James M. Kelly (Boston politician)

James M. Kelly (1940 – January 9, 2007) was an American politician who served on the Boston City Council for 23 years, representing South Boston, the South End and Chinatown.

Biography
Kelly was first elected to the Boston City Council in November 1983, and served from January 1984 until his death in January 2007. He was the council president from 1994 through 2000.

Kelly had previously been one of the leading opponents of court ordered busing to achieve racial integration in public schools during the 1970s. He continued to fight such plans as a member of the city council. He also attacked mandated housing integration and affirmative action.

Kelly was a graduate of South Boston High School and was a sheet metal worker before entering politics.