The Milk Factory project continues to be well supported by the local community.

This project is orchestrated by City Winery owner Michael Dorf, and aims to reconstruct the old Borden condensed milk factory on Route 208 into a boutique hotel and spa with a winemaking focus. They’re currently waiting for support from the Montgomery Industrial Development Agency (IDA), who is holding a public hearing for them on February 14.

In the meantime, they’re hoping to receive a hefty grant. At the Town of Montgomery reorganizational meeting in early January, the board opened up a public hearing for the consideration of a $2 million RestoreNY grant that would help fund the project. Restore New York Communities Initiative (RestoreNY) provides different municipalities with funding for the rehabilitation of both commercial and residential properties. The hearing was just to get support to submit the application.

Town Supervisor Ron Feller explained that the developer of the project would cover all costs associated with the grant, including a 10 percent payment (required by the grant, $200,000), application fees, etc. There would be no cost for the town to apply.

“It’s a win-win situation,” said Feller, who called the project a beautiful development. He has been in discussion with Walden Village Manager John Revella and Mayor John Ramos as well, stating they are both in favor of the project.

There was little public comment during the hearing. Village of Montgomery resident Don Berger stated his admiration for the project.

“This is everything that we need in Montgomery,” said Berger, “We should move forward on the application.”

Feller and fellow board members resolved that they’d support and sponsor the application for Restore NY funding. He added that some board members were planning to visit the factory site.