Lebanon Mayor Sherry Capello announced her intentions to run for reelection this fall at a Jan. 21 press conference in Lebanon City Hall.
“I’m seeking reelection for my fifth term because I continue to deliver results necessary to stabilize and grow the county seat,” Capello said to the crowd.
The Republican incumbent went through some of her past accomplishments and how she wants to continue improving the area.
Read More: Mayor Sherry Capello says Lebanon is in good shape, outlines plans going forward
She cited the city not raising taxes in 10 years, addressing budget deficits and establishing a capital reserve fund as some of the financial wins.
Read More: Lebanon City Council finalizes 2025 budget, making a decade of no tax hikes
She also addressed public safety in the city, saying they have implemented new policies and provided necessary equipment for police and firefighters. This, according to her, has helped decrease serious crimes.
If she is reelected, Capello said she hopes to develop a housing plan, improve the quality of life of city residents, and “continue support of policies for financial accountability and our long-term fiscal sustainability.”
Housing prices throughout the country have increased, and Lebanon is no different.
Capello said she wants to protect existing housing and get state or federal funding to renovate buildings to be more accessible. For example, there are spaces above businesses that could be used for housing but do not have elevators for possible tenants, she said.
When it comes to community improvement projects, there are already several in the works. The city recently solicited bids to construct a dog park in Coleman Memorial Park later this year.
Read More: Lebanon city solicits bids for dog park at Coleman Memorial Park; first in county
“By focusing on these goals, I believe we will attract additional private sector investment, facilitate additional job opportunities, ensure a vibrant downtown and create an environment that fosters community and attracts young professionals and families,” she said.
So far, Capello faces one announced primary challenger, Lebanon-based photographer Scott Church.
Read More: Scott Church to run for Lebanon mayor
If reelected, Sherry Capello would begin her fifth four-year term as Lebanon mayor in 2026.
Prior to being elected as mayor of Lebanon city, Capello held various positions in local government, beginning her career in 1987 as a county zoning officer before transitioning to Palmyra Borough as assistant borough manager in 1997 and then shortly thereafter being named borough manager, a role she held for more than a decade. Immediately prior to being elected mayor, Capello worked for Derry Township as assistant director of community development.
Capello was first sworn in as Lebanon’s 31st mayor on Jan. 4, 2010, and has won each of her reelection bids since, according to the biography on her campaign website.
“Lebanon is the place to grow, and we are not finished yet,” Capello said.
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