Meet the Candidates 2024

TOM KELLY – CANDIDATE FOR ORADELL COUNCIL 2024

Proven record as Oradell Councilman (2017-2020)

  • As Chair of Finance Committee, spearheaded effort to lower outstanding debt, refinance variable debt to fixed debt, resulting in upgrade to aa+ bond rating for borough, thereby lowering future financing costs
  • Reviewed and challenged borough expenses in an open and transparent manner
  • As Environmental /Beautification liaison, led efforts for swap shop, Styrofoam collection and recycling, plastic bag recycling, and music at Farmers Market
  • Served as Zoning Board liaison
  • Recommended and implemented Pedestrian Flag program in town
  • Advised creation of Oradell Outreach Committee 
  • Consistently visible active participant in all community projects 

Dedicated record of leadership, service, and action in community service

    • Oradell Planning Board: past member, former vice chair
    • Oradell Rotary: Member, past President; earned “Paul Harris Award for Service”
    • Lector at St. Joseph Church
    • Meals-on-Wheels volunteer, Bergen County
    • Treasurer and Board member, St. Francis De Sales School for the Deaf, Brooklyn, NY
    • Coordinator of Eva’s Village lunch program in Paterson
    • Engaged in numerous humanitarian trips and local outreach efforts

Focus on Children, Family, and Athletic programs

    • Oradell Kids Foundation: President (10 years): spearheaded launch of 5K race, chess club, scholarships, and grants for youth programs  
    • Oradell Recreation Committee member (7 years): led OKF Memorial playground fundraising and design
    • Coach and Board member for numerous recreational sports
    • Exchange program coordinator and host family

Biography

    • Oradell resident since 1996; raised 3 children here in Oradell with wife Kathleen
    • B.S., Finance (Siena College)
    • 25-year career as municipal finance professional in private sector/markets