Shawn and Tania Kilmartin Noted for Always Being Willing to Help a Neighbor in Need
(FONDA, NY) – Known for their willingness to help a neighbor in need and their community spirit, the Fort Plain True Value Hardware has been named Montgomery County’s Small Business of the Month for December.
Employing 11 people, Fort Plain True Value Hardware has been a pillar of the community for more than 38 years, the past decade under the ownership and management of Shawn and Tania Kilmartin.
“The Kilmartins personify the expression ‘small businesses are the backbone of the community.’ Their commitment to the people of Fort Plain is unyielding. When the Sheriff nominated the hardware store I jumped at the opportunity, because you’re always hearing about another way they’ve found to help out Fort Plain. I’m proud to recognize Fort Plain True Value Hardware Montgomery County’s Small Business of the Month,” said County Executive Ossenfort.
The hardware store is especially noted this time of year for lending its parking lot, as it does each year, to the Fort Plain Volunteer Fire Department for the department’s annual Christmas Tree Sale fundraiser. Beyond their support for the community’s first responders, Fort Plain True Value regularly donates time, money and materials to community events and organizations, and the Kilmartins are known for opening their doors to a customer in need whenever an emergency strikes, or a customer desperately needs something. Since the pandemic hit earlier this year, the store has also adapted their product offerings to reflect the needs of the community.
“Being locally owned and operated certainly adds a personal touch, especially when you’re doing business in a small community like Fort Plain. Having business owners like the Kilmartins, who truly care about the people who rely on them, makes all the difference in the world. Having ready, easy access to quality service and products, without the necessity to travel, helps people spend more time with their families and that benefits all of us,” said Montgomery County Sheriff Jeffrey T. Smith, who nominated the hardware store for the recognition.
“Whenever there’s a school group looking for support, a sports league looking for sponsors, or a nonprofit that’s just a little short on funds, everyone always turns to our small businesses. Thankfully, Montgomery County is blessed to have people the like Kilmartins and so many others who are always willing to lend a hand to those in need. This year has been especially hard on our local small business community. We’re proud to recognize Fort Plain True Value for all they do for the community, and we encourage everyone to add the hardware store to your shopping list. It’s a great way to say thank you,” said Montgomery County Business Development Center CEO Ken Rose.
Fort Plain True Value Hardware has been serving the community for more than 38 years. The business offers a wide variety of products, even beyond the traditional hardware store selection. The store also offers dedicated sections with Christmas, home and pet goods for customers who are looking for that unique or hard to find item.
The small business of the month initiative recognizes local Montgomery County businesses that are making a difference in the community. Anyone wishing to nominate a deserving small business for recognition next month should contact the Montgomery County Business Development Center at 518-853-8334 or email vnicosia2@co.montgomery.ny.us with a brief note about the positive impact the company is making on the community. Nominations can also be submitted by sharing a post and tagging the business on the Business Development Center’s Facebook and Instagram accounts.
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