James M Kelly (Massachusetts politician)

James M. Kelly (1940–2007) was a member of the Boston City Council from South Boston from 1983 until his death. He served as Boston City Council president from 1994 until 2001.

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.