TROY, NY (WGY News Radio) — A legal dispute has emerged in Troy over the early termination of the city hall lease at the Hadley Building. Mayor Carmella Mantello announced plans for a new city hall by 2027, stating that the city would end its current lease early. However, the building’s landlord, First Columbia, claims the city missed the deadline for early termination.
According to NEWS10 ABC, the city’s spokesperson, Alex Horton, insists that Troy lawfully exercised its option to terminate the lease. Horton stated, “The City of Troy has lawfully and timely exercised its option to terminate the lease with First Columbia at 433 River Street. On January 1, 2027, we expect to be in a new City Hall site approved by the City Council.”
However, Michael Macomber, CEO of Tully Rinckey, representing First Columbia, argues that a condition precedent was not met. He explained that the city council needed to approve a new site before the early termination could take effect. As the deadline of June 1 has passed, Macomber claims the city could be responsible for lease payments until January 2029.
City Council President Sue Steele expressed concerns about the process, stating that the council has not been informed of any new location. Steele said, “The whole process regarding city hall has been shrouded in secrecy.”
The legal battle has sparked mixed reactions among Troy residents. While some support the mayor’s plans for a new city hall, others are concerned about the potential financial implications and the lack of transparency in the process. The outcome of this dispute remains uncertain as legal proceedings continue.
