Ocean City Resident Announces Council Candidacy

OCEAN CITY, NJ — On Tuesday, longtime Ocean City resident and business leader Jim Kelly announced his candidacy for Ocean City Council, Member-at-Large.

Kelly said his decision to run stems from his connection to the community where he and his family reside.

“Ocean City isn’t just where I live — it’s where my wife and I chose to raise our family, where our sons grew up, went to school, and where we’ve all built lifelong friendships,” Kelly said. “This community has given us so much. I’m running to give back and to help ensure Ocean City remains strong, family-friendly, and financially responsible for the next generation.”

Kelly brings 43 years of private-sector experience in executive leadership roles, including finance, operations, development, and business strategy. He currently serves as Vice President of Erickson Senior Living, where he has worked on projects involving land use planning, zoning, financial oversight, and long-term strategic growth. His professional experience includes collaboration with local officials, residents, and business leaders.

“In my professional life, I’ve learned that the best outcomes come from bringing everyone to the table early, listening carefully, and working through differences in the open,” Kelly said. “I also believe government should be run with the same accountability, transparency, and fiscal discipline that successful businesses rely on.”

Kelly is involved in local community initiatives, serving on the Ocean City Boardwalk Subcommittee. He co-founded Ocean City 2050, a grassroots organization focused on transparency and civic engagement, and formally stepped away from his leadership role with the group upon announcing his candidacy. He has also served as Past President of the Churchville Nature Center.

In launching his campaign, Kelly outlined three key priorities: fiscal discipline, smart and responsible growth and progress, and public engagement and transparency. He emphasized responsible long-term financial planning and open discussion of city finances. Kelly also seeks thoughtful development that protects Ocean City’s character while supporting economic vitality, alongside fostering open dialogue and public participation in city decisions.

Kelly and his wife, Donna, have been married for nearly four decades. They have two sons, graduates of Ocean City High School, and three grandchildren. Donna operates a local charitable thrift shop.

“Ocean City doesn’t need more politics-as-usual — it needs steady, experienced leadership grounded in integrity,” Kelly said.