J. Curtis Edwards Positions Himself To Lead Bridgeton as Mayor Kelly’s Era Nears Its End
Photo courtesy of J. Curtis Edward campaign.
BY CLYDE HUGHES | AC JosepH Media
BRIDGETON — With longtime Mayor Albert Kelly preparing to step away from public office, Bridgeton is approaching a pivotal transition in leadership — and City Councilman J. Curtis Edwards says he is ready to step forward.
Kelly, Bridgeton’s first African American mayor, has led the city since 2010 while simultaneously growing Gateway Community Action Partnership into one of New Jersey’s most influential anti-poverty agencies. His retirement marks the end of a political era shaped heavily by his vision and steady presence.
Edwards said that although no one has formally announced a mayoral run, he and his team are preparing for a competitive race.
“We don’t know who’s running against me,” Edwards said. “Petitions aren’t due until Aug. 20, so we’re planning accordingly. That’s why we’re doing fundraisers now.”
A Protégé of Mayor Kelly
Edwards has served on city council since 2015 and said Kelly has been a guiding force throughout his political career.
“Albert Kelly is a mentor to me, and I’ve run on his ticket since joining city council,” Edwards said. “It’s not just an honor — it’s a privilege to try to fill the legacy he created in Bridgeton.”
Though not born in Bridgeton, Edwards said the city has become central to his identity.
“Becoming mayor is personal to me,” he said. “My family has deep roots here. Since 2003, this has been my home — where I built my life, raised my daughters, and committed myself to service.”
His campaign team includes his cousin, Angelia Edwards, who is running for his council seat, along with support from several current council members.
A Career in Service
A U.S. Navy veteran, Edwards has spent more than two decades in public service, beginning with the Bridgeton Board of Education before joining city council. He also serves as CEO of CompleteCare Health Network, which provides healthcare to some of South Jersey’s most vulnerable residents.
“I manage large budgets, lead teams, and expand access to healthcare across the region,” Edwards said. “That experience gives me firsthand insight into the challenges our communities face and the importance of strong, effective leadership.”
Priorities for Bridgeton
Edwards said his campaign will focus on economic development, job creation, infrastructure improvements, and public safety.
“Bridgeton should be a city where people can work, grow, and succeed,” he said. “Residents deserve clean, safe, well-maintained neighborhoods and reliable city services.”
He emphasized fiscal responsibility and reducing waste, especially as the city confronts a significant budget shortfall.
“One of our biggest challenges is that only 43% of Bridgeton’s properties are taxable,” Edwards said. “The dollars just aren’t there. We either have to increase revenue by bringing in more businesses or reduce expenses. That’s the reality Bridgeton is facing.”
Edwards said his years on the city’s finance committee position him to navigate those difficult decisions while protecting essential services and avoiding unnecessary tax increases.
A Family Legacy of Leadership
Edwards is the son of the late James “Big Jim” Edwards, a respected businessman and community advocate. The city recently renamed the street in front of Edwards & Son Funeral Home in his honor.
“I think he’d be proud of me for taking on a leadership role,” Edwards said. “He always taught me that if you want to change something, you have to get involved. Don’t stand on the sidelines complaining — be part of the solution.”
With petitions due in August and the election ahead in November, Edwards said he is ready for the next phase.
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