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Carlos Carballada, a champion for Rochester, has died. The banker and former deputy mayor of the city of Rochester passed away at the age of 90 on Aug. 9.
“Mr. Carballada was a true public servant who dedicated his life to the betterment of our community, having served as the city’s acting mayor, deputy mayor, and commissioner of neighborhood and business development,” says Rochester Mayor Malik Evans. “In addition to these roles at City Hall, he enhanced the economic vitality and livability of Rochester by serving as director of M&T Bank and M&T Corp., one of the places where I had the pleasure of working with him.”
While Carballada’s contributions to the community are many—including his service at City Hall—he gained particular recognition for restoring the First National Bank of Rochester to stability and out of regulatory scrutiny. Carballada took the helm of the independently owned bank in the early 1990s, after serving as president and CEO of Central Trust Co. After a couple of years under his leadership, the bank was on a growth trajectory.
Carballada’s understanding of Rochester, including its neighborhoods, served him well as commissioner of economic development under then-Mayor Bob Duffy. When Tom Richards was chosen as a replacement for Duffy (who became lieutenant governor), Carballada served as acting mayor until Richards took office. Mayor Lovely Warren called him back as deputy mayor in 2016.
He played a role in several key projects, including Brooks Landing, the Port of Rochester Marina and College Town. The revitalization of Midtown also benefited from his vision.
Carballada’s career included his role as interim director of Rochester Institute of Technology’s Center for Urban Entrepreneurship and as a member and chancellor of the New York State Board of Regents. He was especially troubled by the performance of the Rochester City School District. Along with his wife, Virginia, he established an endowed scholarship fund for city of Rochester students.
Those who have known him will likely recall his charm. I remember it well. Carballada’s kindness and willingness to answer any question frankly will remain a treasured memory.
Carballada is survived by his wife, Virginia, and children Cynthia, Raymond and Michele. He was predeceased by his son Mark.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Aug. 16, at the Christ the King Chapel of Canisius University in Buffalo.
Smriti Jacob is Rochester Beacon managing editor.
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I had the honor of a many year friendly acquaintance with Carlos Carballada, first at the Board at United Way and then during his time as Deputy Mayor. As they say, a class act. As a Labor advocate I was no stranger to anger and I admit it. Not Carlos. He had an ever present smile rooted in friendship and his chief advocacy seemed to be his unlimited kindness. Many times he reminded me of our own Mr. Rodgers, but do not let that misguide you to underestimate his success as a businessman who gave back to the community and or his intellect.
Whenever I was tasked to speak at a function I always recognized and had Carlos stand for applause, while commenting how he was my favorite banker. That was our joke as most knew that bankers were not my favorite people. Every community needs at least one Carlos Carballada, and if lucky, more than one. Rest In Peace Carlos, and sincerest condolences to his family and many friends.