State Senate Approved Resolution Honoring the Life and Passing of Leonard N. Spano

On Monday, May 13th, the State Senate honored the life and passing of Leonard N. Spano, devoted husband, father, and former Westchester County Clerk and Legislator. The resolution was sponsored by Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and State Senator Shelley B. Mayer.  Mr. Spano served on the Westchester County Board of Legislators from 1971 to 1993 and as Westchester County Clerk from 1993 to 2005. Mr. Spano raised 16 children with his wife Josephine, including current Mayor of the City of Yonkers and former Assemblymember, Mike Spano, and former State Senator and Assemblymember Nick Spano.

The late Mr. Spano is remembered for his work ethic, devotion to his family, and keen political instincts.

Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, 35th Senate District, said, “Leonard Spano was a proud public servant who served the residents of Westchester for over three decades as County Legislator and as County Clerk. He built a legacy that has helped inspire a generation of children, including his own, to become public servants. I am proud to have helped advance a Senate Resolution recognizing Leonard Spano for his decades of public service. Leonard Spano was a dedicated son of Yonkers, and the best way to honor his legacy is to continue his commitment to our city and all of Westchester. I want to especially recognize Leonard’s wife and partner, Josephine, and thank her for sharing Leonard with the people of Westchester.”

Senator Shelley B. Mayer, 37th Senate District, said, “I am pleased to sponsor a resolution commemorating the life of Leonard N. Spano. Len was a formidable force in the political and civic life of Westchester County and the City of Yonkers. He served in public office for over 30 years, first as a Westchester County Legislator, then as Westchester County Clerk. Along with his wife, Josephine, he raised a family of public servants who continue to give back to the community. As a first generation immigrant, Len knew the value of hard work. When first running for public office, he would scrub his hands clean of oil marks from his job with the family business before going out door-knocking. Len’s story, and the blue-collar dynasty story of the Spano family, is one of immigrant success.”

Senator Pete Harckham, 40th Senate District, said, “Leonard Spano’s life was devoted to public service and we mourn the loss of this honorable gentleman. May his family be comforted by the memories of his remarkable accomplishments, both as a distinguished public servant and as the head of a family that continues to serve the public in Westchester County and beyond.”

Senator Jamaal Bailey, 36th Senate District, said, “Former Westchester County Clerk Leonard Spano was a hardworking and dedicated public servant that prioritized his community. He has left a legacy that will never be forgotten and will continue to live on. My thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this difficult time."

Senator Alessandra Biaggi, 34th Senate District, said, "As a fellow Italian-American serving the Westchester community, it is my hope to lead with the same dedication and compassion as did the late Leonard N. Spano. It is with heavy heart that we say goodbye to a deeply committed and loved public servant, and in his honor we will work to continue his legacy of devotion to New Yorkers.”