Vanessa Jenkins

Elected Terms

• 2026-2029 | Borough Council

Appointed Terms

• 2025 | Borough Council

Committees

• Finance (Co-Chair)
• Public Works (Co-Chair)
• Codes (Chair)
• Events (Member)

Biography

Vanessa Jenkins is a Harrisburg native and newly elected member of Steelton Borough Council who proudly calls Steelton home. She is a third-generation steelworker, following in the footsteps of her mother and great-grandmother, and has worked as a steelworker for the past 18 years. During her career, Vanessa has held and learned multiple positions, including serving as a coordinator within her department—experience that strengthened her ability to collaborate effectively, lead when necessary, and follow when teamwork requires it.

A small business owner and mother, Vanessa understands the importance of stability, opportunity, and self-reliance. She is a strong advocate for self-sufficiency through urban farming as a way to combat food insecurity and ensure families have access to fresh, healthy food.

Vanessa is deeply involved in her union, Local 1688, where she serves as a Chair on the Women of Steel and Community Service Committees. Through this work, she has become passionate about community engagement, connecting residents to resources, and supporting those in need.

In 2021, Vanessa purchased her first home in Steelton and quickly fell in love with the borough for its welcoming spirit and willingness to open its arms to help anyone. As a council member, she is committed to economic growth, addressing blighted properties, and building a stronger, safer, and more vibrant Steelton for future generations.