Meet Jim Pellecchia
Candidate for Union Township Committee

Jim Pellecchia is a lifelong resident and taxpayer of the Union Township community, with deep roots that trace back five generations. The Pellecchia family has called Union Township home since the 1940s, and today, Jim’s granddaughter proudly represents the fifth generation to live in this beautiful corner of New Jersey.

Jim brings decades of experience in construction, real estate development, and community service to his candidacy for Township Committee. A graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University with a degree in Construction Engineering Technology (1983), Jim began his career working for his family’s construction business while still in high school. He went on to serve as a construction executive at Turner Construction Company—one of the largest construction firms in the world—where he managed major projects, including the $850 million redevelopment of the historic St. John’s Freight Terminal at 550 Washington Street in New York City. As the project’s senior safety and site logistics leader, he oversaw the daily operations of 700 to 900 on-site craftsmen.

In 1984, Jim founded Pellecchia Development, a custom home building company that successfully completed numerous residential projects throughout Hunterdon County. He also managed Bran Realty Company, a family-owned commercial property business in Newark. Under his leadership, the company supported Jespy House, a nonprofit organization serving adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, through proceeds from a charitable bingo hall—contributing more than $1 million in funding.

Jim’s commitment to public service is long-standing. He was elected to the Union Township Board of Education in 1999, where he served two terms, including as Vice President and Chairman of the Building Committee. During his tenure, the district passed two referendums, acquired land, and completed the construction of a new elementary school—on time and on budget.

In 2006, Jim joined the Board of Trustees for Daytop School in Mendham, a treatment and education center for adolescents recovering from substance abuse. As Chairman of the Construction Committee, he led the successful expansion of the facility, securing $5 million in funding through in-kind contributions and private donations.

Now retired from his professional career, Jim is eager to continue serving the community that has shaped his life. He and his wife Susan have raised three children in Union Township and are now helping to raise their ten-year-old granddaughter. Jim’s love for Union Township and commitment to preserving its character for future generations are at the heart of his campaign.

If elected, Jim pledges to serve without accepting monetary compensation. In addition, he is not accepting donations for his campaign, which is entirely self-funded.

Jim is ready to bring his professional experience, dedication to public service, and passion for the community to the Union Township Committee, to keep the township safe, clean, and beautiful for all who call it home.

In addition to the relevant experience mentioned above, Jim has the following credentials:

Credentials

          • Fairleigh Dickinson University, Bachelor of Science, Construction Engineering Technology, 1983
          • U.S. Green Building Council, LEED Accredited Professional
          • FDNY Certified S-56
          • George Washington University, Project Leadership
          • FMI Leadership Institute
          • Former UT recreation volunteer for basketball, soccer, and softball
          • Union Township Board of Education Member, 1999-2005, Chairman of Building Committee and Vice President
          • Volunteer, Cub Scout Pack 119
          • Hunterdon County DARE, Board of Directors
          • Daytop School, Youth Drug Rehabilitation Center, Trustee, Chairman of Building Committee
          • Recipient of the prestigious “Spirit of Daytop” Award in 2008
          • Three-time recipient of the  Building Trades Employee Association (BTEA), Safest Major Project Award
          • Jespy House, Home for Developmentally Disabled Adults. Major contributor to non-profit through legalized games of chance
          • Knights of Columbus, Third Degree, St. Catherine of Siena