Former White Plains Mayor Joseph M. Delfino, who served three terms in the post and is credited with beginning the revitalization of downtown White Plains has died at age 92. Delfino’s daughter Cynthia disclosed the news of her father’s passing. He had been receiving hospice care.
Delfino was elected to the White Plains Common Council in 1979 and served ten years. In 1989, he was elected to the Westchester County Board of Legislators and served as vice-chairman of the board. In 1997, he was elected mayor of White Plains and served three terms. In 2009, he announced that he would not be running for another term.
Delfino’s administration is credited with beginning what turned into a $3 billion construction boom in the city, one that continues to expand. The revitalization began in earnest when Delfino brought in developer Louis Cappelli to tear down the former site of Macy’s at the corner of Main Street and Mamaroneck Avenue and create the mixed-use project that was dubbed City Center.
Delfino, who earned the nickname “Mayor Joe” from his constituents, was credited with enhancing the city’s parks and open space facilities. He served a stint as president of the New York State Conference of Mayors. Delfino was a Republican and served at a time when the Republican Party dominated White Plains politics.
Delfino was predeceased by his wife Ellie, who died in 2011. His daughter Cynthia Defino Birdsall, is CEO and president of the YMCA of Central and Northern Westchester.
According to Lloyd Maxcy & Sons Beauchamp Chapel Inc., in New Rochelle, visitation will take place on Friday, Oct. 25, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 92 S. Lexington Ave., in White Plains. There will be a mass on Saturday, Oct. 26, also at Mount Carmel Church at 10 a.m. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery.
Marsha Gordon, president and CEO of the Business Council of Westchester, said in a Facebook post, “Mayor Joe will live in our hearts forever. Deep condolences and love.”
