The Commissioner of the Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) has come under fire for giving misleading testimony on a lease deal that was suddenly changed from one building to another. The switch, made by DCAS Deputy Commissioner Jesse Hamilton, benefited billionaire and Mayor Eric Adams’ donor Alex Rovt’s building, 14 Wall St.
In February, the mayor’s office announced plans to move the Department of Aging (DFTA) from its current office at 2 Lafayette St. to 250 Broadway, citing cost savings of $31 million. However, sources reveal that Hamilton intervened and switched the lease deal to Rovt’s building, despite a previous agreement with the landlord of 250 Broadway where the renovation costs would be paid by the owner.
The decision has raised questions about potential influence from Adams’ donors on city business deals. Council members have called for an investigation into the matter, including a review of real estate transactions involving Hamilton. The mayor’s office has paused the lease process while it reviews policies and procedures related to the deal.
Source: https://www.thecity.nyc/2024/11/13/molina-lease-14-wall-dcas-contract-hamilton