SYRACUSE - Mayor Matthew Driscoll received notice Tuesday that the Department of Housing and Urban Development will postpone the auction of seven rental properties in Syracuse, scheduled for Wednesday, March 26, 2008 for 21 days, as requested by the City of Syracuse.

In a fax sent to Driscoll Tuesday, John Garvin, senior advisor to the Assistant Secretary of HUD said: “Based on the city’s interest in this property, HUD will postpone the sale date for 21 days.” 

“This postponement allows the city to seek private sector developers interested in maintaining these buildings, who have the financial backing and property management experience,” said the mayor. “The city wants to ensure not only that these strategically located properties are maintained but that the tenants are in safe and decent housing. The City will use his time to pursue other options.”  

Mayor Driscoll on Monday asked HUD to postpone the auction after HUD officials notified the city during a conference call on Friday, March 21, 2008 that the city’s only option was to purchase the building package for $9 million and would need an additional $16 million for renovation costs. 

The properties are 407 Stolp Avenue; 1000 Bellevue Avenue; 1445 South Salina Street; 1530 East Genesee Street; 615 James Street;  622 James Street; and 828 South West Street, 400 West Onondaga Street and 410 West Onondaga Street.