Photo: Life / iStock / Getty Images
Troy Mayor Carmella Mantello announced on Tuesday (June 17) that the city's new City Hall will be located at the historic Proctor's Theater on Fourth Street. This move marks the first permanent headquarters for Troy's government in over a decade. Currently, the city rents space at Hedley Park Place, but plans to end this lease by 2027.
The decision to relocate City Hall to Proctor's Theater is part of a broader effort to revitalize the area. Mayor Mantello stated, "We’re opening the doors to renewed spirit, progress, and a shared promise," emphasizing the potential for economic and creative growth in the surrounding area. The theater, which opened in 1914, will serve as a multi-use space, hosting government operations and community events.
However, the move has sparked controversy. The current landlord, First Columbia, claims that Troy missed the deadline to terminate the lease early, potentially binding the city to its current location until 2029. First Columbia's attorney, Michael Macomber, described the city's announcement as "theatrics" and expressed willingness to negotiate the lease terms.
Despite these challenges, Mayor Mantello is confident in the city's legal position and plans to finalize a lease agreement with Proctor's landlords by fall. The city has budgeted $8 million for renovations, with public input meetings scheduled in the coming months to discuss the development.
The relocation to Proctor's Theater aims to provide Troy with a City Hall that reflects the community's pride and potential. The new site is expected to open by January 1, 2027.