The Troy City Council has voted to postpone the appointment of Ian Silverman as Legislative Counsel, pending confirmation by the city’s Civil Service Commission. This decision, made during the council’s organizational meeting on March 11, 2024, comes amid concerns raised by Republican officials, particularly Mayor Carmella Mantello, regarding potential conflicts of interest associated with Silverman’s existing roles.
Mayor Mantello highlighted that Silverman currently serves as Corporation Counsel for the City of Rensselaer and as legal counsel for the New York State Department of Health. She expressed that these overlapping responsibilities could create ethical and legal dilemmas for the city of Troy. “These overlapping responsibilities mirror those of the proposed Troy position and, under New York State General Municipal Law, create a clear conflict of interest that puts our city at risk,” she stated.
In contrast, Council President Sue Steele defended Silverman’s appointment, stating that his role would not involve contract negotiations with Rensselaer or his other positions. “He is being hired for his personal expertise with the city charter,” Steele asserted. She emphasized that Silverman’s extensive knowledge and experience make him an excellent candidate who would provide valuable legal counsel to the legislative branch of the city.
Silverman himself rejected claims of a conflict of interest, clarifying the distinction between his responsibilities as Corporation Counsel and those he would assume as Legislative Counsel. “There’s no conflict,” he said. He explained that his duties in Troy would focus solely on legislative matters, not on contract negotiations, thus alleviating the concerns expressed by the mayor.
The city’s charter allows the council to hire legislative counsel for legal advice, separate from the Executive’s Corporation Counsel, which Steele believes would enhance the council’s ability to draft legislation and conduct research effectively. “We’ll rely on Legislative Counsel for any instances where we need interpretations of the charter,” she noted, adding that this role could help reduce the workload on the Corporation Counsel’s office.
Mayor Mantello raised additional concerns regarding Silverman’s proposed salary of $50,000 annually, which represents a $35,000 increase over the previous holder of the position. She described the appointment as politically motivated, suggesting it rewards Silverman for his wife’s unsuccessful bid for County Executive in the previous election. “This appears to be a purely political appointment,” Mantello said, questioning the justification for the salary increase given the lack of demonstrated need.
Steele refuted the mayor’s claims, insisting that Silverman’s appointment is based on his qualifications rather than political connections. “I was disappointed to read the mayor’s allegations, which are an unnecessary distraction from the important business of the city,” she remarked.
Silverman also responded to the allegations of political favoritism, stating that the city council approached him for the position. “There were no promises made either to myself or my wife,” he clarified. He emphasized that his qualifications and nearly 20 years of experience in municipal law justified the council’s recommendation.
The appointment process requires approval from the Civil Service Commission, which includes a public hearing. Steele confirmed that the position has been vacant for several years and needs formal approval before Silverman can officially take on the role.
Despite the administration’s concerns, Silverman expressed optimism about his potential contributions. “I think it’s important to have someone to help with the legal end of things so that the council can work effectively,” he stated. He pointed out that the voters in November had expressed a desire for a strong check on Mayor Mantello’s administration, as demonstrated by their support for the Democratic council majority.
Residents are encouraged to attend the upcoming council meeting scheduled for March 14, 2024, where community input will be welcomed, even in the absence of pending legislation. Steele invited individuals and community groups to share their priorities for the new term, highlighting the council’s commitment to engaging with residents on important issues.
