Gloucester Township Council Election: Jen O'Donnell Candidate Profile

GLOUCESTER TOWNSHIP, NJ — Gloucester Township residents are set to vote for Township Council this November.

The race pits three Democratic incumbents against three independent challengers. The Democratic candidates are running for re-election with Mayor David Mayer, while the independents are running with mayoral candidate Keith Gibbons under the "United For Change" banner.

Patch sent questions to all council candidates and will publish responses as they're received. All candidate profiles will be re-shared closer to Election Day, which is Nov. 4.

Council candidate Jen O'Donnell, who is running on the "United For Change" ticket, submitted the following responses:

Jen O'Donnell

• Age: 55
• Education: bachelor's degree
• Occupation: office manager
• Previous elected/appointed office: Currently serving my ninth year on the Gloucester Township Board of Education, where I am in my third term and currently hold the position of president.

Why are you running for council?

I have a long history of public service in Gloucester Township and care deeply about our community. I understand why many residents hesitate to get involved in local government, but I’m not afraid to step forward. After completing my third term on the Board of Education, I felt ready to take on a new challenge and continue serving in a different capacity. When Keith Gibbons asked me to run for council, I saw an opportunity to bring the same collaboration and integrity I value to the municipal level. Keith and I have worked well together on the Board of Education, and we share a commitment to what’s best for Gloucester Township’s children, families, and taxpayers. I believe residents deserve honest representation and greater transparency, and I’m ready to help deliver that.

What sets you apart from the other candidates?

I make it a priority to engage in meaningful conversations with residents. I care deeply about my neighbors and the broader Gloucester Township community. My years on the Board of Education have shown me how much can be accomplished when people with different perspectives work together toward a shared goal. I believe in asking questions, finding practical solutions, and making decisions based on what serves residents — not political interests. I’m not a “yes” person; I stand by my principles and always strive to do what’s best for the people of Gloucester Township.

What past accomplishments or experiences make you qualified for this position?

I’ve dedicated many years to serving the families and public of Gloucester Township. Beyond my service on the Board of Education, I’ve volunteered in our schools, founded nonprofit organizations that continue to thrive, and helped raise thousands of dollars for local families in need. As board president, I’ve worked to strengthen transparency and accountability, ensuring that the public has better access to information and a stronger voice in decision-making.

If elected, what will be your top priorities during your term?

My top priorities will be maintaining open communication with residents, ensuring responsible budgeting, and addressing the longterm needs of our sewer utility to keep rates fair and infrastructure reliable. I would also like to explore whether restoring the Municipal Utilities Authority (MUA) could better serve residents — through improved oversight, financial management, and accountability.