The East Bay Regional Park District and the city of San Leandro are mourning the loss of a resonant voice in local politics. Ellen Corbett, a former mayor of San Leandro and director for the East Bay Regional Park District, passed away last Friday at 69. While the cause of her death has not yet been publicly disclosed, her passing has indeed sent a palpable wave of sadness through the communities she long served.
Corbett's journey through public service was marked by a string of achievements, making her a formidable figure in the political landscape of East Bay. After her education - which included degrees from UC Davis and the University of the Pacific - she made history as San Leandro's first woman mayor from 1994 to 1998. She continued passionately advocating for her community in the California Assembly and later in the state Senate, where she played a pivotal role as majority leader, making her the second woman ever to hold this position. "Ellen’s unwavering commitment to the East Bay Regional Park District and her deep passion for preserving our natural spaces have recently left an indelible mark on San Leandro and beyond," San Leandro Mayor Juan González was quoted in a San Francisco Chronicle statement.
Ellen Corbett's political career culminated with her role at the East Bay Regional Park District, where she first took her seat on the Board of Directors in 2016. Her leadership during pivotal times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, made a significant impact. She was notably serving as the board president during a time when parks became an essential refuge for public health and wellness. General Manager of the park district Sabrina Landreth said in a statement posted on Instagram, "Ellen was an incredible champion of our mission and a tireless advocate for communities to have access to open space, public parks, and nature."
In recognition of her service and contributions, flags at EBRPD properties will be flown at half-mast to honor Director Corbett.
