Syracuse Council to Vote on Controversial School Leasing

Syracuse, NY (The Post-Standard) - Today's Syracuse Common Council meeting could make history for the city of Syracuse. The Council will vote on the largest lease agreement in city history to provide a temporary place for students and staff to hold classes during a major school reconstruction project.

The project, which would cost taxpayers $28.2 million over the next 15 years, would lease 2 1/3 buildings at the former Syracuse Developmental Center on the West Side of Syracuse.

Both the H.W. Smith K-8 and Dr. Weeks Elementary schools would hold classes there while those buildings are renovated. The cetner buildings can hold about 1,600 students.

There are mixed opinions from the Common Council. Some support it while others think a 15-year lease is too long. The meeting will take place at 1:00 p.m. at City Hall.