The City of San Leandro is in mourning following the passing of former Mayor Stephen Cassidy at the age of 61. During his tenure, Cassidy, who served as mayor from 2010 to 2014, was instrumental in the preservation of San Leandro Hospital, the city's sole acute-care center, from closure. As reported by the San Francisco Chronicle, he also played a key role in the establishment of a high-speed fiber-optic broadband network throughout the city’s commercial core.
Sadly, the cause of Cassidy's death has not been disclosed, having recently taken on the CEO role at the Newark Chamber of Commerce. Even until two weeks before he passed, with his finger still on the pulse of local issues, he was seen discussing a contentious Caltrans proposal with The Chronicle, showing his enduring engagement with regional politics.
Praise for Cassidy's contributions has come from multiple fronts. Assembly Member Liz Ortega expressed her shock at his death, noting his dedication to local schools and the city's well-being in a statement acquired by the San Francisco Chronicle. San Leandro Unified School District Superintendent Michael McLaughlin highlighted Cassidy's efforts in passing school bond and parcel tax measures that led to significant improvements in educational spaces and resources for students, in a statement shared on social media.
In remembrance of his service, Mayor Juan González announced that the city will lower flags to half-mast for seven days, according to details shared by SFGATE. A public memorial service is planned to be held on January 10 at the San Leandro High School Performing Arts Center. Cassidy is survived by his wife, Amy, and their daughters, reminding us of the personal legacy he leaves behind as well as the professional one.
