Fabry, Albanese win council seats in Lower Burrell

A cross-filed incumbent and Republican challenger were the top two vote-getters Tuesday in a race for Lower Burrell Council, leaving the city’s former longtime solicitor as the odd candidate out, according to unofficial election results.

Chris Fabry, the incumbent, was the top vote-getter with 41.7% of the votes cast, while Republican Rosina Albanese collected 31.6% of the votes, the unofficial results showed around 11:30 p.m.

Stephen Yakopec Jr., who had been the city’s solicitor for 26 years before council chose not to renew his contract this year, gathered 26.3% of the votes, according to the results.

Two seats were up for election. The winners will serve four-year terms.

“I’m very excited. I try to give my all to Lower Burrell, and I will continue to do so,” Fabry said Tuesday night.

Fabry’s campaign focused strongly on attracting businesses to Lower Burrell, while keeping city spending low.

During his campaign, Fabry focused on bringing a new business to Burrell Plaza on Leechburg Road.

“There are plans in place, and we have a solid idea,” Fabry said. “I’m confident we can get that plaza filled.”

For Albanese, Lower Burrell Council marks her first time holding public office.

“I’m overwhelmed and ecstatic,” Albanese said. “Surprised and pleased.”

At 27, she is younger than the rest of her fellow council members, and she is eager to bring a new perspective to the body. Albanese currently works as the constituent relations specialist to state Rep. Bob Brooks. She said her goal as a councilwoman is to contribute to the Lower Burrell community by expanding events and programming and attracting young families.

“Beyond professional experience, I think I’m a neighbor who cares,” she said. “I’m excited to give back to my community in a new way.”