“Belmont is a place worth protecting, and growing”
From Shannon For Belmont,
Returned Belmont resident Shannon Harding has announced her candidacy for Belmont Village Trustee in the upcoming village election on March 18, 2026. The election will be held at the Belmont Town Hall from 12-9:00 pm.
Harding recently returned to her hometown after years away and quickly became involved in community service while looking for a home to purchase in the area. Since striving to relocate to Belmont, she has proudly volunteered hundreds of hours at the Herbert W. DeLong American Legion Post 808 in Belmont. Over the past three years, she spearheaded and helped to raise nearly $15,000 with the help of those who support our veterans/ members, and local businesses that readily pitched in. She is currently serving as the President of American Legion Auxiliary Unit #808, including a 37 year membership. She has also taken part in efforts to preserve Belmont’s historic buildings and promote thoughtful community planning.
“With its rich history and small-town character, Belmont is a place worth protecting, and growing.” Harding said. “I came home because I love this village, and I want to help make sure it grows in a way that honors its past while preparing for the future.”
Harding brings more than 25 years of professional experience in marketing and small business development. She has worked with thousands of small businesses and major organizations across Western New York, and nationally, giving her a practical and well-practiced understanding of how to attract and support local economic growth.
Her platform focuses on historic preservation, responsible economic development, and protecting residents from unnecessary tax increases. Harding believes Belmont can grow its tax base without raising property taxes by encouraging small, locally focused businesses that fit the village’s historic charm.
“Growth should pay for itself,” Harding believes. “We can welcome new businesses, visitors and residents without losing the peaceful way of life that makes Belmont special.”
Harding supports reusing existing buildings whenever possible, strengthening the historically significant Schuyler Street and Willets Avenue, while working with qualified planners, local historians, and businesses to guide future development. She has also expressed interest in pursuing grants and outside funding to reduce the financial burden on local taxpayers.
The Belmont Village election will be held on Tuesday, March 18. Voting is from 12 pm to 9 pm at the Belmont Village Hall. Harding is seeking one of the two open trustee seats. This includes a 4-year term.
“I believe in Belmont,” Harding said. “I believe in its kind and rooted people, its history, and its future. I would be honored to serve our community and work for a Belmont that remains a wonderful place to live and thrive for generations to come.”
Learn more about Shannon’s qualifications and platform at https://www.shannonforbelmont.com/
Keep up with her campaign at https://www.facebook.com/shannonforbelmont/
