T
he city has put on hold a lucrative lease for the Department of the Aging's office at 14 Wall Street in the Financial District while it investigates potential impropriety. The lease was awarded to billionaire Alexander Rovt, a real estate investor and health care entrepreneur who donated the maximum amount to Mayor Eric Adams' previous campaigns. Rovt has also contributed $3,500 to Adams' re-election campaign.

    The Department of Citywide Administrative Services, led by Jesse Hamilton, is under scrutiny for its role in leasing decisions. Hamilton allegedly intervened in the lease procurement process to steer a deal towards Rovt's building, despite AmTrust Realty being the top pick according to an internal scoring system. The Manhattan district attorney's office has seized devices from Hamilton and other officials as part of an investigation.

    A Manhattan community board initially recommended approval of the lease but later expressed concerns about building ownership and Hamilton's involvement. The City Planning Commission also approved the lease, but resistance formed in the City Council. Members have asked First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer to review the situation, citing concerns that taxpayers are not getting the best deal.