Stephen Cassidy, a respected attorney and longtime public servant, has died at the age of 61. City officials announced his passing on Saturday and confirmed that flags in San Leandro will be lowered to half-mast for seven days to honor his memory.
Dedicated Public Servant
Cassidy was elected mayor of San Leandro in 2010, after serving four years as a trustee on the city’s school district board. During his time in office, he was praised for his commitment to the community and his role in shaping the city’s civic and cultural identity.
Mayor Juan González said, “We mourn the loss of former Mayor Stephen Cassidy, a dedicated and experienced public servant whose impact on our community will be felt for generations. Cassidy’s transformative vision and unwavering commitment to the City of San Leandro and to the San Leandro Unified School District leaves an impactful legacy rooted in service, integrity, and care for our residents.”
Key Achievements
During his tenure as mayor, Cassidy focused on preserving essential city services and infrastructure. He led the effort to keep San Leandro Hospital, the city’s only acute-care facility, open when it was at risk of closure. He also championed a project to build a high-speed fiber-optic broadband network in the city’s commercial areas.
Continued Civic Engagement
Even after stepping down as mayor, Cassidy remained active in civic matters. He recently became CEO of the Newark Chamber of Commerce and continued to provide opinions on regional issues, including criticizing a Caltrans proposal to allow trucks on Interstate 580 through Oakland.
Community Reaction
News of Cassidy’s passing was met with heartfelt responses from public officials and community members. Assembly Member Liz Ortega stated, “He dedicated himself to improving local schools, strengthening public safety, and fostering a more vibrant city.”
Memorial Service
A public memorial for Stephen Cassidy is scheduled for January 10 at the San Leandro High School Performing Arts Center. The community is invited to honor his contributions and legacy.
Conclusion
Stephen Cassidy’s life was marked by a dedication to public service, community improvement, and lasting positive change. From saving the city hospital to improving local schools and infrastructure, his work leaves a legacy that will be remembered for generations. The city of San Leandro honors his life and service through flags at half-mast and an upcoming memorial gathering.
