TROY, N.Y. — In a recent address, Troy City Council President Sue Steele reviewed the challenges faced by the council following the election of an all-Democratic body in November 2023. Steele emphasized the need for constructive dialogue between the new council and Republican Mayor Carmella Mantello’s administration to enhance governance in the city.
Steele characterized the past year as one marked by setbacks for the Democratic minority. She noted, “This past year has been difficult, we’ve had a mayoral administration and council majority of the same party. It has been very much a rubber stamp situation.” The council minority has faced repeated obstacles in advancing their legislative agenda, resulting in frustrations over the lack of cooperation from the majority.
One significant issue was the veto of a teleconference bill designed to allow council members and the public to attend meetings remotely during emergencies or illnesses. This measure received some bipartisan support but was ultimately rejected by Mantello, who cited logistical concerns and the need for in-person attendance to foster better interactions. Steele remarked, “It was great to see a bipartisan vote on that, but unfortunately the mayor vetoed it, and there were not enough votes to override that veto.” She plans to reintroduce this legislation in the upcoming term.
The election of the all-Democratic council, according to Steele, signals a strong mandate from voters. “From my perspective, I think the voters spoke loud and clear on election night,” she stated. “It was a referendum on the mayor’s two years, it was a referendum on one-party rule, and it was a referendum on City Hall at Proctor’s Theater.” This sentiment reflects a broader desire among constituents for a government that incorporates checks and balances.
In a contentious vote, the council approved a $685,000 lease with Troy’s Local Development Corporation (LDC) for a new City Hall, locking the city into a 30-year agreement. This decision has faced significant public opposition, with numerous comments during the council meeting expressing concerns about historical preservation, accessibility, and financial transparency. Steele acknowledged the public’s discontent, stating, “I think it upset a lot of people… it needs to make sense on a number of levels, including the finances and accessibility.” She believes this dissatisfaction contributed to the election results.
Despite the challenges, Steele remains hopeful for future collaboration. “I’m very optimistic that going forward we will be able to work together very well as a council,” she said. She expressed a desire for improved relations with the administration, emphasizing the importance of accountability in governance. “I don’t think any of us want to see unnecessary contention, but I don’t think there’s anything wrong with asking questions and expecting answers.”
As the new council prepares to take office, the dynamics of Troy’s governance will be closely observed, particularly in light of the clear message sent by voters in the recent election.
