Clavin Resigns As Hempstead Supervisor

HEMPSTEAD, NY — Hempstead Supervisor Don Clavin stepped down from his position during the Town Board meeting on Tuesday.

"What an honor and a privilege, and a friendship all of you have been," Clavin said. "To the residents, you've always been very kind to me."

Following the brief announcement, Clavin exited the Town Board dais to a standing ovation from lawmakers and those in the audience.

Clavin earlier this year stated he would not seek a fourth term as Hempstead Supervisor. But Clavin is not ready to end his political life as he's running to become a Nassau County Justice this fall.

Republican selected Legislator John Ferretti, of Levittown, to run as Hempstead Supervisor.

“Today, Don Clavin made the difficult decision to step down after 24 years as an elected official in the Town of Hempstead. As a result of his sudden resignation, the Hempstead Town Board installed John Ferretti as Supervisor," said Brian Devine, Town of Hempstead Director of Communications. "This action, which has been used by both Democrats and Republicans in various municipalities, ensures continuity of services for residents of America’s largest township."

Clavin was an outspoken critic of Gov. Hochul's congestion pricing project, saying in January that they "still have hope" that it can get rescinded with cases pending in state and federal court.

"Even the critics have been the nicest people to me, and I wish all of you the greatest success," Clavin said.