GLOVERSVILLE - Businesses in Fulton and Montgomery counties appear poised to support the growth of high-tech manufacturers, including companies such as GlobalFoundries Inc. in Malta.
With both counties' geographical location between Utica and Schenectady, it's a business relationship that could blossom for wholesale and retail shops, distributors and smaller manufacturers in the region.
It's this strategic possibility that gives Mark Kilmer, interim president of the Fulton County Regional Chamber of Commerce & Industry, a positive vision for the region.
If all goes according to plan and purpose, the businesses of Fulton and Montgomery counties will soon be brought closer together. On April 26, members from both chambers voted to unite as one council.
Kilmer said because a new non-profit corporation will be formed, the combined chambers of commerce must receive approval from the secretary of state.
"I'm absolutely confident that we're going to get the stamp of approval," said Kilmer.
Kilmer believes the merger will be sanctioned by early September, he said. A new board of directors, drawn from both counties, will later be formed.
Meanwhile, the combined chambers are fine-tuning a mission statement, the non-profit entity's focus. The new corporation will be "the leading voice of business in the region, providing advocacy, resources and solutions for our members."
Kilmer said a business expo is planned for the fall.
The economic climate remains difficult but "you can't let that shade the notion that things can't get better," said Kilmer.
"I truly believe that in a business way, and in a personal way," he said. "I believe we are going to come out of this as a stronger economy."