Meet Janelle

Janelle's Vision

"I solved many of the same challenges facing California today. I will take action with economic policies that directly improve the affordability of living in our state."

- Janelle Kellman

I'm Janelle and I Take Action

As the Mayor of Sausalito, member of the Town Council, and across ten years serving on the Sausalito Planning Commission, I solved many of the same challenges facing California today. I will take action with economic policies that directly improve the affordability of living in our state - job creation, supporting small business, workforce development, and balancing California’s budget - so we can all continue to live in our great state!

What I've Achieved

Explore key accomplishments of my career and service.

Mayor of Sausalito (2022)

Secured nearly $2M in funding for coastal resilience and led efforts in housing policy, addressing affordability, and equity.

Economic Development Leadership

Serves on the Board of Marin Clean Energy and advocates for more job opportunities with apprenticeship programs in renewables and maritime sectors, to drive job creation and promote energy independence.

Center for Sea Rise Solutions

Founded a global nonprofit addressing sea-level rise, to keep our coastal communities from California to Barcelona safe over the coming decades.

League of California Cities

As incoming President of the Northbay Division of the League of California Cities, she works closely with the public, policymakers, and opinion leaders locally and across the state to help our towns and cities retain their decision-making authority.

Homelessness Initiative

Helped solve Sausalito’s homeless crisis through an innovative and collaborative solution distributing rehousing stipends and employing new policy options.

Environmental Law and Policy

As a federal attorney for U.S. EPA, she led Tribal water quality and Federal Endangered Species Act compliance efforts, helping to protect the most vulnerable humans, animals and plants.

Community and Public Service

Served on the Sausalito Planning Commission for over ten years, chairing it multiple times and contributing to significant decisions about permitting, zoning and how the community develops.

Endurance Athlete

Competed in over 15 ultramarathons, ran the Grand Canyon rim-to-rim (twice!), and cycled from DC to CA.

Champion of Equity & Diversity

Janelle is a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community. As Mayor, she spearheaded Sausalito's first LGBTQ+ Pride celebration, taking real action to show that Sausalito is a welcoming and diverse community.

Janelle's Story

Grounded in Heritage, Inspired by Family Values

Janelle Kellman’s journey began in Hartford, Connecticut, and continued in a small Pennsylvania town shaped by coal mining. Her grandfather, a Russian immigrant, sought safety and new opportunities in the United States, instilling in Janelle the values of perseverance, education, and community responsibility—principles that have guided her throughout her life.

A Lifelong Commitment to Leadership and Sustainability

Janelle’s academic path took her to Yale, where she excelled in athletics, playing varsity lacrosse and field hockey, which sharpened her leadership and teamwork skills. At the University of Oxford, she deepened her commitment to solving climate change by earning a Master’s in Environmental Management. Later, at Stanford Law School, she focused on environmental law, equipping herself to fight for climate resilience and justice with a strong understanding of California’s regulatory landscape.

Leading by Example: Public Service and Innovative Solutions

In 2022, Janelle was elected Mayor of Sausalito, where she led efforts to secure millions in funding for coastal resilience and economic revitalization. Her leadership extended beyond Sausalito when she founded the Center for Sea Rise Solutions, a nonprofit dedicated to helping coastal communities adapt to climate change while promoting sustainable tourism.

Driven by Endurance, Guided by a Bold Vision for California

As an endurance athlete, Janelle has competed in over 15 ultramarathons, embodying the grit and resilience she brings to public service. Her journey from a small-town upbringing to becoming a leader in California shows her dedication to building a future where sustainability, opportunity, and community strength are at the forefront. Janelle’s vision is clear: a thriving, resilient California for generations to come.