     period of not less than 24 months beyond the month in which such Change 
     in Control occurred.  In the event that more than one Change in Control 
     shall occur during the original or extended Term of this Agreement, the 
     24-month period shall follow the last Change in Control.  The Term of 
     this Agreement shall expire and this Agreement shall neither impose nor 
     confer any further rights or obligations on CFB or Executive on the day 
     after the end of the Term of this Agreement.  Expiration of the Term of 
     this Agreement of itself and without subsequent action by CFB or 
     Executive shall not end the employment relationship between CFB and 
     Executive.

     On or before the expiration of the Term of this Agreement, this 
     Agreement shall terminate due to the resignation of Executive as set 
     forth in Section 7(a), death of Executive as set forth in Section 7(b), 
     discharge of Executive as set forth in Section 7(c) or disability of 
     Executive as set forth in Section 7(d); provided that any rights or 
     obligations which expressly or impliedly survive termination of this 
     Agreement shall continue to be binding and enforceable by CFB and 
     Executive.

3.   EXECUTIVE'S DUTIES.  During the Term of this Agreement, Executive shall 
     serve as ________________________________ or such successor position as 
     Executive voluntarily accepts, with such customary duties and 
     responsibilities as may be assigned from time to time to Executive by 
     CFB, provided that such duties and responsibilities are at all times 
     consistent with the duties and responsibilities of such position.  
     Executive shall devote exclusive attention and time during normal 
     business hours to the business and affairs of CFB and, to the extent 
     necessary to discharge the duties and responsibilities of Executive's 
     position, shall perform faithfully and efficiently to the best of 
     Executive's abilities such duties and responsibilities.

4.   BASE COMPENSATION.  For services rendered by Executive, CFB shall pay to 
     Executive Base Compensation of $__________ per annum payable in 
     accordance with CFB's customary payroll practice for its management 
     personnel.  Base Compensation shall be reviewed at least annually as of 
     the close of each fiscal year of CFB and may be increased to reflect 
     inflation or such other adjustments as CFB may deem appropriate, but 
     original Base Compensation or Base Compensation as subsequently 
     increased shall not be decreased thereafter, except for across-the-board 
     percentage salary reductions similarly affecting all management 
     personnel of CFB.

                                       2
<PAGE>

5.   ADDITIONAL BENEFITS.  In addition to Base Compensation, Executive shall 
     be entitled to receive all fringe benefits customarily offered by CFB to 
     its executives including, without limitation, participation in CFB's 
     Annual Incentive Compensation Plan at the participation level 
     established by CFB for Executive as of the date of this Agreement, other 
     incentive plans and perquisites offered generally to key employees, the 
     various employee benefit plans or programs provided to the employees of 
     CFB in general subject to the eligibility requirements with respect to 
     each of such benefit plans or programs, and such other benefits or 
     perquisites as may be approved by the Board during the Term of this 
     Agreement.  Nothing in this Section 5 shall prohibit CFB from making any 
     changes in any of the plans, programs or benefits described in this 
     Section 5, provided the change similarly affects all management 
     personnel of CFB.

6.   CHANGE IN CONTROL.

     (a)  For purposes of this Agreement, "Change in Control" shall mean the
          occurrence of one of the following events:

          (i)   any "person" [as such term is used in Section 13(d) and 4(d) of
                the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended ("Exchange 
                Act")], other than a trustee or other fiduciary holding 
                securities under an employee benefit plan of CFB is or 
                becomes the "beneficial owner" (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under
                the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly of securities 
                representing 25% or more of the combined voting power of CFB's
                then outstanding securities;

          (ii)  during any period of two consecutive years (not including any 
                period ending prior to the effective date of this Agreement),
                individuals who at the beginning of such period constitute the
                Board of Directors of CFB, and any new director [other than a
                director designated by a person who has entered into agreement
                with CFB to effect a transaction permitted by Section 6(a)(I),
                (iii) or (iv)] whose election by the Board of Directors of CFB
                or nomination for election by CFB's stockholders was approved
                by vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then still in
                office who either were directors at the beginning of the period
                or whose election or nomination for election was previously so
                approved ("Continuing Directors"), cease for any reason to
                constitute at least a majority of the Board of Directors of
                CFB;

          (iii) the stockholders of CFB approve a merger or consolidation of 
                CFB with any other corporation, other than (A) a merger or 
                consolidation which would result in the voting securities of 
                CFB outstanding immediately prior thereto continuing to 
                represent (either by remaining outstanding or by being 
                converted into voting securities of the merged or 
                consolidated entity) 50% or more of the combined voting power 
                of the voting securities of CFB or such merged or 
                consolidated entity outstanding immediately after such merger 
                or consolidation, or (B) a merger or consolidation effected 
                to implement a

                                       3
<PAGE>

                recapitalization of CFB or similar transaction in which no
                "person" acquires more than 25% of the combined voting power
                of CFB's then outstanding securities;

          (iv)  the stockholders of CFB approve a plan of complete 
                liquidation or a sale or disposition by CFB of all or 
                substantially all of CFB's assets.  "The sale or disposition 
                by CFB of all or substantially all of CFB's assets" shall 
                mean a sale or other disposition transaction or series of 
                related transactions involving assets of CFB or of any direct 
                or indirect subsidiary of CFB (including the stock of any 
                direct or indirect subsidiary of CFB) in which the value of 
                the assets or stock being sold or otherwise disposed of (as 
                measured by the purchase price being paid therefor or by such 
                other method as the Board of Directors of CFB determines is 
                appropriate in a case where there is no readily ascertainable 
                purchase price) constitutes more than 50% of the fair market 
                value of CFB. For purposes of the preceding sentence, the 
                "fair market value of CFB" shall be the aggregate market 
                value of CFB's outstanding common stock (on a fully diluted 
                basis) plus the aggregate market value of CFB's other 
                outstanding equity securities. The aggregate market value of 
                CFB's common stock shall be determined by multiplying the 
                number of shares of CFB common stock (on a fully diluted 
                basis) outstanding on the date of the execution and delivery 
                of a definitive agreement ("Transaction Date") with respect 
                to the sale or disposition by CFB of all or substantially all 
                of CFB's assets by the average closing price for CFB's common 
                stock for the ten trading days immediately preceding the 
                Transaction Date.  The aggregate market value of any other 
                equity securities of CFB shall be determined in a manner 
                similar to that prescribed in the immediately preceding 
                sentence for determining the aggregate market value of CFB's 
                common stock or by such other method as the Board of 
                Directors of CFB shall determine is appropriate; and

          (v)   the Board of Directors of CFB determines, by a vote of a 
                majority of its entire membership, that a tender offer 
                statement by any person (as defined above) indicates an 
                intention on the part of such person to acquire control of 
                CFB.

     (b)  In the event of a Change in Control, any options granted to 
          Executive that are not vested on the date of a Change in Control 
          shall be immediately fully (100%) vested and shall be exercisable 
          in accordance with their respective terms and conditions.

7.   TERMINATION.  This Agreement may be terminated prior to the end of the
     Term of this Agreement subject to the provisions of this Section 7.

     (a)  RESIGNATION.

                                       4
<PAGE>

          (i)   Executive may resign, including by reason of retirement, at 
                any time and thereby terminate this Agreement.  In the event 
                of such resignation, except in the case of resignation for 
                Good Reason following a Change in Control, all rights and 
                obligations of CFB and Executive under this Agreement shall 
                cease on the date of resignation.

          (ii)  If Executive resigns for Good Reason following a Change in 
                Control, Executive shall be entitled to the compensation and 
                benefits provided in Section 7(c)(I).  "Good Reason" shall 
                mean (A) the material breach of any of CFB's obligations 
                under this Agreement without Executive's written consent or 
                (B) the occurrence of any of the following circumstances 
                without Executive's express written consent unless such 
                circumstances are fully corrected prior to the Date of 
                Termination specified in Executive's Notice of Termination:

                (1)   the assignment to Executive of any duties and 
                      responsibilities inconsistent with the position that 
                      Executive held immediately prior to the Change in 
                      Control, relocation of the Executive to an office or 
                      site more than 50 miles from the Executive's job 
                      location prior to the Change in Control, or a 
                      significant adverse alteration in the nature or status 
                      of Executive's duties and responsibilities or the 
                      conditions of Executive's employment from those in 
                      effect immediately prior to the Change in Control;

                (2)   a reduction by CFB in Executive's Base Compensation;

                (3)   the failure by CFB to pay to Executive any portion of 
                      Executive's current compensation or any portion of an 
                      installment of deferred compensation under any deferred 
                      compensation program of CFB within seven days of the 
                      date such compensation is due;

                (4)   the failure by CFB to continue in effect any 
                      compensation plan in which Executive participated 
                      immediately prior to a Change in Control if that 
                      compensation plan is material to Executive's total 
                      compensation unless an equitable arrangement (embodied 
                      in an ongoing substitute or alternative plan) has been 
                      made with respect to such plan, or the failure by CFB 
                      to continue Executive's participation in such 
                      compensation plan (or in such substitute or alternative 
                      plan) on a basis at least as favorable, both in terms 
                      of the amount of benefits provided and the level of 
                      Executive's participation relative to other 
                      participants, as existed prior to the Change in Control;

                (5)   the failure by CFB to continue to provide Executive 
                      with benefits substantially similar to those enjoyed by 
                      Executive under any of

                                       5
<PAGE>

                      CFB's pension, savings, life insurance, medical, 
                      health, accident, or disability plans in which Executive 
                      was participating at the time of the Change in Control, 
                      the taking of any action by CFB which would materially 
                      reduce, directly or indirectly, any of such benefits or 
                      deprive Executive of any material fringe benefit or 
                      policy or program for the benefit of the management 
                      personnel of CFB enjoyed by Executive at the time of the 
                      Change in Control;

                (6)   the failure by CFB to provide Executive with the number 
                      of paid vacation days to which Executive is entitled in 
                      accordance with CFB's normal vacation policy in effect 
                      at the time of the Change in Control;

                (7)   the failure of CFB to obtain a satisfactory agreement 
                      from any successor to assume and agree to perform this 
                      Agreement, as contemplated in Section 12; or

                (8)   any purported termination of Executive's employment 
                      that is not effected pursuant to a Notice of 
                      Termination satisfying the requirements of Section 7(e).

          (iii) Executive's rights to resign pursuant to this Section 7(a) 
                shall not be affected by incapacity due to physical or mental 
                illness. Executive's continued employment shall not 
                constitute consent to, or a waiver of rights with respect to, 
                any circumstances constituting Good Reason.

     (b)  DEATH.  Upon Executive's death, this Agreement shall terminate and 
          CFB shall have no obligations to Executive or Executive's legal 
          representatives with respect to this Agreement.  Executive's death 
          prior to the Date of Termination stated in any Notice of 
          Termination given by CFB or Executive shall invalidate and 
          supersede the Notice of Termination.  Termination of this Agreement 
          shall not affect any of the death benefits payable to Executive's 
          dependents, survivors or beneficiaries under any plan or program 
          under which Executive was covered at the time of death.

     (c)  DISCHARGE.

          (i)   CFB may terminate, without any liability to Executive under
                this Agreement, this Agreement and Executive's employment by
                discharging Executive for any reason deemed sufficient by CFB
                if the Date of Termination associated with such discharge
                occurs prior to a Change in Control.  In the event that this
                Agreement and Executive's employment are terminated by 
                discharge during the Term of this Agreement following a Change
                in Control by CFB for any reason other than Cause [as defined
                in Section 7(c)(ii)] or Disability

                                       6
<PAGE>

                [as defined in Section 7(d)(I)], then, subject to Sections 
                7(c)(iii), 7(g) and 7(h):

                (A)   CFB shall pay to Executive, within 15 days of the Date
                      of Termination, an amount in cash equal to the sum of:

                      (1)  the higher of (a) the Executive's annual Base 
                           Compensation as in effect immediately prior to the 
                           Notice of Termination, or (b) Executive's highest 
                           annual Base Compensation over the 24-month period 
                           preceding the Notice of Termination; and

                      (2)  the maximum annual incentive award payable 
                           Executive (without giving any effect to any 
                           reduction that would constitute Good Reason under 
                           Section 7(a)(ii)(4) of this Agreement) CFB's 
                           Annual Incentive Compensation Plan (or any 
                           substitute or alternative plan) for such year in 
                           lieu of any other payment thereunder; and

                      (3)  the average percentage of employer matching 
                           contributions to the CFB Retirement Savings Plan 
                           and Trust (as a percent of Compensation as defined 
                           in the Plan) and employer contributions to the CFB 
                           Employee Stock Ownership Plan and Trust on behalf 
                           of Executive for the three most recent Plan Years 
                           ending immediately prior to the Date of 
                           Termination.

                (B)   for the 12-month period after Date of Termination, CFB, 
                      at its cost, shall provide or arrange to provide 
                      Executive and Executive's dependents with life, 
                      disability, accident and group health insurance 
                      benefits substantially similar to those which Executive 
                      and Executive's dependents were receiving immediately 
                      prior to the Notice of Termination; benefits otherwise 
                      receivable by Executive pursuant to this Section 
                      7(c)(I)(B) shall be reduced to the extent comparable 
                      benefits are actually received by Executive and 
                      Executive's dependents during the 12-month period 
                      following Executive's Date of Termination from another 
                      employer or employer's plan or program, and any such 
                      benefits actually received by Executive and Executive's 
                      dependents shall be reported to CFB;

                (C)   in lieu of shares of restricted stock granted to 
                      Executive by CFB upon which the restricted period does 
                      not lapse upon Date of Termination, CFB shall pay to 
                      Executive within 30 days of the Date of Termination a 
                      lump-sum cash payment equal to the greater of (1) the 
                      highest quoted per share sales price for common shares 
                      on the New

                                       7
<PAGE>

                      York Stock Exchange during the ten-day period 
                      commencing on the Date of Termination (or, if not 
                      listed on such exchange, on a nationally recognized 
                      exchange or quotation system on which trading volume of 
                      the common shares is highest), or (2) the fixed or 
                      formula price for the acquisition of common shares 
                      specified in an agreement in connection with any Change 
                      in Control;

                (D)   in lieu of shares of common stock of CFB ("Common 
                      Shares") issuable upon exercise of outstanding options 
                      ("Options"), if any, granted to Executive under a CFB 
                      Option Plan (which Options shall be canceled upon the 
                      making of the payment referred to below), within 15 
                      days of the Date of Termination CFB shall pay to 
                      Executive a lump-sum amount in cash equal to the 
                      product of:

                      (1)   the excess of, in the case of an "incentive stock
                            option" [as defined in Section 422A of the Internal
                            Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code")], the
                            closing price of common shares as reported on the
                            New York Stock Exchange on or nearest the Date of
                            Termination (or, if not listed on such exchange, on
                            a nationally recognized or quotation system on 
                            which trading volume in the common shares is
                            highest) and, in the case of all other Options, the
                            greater of (a) the highest quoted per share sales
                            price for common shares on the New York Stock 
                            Exchange during the ten-day period commencing on 
                            the Date of Termination (or, if not listed on such
                            exchange, on a nationally recognized exchange or
                            quotation system on which trading volume of the 
                            common shares is highest), or (b) the fixed or 
                            formula price for the acquisition of common shares 
                            specified in an agreement in connection with any 
                            Change in Control, over the per share option price 
                            of each Option held by Executive (whether or not 
                            then fully exercisable); and

                      (2)   the number of common shares of CFB covered by each
                            such Option;

                (E)   for a period of 12 months following Date of 
                      Termination, CFB shall pay the expenses for such 
                      outplacement services as Executive may require, with 
                      such services to be performed by an agency CFB shall 
                      designate;

                (F)   CFB shall pay to Executive all legal fees and expenses 
                      incurred by Executive as a result of termination of 
                      employment (including, but not limited to, all such 
                      fees and expenses, if any, incurred in

                                       8
<PAGE>

                      contesting or disputing any such termination or in 
                      seeking to obtain or enforce any right or benefit 
                      provided by this Agreement or in connection with any 
                      tax audit or proceeding to the extent attributable to 
                      the application of Section 4999 of the Code to any 
                      payment or benefit provided hereunder); and

                (G)   in the event any additional or new incentive 
                      compensation, deferred compensation or other type of 
                      bonus program is instituted by CFB ("New Incentive 
                      Program"), the maximum award payable to Executive under 
                      the New Incentive Program for such year in lieu of any 
                      other payment thereunder, assuming for purposes hereof 
                      that Executive had been employed for all of such year, 
                      that all performance objectives for such year had been 
                      met at the maximum levels and that Executive had been 
                      entitled to a full award thereunder.

                (ii)  None of the obligations imposed on CFB by Sections 7(c) 
                      (I) (A) through (G) shall apply in the event Executive 
                      is discharged for Cause, in which event this Agreement 
                      shall terminate on the Date of Termination without 
                      further rights or obligations on the part of Executive 
                      or CFB under this Agreement.  "Cause" shall mean:  (A) 
                      the willful and continued failure by Executive (other 
                      than any such failure resulting from (1) Executive's 
                      incapacity due to physical or mental illness, (2) any 
                      such actual or anticipated failure after the issuance 
                      of a Notice of Termination by Executive for Good Reason 
                      or (3) CFB's active or passive obstruction of the 
                      performance of Executive's duties and responsibilities) 
                      to perform substantially the duties and 
                      responsibilities of Executive's position with CFB after 
                      a written demand for substantial performance is 
                      delivered to Executive by the Board, which demand 
                      specifically identifies the manner in which the Board 
                      believes that Executive has not substantially performed 
                      the duties or responsibilities; (B) the conviction of 
                      Executive by a court of competent jurisdiction for 
                      felony criminal conduct; (C) the willful engaging by 
                      Executive in fraud or dishonesty which is demonstrably 
                      and materially injurious to CFB, monetarily or 
                      otherwise; No act, or failure to act, on Executive's 
                      part shall be deemed "willful" unless committed, or 
                      omitted by Executive in bad faith and without 
                      reasonable belief that Executive's act or failure to 
                      act was in the best interest of CFB.  Executive shall 
                      not be terminated for Cause unless and until CFB shall 
                      have delivered to Executive a copy of a resolution duly 
                      adopted by the affirmative vote of not less than 
                      three-quarters of the entire membership of the Board at 
                      a meeting of the Board called and held for such purpose 
                      (after reasonable notice to Executive and an 
                      opportunity for Executive, together with Executive's 
                      counsel, to be heard before the Board),

                                       9
<PAGE>

                      finding that, in the good faith opinion of the Board, 
                      Executive's conduct was Cause and specifying the 
                      particulars thereof in detail.

     (d)  DISABILITY. If, following a Change in Control, Executive shall have 
          been absent from the substantial performance of Executive's duties 
          and responsibilities with CFB for six consecutive months as a 
          result of Executive's incapacity due to physical or mental illness, 
          as determined by Executive's physician and within 30 days after 
          written notice to return is given by CFB, Executive shall not have 
          returned to the substantial performance of the duties and 
          responsibilities, of Executive's position, CFB may terminate this 
          Agreement as of the end of the 30-day period, after which 
          termination neither CFB nor the Executive shall have rights or 
          obligations under this Agreement and Executive shall not be 
          entitled to any compensation or benefits pursuant to this 
          Agreement.  The termination of this Agreement shall not terminate 
          Executive's employment of itself and without further express action 
          by CFB or affect in any way Executive's rights or benefits under 
          CFB Long Term Disability Plan.

     (e)  NOTICE OF TERMINATION.  Any purported termination of this Agreement 
          by CFB or by Executive shall be communicated by written Notice of 
          Termination to the other party in accordance with Section 10.  
          Notice of Termination shall mean a notice given not less than 30 
          days prior to the Date of Termination stated in the notice which 
          shall set forth in reasonable detail the basis for termination of 
          this Agreement by CFB, or, in the case of resignation by Executive 
          for Good Reason, the basis for such resignation.  No purported 
          termination which is not affected pursuant to this Section 7(e) 
          shall be valid or effective.

     (f)  DATE OF TERMINATION.  Date of Termination shall mean the date 
          specified in the Notice of Termination.  Following a Change in 
          Control, either party may, within 15 days after any Notice of 
          Termination is given, provide notice to the other party pursuant to 
          Section 10 that a dispute exists concerning the termination of this 
          Agreement.  Notwithstanding the pendency of any such dispute, CFB 
          shall continue to perform CFB's obligations to Executive under this 
          Agreement, pay Executive full compensation in effect when the 
          Notice of Termination giving rise to the dispute was given 
          (including, but not limited to, Base Compensation) and continue 
          Executive as a participant in all compensation, benefit and 
          insurance plans in which Executive was participating when the 
          Notice of Termination giving rise to the dispute was given, and 
          Executive shall continue to perform Executive's duties and 
          responsibilities with CFB unless prevented or relieved by CFB from 
          so performing, until the dispute is finally resolved in accordance 
          with Section 16, but in no event after the expiration of the Term 
          of this Agreement.

     (g)  MITIGATION.  Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount 
          of any payment provided for in this Section 7 by seeking other 
          employment or otherwise, nor shall the amount of any payment 
          provided for in this Agreement be reduced by any compensation 
          earned by Executive as a result of employment by another employer, 

                                      10
<PAGE>

          by retirement benefits, by offset against any amount claimed to be 
          owing by Executive to CFB, or otherwise.  In the event that, 
          following a Notice of Termination given to Executive by CFB, 
          Executive elects to receive all payments and benefits provided by 
          CFB's severance plan or policy for employees in general in lieu of 
          any payments and benefits under this Agreement, Executive shall 
          receive no payments or benefits under this Agreement as a result of 
          Severance of the Executive by CFB.

     (h)  POTENTIAL EXCISE TAX.  Should any payments hereunder or 
          contemplated hereby be subject to excise tax pursuant to Section 
          4999 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as may be amended, or 
          any successor or similar provision thereto, or comparable state or 
          local tax laws, CFB shall pay to Executive such additional 
          compensation as is necessary (after taking into account all 
          federal, state and local income taxes payable by Executive as a 
          result of the receipt of such compensation) to place Executive in 
          the same after-tax position he would have been in had no such 
          excise tax (or any interest or penalties thereon) been paid or 
          incurred.  CFB shall pay such additional compensation upon the 
          earlier of

          (i)   the time at which CFB withholds such excise tax from any 
                payments to Executive; or

          (ii)  30 days after Executive notifies CFB that Executive has paid 
                such excise tax pursuant to a tax return filed by Executive 
                which takes the position that such excise tax is due and 
                payable in reliance on a written opinion of Executive's tax 
                counsel that it is more likely than not that such excise tax 
                is due and payable, or, if later, the date the IRS notifies 
                Executive that such amount is due and payable.

          Without limiting the obligation of CFB hereunder, Executive agrees, 
          in the event Executive makes any payment pursuant to the preceding 
          sentence, to negotiate with CFB in good faith with respect to 
          procedures reasonably requested by CFB which would afford CFB the 
          ability to contest the imposition of such excise tax; provided, 
          however, that Executive will not be required to afford CFB any 
          right to contest the applicability of any such excise tax to the 
          extent that Executive reasonably determines that such contest is 
          inconsistent with the overall tax interests of Executive. 
          CFB agrees to hold in confidence and not to disclose, without 
          Executive's prior written consent, any information with regard to 
          Executive's tax position which CFB obtains pursuant to this 
          subsection.

8.   NON-EXCLUSIVITY OF RIGHTS.  Nothing in this Agreement shall prevent or 
     limit Executive's continuing or future participation in any benefit, 
     bonus, incentive or other plan or program provided by CFB or any of its 
     affiliated companies except as provided in Section 7 (g) with respect to 
     CFB's severance plan or policy and for which Executive may qualify.  
     Nothing

                                      11
<PAGE>

     in this Agreement shall limit or otherwise adversely affect such 
     rights as Executive may have under any stock option or other agreements 
     with CFB or any of its affiliated corporations.

9.   ASSIGNMENT AND DELEGATION.  The obligations of Executive under this 
     Agreement are personal and may not be delegated by Executive or 
     transferred in any manner whatsoever, nor are such obligations subject 
     to involuntary alienation, assignment, delegation or transfer.  CFB may 
     assign CFB's rights under this Agreement and delegate all obligations 
     under this Agreement, either in whole or in part, to any parent, 
     affiliate, or subsidiary organization or company of CFB, provided that 
     the obligations of CFB under this Agreement shall remain the obligations 
     of CFB for which CFB shall be primarily liable notwithstanding the 
     assignment and delegation.

10.  NOTICES.  Notices and all other communications provided for in this 
     Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly 
     given when delivered by hand or when mailed by United States registered 
     mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid, addressed to CFB as its 
     principal office address, directed to the attention of the Board, and to 
     Executive at Executive's residence address on the records of CFB or to 
     such other address as either party may have furnished to the other in 
     writing in accordance herewith except that notice of change of address 
     shall be effective only upon receipt.

11.  VALIDITY.  The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision of this 
     Agreement shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the other 
     provisions of this Agreement, which other provisions shall remain in 
     full force and effect.

12.  SUCCESSORS; BINDING AGREEMENT.

     (a)  CFB shall require any successor (whether direct or indirect, by 
          purchase, merger, consolidation, contract or otherwise) to all or 
          substantially all of the business or assets of CFB expressly to 
          assume and agree to perform this Agreement in the same manner and 
          to the same extent that CFB would be required to perform it if no 
          such succession had taken place.  Failure of CFB to obtain such 
          agreement prior to the effective date of any such succession shall 
          be a breach of this Agreement and shall also entitle Executive to 
          resign for Good Reason.  CFB shall include any successor to its 
          business or assets which executes and delivers the Agreement 
          required by this Section 12 or which otherwise becomes bound by all 
          terms and provisions of this Agreement by operation of law.

     (b)  This Agreement and all rights of Executive hereunder shall inure to 
          the benefit of, and be enforceable by, Executive's personal or 
          legal representatives, executors, administrators, successors, 
          heirs, distributes, devises and legatees.  If Executive should die 
          while any amounts would be payable to Executive if Executive had 
          continued to live, all such amounts, unless otherwise provided 
          herein, shall be paid in accordance with the terms of this 
          Agreement to Executive's devisee, legatee, or other designee or, if 
          none of the foregoing, to Executive's estate.

                                      12
<PAGE>

13.  INDEMNIFICATION.

     (a)  CFB shall pay, on behalf of Executive and Executive's executors, 
          administrators or assigns, any amount which Executive is or becomes 
          legally obligated to pay as a result of any claim or claims made 
          against Executive by reason of Executive's service as an employee, 
          Director or Officer of CFB.  The payments that CFB will be 
          obligated to make shall include (without limitation) damages, 
          judgments, settlements, costs and expenses of investigation, costs 
          and expenses of defense of legal actions, claims and proceedings 
          and appeals therefrom, and costs of attachment and similar bonds; 
          provided, however, that CFB shall not be obligated to pay fines or 
          other obligations or fees imposed  by law or otherwise that CFB is 
          prohibited by applicable law from paying as indemnity or for any 
          other reason.

     (b)  Costs and expenses (including, without limitation, attorney fees) 
          incurred by Executive in defending or investigating any action, 
          suit, proceeding or claim shall be paid by CFB in advance of the 
          disposition of such matter upon receipt of a written undertaking by 
          or on behalf of Executive to repay any such amounts if it is 
          ultimately determined that Executive is not entitled to 
          indemnification under this Agreement.

     (c)  If a claim under this Agreement is not paid by or on behalf of CFB 
          within ninety days after a written claim has been received by CFB, 
          Executive may at any time thereafter bring suit or proceed under 
          Section 16 against CFB to recover the unpaid amount of the claim 
          and, if successful in whole or in part, Executive shall also be 
          entitled to be paid the expenses, including attorneys' fees, of 
          prosecuting such claim.

     (d)  In the event of payment under this Agreement, CFB shall be 
          subrogated to the extent of such payment to all of the rights of 
          recovery of Executive, who shall execute all documents required and 
          shall do everything that may be necessary to secure such rights, 
          including the execution of such documents necessary to enable CFB 
          effectively to bring suit to enforce such rights.

     (e)  CFB shall not be liable under this Agreement to make any payment in
          connection with any claim made against Executive:

          (i)   for which payment is actually made to Executive under an 
                insurance policy maintained by CFB, except in respect of any 
                excess beyond the amount of payment under such insurance;

          (ii)  for which Executive is indemnified by CFB otherwise than 
                pursuant to this Agreement;

          (iii) based upon or attributable to Executive's gaining in fact any 
                personal profit or advantage to which Executive was not 
                legally entitled;

                                      13
<PAGE>

          (iv)  for an accounting of profits made from the purchase or sale 
                by Executive of securities of CFB within the meaning of 
                Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act; or

          (v)   brought about or contributed to by the dishonesty of 
                Executive; provided, however, that notwithstanding the 
                foregoing, Executive shall be protected under this Agreement 
                as to any claims upon which suit may be brought alleging 
                dishonesty on the part of Executive, unless a judgment or 
                other final adjudication thereof adverse to Executive shall 
                establish that Executive committed acts of active and 
                deliberate dishonesty with actual dishonest purpose and 
                intent, which acts were material to the cause of action so 
                adjudicated.

     (f)  Executive, as a condition precedent to his right to be indemnified 
          under this Agreement, shall give to CFB notice in accordance with 
          Section 10 as soon as practicable of any claim made against 
          Executive for which indemnity will or could be sought under this 
          Agreement.  Executive shall give CFB such information and 
          cooperation as it may reasonably require and as shall be within 
          Executive's power.

     (g)  Nothing herein shall be deemed to diminish or otherwise restrict 
          Executive's right to indemnification under any provision of the 
          Certificate of Incorporation or Bylaws of CFB or under State of 
          Delaware law.

14.  MISCELLANEOUS.  No provision of this Agreement may be modified or waived
     unless such waiver or modification is agreed to in writing and signed by
     Executive and such officer of CFB as may be specifically authorized by the
     Board.  No waiver by either party at any time of any breach by the other
     party of any condition or provision of this Agreement  to be performed by
     such other party shall be deemed a waiver of similar or dissimilar
     provisions or conditions at the same or at any prior or subsequent time.
     This Agreement is an integration of the parties' agreement; no agreement or
     representation, oral or otherwise, express or implied, with respect to the
     subject matter of this Agreement have been made by either party which are
     not set forth expressly in this Agreement.  The validity, interpretation,
     construction and performance of this Agreement shall be governed by the
     laws of the State of North Dakota.

15.  COUNTERPARTS.  This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts,
     each of which shall be an original document but all of which together will
     constitute one instrument.

16.  DISPUTE RESOLUTION.  Executive shall be permitted (but not required) to
     elect that any dispute or controversy arising under or in connection with
     this Agreement be resolved in Fargo, North Dakota, by any recognized method
     of alternative dispute resolution or by arbitration in accordance with the
     rules of the American Arbitration Association then in effect.  The parties
     shall select a mutually acceptable single arbitrator to resolve the dispute
     or if they fail or are unable to do so, each side shall within the
     following ten business days select a single

                                      14
<PAGE>

     arbitrator and the two so selected shall select a third arbitrator 
     within the following ten business days. The arbitrator shall have no 
     power to award any punitive or exemplary damages.  The arbitrator may 
     construe or interpret, but shall not ignore or vary the terms of this 
     Agreement, and shall be bound by controlling law. The arbitration award 
     or other resolution may be entered as a judgment at the request of the 
     prevailing party bay any court of competent jurisdiction in North Dakota 
     or elsewhere. All legal fees and costs incurred by Executive in 
     connection with the resolution of any dispute or controversy under or in 
     connection with this Agreement shall be reimbursed by CFB as bills for 
     such services are presented by Executive to CFB.

16.  AUTHORITY.  The authority of CFB to execute and perform this Agreement is
     contained in a resolution of the Board of Directors of CFB dated December
     1, 1998.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Community First Bankshares, Inc. and Executive have
executed this Agreement on December 1, 1998, to be effective for all purposes.


                              COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

                              By /s/ Mark A. Anderson
                                --------------------------------

                              Its  Vice Chairman and CFO
                                 ---------------------------------

                              EXECUTIVE:

                              /s/ Donald Mengedoth
                              ---------------------------------
                              Donald Mengedoth
                              


                                      15


<PAGE>

                               TABLE OF CONTENTS

                           Introduction               1

                           Letter to Shareholders     2

                           Financial Review          10

                           Affiliated Banks          43

                           Board of Directors        50

                           Senior Officers           51

                           Corporate Information     52


FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31 (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)       1998(1)     1997(1)      1996        1995        1994
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                              (restated)  (restated)  (restated)  (restated)
<S>                                                               <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>
EARNINGS
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total interest income ..........................................  $  449,244  $  326,519  $  270,198  $  228,294  $  170,994
Total interest expense .........................................     188,484     134,540     108,761      94,424      60,671
Net interest income ............................................     260,760     191,979     161,437     133,870     110,323
Net income .....................................................      43,063      59,013      41,522      37,950      28,767

PER COMMON AND COMMON EQUIVALENT SHARE
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Basic earnings per share .......................................  $     0.91  $     1.36  $     1.01  $     0.98  $     0.75
Diluted earnings per share .....................................        0.90        1.32        0.97        0.93        0.71
Net book value .................................................        8.60        8.20        6.99        6.20        5.26
Dividends paid .................................................        0.44        0.35        0.29        0.24        0.22

AT YEAR-END
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total assets ...................................................  $6,002,972  $5,454,135  $3,606,406  $3,210,017  $2,494,917
Total loans ....................................................   3,386,142   3,024,322   2,395,165   2,058,152   1,575,271
Allowance for loan losses ......................................      50,173      40,045      30,165      25,906      20,414
Total deposits .................................................   4,884,672   4,152,918   2,972,744   2,749,665   2,114,479
Common equity ..................................................     405,246     388,013     261,405     216,394     165,868

KEY PERFORMANCE RATIOS
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Return on average common equity ................................      10.93%      19.44%      16.85%      18.90%      17.43%
Return on average assets .......................................       0.74%       1.44%       1.25%       1.34%       1.22%
Net interest margin ............................................       5.09%       5.32%       5.49%       5.06%       4.95%
Dividend payout ratio ..........................................      48.94%      26.50%      29.85%      25.70%      30.69%
Average common equity to average assets ........................       6.78%       7.40%       7.12%       6.81%       6.74%
Nonperforming assets to period-end loans and OREO ..............       0.78%       0.63%       0.72%       0.31%       0.35%
Allowance for loan losses to period-end loans ..................       1.48%       1.32%       1.26%       1.26%       1.30%
Allowance for loan losses to nonperforming loans ...............     221.23%     268.02%     193.99%     648.30%     487.91%
Net charge-offs to average loans ...............................       0.44%       0.24%       0.18%       0.19%       0.03%
Tier 1 capital .................................................       9.35%      11.53%       9.18%       8.88%      11.02%
Total risk-based capital .......................................      12.08%      14.98%      11.18%      11.26%      13.60%
Leverage ratio .................................................       6.40%       7.51%       6.84%       6.37%       7.35%

</TABLE>

(1)INCLUSIVE OF THE EFFECT OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS AS FOLLOWS: NET INCOME 
(LOSS) - $(3.9 MILLION) AND $967,000, IN 1998 AND 1997 RESPECTIVELY; DILUTED 
EARNINGS PER SHARE - $(0.08) AND $0.02, IN 1998 AND 1997, RESPECTIVELY.



<PAGE>

                    TABLE OF CONTENTS

<TABLE>

<S>                                                                     <C>
Management's Discussion and Analysis                                    11

Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition                          23

Consolidated Statements of Income                                       24

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income                         25

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity                         25

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows                                   26

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements                              27

Independent Auditor's Letter                                            39

Five-Year Summary                                                       40

Quarterly Results of Operations                                         42
</TABLE>

<PAGE>

                                           MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
                                                COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

                              BASIS OF PRESENTATION

The following represents management's discussion and analysis of Community 
First Bankshares, Inc.'s (the "Company") financial condition as of December 
31, 1998 and 1997, and its results of operations for the years ended December 
31, 1998, 1997, and 1996. This discussion should be read in conjunction with 
the consolidated financial statements and related footnotes and the five year 
summary of selected financial data. The information has been restated to 
reflect significant mergers accounted for as a pooling-of-interests as if 
they had occurred at the beginning of the first period presented. Purchases 
have been reflected in the Company's results of operations for all periods 
following the acquisition and are reflected in the Company's financial 
condition at all dates subsequent to the acquisition.

                        MERGER AND ACQUISITION ACTIVITY

The Company has made a number of acquisitions during these periods. Each of 
these acquisitions has had an effect upon the Company's results of operations 
and financial condition.

     POOLING OF INTERESTS TRANSACTIONS. In the following transactions during 
the periods presented, the Company accounted for the acquisition using the 
pooling of interests method.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                       POOLING OF INTERESTS TRANSACTIONS
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                LOCATION AND/OR                       NUMBER OF                  TOTAL ASSETS AT
DATE OF         NAME OF MAIN OFFICE                 LOCATIONS AT             DATE OF ACQUISITION
ACQUISITION     OF ACQUIRED ENTITY                DATE OF ACQUISITION              (IN MILLIONS)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>             <C>                               <C>                        <C>
August 1998     Salt Lake City, Utah                      2                               $  99
July 1998       Las Cruces, New Mexico                    3                                 159
May 1998        FNB, Inc., Colorado                       2                                 120
April 1998      Longmont, Colorado                        4                                 138
April 1998      Thornton, Colorado                        4                                  78
December 1997   Gunnison, Colorado                        4                                  90
November 1997   Phoenix, Arizona                          1                                  54
December 1996   Mountain Parks, Denver, Colorado         17                                 600
October 1996    Trinidad, Colorado                        1                                  70
</TABLE>


With respect to certain acquisitions listed above, the Company's results of 
operations and financial condition have been restated for all historical 
periods:

     On August 7, 1998, the Company issued approximately 1,526,000 shares of
     common stock to acquire Guardian Bancorp ("Guardian"), a one-bank holding
     company headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah. At acquisition, Guardian had
     approximately $99 million in assets at two offices in Utah.

     On July 1, 1998, the Company issued approximately 1,932,000 shares of
     common stock to acquire Western Bancshares of Las Cruces, Inc. ("Western"),
     a one-bank holding company headquartered in Las Cruces, New Mexico. At
     acquisition, Western had approximately $159 million in assets at three
     offices in New Mexico.

     On May 7, 1998, the Company issued approximately 1,135,000 shares of common
     stock to acquire FNB Inc. ("FNB"), a two-bank holding company with banks in
     Greeley and Fort Collins, Colorado. At acquisition, FNB had approximately
     $120 million in assets.

     On April 30, 1998, the Company issued approximately 1,432,000 shares of
     common stock to acquire Pioneer Bank of Longmont ("Pioneer"). At
     acquisition, Pioneer had approximately $138 million in assets at four
     offices in Colorado.

     On April 3, 1998, the Company issued approximately 853,000 shares of 
     common stock to acquire Community Bancorp, Inc. ("CBI"), a one-bank 
     holding company headquartered in Thornton, Colorado. At acquisition, CBI 
     had approximately $78 million in assets at one bank in Colorado.

     On December 18, 1996, the Company issued approximately 10.4 million shares
     of common stock to acquire Mountain Parks Financial Corporation ("Mountain
     Parks"), a one-bank holding company headquartered in Denver, Colorado. At
     acquisition, Mountain Parks had approximately $600 million in assets at
     seventeen banking offices located in Colorado.

     The acquisitions in Trinidad, Phoenix and Gunnison listed in the table were
accounted for as a pooling of interests; however, because the acquisitions were
not material to the Company's financial condition or operating results, the
Company's financial information has not been restated to reflect these mergers.

     PURCHASE TRANSACTIONS. The following transactions during the periods
presented were accounted for as a purchase:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                             PURCHASE TRANSACTIONS
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                LOCATION AND/OR                       NUMBER OF           TOTAL ASSETS AT
DATE OF         NAME OF MAIN OFFICE                LOCATIONS AT       DATE OF ACQUISITION
ACQUISITION     OF ACQUIRED ENTITY              DATE OF ACQUISITION          (IN MILLIONS)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>             <C>                             <C>                    <C>
January 1998    Banc One, Phoenix, Arizona (1)          37                       $    730
July 1997       Cheyenne, Wyoming                       24                          1,100
July 1996       Kiowa, Colorado (2)                      3                             58
July 1996       Englewood, Colorado (2)                  1                             19
</TABLE>

(1)  ACCOUNTED FOR AS A PURCHASE OF CERTAIN ASSETS AND ASSUMPTION OF CERTAIN
     LIABILITIES.
(2)  ACQUIRED BY MOUNTAIN PARKS PRIOR TO COMPANY'S ACQUISITION OF MOUNTAIN
     PARKS.


     On July 14, 1997, the Company completed the purchase of KeyBank N.A. 
(Wyoming), ("KeyBank") from KeyCorp of Cleveland, Ohio. At the time of 
acquisition, KeyBank had total assets of $1.1 billion in banking offices in 
24 Wyoming communities. The purchase price of the transaction, which was 
accounted for as a purchase, was $135 million and resulted in the recognition 
of goodwill of approximately $60 million. The purchase price was funded 
through a combination of proceeds from the issuance of $60 million 8.875% 
Cumulative Capital Securities by a business subsidiary of the Company in 
February 1997, partial proceeds from the Company's issuance of $60 million 
7.30% Subordinated Notes, and retained earnings of the Company.

     On January 23, 1998, the Company completed the purchase and assumption 
of approximately $730 million in assets and liabilities of 37 offices of Banc 
One Corporation located in Arizona, Colorado, and Utah. The transaction was 
accounted for as a purchase of certain assets and assumption of certain 
liabilities and resulted in the recognition of approximately $44 million of 
deposit premium. The purchase was funded through a combination of net 
proceeds from the issuance of 2,000,000 shares of common stock in December 
1997 and the proceeds of the issuance of $60 million 8.20% Cumulative Capital 
Securities by a business trust subsidiary in December 1997.

     The Englewood and Kiowa transactions listed in the table were also 
accounted for as purchases.

                                    OVERVIEW

For the year ended December 31, 1998, the Company reported net income of 
$43.1 million, a decrease of $15.9 million, or 26.9% from the $59.0 million 
earned during 1997. Diluted earnings per share were $0.90, compared to $1.32 
in 1997. Return on average assets was .74% for 1998, compared with 1.44% for 
1997. Return on average common shareholders' 

11

<PAGE>


MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

equity for 1998 and 1997 was 10.93% and 19.44%, respectively. Factors 
contributing to these changes included a loss of $3.9 million on the 
operation and disposal of discontinued operations, a $10 million one-time 
charge related to the Company's decision to liquidate its specialty lending 
portfolio, and a $5.5 million one-time charge associated with the Company's 
earnings improvement initiative.

     For the year ended December 31, 1997, the Company reported net income of 
$59.0 million, an increase of $19.1 million, or 47.9%, from the $39.9 million 
earned during 1996. Diluted earnings per share were $1.32, compared to $0.97 
in 1996. Return on average assets was 1.44% for 1997, compared with 1.25% for 
1996. Return on average common shareholders' equity for 1997 and 1996 was 
19.44% and 16.85%, respectively. Factors contributing to these changes 
included approximately $6.3 million of net income provided by entities 
acquired during 1997 and 1996.

     Total assets were $6,003 million and $5,454 million at December 31, 1998 
and 1997, respectively. The increase of $549 million, or 10.1%, during 1998 
was principally due to the 1998 purchase of assets and assumption of 
liabilities of Banc One Corporation offices located in Arizona, Colorado, and 
Utah, and loan growth in the Company's subsidiary banks.

                       SALE OF SUB-PRIME LENDING BUSINESS

In December 1996, the Company acquired two sub-prime lending affiliates, 
Mountain Parks Financial Services, Inc. ("MPFS") and Equity Lending, Inc. 
("ELI"), through its merger with Mountain Parks Financial Corporation. The 
Company subsequently decided to sell MPFS and ELI and accounted for these 
entities as discontinued operations during 1997 and the first two quarters of 
1998. At December 31, 1997, the net balance sheet effect of $72 million from 
these entities was included as an Other Asset. The Company recognized income 
of $967,000, net of tax, from these discontinued operations during 1997.

     During the first two quarters of 1998, the Company recognized a charge 
of $1.7 million, which reflected the expected loss on disposition of the 
subsidiaries, and realized a $2.2 million operating loss, consisting of 
$707,000 attributed to quarterly operations and $1.4 million associated with 
one-time operating expenses related to preparing the subsidiaries for sale.

     As of June 30, 1998, in anticipation of the disposition of certain 
operating assets, the Company changed the status of MPFS and ELI from 
discontinued operations and reflected the relat ed assets expected to be 
retained as loans. In July 1998, the Company sold the operating assets, 
excluding loans retained of MPFS and ELI in cash transactions. The Company 
retained approximately $50 million in sub-prime mortgage loans originated by 
ELI, approximately $50 million in automobile installment contracts originated 
by MPFS and servicing rights on an additional $100 million in ELI loans sold 
to other parties. In late 1998, the Company sold a portion of the loans 
retained from MPFS and ELI. The Company recorded another charge of $10 
million in the fourth quarter in connection with further expected losses upon 
liquidation of these assets, including direct losses, increased reserves, 
termination fees on certain servicing contracts and severance costs for loan 
servicing personnel. At December 31, 1998, the Company had approximately $25 
million in performing sub-prime mortgages and $40 million in automobile 
installment contracts. The Company expects to sell these assets in the first 
half of 1999, and the Company anticipates that after the sale, it will not 
pursue further sub-prime lending activities.

                              RESTRUCTURING CHARGE

During the fourth quarter of 1998, the Company recorded a $5.5 million, 
non-recurring charge as a result of the Company's initiative to improve 
future core profitability principally through a reduction in work force. As 
part of the plan, approximately 200 positions were eliminated throughout the 
organization. The charge included severance and other personnel related 
costs, as well as, the disposal of redundant computer equipment acquired in 
conjunction with recent acquisitions. These actions respond to recent changes 
in the financial markets which have placed additional pressure on margins, 
slowed the pace of acquisitions, and slowed the growth of sales of financial 
service products.

     As of December 31, 1998, all expected expenditures associated with the 
restructuring have been recognized and recorded, including the identification 
of specific personnel affected by the reduction in work force. Certain 
severance related payments to affected individuals will occur during 1999.

                             RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

NET INTEREST INCOME

The principal source of the Company's earnings is net interest income, the 
difference between total interest income on earning assets such as loans and 
investments and interest paid on deposits and other interest-bearing 
liabilities. The net interest margin is net interest income, on a 
tax-equivalent basis, expressed as a percentage of average earning assets. 
The margin is affected by volume and mix of earning assets and 
interest-bearing liabilities, the level of interest free funding sources, 
interest rate environment, and income tax rates. As discussed later, 
management actively monitors its interest rate sensitivity and seeks to 
balance assets and liabilities to minimize the impact of changes in the 
interest rate environment.


                                                                          12

<PAGE>

                                           MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
                                                COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

     The following table presents the Company's average balance sheets, 
interest earned or paid and the related yields and rates on major categories 
of the Company's earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities on a tax 
equivalent basis for the periods indicated:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31                       1998                               1997                           1996
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                        INTEREST                        INTEREST                         INTEREST
                                                          YIELDS                          YIELDS                           YIELDS
                                    AVERAGE                  AND     AVERAGE                 AND      AVERAGE                 AND
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)              BALANCE   INTEREST     RATES     BALANCE    INTEREST   RATES      BALANCE    INTEREST   RATES
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                              <C>        <C>          <C>      <C>         <C>          <C>     <C>         <C>        <C>
ASSETS
Loans(1)(2) .................... $3,243,167 $  325,712   10.04%   $2,625,203  $  260,086   9.91%   $2,184,839  $  219,786  10.06%
Investment securities(2) .......  1,964,741    127,486    6.49%    1,022,616      68,681   6.72%      792,046      52,874   6.68%
Other earning assets ...........     68,743      3,756    5.46%       68,542       3,426   5.00%       57,422       2,814   4.90%
                                 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Total earning assets..........  5,276,651    456,954    8.66%    3,716,361     332,193   8.94%    3,034,307     275,474   9.08%
Noninterest-earning assets .....    532,818                          383,408                          291,851
                                 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Total assets ................. $5,809,469                       $4,099,769                       $3,326,158
                                 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS'
   EQUITY
Interest-bearing checking ......    800,468     14,286    1.78%      497,864      10,437   2.10%      560,315      12,029   2.15%
Savings deposits ...............  1,055,424     31,296    2.97%      792,995      21,683   2.73%      500,899      13,039   2.60%
Time deposits ..................  2,114,498    114,994    5.44%    1,569,304      86,904   5.54%    1,257,078      69,454   5.53%
Short-term borrowings ..........    345,060     19,576    5.67%      177,917       9,465   5.32%      169,583       9,359   5.52%
Long-term borrowings ...........    122,050      8,332    6.83%       85,991       6,051   7.04%       69,169       4,880   7.06%
                                 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Total interest-bearing
    liabilities ................  4,437,500    188,484    4.25%    3,124,071     134,540   4.31%    2,557,044     108,761   4.25%
Demand deposits ................    799,477                          561,985                          468,612              
Noninterest-bearing
   liabilities .................     58,582                           47,981                           40,588              
Trust Owned Preferred
   Securities ..................    120,000                           57,699                               --              
Preferred shareholders'
   equity.......................         --                            4,506                           22,999              
Common shareholders'
   equity ......................    393,910                          303,527                          236,915              
                                 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                  1,371,969                          975,698                          769,114              
                                 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total liabilities and
  shareholders' equity.......... $5,809,469                       $4,099,769                       $3,326,158              
                                 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net interest income ............            $  268,470                        $  197,653                       $  166,713  
                                 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net interest spread ............                          4.41%                            4.63%                            4.83%
                                 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net interest margin ............                          5.09%                            5.32%                            5.49%
                                 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

(1)  INCLUDES NONACCRUAL LOANS AND LOAN FEES.
(2)  INTEREST YIELDS ON LOANS AND INVESTMENTS ARE PRESENTED ON A TAX-EQUIVALENT
     BASIS TO REFLECT THE TAX EXEMPT NATURE OF CERTAIN ASSETS. THE INCREMENTAL
     TAX RATE APPLIED WAS 35%.

     The following table presents the components of changes in net interest
income by volume and rate on a tax-equivalent basis. The net change attributable
to the combined impact of volume and rate has been allocated solely to the
change in volume:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                               1998 COMPARED TO 1997                  1997 COMPARED TO 1996   
                                                          --------------------------------------------------------------------
(IN THOUSANDS)                                              VOLUME       RATE        TOTAL       VOLUME        RATE      TOTAL
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                       <C>         <C>          <C>         <C>         <C>        <C>
Interest income:
   Loans (1) (2) ......................................... $ 61,223   $  4,403     $ 65,626    $ 44,299    $ (3,999)  $ 40,300
   Investment securities (2) .............................   63,275     (4,470)      58,805      15,392         415     15,807
   Other earning assets ..................................       10        320          330         545          67        612
                                                          --------------------------------------------------------------------
Total interest income ....................................  124,508        253      124,761      60,236      (3,517)    56,719
                                                          --------------------------------------------------------------------

Interest expense:
   Savings deposits and interest-bearing checking ........   13,519        (58)      13,461       6,263         789      7,052
   Time deposits .........................................   30,192     (2,101)      28,091      17,251         199     17,450
   Short-term borrowings .................................    8,892      1,219       10,111         460        (354)       106
   Long-term borrowings ..................................    2,537       (256)       2,281       1,187         (16)     1,171
                                                          --------------------------------------------------------------------
Total interest  expense ..................................   55,140     (1,196)      53,944      25,161         618     25,779
                                                          --------------------------------------------------------------------
Increase (decrease) in net interest income ............... $ 69,368   $  1,449     $ 70,817    $ 35,075    $ (4,135)  $ 30,940
                                                          --------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

(1)  INCLUDES LOAN FEES.
(2)  INTEREST INCOME IS PRESENTED ON A TAX EQUIVALENT BASIS.

     Net interest income on a tax equivalent basis in 1998 was $268.5 
million, a $70.8 million increase from 1997. The increase was primarily due 
to a 42.0% increase in earning assets partially offset by a 23 basis point 
reduction in the net interest margin. The increase in earning assets was due 
to three bank acquisitions completed by the Company during 1998 and 1997, the 
purchase of assets and assumption of liabilities of Banc One Corporation 
offices in Arizona, Colorado, and Utah, and loan growth in existing markets. 
Net interest income on a tax equivalent basis in

13


<PAGE>

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.


1997 was $197.7 million, a $30.9 million increase from 1996. The increase was 
primarily due to a 22.5% increase in earning assets partially offset by a 17 
basis point reduction in the net interest margin. The increase in earning 
assets was due to the six bank acquisitions completed by the Company between 
the third quarter of 1996 and December 1997 and loan growth in the existing 
markets.

     The net interest margin was 5.09%, 5.32%, and 5.49% in 1998, 1997 and 
1996, respectively. This decrease in margin was due to a 22 basis point 
decrease in the yield spread between 1997 and 1998, and a change in the mix 
of earning assets to lower-yielding assets. Average loans to average earning 
assets changed from 72.0% in 1996, to 70.6% in 1997, and 61.5% in 1998.

PROVISION FOR LOAN LOSSES
Annual fluctuations in the provision for loan losses result from management's 
regular assessment of the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses. The 
provision for loan losses for 1998 was $22.5 million, an increase of $16.4 
million or 268.9%, from the $6.1 million provision during 1997. The increase 
in the loan loss provision was principally due to the Company's credit 
experience in the operation and disposal of its sub-prime lending affiliates, 
which totaled $11.9 million in 1998. The amount of the loan loss provision to 
be recorded in future periods will depend on management's assessment of the 
adequacy of the allowance for loan losses in relation to the entire loan 
portfolio. The provision for loan losses for 1997 was $6.1 million, a 
decrease of $1.4 million, or 18.7% from the 1996 provision of $7.5 million.

NONINTEREST INCOME
The Company continues to expand noninterest income associated with the 
Company's community banking operations. The primary sources of noninterest 
income consist of service charges on deposit accounts, service fees on 
checking accounts, insurance commission, fees from the sale of investment 
products, and fees for trust services. Management is working to increase 
noninterest income by increasing the delivery of financial products and 
services, including trust services, insurance policy sales and security sales 
through a third party provider of standardized securities products.

     Noninterest income for 1998 was $60.3 million, an increase of $13.1 
million, or 27.8%, from the $47.2 million earned in 1997. The increase was 
principally due to an increase in service charges on deposit accounts in 1998 
from $21.1 million earned during 1997 to $30.3 million earned in 1998, an 
increase of $9.2 million, or 43.6%. Of the increase, $8.5 million was 
attributed to banks acquired in 1998 and 1997. Net investment security gains 
were $1.8 million in 1998.

     Noninterest income for 1997 was $47.2 million, an increase of $10.3 
million, or 27.9%, from the $36.9 million earned in 1996. The increase was 
principally due to an increase in service charges on deposit accounts in 1997 
to $21.1 million from the $16.0 million in 1996, an increase of $5.1 million, 
or 31.9%. The increase is attributed to $2.7 million in service charges on 
deposit accounts at banks acquired during 1997 and $494,000 at banks acquired 
during 1996.

NONINTEREST EXPENSE
Noninterest expenses consist of salaries and benefits, occupancy, equipment 
and other expenses such as legal and postage necessary for the operation of 
the Company. Management is committed to improving the quality of service 
while controlling such costs through improved efficiency and consolidation of 
certain activities to achieve economies of scale anticipated in its 
acquisition strategy.

The following table presents the components of noninterest expense for the 
periods indicated:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31 (IN THOUSANDS)                          1998              1997              1996
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                        <C>                <C>               <C>
Salaries and employee benefits ..........................   $114,014          $ 78,380          $ 66,298
Net occupancy ...........................................     32,110            23,285            18,852
FDIC insurance ..........................................        686               381               675
Legal and accounting ....................................      4,073             2,269             2,481
Other professional services .............................      5,447             2,892             2,305
Acquisition, integration and conforming .................      3,721               398             2,928
Data processing and loan servicing fees .................      4,640             1,782             1,842
Impairment of equity method investment ..................         --                --               940
Minority interest .......................................         --                80               222
Company-obligated mandatorily redeemable
   preferred securities of CFB Capital I & II ...........     10,218             5,108                --
Amortization of Intangibles .............................     10,366             5,550             3,433
Other ...................................................     44,817            29,828            26,004
                                                         -----------------------------------------------
   Total noninterest expense ............................   $230,092          $149,953          $125,980
                                                         -----------------------------------------------
</TABLE>


     Noninterest expense increased $80.1 million to $230.1 million in 1998. 
The increase was principally due to an increase in salaries and employee 
benefits, net occupancy expense, and acquisition and related expenses. The 
$35.6 million increase in salaries and employee benefits includes $18.7 
million in additional expenses related to acquisitions completed by the 
Company in 1998 and 1997. The $8.8 million increase in net occupancy is also 
due primarily to acquisitions completed by the Company. Legal and accounting 
fees increased $1.8 million, or 78.3%, from $2.3 million to $4.1 million 
during 1998. The Company incurred acquisition expenses of $3.7 million in 
1998 in connection with the 1998 acquisitions. Company-obligated mandatorily 
redeemable preferred stock expense increased by $5.1 million, or 100%, to 
$10.2 million in 1998 compared to $5.1 million in 1997, which reflects the 
increase in the average underlying securities from $58 million in 1997 to 
$120 million in 1998. Amortization of intangibles increased $4.8 million, or 
86.8%, due to intangible assets, such as goodwill, noncompete agreements and 
insurance agency customer policy expirations recorded in connection with the 
Company's acquisitions. Other noninterest expense was $44.8 million, an 
increase of $15.0 million, or 50.3%, from $29.8 million in 1997.

     Noninterest expense for 1997 was $150.0 million, an increase of $24.0 
million, or 19.0%, from the level of $126 million during 1996. The increase 
was principally due to an increase of $12.1 million, or 18.3%, in salaries 
and employee benefits, of which $5.8 million was due to the 1997 acquisitions 
and $1.7 million was due to the banks acquired during 1996. Net occupancy 
expense increased $4.4 million to $23.3 million, $2.1 million due to 1997 and 
1996 acquisitions. Acquisition expenses of $398,000 were incurred in 1997 in 
conjunction with the acquisitions of Republic and Summit. Intangibles expense 
increased $2.2 million, or 61.7%, due to the additional intangible assets 
recognized in connection with the Company's acquisitions. Other noninterest 
expense was $29.8 million, an increase of $3.8 million, or 14.6%, from $26.0 
million during 1996.

PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES
The Company records a provision for income taxes currently payable and for 
taxes payable in the future because of differences in the timing of 
recognition of certain items for financial statement and income tax purposes. 
The effective income tax rate differs from the statutory rate primarily due 
to tax-exempt income from loans, and investments and state income taxes. As a 
result of effective tax strategies, the Company's effective tax rate during 
1998 and 1997 were lower than historical effective rates. It


                                                                            14

<PAGE>

                                           MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
                                                COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

is anticipated that the effective tax rate will increase in future periods. 
The effective tax rate was 31.3%, 29.8%, and 36.0% for 1998, 1997, and 1996, 
respectively.

YEAR 2000 ISSUE
The Company is evaluating the potential impact of what is commonly referred 
to as the "Year 2000" issue. This issue addresses the potential inability of 
certain information systems to properly recognize and process dates 
containing the year 2000 and beyond. If not corrected, these systems could 
fail or create erroneous results. The Company has established a dedicated 
Year 2000 Team to focus on all significant operational areas throughout the 
Company. This team has worked with management to commence the following 
steps: (i) implementing a Year 2000 Assessment and Testing Plan for all items 
that may be affected by the Year 2000 date change; (ii) working with loan 
customers to help them understand the impact of the Year 2000 on their 
business; (iii) communicating with third parties that interact with the 
Company to ensure they are addressing the Year 2000 issue; (iv) communicating 
with hardware and software suppliers to ensure Year 2000 compliance among 
their products; and (v) contingency and disaster recovery planning to ensure 
Year 2000 problem resolution. The Company has identified and tested the 
applications it believes are mission critical, and the initial test results 
indicated that these systems are Year 2000 compliant. The Company completed 
testing and established compliance with respect to its applications, subject 
to equipment upgrades during 1999, ongoing communi cations with third 
parties, and compliance of any entities acquired in 1999. Regardless of the 
Year 2000 compliance of the Company's systems, there can be no assurance that 
the Company will not be adversely affected by the failure of others to become 
Year 2000 compliant. Such risks may include potential losses related to loans 
made to third parties whose businesses are adversely affected by the Year 
2000 issue, the disruption or inaccuracy of data provided by non-Year 2000 
compliant third parties and business disruption caused by the failure of 
service providers, such as security and data processing companies, to become 
Year 2000 compliant. Another pervasive banking risk associated with the Year 
2000 issue is the risk of banking customers withdrawing and retaining large 
amounts of cash during late 1999, thus reducing the Company's deposits and 
needed working capital. Because of these uncertainties, there can be no 
assurance that the Year 2000 issue will not have a material financial impact 
in any future period.

     The Company incurred operating costs of $400,000 during 1998, which 
included $100,000 in labor cost associated with dedicated staff, $200,000 of 
labor cost related to other staff time devoted to Year 2000 compliance and 
$100,000 in costs related to the write off of non-compliant equipment. The 
Company also incurred $1.0 million in capital expenditures for equipment 
upgrades related to the compliance effort. During 1999, the Company expects 
to incur an additional $400,000 in operating costs, which represents 4% of 
the Company's information technology operating budget and an additional $1 
million in capital expenditures, which represents 34% of the Company's 
information technology capital expenditure budget for 1999. The costs 
incurred in 1998 were funded from operating income. Costs incurred in 1999 
will be funded from operating income as well. The Company has not delayed any 
information technology projects as a result of their Year 2000 compliance 
effort.

     The Company has identified contingency plans for all mission critical 
applications and the affiliate bank environment. The verification and 
validation of these plans are expected to be completed during the first six 
months of 1999. The Company's Year 2000 compliance effort has been reviewed 
on five occasions by regulatory authorities during 1998, with additional 
reviews expected in 1999.

                              FINANCIAL CONDITION

INVESTMENT OF FUNDS

LOANS
At December 31, 1998, total loans were $3.4 billion, an increase of $362 
million, or 12.0%, from the December 31, 1997, level of $3.0 billion. A 
significant portion of this increase is attributable to in-market loan growth 
in the Company's existing markets.

     The Company has continued to purchase commercial loan assets to enhance 
earning asset yield performance. Many of such loan assets have been 
originated by selected midwestern regional banks and national leasing and 
finance companies with whom the Company has ongoing relationships. The 
Company's portfolio of purchased loan assets was $322 million at December 31, 
1998, compared to $208 million at December 31, 1997. Banks acquired in 1998 
and 1997 accounted for $108 million of the increase. These assets are subject 
to the Company's standard credit guidelines, as well as specific requirements 
for such assets, and bear the credit risks attendant to commercial loans. It 
is anticipated that the purchased loan asset volume will increase during 1999.

     The following table presents the Company's balance of each major 
category of loans at the dates indicated:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                              1998                          1997                           1996         
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                  PERCENT                         PERCENT                        PERCENT
                                                 OF TOTAL                        OF TOTAL                       OF TOTAL
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)                AMOUNT        LOANS         AMOUNT            LOANS         AMOUNT           LOANS
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                <C>          <C>           <C>                <C>          <C>               <C>
Loan category:
  Real estate .................... $ 1,225,255     36.19%     $ 1,152,918          38.13%     $   900,055         37.57%
  Real estate construction .......     358,317     10.58%         247,486           8.18%         178,331          7.45%
  Commercial .....................     904,063     26.70%         778,176          25.73%         685,648         28.63%
  Consumer and other .............     603,468     17.82%         552,384          18.26%         391,313         16.34%
  Agricultural ...................     295,039      8.71%         293,358           9.70%         239,818         10.01%
                                   -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total loans ......................   3,386,142    100.00%       3,024,322         100.00%       2,395,165        100.00%
                                   -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less allowance for loan losses ...     (50,173)                   (40,045)                        (30,165)
                                   -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total ............................ $ 3,335,969                $ 2,984,277                   $   2,365,000
                                   -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                   1995                           1994            
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                       PERCENT                           PERCENT  
                                                      OF TOTAL                          OF TOTAL  
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)                    AMOUNT         LOANS         AMOUNT              LOANS  
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                  <C>             <C>          <C>                   <C> 
Loan category:                                                                                    
  Real estate ....................   $   783,474        38.08%    $   598,248             37.98%  
  Real estate construction .......       138,180         6.71%         93,735              5.95%  
  Commercial .....................       577,737        28.07%        439,717             27.91%  
  Consumer and other .............       315,403        15.32%        264,630             16.80%  
  Agricultural ...................       243,358        11.82%        178,941             11.36%  
                                   -------------------------------------------------------------
Total loans ......................     2,058,152       100.00%      1,575,271            100.00%  
                                   -------------------------------------------------------------
Less allowance for loan losses ...       (25,906)                     (20,414)                    
                                   -------------------------------------------------------------
Total ............................   $ 2,032,246                $   1,554,857                    
                                   -------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

15

<PAGE>

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

GENERAL. The Company's loan mix remained relatively constant from 1997 to 1998.
Real estate loans continued to be the largest category of loans, representing
46.8% of the total loan portfolio.

REAL ESTATE LOANS. A significant portion of the Company's real estate loan
portfolio consists of residential real estate first mortgages that have been
underwritten and documented to meet secondary mortgage requirements.
Substantially all of the Company's real estate loans are based in the Company's
primary market area. As of December 31, 1998, $524 million, or 33.1%, of the
Company's real estate loan portfolio consisted of residential real estate loans,
$144 million, or 9.1%, were secured by farmland, $558 million, or 35.2%,
represented commercial and other real estate loans and $358 million, or 22.6%,
represented construction loans.

COMMERCIAL LOANS. Loans in this category include loans to retail, wholesale,
manufacturing and service businesses, including agricultural service businesses
and the Company's purchased loan asset portfolio. Commercial loans are
underwritten based on the financial strength and repayment ability of the
borrower, as well as the collateral securing the loans.

CONSUMER AND OTHER LOANS. Loans classified as consumer and other loans include
automobile, personal loans, consumer lines of credit and overdrafts. The
consumer loan portfolio also includes dealer-generated installment contracts for
consumer goods, including automobiles and major home appliances. The majority of
these indirect loans are installment loans with fixed interest rates.

AGRICULTURAL LOANS. Agricultural loans are made principally to farmers and
ranchers. The Company provides short-term credit for operating loans and
intermediate-term loans for machinery purchases and other improvements.

INVESTMENTS
Management maintains a high quality investment portfolio oriented toward U.S.
Treasury, U.S. Government agency and government guaranteed mortgage-backed
securities. The investment portfolio also provides the opportunity to structure
maturities and repricing timetables in a flexible manner and to meet applicable
requirements for pledging securities, which are principally adjustable rate, and
collateralized mortgage obligations, which are primarily floating rate
securities, as tools in managing its interest rate exposure and enhancing its
net interest margin. The following table sets forth the composition of the
Company's held-to-maturity securities portfolio at amortized cost as of the
dates indicated:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               BOOK VALUE AT DECEMBER 31,
(IN THOUSANDS)                               1998          1997           1996
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                   <C>            <C>           <C>
U.S. Treasury ....................... $        --    $    1,536    $     2,537
U.S. Government agencies ............          --        19,780         16,690
Mortgage-backed securities ..........          --        82,357        103,027
State and political securities ......          --        52,702         59,641
Other securities ....................      69,906        65,616         79,551
                                      ----------------------------------------
Total ............................... $    69,906    $  221,991    $   261,446
                                      ----------------------------------------
</TABLE>


     The following table sets forth the composition of the Company's
available-for-sale securities portfolio at estimated fair value as of the dates
indicated:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               BOOK VALUE AT DECEMBER 31,
(IN THOUSANDS)                               1998          1997           1996
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                   <C>            <C>           <C>
U.S. Treasury ....................... $    131,924   $   147,126   $   138,987
U.S. Government agencies ............      352,958       287,747        85,561
Mortgage-backed securities ..........    1,219,056       840,357       247,408
Collateralized mortgage obligations .       62,050       108,103        43,259
State and political securities ......      137,205        71,862        17,165
Other ...............................       77,337        84,727        13,794
                                      ----------------------------------------
Total ............................... $  1,980,530   $ 1,539,922   $   546,174
                                      ----------------------------------------
</TABLE>


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

HELD-TO-MATURITY SECURITIES                             AT DECEMBER 31, 1998, MATURING IN
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                OVER ONE YEAR       OVER 5 YEARS
                         ONE YEAR OR LESS     THROUGH 5 YEARS   THROUGH 10 YEARS         OVER 10 YEARS                     TOTAL
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                 WEIGHTED            WEIGHTED           WEIGHTED              WEIGHTED                  WEIGHTED
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS) AMOUNT       YIELD(1)  AMOUNT    YIELD(1) AMOUNT    YIELD(1) AMOUNT       YIELD(1)   AMOUNT         YIELD(1)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                   <C>        <C>         <C>     <C>         <C>    <C>       <C>         <C>           <C>         <C>    
 
Municipal Bonds .....  $   45      10.09%    $   122   12.20%      --       --    $    --         --        $   167        11.63%
Other ...............      --         --          --      --       --       --     69,739        7.46%       69,739         7.46%
                      ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total ...............  $   45      10.09%    $   122   12.20%      --       --    $69,739        7.46%      $69,906         7.47%
                      ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>




(1)  INTEREST YIELDS ON INVESTMENTS ARE PRESENTED ON A TAX EQUIVALENT BASIS TO
     REFLECT THE TAX EXEMPT NATURE OF CURRENT ASSETS. YIELDS ARE BASED ON A 35%
     INCREMENTAL TAX RATE AND A 3.39% COST OF FUNDS.



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE-SECURITIES                                     AT DECEMBER 31, 1998, MATURING IN
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                           OVER ONE YEAR             OVER 5 YEARS
                                               ONE YEAR OR LESS          THROUGH 5 YEARS         THROUGH 10 YEARS
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                       WEIGHTED                 WEIGHTED                 WEIGHTED
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)                      AMOUNT        YIELD(1)   AMOUNT        YIELD(1)   AMOUNT        YIELD(1)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                     <C>            <C>       <C>            <C>      <C>             <C>    
U.S. Treasury ......................... $   63,567        6.33%  $   68,357        6.25% $        --       --    
U.S. Government agencies ..............      4,088        5.85%     206,730        5.93%     141,526        6.33%
Mortgage-backed Securities (2) ........      2,414        6.71%      26,059        6.71%      26,539        7.13%
Collateralized mortgage obligations ...        297        7.14%         550        7.40%       9,716        6.20%
Municipal Bonds .......................     11,217        7.29%      28,230        7.50%      27,153        8.13%
Other .................................        761        6.81%         358        6.71%       4,558        4.35%
                                       -------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total ................................. $   82,344        6.46%  $  330,284        6.20%  $  209,492        6.61%
                                       -------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE-SECURITIES                  AT DECEMBER 31, 1998, MATURING IN
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                  OVER 10 YEARS                     TOTAL 
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                       WEIGHTED                  WEIGHTED 
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)                        AMOUNT      YIELD(1)    AMOUNT        YIELD(1)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                     <C>           <C>         <C>           <C>
U.S. Treasury ......................... $        --       --      $  131,924        6.29% 
U.S. Government agencies ..............         614        7.62%     352,958        6.09% 
Mortgage-backed Securities (2) ........   1,164,044        6.54%   1,219,056        6.56% 
Collateralized mortgage obligations ...      51,487        6.30%      62,050        6.30% 
Municipal Bonds .......................      70,605        7.34%     137,205        7.52% 
Other .................................      71,660        6.99%      77,337        6.83%
                                         ------------------------------------------------ 
Total .................................  $1,358,410        6.60%  $1,980,530        6.53% 
                                         ------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

(1)  INTEREST YIELDS ON INVESTMENTS ARE PRESENTED ON A TAX EQUIVALENT BASIS TO
     REFLECT THE TAX EXEMPT NATURE OF CURRENT ASSETS. YIELDS ARE BASED ON A 35%
     INCREMENTAL TAX RATE AND A 3.39% COST OF FUNDS.

(2)  MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES MATURITY IS BASED ON ESTIMATED REMAINING LIFE.
                                                                              16
<PAGE>

                                           MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
                                                COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

     The Company's investments, including available-for-sale and
held-to-maturity securities, increased $288 million, or 16.3%, to $2,050 million
at December 31, 1998, from $1,762 million at December 31, 1997. This increase
was due to the purchase of additional securities in connection with the Banc One
Corporation transaction. At December 31, 1998, the Company's investments
represented 34.2% of total assets, compared to 32.3% at December 31, 1997.

CREDIT POLICY
The Company's lending activities are guided by the general loan policies 
established by the Board of Directors. The Senior Credit Committee of the 
Company has established loan approval limits for each region of the Company 
and each subsidiary bank. The limits established for each bank range from 
$50,000 to $300,000 per borrower (except for the Fargo bank, which has a 
$750,000 limit per borrower). However, renewals of any criticized or 
classified loans have a limit of $25,000. Amounts in excess of the individual 
bank lending authority are presented to the regional credit officers. The 
regional credit officers for Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, 
New Mexico, Utah, Wisconsin, Wyoming and the Dakotas have lending authority 
up to $750,000 per nonclassified borrower at which time a second regional 
credit officer or the respective regional managing officer must concur. Loans 
above $1,500,000 per nonclassified borrower and $250,000 per classified 
borrower are presented to the Senior Credit Committee for approval.

     Although the Company has a diversified loan portfolio, the economic 
health of significant portions of the Company's primary trade area and the 
ability of many of the bank's borrowers to repay their loans (including real 
estate and commercial loans, as well as agricultural loans) is dependent to a 
large extent on the health of the agricultural sector of the economy. The 
Company has identified and implemented strategies to deal with these factors, 
including an emphasis on quality local loan growth and the diversification 
and performance of its earning asset portfolios.

NONPERFORMING ASSETS
The Company follows regulatory guidelines with respect to classifying loans 
on a nonaccrual basis. Loans are placed on nonaccrual when they become past 
due over 90 days or when the collection of interest or principal is 
considered unlikely. The Company does not return a loan to accrual status 
until it is brought current with respect to both principal and interest and 
future principal payments are no longer in doubt. When a loan is placed on 
nonaccrual status, any previously accrued and uncollected interest is 
reversed. Interest income of $3,645,000 on nonaccrual loans would have been 
recorded during 1998 if the loans had been current in accordance with their 
original terms. During 1998, the Company recorded interest income of 
$1,489,000 related to loans that were on nonaccrual status as of December 31, 
1998.

     The Company considers nonperforming assets to include all nonaccrual 
loans, restructured loans defined as troubled debt restructurings under SFAS 
No. 15 and other real estate owned ("OREO"). Nonperforming assets of the 
Company are summarized in the following table:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31, (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)                                      1998         1997         1996         1995          1994
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                                <C>         <C>           <C>          <C>           <C> 
Loans:
    Nonaccrual loans ............................................. $   22,517   $   14,801   $   15,283   $    3,511    $    4,029
    Restructured loans ...........................................        162          140          267          485           155
                                                                   ---------------------------------------------------------------
    Nonperforming loans ..........................................     22,679       14,941       15,550        3,996         4,184
OREO .............................................................      3,660        4,184        1,677        2,309         1,265
                                                                   ---------------------------------------------------------------
    Nonperforming assets ......................................... $   26,339   $   19,125   $   17,227   $    6,305    $    5,449
                                                                   ---------------------------------------------------------------
Loans 90 days or more past due but still accruing ................ $    3,088   $    3,748   $    2,678   $    1,050    $      796
                                                                   ---------------------------------------------------------------
Nonperforming loans as a percentage of total loans ...............       0.67%        0.49%        0.65%        0.19%         0.27%
Nonperforming assets as a percentage of total assets .............       0.44%        0.35%        0.48%        0.20%         0.22%
Nonperforming assets as a percentage of total loans and OREO .....       0.78%        0.63%        0.72%        0.31%         0.35%
Total loans ...................................................... $3,386,142   $3,024,322   $2,395,165   $2,058,152    $1,575,271
Total assets ..................................................... $6,002,972   $5,454,135   $3,606,406   $3,210,017    $2,494,917
</TABLE>


     Nonperforming assets were $26.3 million at December 31, 1998, an increase
of $7.2 million, or 37.7% from $19.1 million at December 31, 1997. Nonperforming
loans increased by $7.7 million due principally to an increase in nonaccrual
loans in the specialty lending area, primarily automobile loans. The Company has
announced its intent to sell the remaining loans of this subsidiary.

     Nonperforming assets were $19.1 million at December 31, 1997, an increase
of $1.9 million, or 11.0%, from $17.2 million at December 31, 1996.
Nonperforming loans decreased by $609,000. OREO increased $2.5 million, or
147.1%, from $1.7 million at December 31, 1996 to $4.2 million at December 31,
1997. The ratio of nonperforming assets to total assets at December 31, 1997,
was .35%, compared to .48% at December 31, 1996.

ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES
The current level of the allowance for loan losses is the result of management's
assessment of the risks within the portfolio based on the information revealed
in credit reporting processes. The Company utilizes a risk-rating system on all
loans, including purchased loans, and a monthly credit review and reporting
process that results in the calculation of the guidelines reserves based on the
risk within the portfolio. This assessment of risk takes into account the
composition of the loan portfolio, previous loan experience, current economic
conditions and other factors that, in management's judgment, deserve
recognition.

     The allowance is allocated to individual loan categories based on the
relative risk characteristics of the loan portfolios. Commercial and
agricultural allocations are based on a quarterly review of the individual loans
outstanding, including outstanding commitments to lend. Real estate and consumer
allocations are based on a quarterly analysis of the performance of the
respective portfolios, including historical and expected delinquency and
charge-off statistics. The allowance allocated to real estate loans, including
real estate construction, increased $2.3 million from $7.3 million at December
31, 1997 to $9.6 million at December 31, 1998, due principally to the loans
retained at ELI, the Company's sub-prime real estate lending subsidiary. The
allowance allocated to the consumer loan portfolio 

17


<PAGE>

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

increased $4.1 million, from $4.0 million to $8.1 million at December 31, 
1997 and 1998 respectively. This increase was due principally to the loans 
retained at MPFS, the Company's sub-prime consumer lending subsidiary.

     The Company also routinely maintains an unallocated allowance to 
recognize its exposure to unanticipated losses within the loan portfolio. 
This exposure is caused by inherent delays in obtaining information 
regarding an individual borrower's financial condition or change in their 
specific business condition; the judgmental nature of individual loan 
evaluations, collateral assessments and the interpretation of economic 
trends; the volatility of general economic or specific customer conditions 
affecting the identification and quantification of losses for large 
individual credits; and the sensitivity of assumptions used in establishing 
allocated allowances for general categories of loans. The unallocated 
allowance also addresses risk in concentration of credit to specific 
borrowers, products, or industries. The unallocated portion of the allowance 
increased from $20.1 million at December 31, 1997 to $22.2 million at 
December 31, 1998. The increase was principally due to growth in the overall 
loan portfolio. While the allocated allowance as a percentage of loans 
outstanding increased from .66% at December 31, 1997 to .83% at December 31, 
1998, the unallocated portion decreased from .66% to .65% at December 31, 
1997 and 1998, respectively. The accompanying table shows the allocated and 
unallocated portions of the allowance for the various loan classifications.

     The Company's experience in the consumer loan and real estate loan 
portfolios of its sub-prime lending subsidiaries during 1998 and 1997 
resulted in negative variances from the allowance levels in these loan 
classifications. In other periods, the Company has experienced a positive 
variance, and management believes the Company's estimates have been 
conservative but consistent with actual experience. Management has reviewed 
the allocations in the various classifications of loans and believes the 
allowance was adequate at all times during the five-year period ended 
December 31, 1998. The analysis methodology has been consistently applied 
during this five-year period.

The following table sets forth the Company's allowance for loan losses as of 
the dates indicated:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31, (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)                      1998             1997             1996             1995             1994
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                <C>              <C>              <C>              <C>
Balance at beginning of year ....................  $   40,045       $   30,165       $   25,906       $   20,414       $   17,205
Allowance of acquired companies .................       1,950           10,065              784            5,230            1,153
Charge-offs:
   Real estate ..................................       2,237              673            1,102              789              138
   Real estate construction .....................          36              635               --               45               --
   Commercial ...................................       2,674            1,652            1,310            1,355              823
   Consumer and other ...........................      11,638            5,217            2,657            1,849              826
   Agricultural .................................       1,381              726              443              373               38
                                                    -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total charge-offs ...............................      17,966            8,903            5,512            4,411            1,825
Recoveries:
   Real estate ..................................         237              249              276               67              589
   Real estate construction .....................          --               --                4               --               --
   Commercial ...................................         901              610              655              309              310
   Consumer and other ...........................       2,098            1,105              491              612              314
   Agricultural .................................         399              647               78               57              210
                                                    -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total recoveries ................................       3,635            2,611            1,504            1,045            1,423
                                                    -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net charge-offs .................................      14,331            6,292            4,008            3,366              402
Provision charged to operations .................      22,509            6,107            7,483            3,628            2,458
                                                    -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance at end of year ..........................  $   50,173       $   40,045       $   30,165       $   25,906       $   20,414
                                                    -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Allowance as a percentage of total loans ........        1.48%            1.32%            1.26%            1.26%            1.30%
Net charge-offs to average loans outstanding ....        0.44%            0.24%            0.18%            0.19%            0.03%
Total loans .....................................  $3,386,142       $3,024,322       $2,395,165       $2,058,152       $1,575,271
Average loans ...................................  $3,243,167       $2,625,203       $2,184,839       $1,816,712       $1,421,903
</TABLE>


     At December 31, 1998, the allowance for loan losses was $50.2 million, an
increase of $10.2 million from the December 31, 1997, level of $40.0 million. At
December 31, 1998, the allowance for loan losses as a percentage of total loans
was 1.48%, as compared to 1.32% at December 31, 1997. This increase was
attributed to the Company's analysis of the loan portfolio credit quality at the
Company's bank subsidiaries, specifically its sub-prime lending portfolio.

     At December 31, 1997, the allowance for loan losses was $40.0 million, an
increase of $9.8 million from the December 31, 1996, level of $30.2 million. The
Company's 1997 acquisitions accounted for $10.1 million of the change, with the
remaining change due to maintaining an adequate reserve in recognition of the
Company's loan growth and the increase in net charge-offs during 1997. At
December 31, 1997, the allowance for loan losses as a percentage of total loans
was 1.32%, as compared to 1.26% at December 31, 1996.

     During 1998, net charge-offs were $14.3 million, an increase of $8.0
million from the $6.3 million during 1997. The increase is principally
attributed to losses recorded in the Company's sub-prime specialty lending
portfolio. Net charge-offs in the sub-prime specialty lending portfolio during
1998 totaled $9.8 million, including $4.4 million during the period in which
these activities were reported as discontinued operations. The Company's
provision for loan losses increased from $6.1 million in 1997 to $22.5 million
in 1998.

     During 1997, net charge-offs were $6.3 million, an increase of $2.3 million
from the net charge-offs of $4.0 million in 1996. The principal causes for the
increase were the increase of real estate loan net charge-offs of $237,000; an
increase in commercial loan net charge-offs of $387,000; the decrease in
agricultural loan net charge-offs of $286,000; and an increase in consumer loan
and other loan net charge-offs of $1,946,000. The Company's provision for loan
losses was $6.1 million in 1997 and $7.5 million in 1996.

                                                                           18

<PAGE>

                                           MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
                                                COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

     The following table sets forth the allocation of the allowance for loan
losses to various loan categories, as well as the allocation as a percentage of
loans outstanding in each category, as of the dates indicated:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                       ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES AT DECEMBER 31,   
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)               1998        1997       1996      1995      1994
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                               <C>         <C>        <C>       <C>       <C>
Real estate ....................  $ 9,380     $ 7,205    $ 5,278   $ 5,270   $ 4,148
Real estate construction .......      179         124         89        69        47
Commercial .....................    7,222       6,097      5,211     4,755     3,897
Consumer and other .............    8,080       3,992      2,269     1,961     1,852
Agricultural ...................    3,077       2,487      2,312     1,869     2,006
                                 ---------------------------------------------------
Total Allocated Allowance ......   27,938      19,905     15,159    13,924    11,950
Total Unallocated Allowance ....   22,235      20,140     15,006    11,982     8,464
                                 ---------------------------------------------------
Total Allowance ................  $50,173     $40,045    $30,165   $25,906   $20,414
                                 ---------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                   ALLOWANCE AS A PERCENT OF LOANS OUTSTANDING
                                              BY CATEGORY AT DECEMBER 31,     
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)              1998     1997     1996      1995     1994 
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                               <C>       <C>      <C>      <C>       <C>
Real estate ....................   0.77%    0.62%    0.59%     0.67%    0.69% 
Real estate construction .......   0.05%    0.05%    0.05%     0.05%    0.05% 
Commercial .....................   0.80%    0.78%    0.76%     0.82%    0.89% 
Consumer and other .............   1.34%    0.72%    0.58%     0.62%    0.70% 
Agricultural ...................   1.04%    0.85%    0.96%     0.77%    1.12% 
                                ---------------------------------------------
Total Allocated Allowance ......   0.83%    0.66%    0.63%     0.68%    0.76% 
Total Unallocated Allowance ....   0.65%    0.66%    0.63%     0.58%    0.54%
                                --------------------------------------------- 
Total Allowance ................   1.48%    1.32%    1.26%     1.26%    1.30%
                                --------------------------------------------- 
</TABLE>


SOURCE OF FUNDS

DEPOSITS
The Company's major source of funds is provided by core deposits from
individuals, businesses, and local government units. Core deposits consist of
all noninterest-bearing deposits, interest-bearing savings and checking accounts
and time deposits of less than $100,000.

     The following table sets forth a summary of the deposits of the Company at
the dates indicated:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

DECEMBER 31, (IN THOUSANDS)                        1998             1997             1996
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                          <C>              <C>              <C>
Noninterest-bearing ........................ $  547,703       $  705,315       $  531,245
Interest-bearing:
   Savings and checking accounts ...........  2,254,005        1,586,777        1,151,499
   Time accounts less than $100,000 ........  1,478,105        1,386,735          999,864
   Time accounts greater than $100,000 .....    604,859          474,091          290,136
                                            ---------------------------------------------
Total deposits ............................. $4,884,672       $4,152,918       $2,972,744
                                            ---------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

     Total deposits at December 31, 1998, were $4.9 billion, an increase of $732
million, or 17.6%, from $4.2 billion at December 31, 1997. The Company's core
deposits as a percentage of total deposits were 87.6% and 88.6% as of December
31, 1998 and December 31, 1997, respectively. The increase in total deposits was
primarily due to the 1998 Banc One Corporation transaction, with aggregate total
deposits of $730 million as of the acquisition date.

     At December 31, 1998, $605 million, or 12.4% of total deposits were in 
time accounts greater than $100,000. The increase of $131 million, or 27.6%, 
from $474 million at December 31, 1997, was due in part to $73 million of 
deposits obtained through the institutions acquired during 1998. Management 
believes virtually all the deposits in excess of $100,000 are with persons or 
entities that hold other deposit relationships with the banks. Maturities of 
deposits in excess of $100,000 at December 31, 1998 were (in thousands):

<TABLE>


- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                       <C>
Maturing in less than three months .......................  $ 217,689
Maturing in three to six months ..........................    125,938
Maturing in six to twelve months .........................    172,803
Maturing in over twelve months ...........................     88,429
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Total deposits in excess of $100,000 .....................  $ 604,859
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

     In addition to the availability of core deposits, management has determined
it may, in the future employ a brokered deposit program in an effort to attract
lower cost sources of funds. The Company intends to continue to expand its core
deposit base through acquisitions.

SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS
Short-term borrowings include securities sold under agreements to repurchase,
commercial paper, Federal Home Loan Bank advances and federal funds purchased.
These funds are used to fund the growth in loans and securities and manage the
Company's rate sensitivity risk. They are subject to short-term price swings as
the Company's needs change or the overall market rates for short-term investment
funds change.

     The Company's subsidiary banks had arrangements with the Federal Home Loan
Bank that provide for borrowing up to $685 million. As of December 31, 1998,
$210 million advances were outstanding. The Company also had a $14.3 million
balance outstanding on its $35 million short-term commercial paper arrangement
at December 31, 1998. The $161 million increase in short-term borrowings from
December 31, 1997 is due to strong loan demand at the Company's bank
subsidiaries.

19

<PAGE>

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

     The following table sets forth a summary of the short-term borrowings of
the Company during 1998, 1997, and 1996, and as of the end of each such period:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                  AVERAGE        MAXIMUM     WEIGHTED      AVERAGE
                                                                                    DAILY    OUTSTANDING      AVERAGE     INTEREST
                                                               OUTSTANDING         AMOUNT         AT ANY     INTEREST      RATE AT
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)                                         AT YEAR-END    OUTSTANDING      MONTH-END         RATE     YEAR-END
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                               <C>            <C>            <C>             <C>          <C>
1998
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under
   agreements to repurchase ..................................... $143,057       $ 87,094       $152,748         4.92%       4.13%
Commercial paper ................................................   14,310         23,998         34,570         5.87%       5.87%
FHLB advances ...................................................  210,000        200,902        304,000         5.95%       5.18%
Other ...........................................................   68,359         33,066         68,359         5.70%       5.29%
                                                                  -----------------------
   Total ........................................................ $435,726       $345,060       $466,763         5.67%       4.87%
                                                                  -----------------------

1997
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under 
  agreements to repurchase ...................................... $ 44,462       $ 67,871       $ 57,287         5.34%       4.11%
Commercial paper ................................................   11,167          8,812         23,346         5.91%       5.78%
FHLB advances ...................................................  216,506         98,774        267,326         5.06%       5.70%
Other ...........................................................    3,104          2,460          4,731         5.24%       6.02%
                                                                  -----------------------
   Total ........................................................ $275,239       $177,917       $275,848         5.32%       5.31%
                                                                  -----------------------

1996
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under 
   agreements to repurchase ..................................... $ 78,369       $ 56,356       $ 83,451         4.76%       5.55%
Commercial paper ................................................   14,062         12,643         14,965         5.72%       5.63%
FHLB advances ...................................................  153,272         97,402        183,272         5.94%       6.32%
Other ...........................................................    3,203          3,182          4,140         5.58%       5.95%
                                                                  -----------------------
   Total ........................................................ $248,906       $169,583       $274,167         5.52%       6.02%
                                                                  -----------------------
</TABLE>



LONG TERM DEBT
Long-term debt of the Company was $93 million as of December 31, 1998, and $125
million as of December 31, 1997. The decrease is due in part to the Company's
October 1998 redemption of all $11.5 million of its 9.00% Exchangeable
Subordinated Notes due August 15, 2005 at a redemption price of 103% of the
principal amount.

COMPANY-OBLIGATED MANDATORILY 
REDEEMABLE PREFERRED SECURITIES
Company-obligated mandatorily redeemable preferred securities of the Company was
$120 million as of December 31, 1998, which consisted of $60 million of 8.20%
Cumulative Capital Securities issued December 10, 1997 through CFB Capital II
and $60 million of 8.875% Cumulative Capital Securities issued February 5, 1997
through CFB Capital I. The proceeds of both offerings were invested by CFB
Capital II and CFB Capital I, respectively, in Junior Subordinated Debentures of
the Company. The debentures mature no earlier than February 1, 2002 and no later
than December 15, 2027.

SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Total shareholders' equity increased $17.2 million, or 4.4%, to $405.2 million
at December 31, 1998, from $388.0 million at December 31, 1997, as a result of
the retention of a majority of earnings and the issuance of common stock. During
1998 the equivalent of 320,090 shares of common stock were issued, resulting in
an increase in shareholders' equity of $1.4 million.

     In April 1998, in conjunction with the Company's shareholder approval of a
charter amendment that facilitated a two-for-one split of the Company's common
stock in the form of a 100 percent dividend paid to holders of record as of May
1, 1998, the Company increased the number of authorized com mon shares from
30,000,000 to 80,000,000. The number of authorized preferred shares remained at
2,000,000. The increases are expected to provide the Company greater ability to
utilize common and preferred stock in connection with raising additional
capital, expanding its business through acquisitions and other general purposes.

     On February 28, 1997, the Company issued notice of redemption to the
holders of its Depositary Shares, which represent ownership of one-quarter share
of 7% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock (approximately $23 million in
stated value). The redemption price was $26.40 (plus accrued and unpaid
dividends) for each Depositary Share with a stated value of $25.00 per share.
Holders of the Depositary Shares have the right to convert their investment into
Common Stock, prior to redemption, at a rate of 3.138 shares of Common Stock for
each Depositary Share. Virtually all of such holders elected to convert prior to
redemption, which resulted in the issuance of approximately 2,886,000 shares of
Common Stock.

     The Company maintains a Board-approved stock repurchase plan under which it
regularly repurchases shares of its common stock in open market transactions to
support the needs of employee benefit and other compensation plans. During 1998,
the Company purchased 731,000 shares in accordance with the plan. At December
31, 1998, the Company believes the amount of treasury shares does not exceed its
estimated needs for such employee benefit and compensation plans over the next
two years.

                           ASSET/LIABILITY MANAGEMENT

LIQUIDITY MANAGEMENT
Liquidity management is an effort of management to provide a continuing flow of
funds to meet its financial commitments, customer borrowings needs and deposit
withdrawal requirements. The liquidity position of the Company and its
subsidiary banks is monitored by the Asset/Liability Management Committee of the
Company. The largest category of assets representing a ready source of liquidity
for the Company is its short-term financial instruments, which include federal
funds sold, interest-bearing deposits at other financial institutions, U.S.
Treasury securities and other securities maturing within one year. Liquidity is
also provided through the regularly scheduled maturities of assets. The
investment portfolio contains a number of high quality issues with varying
maturities and regular principal payments. Maturities in the loan portfolio also
provide a steady flow of 

                                                                         20

<PAGE>

                                           MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
                                                COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

funds, and strict adherence to the credit policies of the Company helps 
ensure the collectibility of these loans. The liquidity position of the 
Company is also greatly enhanced by its significant base of core deposits.

     The liquidity ratio is one measure of a bank's ability to meet its 
current obligations and is defined as the percentage of liquid assets to 
deposits. Liquid assets include cash and due from banks, unpledged investment 
securities with maturities of less than one year and federal funds sold. At 
year-end 1998, 1997 and 1996, the liquidity ratio was 5.65%, 10.00%, and 
8.59%, respectively. The decrease in liquidity ratio from year-end 1997 to 
year-end 1998 is due principally to a high level of short-term funds at 
December 31, 1997, in preparation for the January 1998 Banc One Corporation 
transaction. The level of loans maturing within one year greatly added to the 
Company's liquidity position in 1998. Including loans maturing within one 
year, the liquidity ratio was 25.58%, 31.07%, and 33.97%, respectively, for 
the same periods.

     The Company has revolving lines of credit with its primary lenders, 
which provide for borrowing up to $50 million. This line would be utilized to 
finance acquisitions which may be completed in 1999. There was an outstanding 
balance of $21 million on this line of credit at December 31, 1998.

     The Company also maintains available lines of federal funds borrowings, 
as well as seasonal borrowing privileges, at the Federal Reserve Bank of 
Minneapolis. The Company's subsidiary banks have the ability to borrow an 
aggregate of $147.6 million in federal funds from 9 nonaffiliated financial 
institutions.

     Additionally, most of the Company's subsidiary banks have joined the 
Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB") System. As part of membership, the Company's 
subsidiary banks purchased a modest amount of stock of FHLB and obtained 
advance lines of credit which represent an aggregate of $685 million in 
additional funding capacity.

INTEREST RATE SENSITIVITY
Interest rate sensitivity indicates the exposure of a financial institution's
earnings to future fluctuations in interest rates. Management of interest rate
sensitivity is accomplished through the composition of loans and investments and
by adjusting the maturities on earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities.
Rate sensitivity and liquidity are related since both are affected by maturing
assets and liabilities. However, interest rate sensitivity also takes into
consideration those assets and liabilities with interest rates that are subject
to change prior to maturity.

     The Company's Asset and Liability Management Committee ("ALCO") attempts 
to structure the Company's balance sheet to provide for an approximately 
equal amount of rate sensitive assets and rate sensitive liabilities. In 
addition to facilitating liquidity needs, this strategy assists management in 
maintaining relative stability in net interest income despite unexpected 
fluctuations in interest rates. ALCO uses three methods for measuring and 
managing interest rate risk: Repricing Mismatch Analysis, Balance Sheet 
Simulation Modeling, and Equity Fair Value Modeling.

REPRICING MISMATCH ANALYSIS -- Management performs a Repricing Mismatch ("Gap 
Analysis") analysis which represents a point in time net position of assets, 
liabilities and off-balance sheet instruments subject to repricing in 
specified time periods. Guidelines established by ALCO, and approved by the 
Company's Board of Directors, limit the impact on net interest income to five 
percent given a 100 basis point change in interest rates over one year. 
However, Management believes Gap Analysis alone does not accurately measure 
the magnitude of changes in net interest income since changes in interest 
rate do not impact all categories of assets, liabilities and off-balance 
sheet instruments equally or simultaneously. A summary of the Gap Analysis is 
presented on page 22.

BALANCE SHEET SIMULATION MODELING -- Balance Sheet Simulation Modeling allows 
management to analyze the impact of short-term (less than 12 months) interest 
rate fluctuations using projected balance sheet information. The balance 
sheet changes are based on forecasted repayments of loans and securities, 
growth in loans and deposits, and historical pricing spreads. Management uses 
the model to simulate the impact of immediate and longer-term shifts in the 
yield curve. The results of these models are reviewed by ALCO and used to 
develop the Company's strategies. Guidelines established by ALCO limit the 
impact on net interest income to five percent given a 100 basis point change 
in interest rates. As of December 31, 1998, the impact of such a change in 
interest rates would be approximately .52 percent, of net interest income.

EQUITY FAIR VALUE MODELING -- Because Balance Sheet Simulation Modeling is 
dependent on accurate forecasts, its usefulness is limited to periods of one 
year or less. As a result, the Company uses the Equity Fair Value Modeling to 
measure long-term interest rate exposure. The method estimates the impact of 
interest rate changes on the estimated discounted future cash flows of the 
Company's current assets, liabilities, and off-balance sheet instruments. 
Guidelines established by ALCO limit the change in fair value to 15 percent 
given a 100 basis point change in interest rates. As of December 31, 1998, 
the impact of such a change in interest rates would be approximately 8.18 
percent, of equity fair value.

     Based on each of these methods of measuring interest rate risk, 
management believes the Company is slightly asset sensitive as of December 
31, 1998 for periods beyond one year.

     The Company does not engage in the speculative use of derivative 
financial instruments.

21

<PAGE>

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

     The following table sets forth the Company's interest rate sensitivity 
analysis by contractual repricing or maturity at December 31, 1998:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                         REPRICING OR MATURING IN
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                              1 YEAR             OVER 1            OVER 5
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)                       OR LESS         TO 5 YEARS             YEARS             TOTAL
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                      <C>                <C>               <C>                <C>       
Rate sensitive assets:
  Loans ................................ $ 1,682,869        $ 1,316,023       $   387,250        $ 3,386,142
  Held to maturity securities ..........          45                122            69,739             69,906
  Available-for-sale securities ........     286,121            545,789         1,148,620          1,980,530
  Other interest-bearing assets ........       5,167                 --                --              5,167
                                         -------------------------------------------------------------------
  Total rate sensitive assets .......... $ 1,974,202        $ 1,861,934       $ 1,605,609        $ 5,441,745
                                         -------------------------------------------------------------------

Rate sensitive liabilities:
  Savings deposits and interest-
    bearing checking ................... $        --        $        --       $ 2,254,005        $ 2,254,005
  Time deposits ........................   1,691,402            388,748             2,814          2,082,964
  Short-term borrowings ................     435,615                111                --            435,726
  Long-term borrowings .................       1,596             30,328            66,786             98,710
                                         -------------------------------------------------------------------
  Total rate sensitive liabilities ..... $ 2,128,613        $   419,187       $ 2,323,605        $ 4,871,405
                                         -------------------------------------------------------------------

Rate sensitive gap ..................... $  (154,411)       $ 1,442,747       $  (717,996)       $   570,340
Cumulative rate sensitive gap .......... $  (154,411)       $ 1,288,336       $   570,340        $   570,340
</TABLE>



     The following sets forth the Company's interest rate sensitivity analysis
at December 31, 1998, with respect to the individual categories of loans and
provides separate analyses with respect to fixed interest rate loans and
floating interest rate loans:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       REPRICING OR MATURING IN
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       1 YEAR           OVER 1           OVER 5
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)                OR LESS       TO 5 YEARS            YEARS            TOTAL
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                <C>              <C>              <C>              <C>
Loan category:
  Real estate .................... $  479,133       $  521,767       $  224,355       $1,225,255
  Real estate construction .......    358,317               --               --          358,317
  Agricultural ...................    234,944           52,199            7,896          295,039
  Commercial .....................    495,768          324,463           83,832          904,063
  Consumer and other .............    114,707          417,594           71,167          603,468
                                  --------------------------------------------------------------
  Total loans .................... $1,682,869       $1,316,023       $  387,250       $3,386,142
                                  --------------------------------------------------------------

Fixed interest rate loans ........ $  446,944       $1,165,329       $  378,230       $1,990,503
Floating interest rate loans .....  1,235,925          150,694            9,020        1,395,639
                                  --------------------------------------------------------------
  Total loans .................... $1,682,869       $1,316,023       $  387,250       $3,386,142
                                  --------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>



CAPITAL MANAGEMENT
Risk-based guidelines established by regulatory agencies require the Company to
maintain minimum amounts and ratios of total and Tier I capital to risk-weighted
assets, and of Tier I capital to average assets.

     As of December 31, 1998, the Company is considered well capitalized under
the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action. To be categorized as well
capitalized, the Company must maintain minimum total risk-based, Tier I
risk-based and Tier I leverage ratios as set forth in the table.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    REGULATORY CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                          TIER I       TOTAL RISK-            TOTAL RISK-
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)                   CAPITAL    BASED CAPITAL  LEVERAGE  BASED ASSETS
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                      <C>           <C>          <C>      <C>
Minimum ................................   4.00%        8.00%       3.00%           N/A
Well-Capitalized .......................   6.00%       10.00%       5.00%           N/A
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Community First Bankshares, Inc. 
December 31, 1998 ......................   9.35%       12.08%       6.40%    $4,045,169
December 31, 1997 ......................  11.53%       14.98%       7.51%    $3,502,962
</TABLE>


     Due to the Company's level of Tier 1 capital and substantial level of
earning assets invested in low risk government agency and mortgage-backed
securities, the Company's risk-based capital ratios significantly exceed the
regulatory minimums. The Company conducts an ongoing assessment of its capital
needs in order to maintain an adequate level of capital to support business
growth, to ensure depositor protection and to facilitate corporate expansion.
Management continues to explore steps to increase its capital levels to permit
it to make future acquisitions. Portions of the subordinated debt financing
referred to under "Borrowings," above, are treated as Tier 2 capital.



This Annual Report contains forward-looking statements under the Private
Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that are subject to certain risks and
uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from
historical earnings and those presently anticipated or projected. The Company
wishes to caution readers not to place undue reliance on any such
forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. Factors that
could cause actual results to differ from the results discussed in the
forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: risks related to the
Company's acquisition strategy, including risks of adversely changing results of
operations and possible factors affecting the Company's ability to consummate
and profitably integrate operations of institutions acquired in the future;
risks of loans and investments, including dependence on local economic
conditions; competition for the Company's customers from other providers of
financial services; possible adverse effects of changes in interest rates;
possible risks associated with the Year 2000 issue, and other risks detailed in
the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which risks
are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond the control of the
Company.

                                                                             22

<PAGE>

                                 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
                                                COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31 (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)                                  1998               1997
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                                     (RESTATED)
<S>                                                                                             <C>                <C>
ASSETS
Cash and due from banks ....................................................................... $   250,963        $   254,676
Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell ........................         100             76,455
Interest-bearing deposits .....................................................................       5,067             12,131
Available-for-sale securities .................................................................   1,980,530          1,539,922
Held-to-maturity securities (Fair Value: 1998 - $69,906, 1997 - $223,829) .....................      69,906            221,991
Loans .........................................................................................   3,386,142          3,024,322
   Less: Allowance for Loan Losses ............................................................     (50,173)           (40,045)
                                                                                                ------------------------------
Net Loans .....................................................................................   3,335,969          2,984,277
Bank premises and equipment, net ..............................................................     123,254            116,637
Accrued interest receivable ...................................................................      51,429             45,221
Intangible assets .............................................................................     133,231             97,563
Other assets ..................................................................................      52,523            105,262
                                                                                                ------------------------------
Total assets .................................................................................. $ 6,002,972        $ 5,454,135
                                                                                                ------------------------------

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Deposits:
  Noninterest-bearing ......................................................................... $   547,703            705,315
  Interest-bearing:
         Savings and NOW accounts .............................................................   2,254,005          1,586,777
         Time accounts over $100,000 ..........................................................     604,859            474,091
         Other time accounts ..................................................................   1,478,105          1,386,735
                                                                                                ------------------------------
Total deposits ................................................................................   4,884,672          4,152,918

Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase ....................     143,057             44,462
Other short-term borrowings ...................................................................     292,669            230,777
Long-term debt ................................................................................      93,472            124,529
Accrued interest payable ......................................................................      26,650             22,704
Due to brokers ................................................................................          --            340,457
Other liabilities .............................................................................      37,206             30,275
                                                                                                ------------------------------
Total liabilities .............................................................................   5,477,726          4,946,122

Company-obligated mandatorily redeemable preferred securities of CFB Capital I and II .........     120,000            120,000
Shareholders' equity:
  Common stock, par value $.01 per share:
      Authorized Shares - 80,000,000
      Issued Shares - 47,683,452 ..............................................................         477                474
  Capital surplus .............................................................................     172,043            170,662
  Retained earnings ...........................................................................     231,689            212,638
  Accumulated other comprehensive income ......................................................      13,146              5,622
  Less: Cost of common stock in treasury - 1998 - 564,588 shares; 1997 - 72,510 shares ........     (12,109)            (1,383)
                                                                                                ------------------------------
Total shareholders' equity ....................................................................     405,246            388,013
                                                                                                ------------------------------
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity .................................................... $ 6,002,972        $ 5,454,135
                                                                                                ------------------------------
</TABLE>

SEE ACCOMPANYING NOTES.



23



<PAGE>

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31 (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)                         1998            1997           1996
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                         (RESTATED)      (RESTATED)
<C>                                                                                   <C>             <C>             <C>
INTEREST INCOME:
     Loans .......................................................................... $    323,315    $    258,859    $    218,307
     Investment securities ..........................................................      122,173          64,234          49,077
     Interest-bearing deposits ......................................................          721             767             794
     Federal funds sold and resale agreements .......................................        3,035           2,659           2,020
                                                                                      --------------------------------------------
Total interest income ...............................................................      449,244         326,519         270,198

Interest expense:
     Deposits .......................................................................      160,576         119,024          94,522
     Short-term and other borrowings ................................................       19,576           9,465           9,359
     Long-term debt .................................................................        8,332           6,051           4,880
                                                                                      --------------------------------------------
Total interest expense ..............................................................      188,484         134,540         108,761
                                                                                      --------------------------------------------
Net interest income .................................................................      260,760         191,979         161,437
Provision for loan losses ...........................................................       22,509           6,107           7,483
                                                                                      --------------------------------------------
Net interest income after provision for loan losses .................................      238,251         185,872         153,954

NONINTEREST INCOME:
     Service charges on deposit accounts ............................................       30,266          21,059          16,031
     Insurance commissions ..........................................................        7,197           5,375           5,213
     Fees from fiduciary activities .................................................        4,944           3,805           3,332
     Net gains on sales of securities ...............................................        1,801             466              93
     Other ..........................................................................       16,052          16,498          12,277
                                                                                      --------------------------------------------
Total noninterest income ............................................................       60,260          47,203          36,946

NONINTEREST EXPENSE:
     Salaries and employee benefits .................................................      114,014          78,380          66,298
     Net occupancy ..................................................................       32,110          23,285          18,852
     FDIC insurance .................................................................          686             381             675
     Legal and accounting ...........................................................        4,073           2,269           2,481
     Other professional service .....................................................        5,447           2,892           2,305
     Acquisition expense ............................................................        3,721             398           2,928
     Data processing ................................................................        4,640           1,782           1,842
     Company-obligated mandatorily redeemable preferred securities of CFB 
        Capital I & II...............................................................       10,218           5,108              --
     Amortization of intangibles ....................................................       10,366           5,550           3,433
     Impairment of equity method investment .........................................           --              --             940
     Other ..........................................................................       44,817          29,908          26,226
                                                                                      --------------------------------------------
Total noninterest expense ...........................................................      230,092         149,953         125,980

Income from continuing operations before income taxes and extraordinary item ........       68,419          83,122          64,920
Provision for income taxes ..........................................................       21,448          24,811          23,398
                                                                                      --------------------------------------------
Income from continuing operations before extraordinary item .........................       46,971          58,311          41,522
Discontinued Operations:
     Loss/income from operations of discontinued operations (Less applicable 
        income taxes) ...............................................................       (2,232)            967              --
     Loss on disposal of discontinued operations, including provision for 
        operating losses during phase-out period (less applicable income taxes) .....       (1,676)             --              --
                                                                                      --------------------------------------------
Income before extraordinary item .................................................... $     43,063    $     59,278    $     41,522
Extraordinary item:
Loss on early extinguishment of debt, net of taxes ..................................           --            (265)             --
                                                                                      --------------------------------------------
Net Income ..........................................................................       43,063          59,013          41,522
                                                                                      --------------------------------------------
Preferred stock dividend ............................................................           --              --           1,610
                                                                                      --------------------------------------------
Net income applicable to common equity .............................................. $     43,063    $     59,013    $     39,912
                                                                                      --------------------------------------------
Earnings per common and common equivalent share:
Basic income per share from continuing operations before extraordinary item ......... $       0.99    $       1.35    $       1.01
Discontinued operations .............................................................         (.08)           0.02              --
Extraordinary item ..................................................................           --           (0.01)             --
                                                                                      --------------------------------------------
Basic net income .................................................................... $       0.91    $       1.36    $       1.01
                                                                                      --------------------------------------------
Diluted income per share from continuing operations before extraordinary item ....... $       0.98    $       1.31    $       0.97
Discontinued operations .............................................................         (.08)           0.02              --
Extraordinary item ..................................................................           --           (0.01)             --
                                                                                      --------------------------------------------
Diluted net income .................................................................. $       0.90    $       1.32    $       0.97
                                                                                      --------------------------------------------
Average common and common equivalent shares outstanding:
     Basic ..........................................................................   47,280,245      43,461,264      39,429,607
     Diluted ........................................................................   47,881,575      44,649,922      42,695,783
</TABLE>

SEE ACCOMPANYING NOTES.

                                                                             24

<PAGE>

                                 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
                                                COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)                                      1998            1997            1996
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                                              <C>            <C>              <C>
Net Income ....................................................................  $ 43,063        $ 59,013        $ 39,912
Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
     Unrealized gains on securities:
            Unrealized holding gains arising during period ....................     7,524           4,444            (762)
            Less: Reclassified adjustment for gains Included in net income ....      (864)           (294)            (52)
                                                                                 -----------------------------------------
Other comprehensive income ....................................................     6,660           4,150            (814)
                                                                                 -----------------------------------------
Comprehensive income ..........................................................  $ 49,723        $ 63,163        $ 39,098
                                                                                 -----------------------------------------
</TABLE>

SEE ACCOMPANYING NOTES.


                                 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
                                                COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                PREFERRED STOCK          COMMON STOCK
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998, 1997, 1996                    ---------------------     ----------------      CAPITAL    RETAINED
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)                                       SHARES         AMOUNT     SHARES    AMOUNT      SURPLUS    EARNINGS
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                        <C>         <C>         <C>           <C>        <C>         <C>
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1995 .............................  230,000    $ 23,000    38,773,036    $  388     $ 75,904    $139,226 
Net income ...............................................       --          --            --        --           --      41,522 
Preferred stock dividends ($7.00 per share) ..............       --          --            --        --           --      (1,610)
Common stock dividends ($0.29 per share) .................       --          --            --        --           --      (9,728)
Issuance of common stock .................................       --          --     1,765,169        17       10,015       4,920 
Retirement of common stock ...............................       --          --      (184,834)       (2)        (729)     (1,139)
Purchases of common stock for treasury, at cost ..........       --          --            --        --           --          -- 
Sales of treasury stock to employee benefit plans ........       --          --            --        --          162          -- 
Exercise of options, net of stock
    tendered in payment ..................................       --          --       430,398         5        2,827        (321)
Conversion of convertible preferred stock ................     (125)        (12)           --        --           --          (5)
Change in unrealized loss on available-for-sale
    securities, net of income tax benefit of $661 ........       --          --            --        --           --          -- 
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1996 .............................  229,875    $ 22,988    40,783,769    $  408     $ 88,179    $172,865 
Net income ...............................................       --          --            --        --           --      59,013 
Common stock dividends ($0.35 per share) .................       --          --            --        --           --     (19,034)
Purchases of common stock for treasury, at cost ..........       --          --            --        --           --          -- 
Sales of common stock to
    employee benefit plans ...............................       --          --        68,486         2        1,066          -- 
Issuance of common stock .................................       --          --     6,512,888        64       79,029       1,315 
Retirement of common stock ...............................       --          --        (1,781)       --           --          -- 
Exercise of options, net of stock
    tendered in payment ..................................       --          --            --        --        2,388      (1,521)
Conversion of convertible preferred stock ................ (229,875)    (22,988)           --        --           --          -- 
Change in unrealized loss on available-for-sale
    securities, net of income taxes of $2,168 ............       --          --            --        --           --          -- 
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1997 .............................       --          --    47,363,362    $  474     $170,662    $212,638 
Net income ...............................................       --          --            --        --           --      43,063 
Common stock dividends ($0.44 per share) .................       --          --            --        --           --     (19,705)
Purchases of common stock for treasury, at cost ..........       --          --            --        --           --          -- 
Issuance of common stock .................................       --          --       320,090         3        1,381          -- 
Exercise of options, net of stock
         tendered in payment .............................       --          --            --        --           --      (4,307)
Change in unrealized loss on available-for-sale
    securities, net of income taxes of $4,742 ............       --          --            --        --           --          -- 
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1998 .............................       --          --    47,683,452    $  477     $172,043    $231,689 
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                         TREASURY STOCK
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998, 1997, 1996                    UNREALIZED             ----------------------
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)                                        GAIN(LOSS)            SHARES          AMOUNT           TOTAL
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                          <C>             <C>                  <C>             <C>
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1995 .............................      $ 1,940            157,248        $ (1,064)       $239,394 
Net income ...............................................           --                 --              --          41,522 
Preferred stock dividends ($7.00 per share) ..............           --                 --              --          (1,610)
Common stock dividends ($0.29 per share) .................           --                 --              --          (9,728)
Issuance of common stock .................................           --                 --              --          14,952 
Retirement of common stock ...............................           --                 --              --          (1,870)
Purchases of common stock for treasury, at cost ..........           --            129,800          (1,535)         (1,535)
Sales of treasury stock to employee benefit plans ........           --            (45,164)            307             469 
Exercise of options, net of stock                                                                                          
    tendered in payment ..................................           --           (138,698)          1,050           3,561 
Conversion of convertible preferred stock ................           --             (1,566)             17              -- 
Change in unrealized loss on available-for-sale                                                                            
    securities, net of income tax benefit of $661 ........         (762)                --              --            (762)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1996 .............................      $ 1,178            101,620        $ (1,225)       $284,393 
Net income ...............................................           --                 --              --          59,013 
Common stock dividends ($0.35 per share) .................           --                 --              --         (19,034)
Purchases of common stock for treasury, at cost ..........           --            157,000          (2,777)         (2,777)
Sales of common stock to                                                                                                   
    employee benefit plans ...............................           --                 --              --           1,068 
Issuance of common stock .................................           --                 --              --          80,408 
Retirement of common stock ...............................           --                 --              --              -- 
Exercise of options, net of stock                                                                                          
    tendered in payment ..................................           --           (186,110)          2,619           3,486 
Conversion of convertible preferred stock ................           --                 --              --         (22,988)
Change in unrealized loss on available-for-sale                                                                            
    securities, net of income taxes of $2,168 ............        4,444                 --              --           4,444 
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1997 .............................      $ 5,622             72,510        $ (1,383)       $388,013 
Net income ...............................................           --                 --              --          43,063 
Common stock dividends ($0.44 per share) .................           --                 --              --         (19,705)
Purchases of common stock for treasury, at cost ..........           --            731,000         (16,314)        (16,314)
Issuance of common stock .................................           --                 --              --           1,384 
Exercise of options, net of stock                                                                                          
         tendered in payment .............................           --           (238,922)          5,588           1,281 
Change in unrealized loss on available-for-sale                                                                            
    securities, net of income taxes of $4,742 ............        7,524                 --              --           7,524 
                                                                                                                           
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1998 .............................      $13,146            564,588        $(12,109)       $405,246 
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

SEE ACCOMPANYING NOTES.


25

<PAGE>


STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOWS
COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31(IN THOUSANDS)                                                1998               1997               1996
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                   (RESTATED)         (RESTATED)
<S>                                                                           <C>                <C>                <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Income from continuing operations ..........................................  $    46,971        $    58,046        $    41,522
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by 
 operating activities:
   Provision for loan losses ...............................................       22,509              6,107              7,483
   Depreciation ............................................................       15,450             10,468              8,122
   Amortization of intangibles .............................................       10,366              5,550              3,433
   Net amortization of premiums and discounts on securities ................         (813)               (68)             1,867
   Deferred income tax benefit .............................................       (6,585)            (3,500)            (4,084)
   Decrease in interest receivable .........................................       (6,208)            (5,154)                (3)
   Increase in interest payable ............................................        3,946              1,744                323
   Other, net ..............................................................      (59,965)             8,042             (4,372)
                                                                            ---------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by operating activities ..................................       25,671             81,235             54,291

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired .........................................           --            145,351             14,026
Net decrease (increase) in interest-bearing deposits .......................        7,064             (4,639)            (1,733)
Purchases of available-for-sale securities .................................   (2,952,170)          (739,549)          (233,826)
Maturities of available-for-sale securities ................................    2,193,292            367,211            219,778
Sales of securities, net of gains ..........................................      145,125             75,136             30,461
Purchases of held-to-maturity securities ...................................      (11,425)           (35,542)           (31,213)
Maturities of held-to-maturity securities ..................................        9,277             31,466             34,648
Net increase in loans ......................................................     (302,665)          (171,794)          (277,870)
Net increase in bank premises and equipment ................................      (22,067)           (20,935)           (19,735)
Net decrease (increase) in minority interest ...............................           --             (2,946)               468
                                                                            ---------------------------------------------------
Net cash used in investing activities ......................................     (933,569)          (356,241)          (264,996)

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Net increase in demand deposits, NOW accounts and
   savings accounts ........................................................      509,616             48,010             85,393
Net increase in time accounts ..............................................      222,138             68,960              6,107
Net increase in short-term and other borrowings ............................      160,218             23,358            157,696
Net decrease (increase) in long-term debt ..................................      (30,788)            68,587            (34,594)
Net proceeds from issuance of Company-obligated 
   mandatorily redeemable preferred securities of CFB
   Capital I and II ........................................................           --            120,000                 --
Net proceeds from issuance of common stock .................................        1,384             80,408             14,952
Conversion of preferred stock to common stock ..............................           --            (22,988)                --
Purchase of common stock held in treasury ..................................      (16,314)            (2,777)            (1,535)
Sale of common stock held in treasury ......................................        1,281              4,554              4,030
Retirement of common stock .................................................           --                 --             (1,870)
Preferred stock dividends paid .............................................           --                 --             (1,610)
Common stock dividends paid ................................................      (19,705)           (19,034)            (9,728)
                                                                            ---------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by financing activities ..................................      827,830            369,078            218,841
                                                                            ---------------------------------------------------
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents .......................      (80,068)            94,072              8,136
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year .............................      331,131            237,059            228,923
                                                                            ---------------------------------------------------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year ...................................  $   251,063        $   331,131        $   237,059
                                                                            ---------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

SEE ACCOMPANYING NOTES.


                                                                       26

<PAGE>

     DECEMBER 31, 1998, 1997 AND 1996 NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                                                COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.


                       1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Community First Bankshares, Inc. (the "Company") is a multi-bank holding 
company which, at the end of 1998, served 154 communities in Arizona, 
Colorado, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, 
Utah, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. The Company's community banks provide a full 
range of banking services, primarily in small and medium-sized communities 
and the surrounding communities. In addition to its primary emphasis on 
commercial and consumer banking services, the Company offers trust, insurance 
and nondeposit investment products and services.

BASIS OF PRESENTATION
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Community First 
Bankshares, Inc., its wholly owned data processing, credit origination and 
insurance agency subsidiaries and its eleven wholly owned subsidiary banks. 
All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated 
in consolidation. Certain amounts in prior periods have been reclassified to 
conform to the current presentation.

     As discussed in Note 2, the Company acquired Community Bancorp, Inc. 
("CBI") on April 3, 1998, Pioneer Bank of Longmont ("Longmont") on April 30, 
1998, FNB, Inc. ("FNB") on May 7, 1998, Western Bancshares of Las Cruces 
("Western") on July 1, 1998 and Guardian Bancorp ("Guardian") on August 7, 
1998. These acquisitions were accounted for using the pooling of interests 
method. While none of these transactions, individually, was material to the 
Company's financial condition or operating results, the aggregation of these 
business combinations does have a material affect on the Company's financial 
condition and operating results.

     In addition, also discussed in Note 2, the Company acquired Mountain 
Parks Financial Corporation ("Mountain Parks") on December 18, 1996. This 
acquisition was accounted for using the pooling of interests method. 
Accordingly, the consolidated financial information has been restated to 
reflect the results of operations of the seven companies on a combined basis 
for all periods presented.

     On April 28, 1998, the shareholders approved a charter amendment that 
facilitated a two-for-one split of the Company's common stock, in the form of 
a 100 percent dividend payable to shareholders of record on May 1, 1998 and 
distributed on May 15, 1998. Accordingly, the historical consolidated 
information has been restated to reflect the impact of the two-for-one split 
on the common share, weighted average common share, and basic and diluted 
earnings per share data.

USE OF ESTIMATES
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted 
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions 
that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of 
contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and 
the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. 
Actual results could differ from those estimates.

HELD-TO-MATURITY AND AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE SECURITIES
Management determines the classification of debt securities at the time of 
purchase and reevaluates such designation as of each balance sheet date. Debt 
securities are classified as held-to-maturity when the Company has the 
positive intent and ability to hold the securities to maturity. 
Held-to-maturity securities are stated at amortized cost.

     Debt securities not classified as held-to-maturity are classified as 
available-for-sale. Available-for-sale securities are stated at fair value, 
with the unrealized gains and losses, net of tax, reported as a component of 
retained earnings in shareholders' equity.

     The amortized cost of debt securities classified as held-to-maturity or 
available-for-sale is adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of 
discounts to maturity or, in the case of mortgage-backed securities, over the 
estimated life of the security. Such amortization and accretion is included 
as an adjustment to interest income from investments. Realized gains and 
losses and declines in value judged to be other-than-temporary are included 
in net securities gains (losses). The cost of securities sold is based on the 
specific identification method.

LOANS
Loans are stated at their principal balance outstanding, less the allowance for
loan losses. Interest on loans is recognized on an accrual basis. Loans are
placed on nonaccrual when they become past due over 90 days, or earlier, if the
collection of interest or principal is considered unlikely. Thereafter, no
interest income is recognized unless received in cash and until such time as the
borrower demonstrates the ability to pay interest and principal.

LOAN FEE INCOME
The Company recognizes loan fees and certain direct origination costs as a yield
adjustment over the estimated life of the loan, utilizing a method that results
in a constant rate of return.

ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES
The allowance for loan losses is maintained through charges to expense at an
amount that will provide for estimated loan losses. These estimates are based
principally on a continual review of the loan portfolio, loan charge-off
experience, economic conditions and industry guidelines. Ultimate losses may
vary from current estimates, and as adjustments become necessary, the allowance
for loan losses is adjusted in the periods in which such losses become known or
fail to occur. Actual loan charge-offs and subsequent recoveries are deducted
from and added to the allowance, respectively.

BANK PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT
Bank premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. 
Depreciation for financial reporting purposes is provided on the 
straight-line method over the estimated lives of the assets and includes 
amortization of assets recorded under capital leases. Estimated lives range 
from three to twenty and twenty-five to forty years for equipment and 
premises, respectively. Accelerated depreciation methods are used for income 
tax reporting purposes.

INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Goodwill, the excess cost over net assets acquired, of banking subsidiaries 
is amortized over a period of fifteen years. At December 31, 1998, goodwill 
totaled $82,002,000, net of accumulated amortization of $17,162,000. Other 
intangible assets, principally deposit base intangibles, unexpired premium 
lists and noncompetition agreements, totaled $51,229,000, net of accumulated 
amortization of $6,788,000, and are amortized over their estimated useful 
lives ranging from three to twenty-five years.

INCOME TAXES
The Company provides for income taxes based on income reported for financial
statement purposes, rather than amounts currently payable under statutory tax
laws. Deferred taxes are recorded to reflect the tax consequences on future
years differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and the
financial reporting of amounts at each year-end.

EARNINGS PER SHARE
Basic earnings per common share is calculated by dividing net income applicable
to common equity by the weighted average number of shares of common stock
outstanding.

27

<PAGE>


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

     Diluted earnings per common share is based on net income before 
considering the preferred stock dividends declared. The weighted average 
number of shares of common stock outstanding is increased by the assumed 
conversion of convertible preferred stock outstanding and the number of 
shares of common stock that would be issued assuming the exercise of stock 
options and warrants during each period. Such adjustments to the weighted 
average number of shares of common stock outstanding are made only when such 
adjustments dilute earnings per share.

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
Cash and cash equivalents is defined as cash and due from banks, federal 
funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell.

STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
The Company grants stock options for a fixed number of shares to employees 
with an exercise price equal to the fair value of the shares at the date of 
grant. The Company accounts for stock option grants in accordance with APB 
Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees," and, accordingly, 
recognizes no compensation expense for the stock option grants. See Footnote 
14.

                   2. BUSINESS COMBINATIONS AND DIVESTITURES

On August 7, 1998, the Company issued approximately 1,526,000 shares of 
common stock to acquire Guardian Bancorp ("Guardian"), the holding company 
for Guardian State Bank, Salt Lake City, Utah, with offices in Salt Lake City 
and Sandy, Utah. At acquisition, Guardian had approximately $99 million in 
assets and $89 million in deposits. The Company used the pooling of interests 
method to account for the transaction. The Company's consolidated financial 
information has been restated to reflect this merger. The operating results 
are included in the Company's consolidated statements for all periods 
presented.

     On July 1, 1998, the Company issued approximately 1,932,000 shares of 
common stock to acquire Western Bancshares of Las Cruces, Inc. ("Western"), 
the holding company for Western Bank, Las Cruces, New Mexico, with offices in 
Anthony, Hatch, and Las Cruces, New Mexico. At acquisition, Western had 
approximately $159 million in assets and $136 million in deposits. The 
Company used the pooling of interests method to account for the transaction. 
The Company's consolidated financial information has been restated to reflect 
this merger. The operating results are included in the Company's consolidated 
statements for all periods presented.

     On May 7, 1998, the Company issued approximately 1,135,000 shares of 
common stock to acquire FNB, Inc. ("FNB") a bank holding company with banks 
in Greeley, Colorado and Fort Collins, Colorado. At acquisition, FNB had 
approximately $120 million in assets and $109 million in deposits. The 
Company used the pooling of interests method to account for the transaction. 
The Company's consolidated financial information has been restated to reflect 
this merger. The operating results are included in the Company's consolidated 
statements for all periods presented.

     On April 30, 1998, the Company issued approximately 1,432,000 shares of 
common stock to acquire Pioneer Bank of Longmont ("Pioneer"), Longmont, 
Colorado, with offices in Berthoud, Longmont, Lyons, and Niwot, Colorado. At 
acquisition, Pioneer had approximately $138 million in assets and $128 
million in deposits. The Company used the pooling of interests method to 
account for the transaction. The Company's consolidated financial information 
has been restated to reflect this merger. The operating results are included 
in the Company's consolidated statements for all periods presented.

     On April 3, 1998, the Company issued approximately 853,000 shares of 
common stock to acquire Community Bancorp., Inc. ("CBI"), the parent company 
of Community First National Bank, Thornton, Colorado, with two offices in 
Thornton, Colorado and one office in Arvada, Colorado. At acquisition, CBI 
had approximately $78 million in assets and $72 million in deposits. The 
Company used the pooling of interests method to account for the transaction. 
The Company's consolidated financial information has been restated to reflect 
this merger. The operating results are included in the Company's consolidated 
statements for all periods presented.

     The operating results of the Company and Guardian, Western, FNB, 
Pioneer, and CBI, ("Acquired Banks") for the years ended December 31, 1997 
and 1996 prior to restatement were:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                              THE      ACQUIRED
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)     COMPANY         BANKS       COMBINED
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                      <C>           <C>            <C>
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997:
   Net interest income ............      $161,344      $ 30,635       $191,979
   Net income applicable to
     common equity ................        46,552        12,461         59,013
   Earnings per share:
     Basic ........................      $   1.26      $   1.91       $   1.36
     Diluted ......................      $   1.22      $   1.91       $   1.32

YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996:
   Net interest income ............      $134,192      $ 27,245       $161,437
   Net Income .....................        32,510         9,012         41,522
   Net income applicable to
     common equity ................        30,900         9,012         39,912
   Earnings per share:
     Basic ........................      $   0.94      $   1.41       $   1.01
     Diluted ......................      $   0.90      $   1.41       $   0.97
</TABLE>

     In July 1998, the Company sold the operating assets of its two sub-prime 
lending subsidiaries. Seven loan production offices of Equity Lending, Inc. 
("Equity Lending") were sold to FIRSTPLUS Financial Group, Inc., in a cash 
transaction on July 27, 1998. Servicing rights to the portfolio of automobile 
installment contracts originated by Mountain Parks Financial Services, Inc. 
("MPFS") were acquired by Cygnet Financial Services, Inc. on July 31, 1998. 
At December 31, 1998, the Company retained $25 million in loans originated by 
Equity Lending and servicing rights on an additional $100 million in Equity 
Lending loans sold to other parties. At December 31, 1998, the Company also 
retained $40 million in auto installment contracts originated by MPFS. In 
addition to a fourth quarter charge of $10 million in anticipation of 
liquidating these companies, the Company recorded a $3.9 million loss on 
these companies during the first and second quarter of 1998, when the 
companies were classified as discontinued operations. Losses on the 
discontinued operations included a $2.2 million operating loss and a $1.7 
million expected loss on disposal. Equity Lending, which originates 
residential non-conforming mortgages and MPFS, which purchases sub-prime auto 
installment contracts, were acquired in December 1996, as a result of the 
Company's merger with Mountain Parks Financial Corporation. The two companies 
were classified as discontinued operations on the Company's 1997 financial 
statements.

     On June 12, 1998, the Company, through its Colorado subsidiary, 
completed the sale of its office in Ault, Colorado. The Ault office was 
acquired on January 23, 1998 as part of the Company's purchase and assumption 
of 37 offices of Banc One Corporation located in Arizona, Colorado, and Utah. 
The transaction included the disposition of approximately $9 million in 
deposits.

     On January 23, 1998, the Company completed the purchase and assumption 
of approximately $730 million in assets and liabilities of 37 offices of Banc 
One Corporation located in Arizona, Colorado and Utah. The transaction was 
accounted for as a purchase of certain assets and

                                                                          28

<PAGE>

                                     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                                                COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

assumption of certain liabilities and resulted in the recognition of a 
deposit based intangible of approximately $44 million.

     On December 1, 1997, the Company issued approximately 630,000 shares of 
common stock to acquire First National Summit Bankshares, Inc. ("Summit"), a 
one-bank holding company headquartered in Gunnison, Colorado. At acquisition, 
Summit had approximately $90 million in assets and $82 million in deposits at 
banking offices located in Crested Butte, Fruitvale, Grand Junction, 
Gunnison, and Mt. Crested Butte, Colorado. The Company used the pooling of 
interests method to account for the transaction. This merger was not material 
to the Company's financial condition or operating results. Accordingly, the 
Company's consolidated financial information has not been restated to reflect 
this merger. The operating results are included in the Company's consolidated 
financial statement from the date of merger.

     On November 24, 1997, the Company issued approximately 737,000 shares of 
common stock to acquire Republic National Bancorp, Inc. ("Republic"), a 
holding company with one bank in Phoenix, Arizona. At acquisition, Republic 
had approximately $54 million in assets and $49 million in deposits. The 
Company used the pooling of interests method to account for the transaction. 
This merger was not material to the Company's consolidated financial 
information or operating results. Accordingly, the Company's consolidated 
financial information has not been restated to reflect this merger. The 
operating results are included in the Company's consolidated financial 
statements from the date of the merger.

     On July 14, 1997, the Company completed the acquisition of KeyBank 
National Association, Cheyenne, Wyoming ("KeyBank Wyoming") with 28 banking 
offices located in 24 communities throughout the state of Wyoming. The 
transaction, which was accounted for as a purchase, resulted in the addition 
of approximately $1.1 billion in assets and $900 million in deposits and the 
recognition of goodwill of approximately $60 million. The operating results 
of KeyBank Wyoming, subsequent to the date of acquisition, are included in 
the Company's consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition.

     The following unaudited proforma consolidated financial information for 
the year ended December 31, 1997, reflects the results of operations as if 
the acquisition of KeyBank Wyoming had occurred on January 1, 1997. In 
addition to combining the historical results of operations of the two 
companies, the proforma operating results include adjustments for the 
estimated effect of purchase accounting on the Company's results, principally 
amortization of intangibles, adjustments to reflect the estimated impact on 
income and expense related to the assets and liabilities retained by KeyCorp 
and assumes the following were completed at the beginning of the period 
presented: (i) the $60 million offering of 8.875% Cumulative Capital 
Securities of CFB Capital I completed in February 1997; (ii) the redemption 
on March 31, 1997 of the Company's 7.75% Subordinated Notes due 2000 in the 
principal amount of $23 million; and (iii) the conversion during March 1997 
of substantially all of the Company's 7% Cumulative Convertible Preferred 
Stock.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)  YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997 (UNAUDITED)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                                <C>
Net Interest Income ............................................   $   209,649
Income from continuing operations ..............................        60,826
Income before extraordinary item ...............................        61,793
Net Income .....................................................        61,528
Earnings per common share
   Basic .......................................................   $      1.40
   Diluted .....................................................   $      1.38

</TABLE>

     The proforma information may not be indicative of the results that 
actually would have occurred if the combination had been in effect on the 
date indicated or that may be obtained in the future.

     On April 30, 1997, the Company sold its 24.36% minority interest in Vail 
Banks, Inc., the parent company of WestStar Bank, Vail, Colorado for 
approximately $3 million. The sale was completed in response to regulatory 
requirements with regard to competitive factors resulting from the Company's 
December 1996 acquisition of Mountain Parks.

     On April 4, 1997, the Company, through its Colorado subsidiary, 
completed the sale of its offices in Grandby and Grand Lake, Colorado in 
response to regulatory requirements with regard to competitive factors 
resulting from the Company's merger with Mountain Parks. The transaction 
included approximately $24 million in deposits and resulted in the 
recognition of a gain of approximately $2.8 million.

     The operating results subsequent to the date of acquisition of all of 
the companies acquired in purchase transactions are included in the Company's 
consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 1998, 1997 
and 1996.

                             3. ACCOUNTING CHANGES

SFAS No. 130 - Reporting Comprehensive Income - In June 1997, the FASB issued 
Statement 130, Reporting Comprehensive Income. This statement establishes 
standards for the reporting and display of comprehensive income and its 
components in a full set of financial statements. The Statement requires that 
all items that are required to be recognized under accounting standards as 
components of comprehensive income be reported in a financial statement that 
is displayed as prominently as other financial statements. The Statement 
requires the classification of items of other comprehensive income separately 
from retained earnings and capital surplus in the equity section of the 
statement of financial position. SFAS 130 was effective January 1, 1998, with 
all prior periods presented restated to conform to the provisions of this 
statement.

     Accumulated other comprehensive income consists of unrealized gains and 
losses on available-for-sale securities. Ending accumulated comprehensive 
income balances and the income tax expense allocated to amounts of unrealized 
gains and losses on available-for-sale securities are disclosed in the 
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity.


29


<PAGE>

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

                                 4. SECURITIES

The following is a summary of available-for-sale securities and 
held-to-maturity securities at December 31, 1998 (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                          AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE SECURITIES
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                GROSS             GROSS       ESTIMATED
                                           AMORTIZED       UNREALIZED        UNREALIZED            FAIR
                                                COST            GAINS            LOSSES           VALUE
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                       <C>              <C>              <C>              <C>
United States Treasury .................  $  129,820       $    2,105       $        1       $  131,924
United States Government agencies ......     351,122            2,416              580          352,958
Mortgage-backed securities .............   1,205,771           14,621            1,336        1,219,056
Collateralized mortgage obligations ....      61,760              391              101           62,050
State and political securities .........     134,198            3,321              314          137,205
Other securities .......................      76,870            1,520            1,053           77,337
                                          -------------------------------------------------------------
Total ..................................  $1,959,541       $   24,374       $    3,385       $1,980,530
                                          -------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                  HELD-TO-MATURITY SECURITIES
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                          GROSS        GROSS   ESTIMATED
                         AMORTIZED   UNREALIZED   UNREALIZED        FAIR
                              COST        GAINS       LOSSES       VALUE
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                      <C>         <C>          <C>           <C>
Other securities .......   $69,906       $  --       $  --       $69,906
                          ----------------------------------------------
Total ..................   $69,906       $  --       $  --       $69,906
                          ----------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

     The following is a summary of available-for-sale securities and
held-to-maturity securities at December 31, 1997 (in thousands):


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE SECURITIES

                                                                GROSS            GROSS       ESTIMATED
                                            AMORTIZED      UNREALIZED       UNREALIZED            FAIR
                                                 COST           GAINS           LOSSES           VALUE
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                       <C>              <C>              <C>              <C>
United States Treasury .................. $  146,228       $    1,048       $      150       $  147,126
United States Government agencies .......    286,976            1,137              366          287,747
Mortgage-backed securities ..............    834,110            6,755              508          840,357
Collateralized mortgage obligations .....    107,799              403               99          108,103
State and political securities ..........     71,055              912              105           71,862
Other securities ........................     85,032               37              342           84,727
                                         --------------------------------------------------------------
Total ................................... $1,531,200       $   10,292       $    1,570       $1,539,922
                                         --------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     HELD-TO-MATURITY SECURITIES

                                                          GROSS         GROSS       ESTIMATED
                                      AMORTIZED      UNREALIZED    UNREALIZED            FAIR
                                           COST           GAINS        LOSSES           VALUE
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                    <C>           <C>           <C>               <C>
United States Treasury ................ $  1,536       $      3       $     --       $  1,539
United States Government agencies .....   19,780             87             34         19,833
Mortgage-backed securities ............   82,357            567            672         82,252
State and political securities ........   52,702          1,915             19         54,598
Other securities ......................   65,616             --              9         65,607
                                       ------------------------------------------------------
Total ................................. $221,991       $  2,572       $    734       $223,829
                                       ------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

     Proceeds from the sale of available-for-sale securities during the years
ended December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996, were $146,926,000, $75,600,000, and
$30,558,000, respectively. Gross gains of $1,870,000, $550,000, and $200,000 and
gross losses of $69,000, $86,000, and $103,000 were realized on those sales
during 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively. The tax effect on the net gains during
1998, 1997 and 1996 was approximately $630,000, $162,000, and $34,000,
respectively. Transfers of held-to-maturity securities to available-for-sale
were completed to conform certain portions of the investment portfolio to
designations made in connection with business combinations. There were no sales
of held-to-maturity securities during 1998, 1997 or 1996.

     The amortized cost and estimated fair value of debt securities at December
31, 1998, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Expected maturities may
differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call
or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    AMORTIZED        ESTIMATED
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE (IN THOUSANDS)                        COST       FAIR VALUE
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                              <C>              <C>
Due in one year or less .......................  $     79,152     $     79,633
Due after one year through five years .........       299,545          303,675
Due after five years through ten years ........       172,492          173,237
Due after ten years ...........................       140,821          142,879
                                                 -----------------------------
                                                      692,010          699,424
Mortgage-backed securities ....................     1,205,771        1,219,056
Collateralized mortgage obligations ...........        61,760           62,050
                                                 -----------------------------
Total .........................................  $  1,959,541     $  1,980,530
                                                 -----------------------------
</TABLE>


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                    AMORTIZED        ESTIMATED
HELD-TO-MATURITY (IN THOUSANDS)                          COST       FAIR VALUE
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                              <C>              <C>
Due in one year or less .......................  $         45     $         45
Due after one year through five years .........           122              122
Due after five years through ten years ........            --               --
Due after ten years ...........................        69,739           69,739
                                                 -----------------------------
                                                       69,906           69,906
Mortgage-backed securities ....................            --               --
                                                 -----------------------------
Total .........................................  $     69,906     $     69,906
                                                 -----------------------------
</TABLE>

     At December 31, 1998, available-for-sale securities included $1,529,000 in
commitments to purchase specific investment securities at a future date.

     Available-for-sale and held-to-maturity securities carried at $993,734,000
and $826,043,000 at December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively, were pledged to
secure borrowings, public and trust deposits and for other purposes required by
law. Securities sold under agreement to repurchase were collateralized by
available-for-sale and held-to-maturity securities with an aggregate carrying
value of $134,557,000 and $61,749,000 at December 31, 1998 and 1997,
respectively.


                                                                             30

<PAGE>

                                     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                                                COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

                               5. LOANS

The composition of the loan portfolio at December 31 was as follows 
(in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------
                                            1998               1997 
- -------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                  <C>                <C>
Real estate ........................ $ 1,225,255        $ 1,152,918
Real estate construction ...........     358,317            247,486
Commercial .........................     904,063            778,176
Consumer and other .................     603,468            552,384
Agriculture ........................     295,039            293,358
                                     ------------------------------
                                       3,386,142          3,024,322
Less allowance for loan losses .....     (50,173)           (40,045)
                                     ------------------------------
Net Loans .......................... $ 3,335,969        $ 2,984,277
                                     ------------------------------
</TABLE>

     At December 31, 1998, real estate loans totaling $360,000,000 were pledged
to secure borrowings. At December 31, 1998, loans held for sale totaled
$65,000,000, and consisted of consumer loans and real estate loans at the
Company's specialty lending subsidiaries.

     The Company's policy for valuing loans held for sale is to carry the
balances at fair market value.

                          6. ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES

Activity in the allowance was as follows (in thousands): 

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                 1998            1997            1996 
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                          <C>             <C>             <C>
Balance at beginning of year ..............  $ 40,045        $ 30,165        $ 25,906
Allowance of acquired companies (1) .......     1,950          10,065             784
Provision charged to operating expense ....    22,509           6,107           7,483
Loans charged off .........................   (17,966)         (8,903)         (5,512)
Recoveries of loans charged off ...........     3,635           2,611           1,504
                                            -----------------------------------------
Balance at end of year ....................  $ 50,173        $ 40,045        $ 30,165
                                            -----------------------------------------
</TABLE>

(1)  INCLUDES ONLY ACQUISITIONS OF COMPANIES ACCOUNTED FOR AS PURCHASES.

     Nonaccrual loans totaled $22,517,000, $14,801,000, and $15,283,000 at 
December 31, 1998, 1997, and 1996, respectively. The Company includes all 
loans considered impaired under SFAS No. 114 in nonaccrual loans. The amount 
of impaired loans was not material at December 31, 1998. Interest income of 
$3,645,000 on nonaccrual loans would have been recorded during 1998 if the 
loans had been current in accordance with their original terms. During 1998, 
the Company recorded interest income of $1,489,000 related to loans that were 
on nonaccrual status as of December 31, 1998.

     Management determines the adequacy of the allowance based on evaluations 
of the loan portfolio and related commitments, recent loss experience and 
other relevant factors, including economic conditions. This evaluation is 
inherently subjective as it requires estimates, including amounts of future 
cash collections expected on nonaccrual loans that may be susceptible to 
significant change. The allowance for credit losses relating to impaired 
loans is based on the loans observable market price, the collateral for 
certain collateral dependent loans or discounted cash flows.

     The Company allocates the allowance to specific cate gories based on 
relative risk characteristics of the loan portfolio and other financial 
instruments with credit exposure. Commercial and agricultural allocations are 
based on quarterly reviews of individual loans outstanding, including 
commitments to lend and an analysis of the portfolio's recent performance. 
The real estate, including real estate construction, and consumer allocations 
are based on the quarterly analysis of the respective portfolio performance, 
including historical and expected delinquency and charge-off statistics.

                     7. FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Due to the nature of its business and the financing needs of its customers, 
the Company is involved with a large number of financial instruments, the 
majority for which an active market does not exist. Accordingly, the Company 
has used various valuation techniques to estimate the fair value of its 
financial instruments. These techniques are significantly affected by the 
assumptions used, including the discount rate, the estimated timing and 
amount of cash flows and the aggregation methods used to value similar 
instruments. In this regard, the resulting fair value estimates cannot be 
substantiated by comparison to independent markets and, in a majority of 
cases, could not be realized by the immediate sale or settlement of the 
instrument. Also, the estimates reflect a point in time valuation that could 
change significantly based on changes in outside economic factors, such as 
the general level of interest rates. The required disclosures exclude the 
estimated values of nonfinancial instrument cash flows and are not intended 
to provide or estimate a market value of the Company. The following 
assumptions were used by the Company in estimating the fair value of the 
specific financial instruments.

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
The carrying amounts reported in the statement of financial condition 
approximate fair values for these items that have no interest rate or credit 
risk.

FEDERAL FUNDS PURCHASED AND SHORT-TERM BORROWED FUNDS
The carrying amount approximates fair value due to the short maturity of the
instruments and floating interest rates which are tied to market conditions.

AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE AND HELD-TO-MATURITY SECURITIES
Fair values for these items are based on available market quotes. If market
quotes are not available, fair values are based on market quotes of comparable
securities.

INTEREST-BEARING DEPOSITS
The fair value of interest-bearing deposits is estimated using a discounted cash
flow analysis using current market rates of interest-bearing deposits with
similar maturities to discount the future cash flows.

LOANS
The loan portfolio consists of both variable and fixed rate loans. The carrying
amounts of variable rate loans, a majority of which reprice within the next
three months and for which there has been no significant change in credit risk,
are assumed to approximate fair values. The fair values for fixed rate loans are
estimated using discounted cash flow analyses. The discount rates applied are
based on the current interest rates for loans with similar terms to borrowers of
similar credit quality.

DEPOSIT LIABILITIES
The fair value of demand deposits, savings accounts and certain money market
deposits is defined by SFAS No. 107 to be equal to the amount payable on demand
at the date of the financial statements. Fair values for fixed rate certificates
of deposits are estimated using a discounted cash flow analysis that used the
interest rates currently being offered on certificates of deposit to discount
the aggregated expected monthly maturities.


31

<PAGE>

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS
Federal funds purchased, borrowings under repurchase agreements and other
short-term borrowings are at variable rates or have short-term maturities and
their fair value is assumed to approximate their carrying amount.

LONG-TERM DEBT
The fair value of long-term debt is estimated using a discounted cash flow
analysis using current market rates of debt with similar maturities to discount
the future cash flows.

LOAN COMMITMENTS AND LETTERS OF CREDIT
The majority of the Company's commitments have variable rates and do not expose
the Company to interest rate risk. The Company's commitments for fixed rate
loans are evaluated and it is estimated the probability of additional loans
being issued under these commitments is not significant and there is not a fair
value liability.

     The estimated fair values of the Company's financial instruments at
December 31 are shown in the table below (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                       1998                                  1997
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                         CARRYING               FAIR           CARRYING               FAIR
                                           AMOUNT              VALUE             AMOUNT              VALUE
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                   <C>                <C>                <C>                <C>
Financial assets:
  Cash and due from banks ..........  $   250,963        $   250,963        $   254,676        $   254,676
  Federal funds sold and
    resale agreements ..............          100                100             76,455             76,455
  Interest-bearing deposits ........        5,067              5,070             12,131             12,131
  Available-for-sale securities ....    1,980,530          1,980,530          1,539,922          1,539,922
  Held-to-maturity securities ......       69,906             69,906            221,991            223,829
  Loans ............................    3,386,142          3,378,230          3,024,322          3,017,771
  Allowance for loan losses ........      (50,173)           (50,173)           (40,045)           (40,045)
                                      --------------------------------------------------------------------
  Net loans ........................    3,335,969          3,328,057          2,984,277          2,977,726
Financial liabilities:
  Deposits:
    Noninterest-bearing ............  $   547,703        $   547,703        $   705,315        $   705,315
    Interest-bearing:
     Savings and NOW ...............    2,254,005          2,254,005          1,586,777          1,586,777
     Time accounts over $100,000 ...      604,859            605,290            474,091            474,575
     Other time accounts ...........    1,478,105          1,478,453          1,386,735          1,385,616
                                      --------------------------------------------------------------------
Total deposits .....................    4,884,672          4,885,451          4,152,918          4,152,283
Federal funds purchased and
  repurchase agreements ............      143,057            143,057             44,462             44,462
Other short-term borrowings ........      292,669            292,669            230,777            230,777
Long-term debt .....................       93,472             96,031            124,529            124,529
</TABLE>


            8. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS WITH OFF-BALANCE-SHEET RISK AND
                          CONCENTRATIONS OF CREDIT RISK

In the normal course of business, the Company is party to financial instruments
with off-balance-sheet risk. These transactions enable customers to meet their
financing needs and enable the Company to manage its interest rate risk. These
financial instruments include commitments to extend credit and letters of
credit. The contract or notional amounts of these financial instruments at
December 31, 1998 and 1997, were as follows (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ----------------------------------------------------------
                                       1998           1997
- ----------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                <C>            <C>
Commitments to extend credit ..... $627,919       $516,577
Standby letters of credit ........   21,799         19,604
Commercial letters of credit .....    4,354          1,816
</TABLE>

     Commitments to extend credit are legally binding and have fixed expiration
dates or other termination clauses. The Company's exposure to credit loss on
commitments to extend credit, in the event of nonperformance by the
counterparty, is represented by the contractual amounts of the commitments. The
Company monitors its credit risk for commitments to extend credit by applying
the same credit policies in making commitments as it does for loans and by
obtaining collateral to secure commitments based on management's credit
assessment of the counterparty. Collateral held varies, but may include
marketable securities, receivables, inventory, agricultural commodities,
equipment and real estate. Because many of the commitments are expected to
expire without being drawn upon, total commitment amounts do not necessarily
represent the Company's future liquidity requirements. In addition, the Company
also offers various consumer credit line products to its customers that are
cancelable upon notification by the Company, which are included above in
commitments to extend credit.

     Standby letters of credit are conditional commitments issued by the Company
to guarantee the financial performance of a customer to a third party. Those
guarantees are primarily issued to support public and private borrowing
arrangements.

     Commercial letters of credit are issued by the Company on behalf of
customers to ensure payments of amounts owed or collection of amounts receivable
in connection with trade transactions. The Company's exposure to credit loss in
the event of nonperformance by the counterparty is the contractual amount of the
letter of credit and represents the same exposure as that involved in extending
loans.

     The amount of collateral obtained to support letters of credit is based on
a credit assessment of the counterparty. Collateral held may include marketable
securities, receivables, inventory, agricultural commodities, equipment and real
estate. Because the conditions under which the Company is required to fund
letters of credit may not materialize, the liquidity requirements of letters of
credit are expected to be less than the total outstanding commitments.

     The Company's bank subsidiaries grant real estate, agricultural,
commercial, consumer and other loans and commitments and letters of credit to
customers throughout Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Mexico,
North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, Wisconsin and Wyoming. Although the Company
has a diversified loan portfolio, the ability of a significant portion of its
debtors to honor their contracts is dependent upon the agricultural economic
sector. The maximum exposure to accounting loss that could occur, if the
borrowers fail to perform according to the loan agreements and the underlying
collateral proved to be of no value, is the total loan portfolio balances and
commitments and letters of credit.

                                                                           32



<PAGE>

                                     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                                                COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.


                         9. BANK PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT

Bank premises and equipment at December 31 consisted of the following (in
thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                          1998           1997
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                   <C>            <C>
Land ...............................................  $ 18,977       $ 17,976
Buildings ..........................................   121,514        106,554
Furniture, fixtures and equipment ..................    83,841         78,905
Leased property under capital lease obligations ....     9,638         11,454
                                                    -------------------------
                                                       233,970        214,889
Less accumulated depreciation ......................   110,716         98,252
                                                    -------------------------
                                                      $123,254       $116,637
                                                    -------------------------
</TABLE>

                           10. SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS

As of December 31, 1998, the Company's subsidiary banks had $210,000,000 in
Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB") borrowings, which are collateralized by various
investment securities and real estate loans. The interest rates on FHLB
borrowings are variable rates based on short-term market conditions and the term
of the advance, ranging from 4.89% to 5.27% at December 31, 1998. The Company's
subsidiaries had additional short-term borrowings of $68,359,000 outstanding at
December 31, 1998.

     The Company has a short-term line of credit bearing interest at the Federal
Funds rate plus 1.25% that provides for borrowing up to $25,000,000 through
December 31, 1998, with no commitment fee. As of December 31, 1998, the Company
had a balance of $4,725,000 outstanding under this line of credit. The Company
also has a short-term line of credit bearing interest at a variable rate of
LIBOR plus .30% that provides for borrowing up to $25,000,000 through October
29, 1999, with a commitment fee of .15% of the revolving commitment amount. As
of December 31, 1998, the Company had a balance of $16,500,000 outstanding under
this line of credit. The Company has entered into an agreement that allows for
its designated agent to underwrite up to $35,000,000 in commercial paper and has
obtained lines of credit to support these borrowings. As of December 31, 1998,
there was a $14,310,000 commercial paper balance outstanding with a blended rate
of 5.87%. The terms of the lines of credit include certain covenants with which
the Company must comply. At December 31, 1998, the Company was in compliance
with all covenants pertaining to the lines of credit.


                               11. LONG-TERM DEBT

Long-term debt consisted of the following at December 31 (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                         1998           1997 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                                  <C>            <C>
Parent Company:
  Subordinated notes payable,
          interest at 7.30%, payable semi-annually,
          maturing June 30, 2004, unsecured                          $ 60,000       $ 60,000
  Term note payable to bank, interest at 6.19% until
          February 1, 2008, then at .50% over One Year,
          Three Year, or Five Year U.S. Treasury rate, payable
          semi-annually, maturing February 1, 2013,
          secured by real property                                      3,200             --
  Exchangeable subordinated notes payable,
          interest at 9.00% payable quarterly,
          maturing August 15, 2005, unsecured                              --         11,500
  Term note payable to bank, interest at bank's base
          rate (8.50% at December 31, 1997), payable
          quarterly, principal payments of $100,000 due
          annually through October 1, 1999, unsecured                      --            400
  Term note payable to bank, interest at bank's prime
          rate, maturing April 1, 1998, secured by bank stock              --            475
Subsidiaries:
  Federal Home Loan Bank advances,
          interest rates ranging from 5.32% to 8.33%,
          payable quarterly, with maturities ranging from
          November 18, 2002 to March 10, 2010                          27,787         49,112
  Term Note payable to bank, interest at 5.19%
          payable monthly, principal payments ranging
          from $38,700 to $54,600, per schedule
          due monthly through March 31, 2003                            2,356          2,800
  Other Notes Payable                                                     129            242
                                                                ----------------------------
                                                                     $ 93,472       $124,529
                                                                ----------------------------
</TABLE>

     The 7.30% subordinated notes payable are not redeemable, in whole or in
part, by the Company. These notes, of which 100% of the balance qualifies as
Tier II capital under the Federal Reserve Board guidelines, are direct
obligations of the Company and are subordinated to all other indebtedness of the
Company. The terms of the subordinated notes payable include certain covenants
with which the Company must comply. At December 31, 1998, the Company was in
compliance with all covenants pertaining to the subordinated notes payable.

     On October 30, 1998, the Company redeemed all of its 9.00% Exchangeable
Subordinated Notes due August 15, 2005 at a redemption price of 103% of the
principal amount, plus accrued interest to the redemption date. The total
outstanding principal amount of the notes, which were issued on July 1995, was
$11.5 million. The early redemption resulted in a one-time pre-tax charge of
$345,000.


33

<PAGE>

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

Maturities of long-term debt outstanding, primarily of the parent 
company, at December 31, 1998, were (in thousands):

<TABLE>

- --------------------------------------
<S>                            <C>
1999 ..........................$   695
2000 ..........................    736
2001 ..........................    782
2002 .......................... 21,959
2003 ..........................  5,040
Thereafter .................... 64,260
                               -------
                               $93,472
                               -------
- --------------------------------------
</TABLE>

     During March 1997, the Company redeemed its $23 million in aggregate
principal amount of 7.75% Subordinated Notes (the "7.75% Notes"). The 7.75%
Notes were redeemed at par plus accrued interest and resulted in an
extraordinary loss of $265,000, net of taxes, on the early extinguishment of
debt.

       12. COMPANY-OBLIGATED MANDATORILY REDEEMABLE PREFERRED SECURITIES

On December 10, 1997, the Company issued $60 million of 8.20% Cumulative Capital
Securities, through CFB Capital II, a business trust subsidiary organized in
December 1997. The proceeds of the offering were invested by CFB Capital II in
Junior Subordinated Debentures of the Company. The Company used the net proceeds
in part to capitalize its bank subsidiaries in Colorado and Arizona, which
acquired branches of Banc One Corporation, in their respective states. The
debentures will mature not earlier than December 15, 2002, and not later than
December 15, 2027.

     On February 5, 1997, the Company issued $60 million of 8.875% Cumulative
Capital Securities, through CFB Capital I, a business trust subsidiary organized
in January 1997. The proceeds of the offering were invested by CFB Capital I in
Junior Subordinated Debentures of the Company. The Company used a portion of the
net proceeds to redeem $23 million in aggregate principal amount of 7.75%
Subordinated Notes. The remainder of the proceeds of the offering were used for
general corporate purposes, including in part, the purchase of KeyBank Wyoming.
The debentures will mature not earlier than February 1, 2002 and not later than
February 1, 2027.

     At December 31, 1998, the combined $120 million in Capital Securities
qualified as Tier I capital under capital guidelines of the Federal Reserve.

                            13. SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

COMMON STOCK
On April 3, 1998, the Company filed a shelf registration statement with the
Securities and Exchange Commission for the purpose of issuing up to 3,500,000
shares of its common stock. The shares may be offered in acquisition
transactions in exchange for shares of capital stock, partnership interests or
other assets representing an interest, direct or indirect, in other companies or
entities, or in exchange for assets used in or related to the business of such
entities. Amendment No. 1, effective June 11, 1998, increased the shares under
this registration statement to 7,000,000 shares, to reflect the effect of the
shares remaining as of May 15, 1998, when the shareholders approved a charter
amendment to facilitate a two-for-one split of the Company's common stock, in
the form of a 100 percent stock dividend. Subsequently, two additional
acquisitions, totaling 1,609,906 shares, were completed under this registration
statement. At December 31, 1998, there remain 5,390,094 shares to be issued
under the registration statement.

     On December 31, 1997, the Company filed a shelf registration statement with
the Securities and Exchange Commission for the purpose of issuing up to
3,000,000 shares of its common stock. The shares may be offered in acquisition
transactions in exchange for shares of capital stock, partnership interests or
other assets representing an interest, direct or indirect, in other companies or
entities, or in exchange for assets used in or related to the business of such
entities. Amendment No. 2, effective June 22, 1998 increased the shares under
this registration statement to 4,438,207 shares, to reflect the effect of the
shares remaining as of May 15, 1998, when the shareholders approved a charter
amendment to facilitate a two-for-one split of the Company's common stock, in
the form of a 100 percent stock dividend. As of June 22, 1998, two acquisitions
were completed under the registration statement, totaling 1,561,793 shares.
Subsequently, one additional acquisition, totaling 1,932,284 shares, was
completed under this registration statement. At December 31, 1998, there remain
944,130 shares to be issued under the registration statement.

     On December 15, 1997, the Company completed the issuance of 2,000,000
shares of common stock pursuant to the shelf registration described below. The
issuance of these shares occurred at a selling price of $24.75 per share with an
underwriting discount of $.87 per share paid by the Company. The Company used
the proceeds, in combination with the $60 million Capital Securities issue to
capitalize its bank subsidiaries in Colorado and Arizona which acquired branches
of Banc One Corporation.

     On October 9, 1997, the Company filed a shelf registration with the
Securities and Exchange Commission for the offering for cash, from time to time,
of up to $150 million in any combination of common stock, preferred stock or
debt securities. Proceeds from the sale of Securities offered under this shelf
registration will be used to finance acquisitions by the Company and for general
corporate purposes.

     In 1995, the Company extended the common stock repurchase program
established in 1992, which provided for the systematic acquisition of up to
1,200,000 shares of the Company's common stock. In addition, the Company adopted
a new common stock repurchase program providing for a systematic repurchase of
up to 1,200,000 additional shares. The shares acquired are used primarily for
the issuance of common stock upon exercise of stock options, issuance of common
stock under compensation plans, which might include contributions directly to
employees or to an employee stock ownership plan, for preferred stock
conversion, and issuance of common stock for purposes that do not include
business combinations.

PREFERRED STOCK
SHAREHOLDERS' RIGHTS PLAN
The Company adopted a shareholders' rights plan in January 1995 that attached
one right to each share of common stock outstanding on January 19, 1995. Each
right entitles the holder to purchase one one-hundredth of a share of a new
series of junior participating preferred stock of the Company, which has an
initial exercise price of $31.50. The rights become exercisable only upon the
acquisition of 15% or more of the Company's voting stock, or an announcement of
a tender offer or exchange offer to acquire an interest of 15% or more by a
person or group, without the prior consent of the Company. If exercised, or if
the Company is acquired, each right entitles the holder to purchase, at the
exercise price, common stock with a market value equal to two times the exercise
price. The rights, which may be redeemed by the Company in certain
circumstances, expire January 5, 2005.

                                                                             34

<PAGE>

                                     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                                                COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS
The Company is subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered
by the federal banking agencies. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements
can initiate certain mandatory, and possibly additional discretionary, actions
by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on the
Company's consolidated financial statements. Under capital adequacy guidelines
and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, the Company must meet
specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of the Company's
assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance-sheet items as calculated under
regulatory accounting practices. The Company's capital amounts and
classification are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about
components, risk weightings, and other factors.

     Quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy
require the Company to maintain minimum amounts and ratios of total and Tier I
capital to risk-weighted assets, and of Tier I capital to average assets.

     As of December 31, 1998, the Company is considered well capitalized under
the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action. To be categorized as well
capitalized, the Company must maintain minimum total risk-based, Tier I
risk-based, and Tier I leverage ratios as set forth in the following table.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                        AT DECEMBER 31, 1998
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                            TIER 1    TOTAL RISK-             TOTAL RISK-
REGULATORY CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS: (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)    CAPITAL  BASED CAPITAL  LEVERAGE  BASED ASSETS
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                    <C>          <C>            <C>       <C> 
Minimum .............................................        4.00%        8.00%       3.00%           N/A
Well-Capitalized ....................................        6.00%       10.00%       5.00%           N/A
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BANK SUBSIDIARIES:
Community First National Bank, Fergus Falls .........        9.40%       10.54%       7.67%    $  665,856
Community First National Bank, Fargo ................        9.91%       11.15%       7.39%       393,564
Community First State Bank, Vermillion ..............       10.29%       11.45%       7.79%       211,778
Community First National Bank, Decorah ..............       10.62%       11.88%       7.82%       117,703
Community First National Bank, Alliance .............        9.84%       11.07%       8.06%       249,489
Community First National Bank, Spooner ..............        9.81%       10.94%       7.89%        83,539
Community First National Bank, Fort Morgan ..........        9.25%       10.50%       6.30%     1,225,378
Community First National Bank, Cheyenne .............       13.96%       14.97%       8.56%       617,224
Community First National Bank, Phoenix ..............       17.28%       17.94%       6.45%       260,263
Community First National Bank, Las Cruces ...........       11.17%       12.42%       8.61%       117,690
Community First National Bank, Salt Lake City .......        9.27%       10.52%       6.04%        77,678

Community First Bankshares, Inc. ....................        9.35%       12.08%       6.40%    $4,045,169
</TABLE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                             AT DECEMBER 31, 1997
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                  TIER 1      TOTAL RISK-             TOTAL RISK-
REGULATORY CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS: (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)          CAPITAL    BASED CAPITAL  LEVERAGE  BASED ASSETS
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                              <C>        <C>            <C>       <C>
Minimum ....................................................       4.00%        8.00%       3.00%           N/A
Well-Capitalized ...........................................       6.00%       10.00%       5.00%           N/A

BANK SUBSIDIARIES:
Community First National Bank, Fergus Falls ................       9.93%       11.10%       7.75%    $  624,017
Community First National Bank, Fargo .......................      10.03%       11.28%       7.46%       388,051
Community First State Bank, Vermillion .....................      10.73%       11.90%       7.83%       211,897
Community First National Bank, Decorah .....................      11.63%       12.89%       7.82%       108,761
Community First National Bank, Alliance ....................      10.40%       11.65%       8.48%       257,024
Community First National Bank, Spooner .....................      11.16%       12.32%       8.26%        71,856
Colorado Community First National Bank, Fort Morgan ........      10.11%       11.17%       7.26%     1,040,342
Colorado Community First National Bank, Gunnison ...........      11.18%       12.43%       7.20%        59,051
Community First National Bank, Cheyenne ....................      13.75%       14.79%       7.52%       606,471
Community First National Bank, Phoenix .....................       9.37%       10.62%       7.95%        45,712
Community First National Bank, Las Cruces ..................      12.50%       12.60%       9.20%       120,689
Community First National Bank, Salt Lake City ..............      14.67%       15.80%       8.50%        61,783

Community First Bankshares, Inc. ...........................      11.53%       14.98%       7.51%    $3,502,962
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

35

<PAGE>

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

                           14. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

STOCK OPTION PLAN - During 1996, the Company approved the 1996 Stock Option Plan
under which an additional 4,000,000 shares of the Company's common stock were
reserved for granting of future stock options. Similar to the 1987 Stock Option
Plan, the Company may grant key employees incentive or nonqualified options to
purchase common stock of the Company at fair market value on the date of the
grant, as determined by the Company. The options vest ratably over a three-year
period and are exercisable over a five-year term starting one year after the
date of grant. Stock options outstanding under the plans are as follows:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               1998                       1997
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    WEIGHTED                       WEIGHTED
                                                     AVERAGE                        AVERAGE
                                    OPTIONS        PRICE PER       OPTIONS        PRICE PER
                                OUTSTANDING            SHARE   OUTSTANDING            SHARE
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                             <C>                <C>         <C>                <C>
Beginning of Year ..............  1,344,892        $   10.36     1,127,310        $    8.01
   Options Granted .............    571,400            24.81       454,000            14.63
   Options Exercised ...........   (293,317)            8.44      (207,352)            6.87
   Options Forfeited ...........    (31,203)           18.62       (29,066)            9.11
                                 ----------------------------------------------------------
End of Year ....................  1,591,772        $   15.74     1,344,892        $   10.36
                                 ----------------------------------------------------------
Exercisable at end of year .....    748,371        $   10.38       675,542        $    8.23
</TABLE>


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                            1998        1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                     <C>         <C>
Weighted average fair
value of options granted .............  $   4.54    $    3.20
</TABLE>


     The range of exercise prices and the weighted average remaining contractual
life of the options outstanding at December 31, 1998 were as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                        OPTIONS          WEIGHTED            WEIGHTED
                                 OUTSTANDING AT           AVERAGE             AVERAGE
RANGE OF EXERCISE                   DECEMBER 31    EXERCISE PRICE           REMAINING
PRICES PER SHARE                           1998         PER SHARE    CONTRACTUAL LIFE
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                              <C>               <C>               <C>
$23.75 to $24.88 ..................     553,200            $24.86         0.92 Years
$17.25 to $19.31 ..................      41,000            $17.72         2.99 Years
$10.63 to $14.25 ..................     616,130            $12.72         2.64 Years
$ 6.50 to $ 7.375 .................     381,442            $ 7.19         0.64 Years
</TABLE>

     At December 31, 1998, a total of 4,653,451 shares of authorized common
stock was reserved for exercise of options granted under the 1996 and 1987 Stock
Option Plans.

     The Company has elected to measure compensation costs as prescribed by APB
Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees" and, accordingly,
does not recognize compensation expense. SFAS No. 123 requires the Company to
disclose pro forma information reflecting net income and earnings per share had
the Company elected to record compensation expense based on the fair market
value method described in SFAS 123. The fair value of the options was estimated
at the grant date using a Black-Scholes option pricing model. Option valuation
models require the input of highly subjective assumptions. Because the Company's
employee stock options have characteristics significantly different from traded
options, and because changes in the subjective input assumptions can materially
affect the fair value estimate, in manage ment's opinion, the existing models do
not necessarily provide a reliable single measure of the fair value of its
employee stock options.

     The following weighted-average assumptions were used in the valuation
model: risk-free interest rates of 5.35 percent and 6.15 percent in 1998 and
1997, respectively; dividend yield of 2.09 percent and 1.30 percent in 1998 and
1997, respectively; stock price volatility factors of .178 and .175 in 1998 and
1997, respectively; and expected life of options of four years in both 1998 and
1997.

     The pro forma disclosures include options granted in 1998 and 1997 and are
not likely to be representative of the pro forma disclosures for future years.
The estimated fair value of the options is amortized to expense over the
options' vesting period.


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)            1998             1997
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                               <C>              <C>
Pro forma net income ...........................  $     42,144     $     58,479
Pro forma net income (diluted) .................        42,144     $     58,479


Pro forma earnings per share:
   Basic .......................................  $       0.89     $       1.35
   Diluted .....................................  $       0.88     $       1.31
</TABLE>


EMPLOYEE STOCK OWNERSHIP PLAN - The Company has an employee stock ownership plan
("ESOP") that is a defined contribution plan covering all employees who are 21
years of age with more than one year of service. Contributions are calculated
using a formula based on the Company's return on average assets on a yearly
basis. The contribution expense was $1,735,000, $1,407,000, and $859,000 in
1998, 1997, and 1996, respectively.

PROFIT-SHARING PLAN - The Company offers a contributory profit-sharing and
thrift plan that qualifies under section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code.
The plan covers all employees who are 21 years of age with more than one year of
service. The plan provides for an employer-matching contribution of 50% based on
each participant's eligible contribution for each plan year, subject to a
limitation of the lesser of 6% of the participant's annual compensation or the
maximum amount prescribed by the Internal Revenue Code. The Company's
contribution was $1,587,000, $1,205,000, and $806,000 in 1998, 1997, and 1996,
respectively.

                  15. RESTRICTIONS ON CASH AND DUE FROM BANKS

Bank subsidiaries are required to maintain average reserve balances with the
Federal Reserve Bank. Balances of $47,746,000 and $49,647,000 at December 31,
1998 and 1997, respectively, exceeded required amounts.



                                                                             36
<PAGE>

                                     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                                                COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

                                16. INCOME TAXES

The components of the provision for income taxes were (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                             1998          1997           1996
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                   <C>            <C>           <C>
Federal:
   Current .......................    $    25,580    $   25,244    $    23,238
   Deferred ......................         (5,891)       (2,850)        (3,613)
                                      ----------------------------------------
                                           19,689        22,394         19,625
State:
   Current .......................          2,453         3,067          4,244
   Deferred ......................           (694)         (650)          (471)
                                      ----------------------------------------
                                            1,759         2,417          3,773
                                      ----------------------------------------
Provision for income taxes .......    $    21,448    $   24,811    $    23,398
                                      ----------------------------------------
</TABLE>


     The reconciliation between the provision for income taxes and the amount
computed by applying the statutory federal income tax rate was as follows (in
thousands):


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                             1998          1997           1996
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                   <C>            <C>           <C>
Tax at Statutory rate (35%) ......    $    23,947    $   29,093    $    22,722
State income tax,
   net of federal tax benefit ....          1,034         1,575          2,318
Tax-exempt interest ..............         (2,904)       (2,425)        (1,839)
Amortization of goodwill .........            892           923            822
Other ............................         (1,521)       (4,355)          (625)
                                      ----------------------------------------
Provision for income taxes .......    $    21,448    $   24,811    $    23,398
                                      ----------------------------------------
</TABLE>



     Deferred income tax assets and liabilities reflect the net tax effect of
temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for
financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax reporting
purposes. Significant components of the Company's deferred tax assets and
liabilities as of December 31, 1998 and 1997, are as follows (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                         1998             1997
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                              <C>              <C>
Deferred tax assets:
   Loan loss reserves .........................  $     15,976     $      8,609
   Other reserves .............................         2,548              246
   Deferred compensation ......................         1,807            1,097
   Deferred loan fees .........................           224              316
   Other ......................................         2,452            1,164
                                                 -----------------------------
                                                       23,007           11,432
Deferred tax liabilities:
   Unrealized gains ...........................         7,842            3,211
   Depreciation ...............................           588            1,168
   Purchase accounting ........................           124              349
   Other ......................................           272               58
                                                 -----------------------------
                                                        8,826            4,786
                                                 -----------------------------
Net deferred tax assets .......................  $     14,181     $      6,646
                                                 -----------------------------
</TABLE>



     The realization of the Company's deferred tax assets is dependent upon the
Company's ability to generate taxable income in future periods and the reversal
of deferred tax liabilities during the same period. The Company has evaluated
the available evidence supporting the realization of its deferred tax assets and
determined it is more likely than not that the assets will be realized.



                   17. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES

Total rent expense was $4,568,000, $3,308,000, and $1,757,000 in 1998, 1997, and
1996, respectively.

     Future minimum payments, by year and in the aggregate, under noncancelable
leases with initial or remaining terms of one year or more, consisted of the
following at December 31, 1998:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(IN THOUSANDS)                                      OPERATING          CAPITAL
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                              <C>              <C>
1999 ........................................... $      1,902     $      2,296
2000 ...........................................        1,990            1,966
2001 ...........................................        1,807            1,141
2002 ...........................................        1,794              367
2003 ...........................................        1,767                9
                                                 -----------------------------
                                                 $      9,260     $      5,779
Executory costs (taxes) ........................                          (102)
                                                                  ------------
Net minimum lease payments .....................                         5,677
Less:
   Amount representing interest ................                          (439)
                                                                  ------------
   Present value of net minimum lease payments .                  $      5,238
                                                                  ------------
</TABLE>

     In the normal course of business, there are various outstanding legal
proceedings, claims, commitments and contingent liabilities. In the opinion of
management, the Company and its subsidiaries will not be materially affected by
the outcome of such matters.



37

<PAGE>

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

                      18. COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.
(PARENT COMPANY ONLY)


CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
DECEMBER 31 (IN THOUSANDS)                             1998            1997
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                              <C>            <C>
ASSETS
Cash and due from subsidiary banks ............  $    4,944     $     6,273
Interest-bearing deposits .....................         110             505
Available-for-sale securities .................         854          63,795
Investment in subsidiaries ....................     588,271         500,259
Furniture and equipment .......................       7,044           6,210
Receivable from subsidiaries ..................      11,056          11,272
Other assets ..................................      23,608          16,962
                                                ---------------------------
Total assets ..................................  $  635,887     $   605,276
                                                ---------------------------

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Short-term borrowings .........................      35,535          11,167
Long-term debt ................................     186,911         196,086
Other liabilities .............................       8,195          10,010
Shareholders' equity ..........................     405,246         388,013
                                                ---------------------------
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity ....  $  635,887     $   605,276
                                                ---------------------------

</TABLE>

CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31 (IN THOUSANDS)           1998            1997            1996
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                          <C>             <C>             <C>
Income:
   Dividends from subsidiaries ............. $ 76,728        $ 35,967        $ 29,776
   Service fees from subsidiaries ..........    5,647           3,505           2,948
   Interest income .........................    1,049           1,562             122
   Other ...................................    1,641             662             487
                                             ----------------------------------------
Total income ...............................   85,065          41,696          33,333
Expense:
   Interest expense ........................   17,565          10,564           4,441
   Other expense ...........................   29,511          18,327          17,816
                                             ----------------------------------------
Total expense ..............................   47,076          28,891          22,257
                                             ----------------------------------------
Income before income tax benefit,
   equity in undistributed income of
   subsidiaries and extraordinary item .....   37,989          12,805          11,076
Income tax benefit .........................   13,606           9,518           6,955
                                             ----------------------------------------
Income before undistributed income of
   subsidiaries and extraordinary item .....   51,595          22,323          18,031
Equity in undistributed income of
   subsidiaries ............................   (8,532)         36,955          23,491
                                             ----------------------------------------
Income before cumulative effect
   of extraordinary item ...................   43,063          59,278          41,522
Extraordinary item, net of tax .............       --            (265)             --
                                             ----------------------------------------
Net Income ................................. $ 43,063        $ 59,013        $ 41,522
                                             ----------------------------------------
Net income applicable to common equity ..... $ 43,063        $ 59,013        $ 39,912
                                             ----------------------------------------
</TABLE>



CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31 (IN THOUSANDS)                1998             1997             1996
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                              <C>              <C>              <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Income from continuing operations .............. $  46,971        $  58,046        $  41,522
Adjustments to reconcile net income to
   net cash used in operating activities:
      Equity in income of subsidiaries .........     8,532          (36,955)         (23,491)
      Depreciation .............................     1,076            1,448              (32)
      Increase in interest payable .............        --               --            1,730
      Other, net ...............................   (12,369)           6,364           (4,275)
                                                 --------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by operating activities ......    44,210           28,903           15,454

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Dividends received from subsidiaries ...........    76,728           35,967           29,776
Purchases of stock in subsidiaries .............  (165,748)        (180,320)         (45,503)
Net loans to subsidiaries ......................       216           (8,691)          (1,791)
Sales of securities, net of gains ..............    62,941               --               --
Purchases of available-for-sale securities .....        --          (63,795)              --
Net increase in furniture and equipment ........    (1,910)          (6,001)            (477)
Net decrease in interest-bearing deposits ......       395             (505)              --
                                                 --------------------------------------------
Net cash used in investing activities ..........   (27,378)        (223,345)         (17,995)

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Net increase (decrease) in
   short-term borrowings .......................    24,368           (2,997)           4,164
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt .......    29,450          236,466           18,188
Preferred stock dividends paid .................        --               --           (1,610)
Common stock dividends paid ....................   (19,705)         (19,034)          (9,728)
Repayment of long-term debt ....................   (38,625)         (80,464)         (24,058)
Net proceeds from the issuance of
   Company-obligated mandatorily
   redeemable preferred securities of
   CFB Capital I and II ........................        --          (22,988)              --
Sale of common stock held in treasury ..........     1,281            4,554            4,030
Purchase of common stock held
   in treasury .................................   (16,314)          (2,777)          (1,535)
Retirement of common stock .....................        --               --           (1,870)
Net proceeds from issuance of
   common stock ................................     1,384           80,408           14,952
                                                 --------------------------------------------
Net cash (used in) provided by
   financing activities ........................   (18,161)         193,168            2,533
                                                 --------------------------------------------
Net decrease in cash and
   cash equivalents ............................    (1,329)          (1,274)              (8)
Cash and cash equivalents at
   beginning of year ...........................     6,273            7,547            7,555
                                                 --------------------------------------------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year ....... $   4,944        $   6,273        $   7,547
                                                 --------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

     Certain restrictions exist regarding the extent to which bank subsidiaries
may transfer funds to the Company in the form of dividends, loans or advances.
Federal law prevents the Company from borrowing from bank subsidiaries unless
the loans are secured by specified U.S. obligations. Secured loans to the
Company or any individual affiliate are generally limited in amount to 10% of
the banks' equity. Further, loans to the Company and all affiliates in total are
limited to 20% of the banks' equity. As of December 31, 1998 and 1997,
$57,559,000 and $44,653,000, respectively, of individual subsidiary banks'
capital was available for credit extension to the parent company. At December
31, 1998 and 1997, bank subsidiaries had no credit extended to the Company.

     Payment of dividends to the Company by its subsidiary banks is subject to
various limitations by bank regulatory agencies. Undistributed earnings of the
bank subsidiaries available for distribution as dividends under these
limitations were $32,914,000 and $51,644,000 as of December 31, 1998 and 1997,
respectively.


                                                                            38

<PAGE>

                                     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                                                COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

                         19. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Certain directors and executive officers of the Company and its subsidiaries,
including their immediate families, companies in which they are principal owners
and trusts in which they are involved, are loan customers of the bank
subsidiaries. The aggregate dollar amounts of these loans were $10,390,000 and
$19,435,000 at December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively. During 1998 and 1997,
$9,892,000, and $6,250,000 of new loans were made and repayments totaled
$18,937,000, and $4,414,000, respectively.

                             20. EARNINGS PER SHARE

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per
share: (Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31                                1998(1)            1997(1)               1996
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                           <C>                <C>                   <C>
NUMERATOR:
   Income from continuing operations .......  $     46,971       $     58,311          $     41,522
   Preferred stock dividend ................            --                 --                (1,610)
                                             ------------------------------------------------------
   Numerator for basic earnings per
     share income available to
     common stockholders ...................        46,971             58,311                39,912
   Effect of dilutive securities:
   Preferred stock dividends ...............            --                 --                 1,610
                                             ------------------------------------------------------
   Numerator for diluted earnings
     per share income available to
     common stockholders after
     assumed conversions ...................  $     46,971       $     58,311          $     41,522
                                             ------------------------------------------------------
DENOMINATOR:
   Denominator for basic earnings per
     share weighted average share ..........    47,280,245         43,461,264            39,429,607
   Effect of dilutive securities:
     Employee stock options ................       601,330            631,480               379,464
     Convertible preferred stock ...........            --            557,178             2,886,712
                                             ------------------------------------------------------
     Dilutive potential common shares ......       601,330          1,188,658             3,266,176
   Denominator for diluted earnings per
     share adjusted weighted average
     shares and assumed conversions ........    47,881,575         44,649,922            42,695,783
                                             ------------------------------------------------------
Basic earnings per share ...................  $       0.99       $       1.35          $       1.01
Diluted earnings per share .................  $       0.98       $       1.31          $       0.97
</TABLE>

(1) INCLUSIVE OF THE EFFECT OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS AS FOLLOWS: NET INCOME
(LOSS) - $(3.9 MILLION) AND $967,000, IN 1998 AND 1997 RESPECTIVELY; DILUTED
EARNINGS PER SHARE $(0.08) AND $0.02, IN 1998 AND 1997, RESPECTIVELY.


                         21. SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES TO
                      CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31 (IN THOUSANDS)                   1998            1997            1996
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                 <C>             <C>             <C>
Noncash transfers of held-to-maturity
  securities to available-for-sale securities ..... $ 153,813       $  92,738       $  22,659
Unrealized (loss) gain on
  available-for-sale securities ...................    12,267           6,765          (1,184)
Income taxes paid .................................    18,683          26,425          29,145
Interest paid .....................................   237,838         175,455         144,093
Commitments to purchase
  investment securities ...........................     1,529         340,457              --
</TABLE>

                          INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S LETTER

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND SHAREHOLDERS
COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial condition
of Community First Bankshares, Inc., and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1998
and 1997, and the related consolidated statements of income, consolidated
statements of comprehensive income, shareholders' equity and cash flows for each
of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1998. These financial
statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on
our audits. We did not audit the consolidated financial statements of Guardian
Bancorp, Western Bancshares of Las Cruces, Inc., and Community Bancorp, Inc.,
which statements, in aggregate, reflect total assets constituting 6% of the
related consolidated financial statement totals as of December 31, 1997, and net
income constituting 16% and 15% of the related consolidated financial statement
totals for the years ended December 31, 1997 and 1996, respectively. Those
statements were audited by other auditors whose reports have been furnished to
us, and our opinion, insofar as it relates to data included for Guardian
Bancorp, Western Bancshares of Las Cruces, Inc., and Community Bancorp, Inc. is
based solely on the report of the other auditors.

     We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits and the reports of other auditors provide a
reasonable basis for our opinion.

     In our opinion, based on our audits and the reports of other auditors, the
financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects,
the consolidated financial position of Community First Bankshares, Inc., and
subsidiaries at December 31, 1998 and 1997 and the consolidated results of their
operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended
December 31, 1998, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.

/s/ Ernst and Young LLP

Minneapolis, Minnesota
March 5, 1999



39

<PAGE>

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CONDITION FIVE YEAR SUMMARY
COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DECEMBER 31 (IN THOUSANDS)                                       1998           1997          1996           1995           1994
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                           (RESTATED)    (RESTATED)    (RESTATED)     (RESTATED)
<S>                                                      <C>             <C>           <C>            <C>            <C>
ASSETS
Cash and due from banks ................................ $   250,963     $   254,676   $   204,084    $   163,528    $   119,246
Federal funds sold and securities purchased under 
  agreement to resell ..................................         100          76,455        32,975         65,395         25,660
Interest-bearing deposits ..............................       5,067          12,131         7,492          5,532          8,610
Available-for-sale securities ..........................   1,980,530       1,539,922       546,174        513,810        258,206
Held-to-maturity securities:
   U.S. Treasury .......................................          --           1,536         2,537          2,942         73,947
   U.S. Government agencies ............................          --          19,780        16,690         12,777         61,362
   Mortgage-backed securities ..........................          --          82,357       103,027        124,358        193,495
   Collateralized mortgage-obligations .................          --              --            --              1         22,811
   State and political securities ......................          --          52,702        59,641         58,615         48,136
   Other ...............................................      69,906          65,616        79,551         67,018         14,082
                                                         -----------------------------------------------------------------------
      Total securities .................................   2,050,436       1,761,913       807,620        779,521        672,039
Loans ..................................................   3,386,142       3,024,322     2,395,165      2,058,152      1,575,271
   Less: Allowance for Loan Losses .....................     (50,173)        (40,045)      (30,165)       (25,906)       (20,414)
                                                         -----------------------------------------------------------------------
   Net loans ...........................................   3,335,969       2,984,277     2,365,000      2,032,246      1,554,857
Other assets ...........................................     360,437         364,683       189,235        163,795        114,505
                                                         -----------------------------------------------------------------------
   Total assets ........................................ $ 6,002,972     $ 5,454,135   $ 3,606,406    $ 3,210,017    $ 2,494,917
                                                         -----------------------------------------------------------------------

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Deposits:
   Noninterest-bearing ................................. $   547,703     $   705,315   $   531,245    $   492,943    $   399,272
   Interest-bearing ....................................   4,336,969       3,447,603     2,441,499      2,256,722      1,715,207
                                                         -----------------------------------------------------------------------
      Total deposits ...................................   4,884,672       4,152,918     2,972,744      2,749,665      2,114,479
Short-term borrowings ..................................     435,726         275,239       248,906         90,881        113,469
Long-term debt .........................................      93,472         124,529        54,758         89,681         46,523
Other liabilities ......................................      63,856         393,436        45,605         40,396         33,599
                                                         -----------------------------------------------------------------------
   Total liabilities ...................................   5,477,726       4,946,122     3,322,013      2,970,623      2,308,070
Company-obligated mandatorily redeemable  
   preferred securities of CFB Capital I and II ........     120,000         120,000            --             --             --
Shareholders' equity ...................................     405,246         388,013       284,393        239,394        186,847
                                                         -----------------------------------------------------------------------
   Total liabilities and shareholders' equity .......... $ 6,002,972     $ 5,454,135   $ 3,606,406    $ 3,210,017    $ 2,494,917
                                                         -----------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>



                                                                             40

<PAGE>

                            CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME FIVE YEAR SUMMARY
                                               COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31 (IN THOUSANDS)                          1998            1997            1996          1995           1994
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                          (RESTATED)       (RESTATED)    (RESTATED)     (RESTATED)
<S>                                                      <C>             <C>             <C>           <C>           <C>
INTEREST INCOME:
   Loans ............................................... $    323,315    $   258,859     $   218,307   $   180,987   $    127,873
   Investment securities ...............................      122,173         64,234          49,077        44,177         41,150
   Other ...............................................        3,756          3,426           2,814         3,130          1,971
                                                        -------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Total interest income ............................      449,244        326,519         270,198       228,294        170,994

INTEREST EXPENSE:
   Deposits ............................................      160,576        119,024          94,522        82,578         53,212
   Short-term and other borrowings .....................       19,576          9,465           9,359         6,398          4,219
   Long-term debt ......................................        8,332          6,051           4,880         5,448          3,240
                                                        -------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Total interest expense ...........................      188,484        134,540         108,761        94,424         60,671
                                                        -------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net interest income ....................................      260,760        191,979         161,437       133,870        110,323
Provision for loan losses ..............................       22,509          6,107           7,483         3,628          2,458
                                                        -------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net interest income after provision for 
   loan losses .........................................      238,251        185,872         153,954       130,242        107,865

NONINTEREST INCOME:
   Service charges on deposit accounts .................       30,266         21,059          16,031        13,785         12,156
   Insurance commissions ...............................        7,197          5,375           5,213         4,283          3,777
   Fees from fiduciary activities ......................        4,944          3,805           3,332         2,718          2,157
   Net gains on sales of securities ....................        1,801            466              93            25             89
   Other ...............................................       16,052         16,498          12,277        11,318          9,504
                                                        -------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Total noninterest income .........................       60,260         47,203          36,946        32,129         27,683

NONINTEREST EXPENSE:
   Salaries and employee benefits ......................      114,014         78,380          66,298        52,883         44,194
   Net occupancy .......................................       32,110         23,285          18,852        14,076         12,504
   FDIC insurance ......................................          686            381             675         2,736          3,953
   Professional service fees ...........................        9,520          5,161           4,786         4,935          4,432
   Amortization of intangibles .........................       10,366          5,550           3,433         2,636          1,961
   Data processing and loan servicing fees .............        4,640          1,782           1,842         2,015          1,259
   Company-obligated mandatorily redeemable
      preferred securities of CFB Cap I & II ...........       10,218          5,108              --            --             --
   Other ...............................................       48,538         30,306          30,094        23,350         20,717
                                                        -------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Total noninterest expense ........................      230,092        149,953         125,980       102,631         89,020
                                                        -------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from continuing operations before 
   income taxes, cumulative effect of 
   accounting change, and extraordinary item ...........       68,419         83,122          64,920        59,740         46,528
Provision for income taxes .............................       21,448         24,811          23,398        21,790         17,761
                                                        -------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from continuing operations before 
   cumulative effect of accounting change, 
   and extraordinary item ..............................       46,971         58,311          41,522        37,950         28,767
Discontinued operations ................................       (2,232)           967              --            --             --
Disposal of discontinued operations ....................       (1,676)            --              --            --             --
Extraordinary item .....................................           --           (265)             --            --             --
                                                        -------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net income ............................................. $     43,063    $    59,013     $    41,522   $    37,950   $     28,767
                                                        -------------------------------------------------------------------------
Preferred dividend .....................................           --             --           1,610         1,610          1,091
Net income applicable to common equity ................. $     43,063    $    59,013     $    39,912   $    36,340   $     27,676
                                                        -------------------------------------------------------------------------
Earnings per common and common equivalent share:
   Basic ............................................... $       0.91    $      1.36     $      1.01   $      0.98   $       0.75
   Diluted ............................................. $       0.90    $      1.32     $      0.97   $      0.93   $       0.72
Average common shares outstanding:
   Basic ...............................................   47,280,245     43,461,264      39,429,607    37,113,098     37,009,450
   Diluted .............................................   47,881,575     44,649,922      42,695,783    40,725,658     40,622,010
</TABLE>


                                                                            41

<PAGE>

QUARTERLY RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.


     The following is a summary of the quarterly results of operations for the
years ended December 31, 1998 and 1997 (in thousands, except per share and per
share data):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                 FIRST        SECOND         THIRD        FOURTH
                                                                               QUARTER       QUARTER       QUARTER       QUARTER
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                                        <C>           <C>           <C>          <C>
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998
Interest income .........................................................  $   104,142   $   112,005   $   118,004   $   115,093
Interest expense ........................................................       44,010        47,526        50,423        46,525
                                                                           -----------------------------------------------------
Net interest income .....................................................       60,132        64,479        67,581        68,568
Provision for loan losses ...............................................        1,752         4,204         4,826        11,727
                                                                           -----------------------------------------------------
Net interest income after provision for loan losses .....................       58,380        60,275        62,755        56,841
Net gains on sales of securities ........................................          481           504           354           462
Noninterest income ......................................................       13,711        15,519        15,512        13,717
Noninterest expense .....................................................       49,528        62,043        57,277        61,244
                                                                           -----------------------------------------------------
Income before income taxes ..............................................       23,044        14,255        21,344         9,776
Provision for income taxes ..............................................        6,277         3,972         7,950         3,249
                                                                           -----------------------------------------------------
Net income ..............................................................       16,767        10,283        13,394         6,527
                                                                           -----------------------------------------------------
Discontinued Operations:
   Income from operations and disposal of discounted operations
   (Less applicable income taxes) .......................................          (68)       (3,840)           --            --
                                                                           -----------------------------------------------------
Net income applicable to common equity ..................................  $    16,699   $     6,443   $    13,394   $     6,527
                                                                           -----------------------------------------------------
Earnings per common and common equivalent shares:
Basic income from continuing operations before extraordinary items ......  $      0.35   $      0.22   $      0.28   $      0.14
Discontinued operations .................................................         0.00         (0.08)         0.00          0.00
   Extraordinary item ...................................................         0.00          0.00          0.00          0.00
                                                                           -----------------------------------------------------
Basic net income ........................................................  $      0.35   $      0.14   $      0.28   $      0.14
                                                                           -----------------------------------------------------
Diluted income from continuing operations before extraordinary items ....         0.35          0.21          0.28          0.14
Discontinued operations .................................................         0.00         (0.08)         0.00          0.00
Extra ordinary item .....................................................         0.00          0.00          0.00          0.00
                                                                           -----------------------------------------------------
Diluted net income ......................................................         0.35          0.13          0.28          0.14
                                                                           -----------------------------------------------------
Average common and common equivalent shares:
   Basic ................................................................   47,304,562    47,343,247    47,288,475    47,187,425
   Diluted ..............................................................   48,041,294    47,981,284    47,830,937    47,675,516
</TABLE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                 FIRST        SECOND         THIRD        FOURTH
                                                                               QUARTER       QUARTER       QUARTER       QUARTER
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997                                                 (RESTATED)    (RESTATED)    (RESTATED)    (RESTATED)
<S>                                                                          <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>
Interest income .........................................................       69,183        72,504        88,807        96,025
Interest expense ........................................................       27,596        28,544        38,066        40,334
                                                                           -----------------------------------------------------
Net interest income .....................................................       41,587        43,960        50,741        55,691
Provision for loan losses ...............................................        1,372         2,643         1,913           179
                                                                           -----------------------------------------------------
Net interest income after provision for loan losses .....................       40,215        41,317        48,828        55,512
Net gains on sales of securities ........................................           (3)           70            59           340
Noninterest income ......................................................        9,596        12,526        13,178        11,437
Noninterest expense .....................................................       30,193        33,704        40,520        45,536
                                                                           -----------------------------------------------------
Income before income taxes and extraordinary item .......................       19,615        20,209        21,545        21,753
Provision for income taxes ..............................................        5,964         6,076         6,569         6,202
                                                                           -----------------------------------------------------
Income from continuing operations before extraordinary item .............       13,651        14,133        14,976        15,551
                                                                           -----------------------------------------------------
Discontinued Operations:
   Income from operations of discontinued operations
   (Less applicable income taxes) .......................................          681           611           229          (554)
                                                                           -----------------------------------------------------
Income before extraordinary item ........................................       14,332        14,744        15,205        14,997
Extraordinary item:
   Loss on extinguishment of debt, net of taxes .........................         (265)           --            --           --
                                                                           -----------------------------------------------------
Net Income applicable to common equity ..................................       14,067        14,744        15,205        14,997
                                                                           -----------------------------------------------------
Earnings per common and common equivalent share:
Basic income from continuing operations before extraordinary items ......  $      0.33   $      0.32   $      0.34  $       0.35
Discontinued operations .................................................         0.02          0.01          0.01         (0.01)
Extraordinary item ......................................................        (0.01)         0.00          0.00          0.00
                                                                           -----------------------------------------------------
Basic net income ........................................................  $      0.34   $      0.33   $      0.35  $       0.34
                                                                           -----------------------------------------------------
Diluted income from continuing operations before extraordinary items ....  $      0.31   $      0.32   $      0.34  $       0.34
Discontinued operations .................................................         0.02          0.01          0.01         (0.01)
Extraordinary item ......................................................        (0.01)         0.00          0.00          0.00
                                                                           -----------------------------------------------------
Basic net income ........................................................  $      0.32   $      0.33   $      0.35  $       0.33
                                                                           -----------------------------------------------------
Average common and common equivalent shares:
   Basic ................................................................   41,497,922    43,852,978    43,797,110    44,658,624
   Diluted ..............................................................   44,239,582    44,402,918    44,496,978    45,452,742
</TABLE>


                                                                           42

<PAGE>


CORPORATE INFORMATION

MARKET PRICE RANGE OF COMMON SHARES
The Company's common stock trades on the Nasdaq Stock Market-Registered
Trademark- under the symbol CFBX. The following table sets forth the high and
low sales prices for the Company's common stock during the periods indicated:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ---------------------------------------------------------
                         1998               1997
                   HIGH      LOW       High      Low
- ---------------------------------------------------------
<S>               <C>        <C>       <C>       <C>
First Quarter .... 27        23 1/2    16 1/8    13 11/16
Second Quarter ... 26 3/16   23 9/16   19 3/16   14 1/2
Third Quarter .... 27        16 1/2    24 9/16   18 3/8
Fourth Quarter ... 22 11/16  14 1/8    27 9/16   22 3/4
- ---------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

SHAREHOLDERS
As of February 18, 1999, the Company had 1,600 shareholders of record and an
estimated 9,000 additional beneficial holders whose stock was held in street
name by brokerage houses.

DIVIDEND POLICY
The Board of Directors has adopted a policy of declaring regular quarterly
dividends equal to approximately 25 percent of earnings. A dividend of eight
cents per share was paid for the first two quarters in 1997 and increased to
nine and one-half cents per share for the third and fourth quarters of 1997. A
dividend of 11 cents per share was paid for each quarter of 1998.





<PAGE>

                                                                 EXHIBIT 21.1


                        COMMUNITY FIRST BANKSHARES, INC.

                                  SUBSIDIARIES

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                           OWNERSHIP
SUBSIDIARY BANK:                                  LOCATION:                PERCENTAGE
<S>                                               <C>                      <C>       

Community First National Bank                     Fergus Falls, MN         100.000%
Community First National Bank                     Fargo, ND                100.000%
Community First State Bank                        Vermillion, SD           100.000%
Community First National Bank                     Decorah, IA              100.000%
Community First National Bank                     Alliance, NE             100.000%
Community First National Bank                     Spooner, WI              100.000%
Community First National Bank                     Ft. Morgan, CO           100.000%
Community First National Bank                     Cheyenne, WY             100.000%
Community First National Bank                     Phoenix, AZ              100.000%
Community First National Bank                     Salt Lake City UT        100.000%
Community First National Bank                     Las Cruces NM            100.000%

NONBANK SUBSIDIARIES:

Community First Financial, Inc.                   Fargo, ND                100.000%
Community First Service Corporation               Fargo, ND                100.000%
Community Insurance, Inc.                         Fargo, ND                100.000%
Community First Properties, Inc.                  Fargo, ND                100.000%
CFB Capital I                                     Fargo, ND                100.000%
CFB Capital II                                    Fargo, ND                100.000%

SUBSIDIARIES OF SUBSIDIARIES (100% OWNED):

Community First Insurance Agencies, Inc.          Fargo,ND                 (Subsidiary of Community First
                                                                           State Bank [Vermillion, SD])

CFIN, Inc.                                        Las Vegas, NV            (Subsidiary of Community First
                                                                           National Bank [Spooner])

Equity Lending, Inc.                              Edina, MN                (Subsidiary of Community First
                                                                           National Bank [Fort Morgan, CO])

Mountain Parks Financial Services, Inc.           Denver, CO               (Subsidiary of Community First
                                                                           National Bank [Fort Morgan, CO])

Community First Minnesota Holdings, Inc.          Georgetown, British      (Subsidiary of
                                                  Cayman Islands           Community First National Bank
                                                                           [Fergus Falls, MN])
</TABLE>

<PAGE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                           OWNERSHIP
SUBSIDIARIES OF SUBSIDIARIES: (CONTINUED)         LOCATION:                PERCENTAGE
<S>                                               <C>                      <C>        

CFIRE, Inc.                                       Fargo, ND                (Subsidiary of Community First
                                                                           Minnesota Holdings, Inc.)

Community First Holdings, Inc.                    Georgetown, British      (Subsidiary of
                                                  Cayman Islands           Community First National Bank
                                                                           [Ft. Morgan, CO])

Colorado CFIRE, Inc.                              Fargo, ND                (Subsidiary of Community First
                                                                           Colorado Holdings, Inc.)
</TABLE>


<PAGE>

                                                                   EXHIBIT 23.1


                           CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

We consent to the incorporation by reference in this Annual Report (Form 10-K)
of Community First Bankshares, Inc. of our report dated March 5, 1999, included
in the 1998 Annual Report to Shareholders of Community First Bankshares, Inc.

We also consent to the incorporation by reference in the following Registration
Statements and related Prospectuses of Community First Bankshares, Inc. of our
report dated March 5, 1999, with respect to the consolidated financial
statements of Community First Bankshares, Inc. incorporated by reference in this
Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 1998.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
              Registration 
    Form      Statement No.        Purpose
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>          <C>              <C>
     S-8         33-44921     1987 Stock Option Plan
     S-8         33-48160     401(k) Retirement Plan
     S-8        333-52071     1996 Stock Option Plan and 401(k) Plan  
     S-3        333-37527     Registration of $150,000,000 of Common Stock, 
                              Preferred Stock and Debt Securities
     S-4        333-40071     Shelf registration of 4,438,207 shares of Common 
                              Stock
     S-4        333-49367     Shelf registration of 7,000,000 shares of Common 
                              Stock
</TABLE>

                              /s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP

Minneapolis, Minnesota
March 22, 1999


<PAGE>

                                                                   EXHIBIT 23.2



               CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT

We hereby consent to the use in this Form 10-K of our report dated January 
23, 1998, relating to the financial Statements of Community Bancorp, Inc. as 
of and for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 1997. We 
also consent to the incorporation by reference of said report in the 
following Registration Statements.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
              Registration 
    Form      Statement No.        Purpose
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>          <C>              <C>
     S-8         33-44921     1987 Stock Option Plan
     S-8         33-48160     401(k) Retirement Plan
     S-8        333-52071     1996 Stock Option Plan and 401(k) Plan  
     S-3        333-37527     Registration of $150,000,000 of Common Stock, 
                              Preferred Stock and Debt Securities
     S-4        333-40071     Shelf registration of 4,438,207 shares of Common 
                              Stock
     S-4        333-49367     Shelf registration of 7,000,000 shares of Common 
                              Stock
</TABLE>


                         /s/ BAIRD, KURTZ & DOBSON


Denver, Colorado
March 22, 1999


<PAGE>

                                                                  EXHIBIT 23.3


                      CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

We consent to the use of our report dated March 25, 1998, included in this 
Annual Report (Form 10-K) of Community First Bankshares, Inc.

We also consent to the incorporation by reference in the following 
Registration Statements and related Prospectuses of Community First 
Bankshares, Inc. of our report dated March 25, 1998, with respect to the 
consolidated financial statements of Western Bancshares of Las Cruces, Inc. 
as of and for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 1997, 
included in this Form 10-K.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
              Registration 
    Form      Statement No.        Purpose
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>          <C>              <C>
     S-8         33-44921     1987 Stock Option Plan
     S-8         33-48160     401(k) Retirement Plan
     S-8        333-52071     1996 Stock Option Plan and 401(k) Plan  
     S-3        333-37527     Registration of $150,000,000 of Common Stock, 
                              Preferred Stock and Debt Securities
     S-4        333-40071     Shelf registration of 4,438,207 shares of Common 
                              Stock
     S-4        333-49367     Shelf registration of 7,000,000 shares of Common 
                              Stock
</TABLE>

                              /s/ STARR COLTON PENA VOGEL & CO.

El Paso, Texas
March 22, 1999



<PAGE>

                                                                   EXHIBIT 23.4


                      CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

We consent to the use of our report dated February 6, 1998, included in this 
Annual Report (Form 10-K) of Community First Bankshares, Inc.

We also consent to the incorporation by reference in the following 
Registration Statements and related Prospectuses of Community First 
Bankshares, Inc. of our report dated February 6, 1998, with respect to the 
consolidated financial statements of Guardian Bancorp as of and for each of 
the two years in the period ended December 31, 1997, included in this Form 
10-K.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
              Registration 
    Form      Statement No.        Purpose
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>          <C>              <C>
     S-8         33-44921     1987 Stock Option Plan
     S-8         33-48160     401(k) Retirement Plan
     S-8        333-52071     1996 Stock Option Plan and 401(k) Plan  
     S-3        333-37527     Registration of $150,000,000 of Common Stock, 
                              Preferred Stock and Debt Securities
     S-4        333-40071     Shelf registration of 4,438,207 shares of Common 
                              Stock
     S-4        333-49367     Shelf registration of 7,000,000 shares of Common 
                              Stock
</TABLE>



                              /s/ SIMPSON & COMPANY

Salt Lake City, Utah
March 22, 1999


<TABLE> <S> <C>

<PAGE>
<ARTICLE> 9
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM AUDITED 
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTAINED IN THE COMPANY'S ANNUAL REPORT IN FORM 10-K FOR 
THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998 AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE 
TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1998
<PERIOD-START>                             JAN-01-1998
<PERIOD-END>                               DEC-31-1998
<CASH>                                         250,963
<INT-BEARING-DEPOSITS>                           5,067
<FED-FUNDS-SOLD>                                   100
<TRADING-ASSETS>                                     0
<INVESTMENTS-HELD-FOR-SALE>                  1,980,530
<INVESTMENTS-CARRYING>                          69,906
<INVESTMENTS-MARKET>                            69,906
<LOANS>                                      3,386,142
<ALLOWANCE>                                     50,173
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                               6,002,972
<DEPOSITS>                                   4,884,672
<SHORT-TERM>                                   292,669
<LIABILITIES-OTHER>                            206,913
<LONG-TERM>                                     93,472
                          120,000
                                          0
<COMMON>                                           477
<OTHER-SE>                                     404,769
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES-AND-EQUITY>               6,002,972
<INTEREST-LOAN>                                323,315
<INTEREST-INVEST>                              122,173
<INTEREST-OTHER>                                 3,756
<INTEREST-TOTAL>                               449,244
<INTEREST-DEPOSIT>                             160,576
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                             188,484
<INTEREST-INCOME-NET>                          260,760
<LOAN-LOSSES>                                   22,509
<SECURITIES-GAINS>                               1,801
<EXPENSE-OTHER>                                230,092
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                 68,419
<INCOME-PRE-EXTRAORDINARY>                      46,971
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                (3,908)
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                    43,063
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                      .91
<EPS-DILUTED>                                      .90
<YIELD-ACTUAL>                                       0
<LOANS-NON>                                     22,517
<LOANS-PAST>                                     3,088
<LOANS-TROUBLED>                                   162
<LOANS-PROBLEM>                                      0
<ALLOWANCE-OPEN>                                40,045
<CHARGE-OFFS>                                   17,966
<RECOVERIES>                                     3,635
<ALLOWANCE-CLOSE>                               50,173
<ALLOWANCE-DOMESTIC>                            27,938
<ALLOWANCE-FOREIGN>                                  0
<ALLOWANCE-UNALLOCATED>                         22,235
        

</TABLE>

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<PAGE>
<ARTICLE> 9
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM AUDITED
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTAINED IN THE COMPANY'S ANNUAL REPORT IN FORM 10-K FOR
THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997 AND DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS
ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>                     <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   YEAR                   YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1997             DEC-31-1996
<PERIOD-START>                             JAN-01-1997             JAN-01-1996
<PERIOD-END>                               DEC-31-1997             DEC-31-1996
<CASH>                                         254,676                 204,084
<INT-BEARING-DEPOSITS>                          12,131                   7,492
<FED-FUNDS-SOLD>                                76,455                  32,975
<TRADING-ASSETS>                                     0                       0
<INVESTMENTS-HELD-FOR-SALE>                  1,539,922                 546,174
<INVESTMENTS-CARRYING>                         221,991                 261,446
<INVESTMENTS-MARKET>                           223,829                 262,077
<LOANS>                                      3,024,322               2,395,165
<ALLOWANCE>                                     40,045                  30,165
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                               5,454,135               3,606,406
<DEPOSITS>                                   4,152,918               2,972,744
<SHORT-TERM>                                   230,777                 170,537
<LIABILITIES-OTHER>                            437,898                 121,028
<LONG-TERM>                                    124,529                  54,758
                          120,000                       0
                                          0                  22,988
<COMMON>                                           474                     408
<OTHER-SE>                                     387,539                 260,997
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES-AND-EQUITY>               5,454,135               3,606,406
<INTEREST-LOAN>                                258,859                 218,307
<INTEREST-INVEST>                               64,234                  49,077
<INTEREST-OTHER>                                 3,426                   2,814
<INTEREST-TOTAL>                               326,519                 270,198
<INTEREST-DEPOSIT>                             119,024                  94,522
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                             134,540                 108,761
<INTEREST-INCOME-NET>                          191,979                 161,437
<LOAN-LOSSES>                                    6,107                   7,483
<SECURITIES-GAINS>                                 466                      93
<EXPENSE-OTHER>                                149,953                 125,980
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                 83,122                  64,920
<INCOME-PRE-EXTRAORDINARY>                      58,311                  41,522
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                    702                       0
<CHANGES>                                            0                       0
<NET-INCOME>                                    59,013                  41,522
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                     1.36                    1.01
<EPS-DILUTED>                                     1.32                     .97
<YIELD-ACTUAL>                                       0                       0
<LOANS-NON>                                     14,801                  15,283
<LOANS-PAST>                                     3,748                   2,678
<LOANS-TROUBLED>                                   140                     267
<LOANS-PROBLEM>                                      0                       0
<ALLOWANCE-OPEN>                                30,165                  25,906
<CHARGE-OFFS>                                    8,903                   5,512
<RECOVERIES>                                     2,611                   1,504
<ALLOWANCE-CLOSE>                               40,045                  30,165
<ALLOWANCE-DOMESTIC>                            19,905                  15,159
<ALLOWANCE-FOREIGN>                                  0                       0
<ALLOWANCE-UNALLOCATED>                         20,140                  15,006
        

</TABLE>

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<PAGE>
<ARTICLE> 9
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM UNAUDITED
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTAINED IN THE COMPANY'S QUARTERLY REPORTS IN FORM 10-Q
FOR QUARTERS ENDED MARCH 31, 1998, JUNE 30, 1998 AND SEPTEMBER 30, 1998 AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>                     <C>                     <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   3-MOS                   6-MOS                   9-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1998             DEC-31-1998             DEC-31-1998
<PERIOD-START>                             JAN-01-1998             JAN-01-1998             JAN-01-1998
<PERIOD-END>                               MAR-31-1998             JUN-30-1998             SEP-30-1998
<CASH>                                         207,030                 251,394                 216,826
<INT-BEARING-DEPOSITS>                          13,601                  14,032                   7,482
<FED-FUNDS-SOLD>                               106,700                  52,870                  40,990
<TRADING-ASSETS>                                     0                       0                       0
<INVESTMENTS-HELD-FOR-SALE>                  1,847,994               1,965,743               1,940,993
<INVESTMENTS-CARRYING>                         105,177                  88,585                  69,399
<INVESTMENTS-MARKET>                           105,304                  88,532                  69,399
<LOANS>                                      3,102,074               3,203,549               3,387,246
<ALLOWANCE>                                     39,997                  42,268                  45,567
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                               5,775,193               5,896,870               5,981,149
<DEPOSITS>                                   4,807,215               4,818,511               4,829,161
<SHORT-TERM>                                   184,700                 384,934                 319,912
<LIABILITIES-OTHER>                            139,246                  49,840                 176,082
<LONG-TERM>                                    127,175                 127,832                 119,280
                          120,000                 120,000                 120,000
                                          0                       0                       0
<COMMON>                                           474                     474                     477
<OTHER-SE>                                     396,383                 395,279                 416,237
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES-AND-EQUITY>               5,775,193               5,896,870               5,981,149
<INTEREST-LOAN>                                 75,500                 155,023                 240,241
<INTEREST-INVEST>                               27,471                  58,721                  90,603
<INTEREST-OTHER>                                 1,171                   2,403                   3,307
<INTEREST-TOTAL>                               104,142                 216,147                 334,151
<INTEREST-DEPOSIT>                              39,710                  80,722                 121,955
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                              44,010                  91,536                 141,959
<INTEREST-INCOME-NET>                           60,132                 124,611                 192,192
<LOAN-LOSSES>                                    1,752                   5,956                  10,782
<SECURITIES-GAINS>                                 481                     985                   1,339
<EXPENSE-OTHER>                                 49,528                 111,571                 168,848
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                 23,044                  37,299                  58,643
<INCOME-PRE-EXTRAORDINARY>                      16,767                  27,050                  40,444
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                   (68)                 (3,908)                 (3,908)
<CHANGES>                                            0                       0                       0
<NET-INCOME>                                    16,699                  23,142                  36,536
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                      .35                     .49                     .77
<EPS-DILUTED>                                      .35                     .48                     .76
<YIELD-ACTUAL>                                       0                       0                       0
<LOANS-NON>                                     12,026                  10,879                  17,848
<LOANS-PAST>                                     5,961                   3,730                   2,863
<LOANS-TROUBLED>                                   123                     105                     180
<LOANS-PROBLEM>                                      0                       0                       0
<ALLOWANCE-OPEN>                                40,045                  40,045                  40,045
<CHARGE-OFFS>                                    2,726                   5,522                   9,844
<RECOVERIES>                                       926                   1,789                   2,626
<ALLOWANCE-CLOSE>                               39,997                  42,268                  45,567
<ALLOWANCE-DOMESTIC>                                 0                       0                       0
<ALLOWANCE-FOREIGN>                                  0                       0                       0
<ALLOWANCE-UNALLOCATED>                              0                       0                       0
        

</TABLE>

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<PAGE>
<ARTICLE> 9
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM UNAUDITED
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTAINED IN THE COMPANY'S QUARTERLY REPORTS IN FORM 10-Q
FOR QUARTERS ENDED MARCH 31, 1997, JUNE 30, 1997 AND SEPTEMBER 30, 1997 AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>                     <C>                     <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   3-MOS                   6-MOS                   9-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1997             DEC-31-1997             DEC-31-1997
<PERIOD-START>                             JAN-01-1997             JAN-01-1997             JAN-01-1997
<PERIOD-END>                               MAR-31-1997             JUN-30-1997             SEP-30-1997
<CASH>                                         145,329                 152,581                 232,743
<INT-BEARING-DEPOSITS>                          14,026                  18,596                  16,630
<FED-FUNDS-SOLD>                                36,775                  34,220                  57,230
<TRADING-ASSETS>                                     0                       0                       0
<INVESTMENTS-HELD-FOR-SALE>                    550,657                 523,324                 962,421
<INVESTMENTS-CARRYING>                         265,611                 271,918                 268,120
<INVESTMENTS-MARKET>                           263,840                 271,962                 269,326
<LOANS>                                      2,340,341               2,455,855               2,898,603
<ALLOWANCE>                                     30,026                  32,106                  40,093
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                               3,519,560               3,614,544               4,714,482
<DEPOSITS>                                   2,942,726               2,944,034               4,334,621
<SHORT-TERM>                                   155,332                 168,637                 185,276
<LIABILITIES-OTHER>                             40,553                  46,419                  56,718
<LONG-TERM>                                     27,576                  87,895                 129,958
                           60,000                  60,000                  60,000
                                          0                       0                       0
<COMMON>                                           435                     438                     440
<OTHER-SE>                                     291,295                 305,378                 317,644
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES-AND-EQUITY>               3,519,560               3,614,544               4,714,482
<INTEREST-LOAN>                                 56,055                 115,139                 185,038
<INTEREST-INVEST>                               12,701                  25,317                  43,273
<INTEREST-OTHER>                                   427                   1,231                   2,183
<INTEREST-TOTAL>                                69,183                 141,687                 230,494
<INTEREST-DEPOSIT>                              24,673                  49,803                  83,395
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                              27,596                  56,140                  94,206
<INTEREST-INCOME-NET>                           41,587                  85,547                 136,288
<LOAN-LOSSES>                                    1,372                   4,015                   5,928
<SECURITIES-GAINS>                                 (3)                      67                     126
<EXPENSE-OTHER>                                 30,193                  63,897                 104,417
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                 19,615                  39,824                  61,369
<INCOME-PRE-EXTRAORDINARY>                      13,651                  27,784                  42,760
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                    416                   1,027                   1,256
<CHANGES>                                            0                       0                       0
<NET-INCOME>                                    14,067                  28,811                  44,016
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                      .34                     .68                    1.02
<EPS-DILUTED>                                      .32                     .66                     .99
<YIELD-ACTUAL>                                       0                       0                       0
<LOANS-NON>                                     10,580                  12,055                  14,228
<LOANS-PAST>                                     2,624                   1,991                   6,315
<LOANS-TROUBLED>                                   251                     204                     156
<LOANS-PROBLEM>                                      0                       0                       0
<ALLOWANCE-OPEN>                                30,165                  30,165                  30,165
<CHARGE-OFFS>                                    1,726                   2,889                   5,200
<RECOVERIES>                                       560                   1,160                   2,045
<ALLOWANCE-CLOSE>                               30,026                  32,016                  40,093
<ALLOWANCE-DOMESTIC>                                 0                       0                       0
<ALLOWANCE-FOREIGN>                                  0                       0                       0
<ALLOWANCE-UNALLOCATED>                              0                       0                       0
        

</TABLE>

<PAGE>
                                                                 EXHIBIT 99.1


                           Independent Accountants' Report

The Board of Directors and Stockholders 
Community Bancorp, Inc.
Thornton, Colorado

     We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of COMMUNITY 
BANCORP, INC. as of December 31, 1997 and the related consolidated statements 
of income, stockholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the two years in 
the period ended December 31, 1997. These financial statements are the 
responsibility of the Company's management.  Our responsibility is to express 
an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.  

     We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing 
standards.  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to 
obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free 
of material misstatement.  An audit includes examining, on a test basis, 
evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statement.  
An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and 
significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall 
financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a 
reasonable basis for our opinion.

     In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above 
present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of COMMUNITY 
BANCORP, INC. as of December 31, 1997, and the results of its operations and 
its cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 
1997, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.

                                   /s/ Baird, Kurtz & Dobson



Denver, Colorado
January 23, 1998


<PAGE>
                                                                  EXHIBIT 99.2

                [Letterhead of Starr Colton Pena Vogel & Co.]


                        INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT



To the Board of Directors
Western Bancshares of Las Cruces, Inc.
Las Cruces, New Mexico

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial 
condition of Western Bancshares of Las Cruces, Inc. (the Company) and 
subsidiary, as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, and the related consolidated 
statements of income, changes in shareholders' equity, and cash flows for the 
years then ended.  These consolidated financial statements are the 
responsibility of the Company's management.  Our responsibility is to express 
an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing 
standards.  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to 
obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial 
statements are free of material misstatement.  An audit includes examining, 
on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the 
consolidated financial statements.  An audit also includes assessing the 
accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as 
well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.  We believe 
that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above 
present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position 
of Western Bancshares of Las Cruces, Inc. and subsidiary, as of December 31, 
1997 and 1996, and the consolidated results of operations and cash flows for 
the years then ended in conformity with generally accepted accounting 
principles.

Our audits were made for the purpose of forming an opinion on the 
consolidated financial statements taken as a whole.  The consolidating 
supplementary information is presented for purposes of additional analysis of 
the consolidated financial statements rather than to present the financial 
position, results of operations, and cash flows of the individual companies.  
Such information has been subjected to the auditing procedures applied in the 
audits of the consolidated financial statements and, in our opinion, is 
fairly stated in all material respects in relation to the consolidated 
financial statements taken as a whole.


/s/ Starr Colton Pena Vogel & Co.



March 25, 1998


<PAGE>
                                                                   EXHIBIT 99.3

                       [Letterhead of Simpson & Company]


                         INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT


To the Board of Directors and Stockholders
    of Guardian Bancorp
    Salt Lake City, Utah

We have audited the consolidated balance sheets of Guardian Bancorp (an S 
corporation) and subsidiary as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, and the related 
consolidated statements of income, changes in stockholders' equity, and cash 
flows for the years then ended.  These consolidated financial statements are 
the responsibility of the Company's management.  Our responsibility is to 
express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our 
audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing 
standards.  These standards require that we plan and perform the audit to 
obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free 
of material misstatement.  An audit includes examining, on a test basis, 
evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements.  
An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and 
significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall 
financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a 
reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above 
present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Guardian 
Bancorp and subsidiary, as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, and the results of 
their operations and cash flows for the years then ended in conformity with 
generally accepted accounting principles.

Our audits were made for the purpose of forming an opinion on the 
consolidated financial statements taken as a whole.  The consolidating 
information in Schedules 1 and 2 is presented for purposes of additional 
analysis of the consolidated financial statements rather than to present the 
financial position, results of operations, and cash flows of the individual 
companies.  Such information has been subjected to the auditing procedures 
applied in the audit of the consolidated financial statements and, in our 
opinion, is fairly stated in all material respects in relation to the 
consolidated financial statements taken as a whole.


                                   /s/  Simpson & Company



Salt Lake City, Utah
February 6, 1998

<PAGE>

                                                                    EXHIBIT 99.4

                    Reconciliation of Amounts Previously Reported

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        First           Second             Third
(Amounts in thousands, except per share data)          Quarter          Quarter           Quarter
                                                       -------          -------           -------
<S>                                                   <C>              <C>               <C>
AS PREVIOUSLY REPORTED DURING 1998:

     Net income                                         13,785           10,282            14,539
     Earnings per common and common
       equivalent shares
          Basic:                                          0.34             0.24              0.31
          Diluted:                                        0.33             0.24              0.31

EFFECT OF POOLING OF INTERESTS TRANSACTIONS:

     Net income                                          2,914          (3,839)           (1,145)
     Earnings per common and common
       equivalent shares
          Basic:                                          0.01           (0.10)            (0.03)
          Diluted:                                        0.02           (0.11)            (0.03)

AS RESTATED FOR 1998:

     Net income                                         16,699            6,443            13,394
     Earnings per common and common
       equivalent shares
          Basic:                                          0.35             0.14              0.28
          Diluted:                                        0.35             0.13              0.28

AS PREVIOUSLY REPORTED DURING 1997:

     Net income                                         10,532           11,135            12,299
     Earnings per common and common
       equivalent shares
          Basic:                                          0.30             0.30              0.33
          Diluted:                                        0.28             0.29              0.32
          
EFFECT OF POOLING OF INTERESTS TRANSACTIONS:

     Net income                                          3,535            3,609             2,906
     Earnings per common and common
       equivalent shares
          Basic:                                          0.04             0.03              0.02
          Diluted:                                        0.04             0.04              0.03

AS RESTATED FOR 1997:

     Net income                                         14,067           14,744            15,205
     Earnings per common and common
       equivalent shares
          Basic:                                          0.34             0.33              0.35
          Diluted:                                        0.32             0.33              0.35

</TABLE>




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