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Troy Mayor Carmella Mantello has signed legislation to relocate Troy City Hall to the historic Proctor's Theatre in downtown Troy. The move, approved by the city council with a 4-3 vote, aims to provide a permanent home for city governance while preserving a historic landmark. The relocation is expected to save taxpayer money by reducing rental costs and enhancing civic pride.
The Proctor's Theatre building, a significant piece of Troy's architectural heritage, will undergo renovations starting in mid-December. The city plans to complete the transition by January 1, 2027. Mayor Mantello emphasized the move's importance, stating, "This is about more than a building—it's about bringing Trojans together and continuing the resurgence of our city."
The decision follows years of renting space at the Hedley Building on River Street, which city officials deemed unsustainable. The new agreement involves a 30-year lease with the Troy Local Development Corporation, with projected annual rent costs between $675,000 and $685,000, significantly lower than the current $787,378 rental fee.
Despite the approval, the decision faced opposition from some council members who raised concerns about fiscal responsibility and preservation. Democratic Council President Susan Steele argued for delaying the vote until the new council takes office, but Republican Majority Leader Thomas Casey insisted on proceeding to meet renovation timelines.
The move to Proctor's Theatre marks a new chapter for Troy, blending historical preservation with modern governance needs. The project underscores the Mantello administration's commitment to revitalizing Troy's downtown and maximizing services for residents.