Bank of Millbrook eyes North East site

MILLERTON — The Town of North East is abuzz with the probability that The Bank of Millbrook is in talks to open a branch locally.

George Whalen III, president of the Bank of Millbrook, was introduced around at the Millerton Fire Company pancake breakfast on Sunday morning, April 7, by Town of North East Supervisor Chris Kennan. Kennan commented he “wished more business people would reach out to residents of our community. I’m happy that they want to come to our town.” Asked for specifics about the purchase of property in town he replied, “It’s really premature. The bank hasn’t bought anything.”

Whalen himself was more forthcoming when questioned. “Yes, we have applied for approval to open a branch on Route 44 with the New York State Department of Financial Services which regulates state-chartered banks like ours.

We’re not sure how long it will take to secure permission. When we moved from the parking lot at Fresh Town in Amenia to our new branch at the light it took them about 30 days.”

Whalen confirmed that the bank is in the process of preparing a site plan to present to the Planning Board which will include a drive through window and will be meeting with architects to modify the interior.

“The bank has been looking at Millerton for some time but with the acquisition of Salisbury Bank by NBT it seemed like the right time to move forward. It’s a beautiful, light filled building.”

Regarding the possible sale of her building Elizabeth Trotta, said only, “There are two parties involved in negotiations with lots of boxes that need to be checked. I will not be closing my business, but I may relocate. I love Millerton.”

The 2,479 square foot store on one acre was built in 2007 and comes complete with a sprinkler system, village water, and even a safe. When the Bank of Millbrook opens in the Town of North East consumers will have two banks to choose from and the Bank of Millbrook will expand its branch network which now includes, in addition to their Village of Millbrook headquarters, locations in Pine Plains, Amenia and Stanford.