ATLANTIC CITY — One year after the passing of one of Atlantic City's most recognizable public servants, city officials will honor the late Ernest D. Coursey Sr. by officially dedicating City Hall in his name.
The dedication ceremony is scheduled for 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 5, at Atlantic City Hall, marking the first anniversary of Coursey's death. During the ceremony, City Hall will officially be renamed the Ernest D. Coursey City Hall Building, recognizing more than three decades of public service to Atlantic City and Atlantic County.
Coursey died on Aug. 5, 2025, at the age of 62 after a lengthy career that included service as an Atlantic City councilman, deputy mayor, chief of staff and four-term Atlantic County commissioner. Earlier that year, he announced he would not seek another term on the county commission because of health concerns.
For many residents, Coursey became one of the most familiar faces in local government, earning a reputation as an accessible elected official who emphasized neighborhood engagement and constituent service.
A Career Spanning More Than 30 Years
Coursey's public service began in 1991, when he was elected to represent Atlantic City's Third Ward on City Council.
He would go on to win reelection three times, eventually serving as both Council Vice President and Council President.
During his time on council, Coursey developed a reputation for staying closely connected to residents.
He introduced an open-door policy for constituents, published one of Atlantic City's first ward newsletters and created the Third Ward Eye-On-Crime initiative to encourage residents to work with police in addressing neighborhood crime.
He also organized annual food drives, senior citizen events and youth activities, often using the slogan "Coursey Cares" as a reflection of his hands-on approach to public service.
Leadership Beyond City Council
Following his tenure on City Council, Coursey continued serving the public in several key roles.
He became Deputy Mayor under former Mayor Lorenzo Langford, helping oversee city operations and neighborhood initiatives.
His career also included service as a staff assistant to former U.S. Sen. Robert Torricelli, participation on former Gov. James McGreevey's transportation transition team and membership on the South Jersey Transportation Authority.
In 2011, he returned to Atlantic City government as superintendent of Surf Stadium and Bader Field before later serving as Chief of Staff to Mayor Marty Small Sr.
Serving Atlantic County
In 2013, Coursey was elected to the Atlantic County Board of Commissioners, representing District 1, which includes Atlantic City, Ventnor, Margate, Longport and part of Egg Harbor Township.
He was reelected several times and ultimately served four terms.
During his time on the commission, Coursey chaired committees focused on human services, homelessness, public safety and education while serving on numerous county advisory boards.
Supporters credited him with helping advance major regional initiatives, including Stockton University's expansion into Atlantic City, development of the National Aerospace Research and Technology Park and efforts to improve public safety and encourage economic development throughout the region.
Remembering a Public Servant
When Coursey announced in January 2025 that he would not seek another term as county commissioner, he thanked residents for allowing him to serve the community for decades.
Following his death later that year, elected officials from across New Jersey praised his commitment to public service.
Gov. Phil Murphy described Coursey as "a dear friend" who devoted his career to improving Atlantic County through public safety initiatives, economic development and tax relief.
Atlantic City officials later voted to rename City Hall in his honor, calling it a fitting tribute to a man whose career became deeply intertwined with the city's government.
Wednesday's Dedication
The dedication ceremony at 11 a.m. Wednesday will formally unveil the Ernest D. Coursey City Hall Building, ensuring that future generations entering City Hall will be reminded of Coursey's decades of service to Atlantic City.
For many who knew him, the building's new name reflects a career defined not by a single office, but by a lifelong commitment to serving the residents of the city he called home.
About the Author
Karen Johnson
With over 30 years of news experience in major markets like Los Angeles, Denver, and Columbus, Karen now covers our area for South Jersey NewsBeat. She also brings her articulate and conversational news delivery to WOND radio listeners every weekday. Her background includes work with the NBC Radio Network, and she thrives in fast-paced news environments.
