On March 12, 2025, LebTown profiled Mayoral Candidate Sharon Zook and gave her the opportunity to introduce herself and present a statement about her candidacy. While I appreciate Sharon’s initiative and her commitment to the community, I feel it is important to address several inaccuracies in her statement.
First, I commend Sharon for her work in “rebuilding the playground at S. 6th Street” and fundraising both in-kind and monetary donations for the project. However, it is important to clarify that the city played an integral role in this initiative. The city applied for the 50/50 matching grant, administered the grant, and oversaw the construction contract. While we recognize Sharon’s efforts to improve the privately owned playground near her home, I believe that rebuilding a playground alone does not necessarily equate to the experience needed to lead a city as its mayor.
Sharon also mentioned her intent to make slumlords more accountable and to address the city’s “nuisance” problems. Let me assure you, no other mayor in Lebanon’s history has worked harder to hold landlords accountable than my administration. We have increased the number of employees in property maintenance and updated policies, resulting in a significant increase in new cases handled by codes since I first took office. Additionally, we have required owners of condemned properties to submit action plans for compliance, which has encouraged property sales and reduced the number of condemned and blighted properties. Our efforts have transformed many blocks into thriving, vibrant neighborhoods.
Regarding the issue of illegal businesses, such as vape shops, unlicensed massage parlors, and nightclubs, I want to emphasize that the city, like every other municipality in the Commonwealth, must allow for various types of businesses, including these. However, if they are operating illegally, we are actively pursuing enforcement actions to address these issues. It’s clear that Sharon may not be fully aware of the ongoing work we are doing in this area.
On the subject of investment in the city, more than $278 million has been invested in Lebanon during my tenure as mayor. Some of the significant investments include projects like the Albright Life Center, Save-A-Lot Complex, Kreider Commons, Shoppes at the Bridges, Veterinary Medical Center, LV Craft Brewery, Whole Plants, Weis Market Fueling Station, Family First Complex, Lebanon Junior High School, U-Haul’s New Facility, Calvery Church Major Renovations, Quartz Creek New Climate Controlled Facility and numerous others. These investments are evidence of Lebanon’s continued appeal to investors. Does this sound like a city where investors aren’t interested?
Sharon mentioned “hushed” issues regarding transparency in my administration. I take pride in my transparency and encourage anyone with questions to ask me directly. Throughout my time in office, I have worked to restore the public’s trust by addressing budget deficits, including the $850,000 deficit I inherited. When I took office, the city was on the brink of bankruptcy, with three years of missed audits and no capital reserve fund. By implementing a realistic budget, negotiating a pay freeze, catching up on audits, addressing the audit findings, and establishing a reserve fund, we have brought the city’s finances back to stability. All of this has been done with full transparency, as evidenced by the monthly and annual reports presented to the public and the City Council.
As for Sharon’s claims about the City Hall construction project being done without competitive bidding, I must correct the record. The renovation project was not “well over $6 million,” as she claimed. The city hired a construction manager who oversaw competitive bidding for at least 32 subcontracts. Sharon’s allegations seem to stem from a personal issue with the construction manager, and I believe this personal vendetta has influenced her statements. Furthermore, the $2 million grant from the state has been fully released, and there were no issues with the funding.
Sharon also claimed that the “average person in the city is of low economic status” and that “there is no money for parks and recreation.” I respectfully disagree. The city has made significant investments in quality-of-life improvements, including the greening of the amphitheater, new playgrounds, upgraded pavilions, a new bike park, and more. We are also working on improvements to the Veterans Memorial Walkway, new park connectors, a splash pad, and a dog park. These projects demonstrate our commitment to improving the quality of life for all residents, regardless of economic status.
Finally, regarding Sharon’s concerns about the costs of heating and cooling an underutilized City Hall, I want to clarify that every inch of the building is utilized. The utility costs are shared with our tenant, and the city’s portion is covered by the improved economic status of the city. Relocating City Hall downtown was one of the best decisions I made as mayor. It has enhanced our police presence, increased foot traffic, and spurred additional economic development in the area.
Throughout my time as mayor, I have consistently represented all the people of Lebanon City with transparency, fairness, and accountability. I am proud of the progress we have made over the past ten years without raising taxes, even in the face of significant economic challenges. My experience, both in my prior jobs and as mayor, has equipped me to make informed, thoughtful decisions that directly benefit our community. When you look at my record, you’ll see a track record of results, integrity, and a focus on the people of Lebanon.
Thank you for your continued trust and support.
Sincerely,
Sherry Capello
Mayor of Lebanon
