County of Union, New Jersey

On behalf of the Union County Board of County Commissioners and our Union County family, we are saddened to hear about the passing of former Commissioner (then Freeholder), Vernell Wright.

Today, we remember the extraordinary legacy of a dedicated public servant who served two terms as a Commissioner and held a strong commitment to Union County.

In her first term on the Commissioner Board, she chaired the Policy and Administrative Code Committee and served on various committees, including Homeland Security, Open Space, Recreation, and Historic Preservation. Her extensive community involvement included affiliations with organizations such as the NAACP, First Baptist Church of Vauxhall, and the Vauxhall Historical Society.

Commissioner Wright’s dedication extended beyond politics, impacting the lives of countless students and community members.

Her profound influence will be deeply missed. Our heartfelt condolences go out to her family during this difficult time.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners proudly unveils a state-of-the-art LED lighting system, which will illuminate the Union County Courthouse. As part of Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados’ 2023 theme of “Building a Stronger Union County,” this new “Union County Shines” initiative, will dynamically change the lights to mark significant occasions, holidays, organization themes, and showcasing our community accomplishments.

“I am excited to end the year with this stunning new addition our historic County Courthouse, which will not only serve as a source of community pride but also enhance the overall ambiance of the area, creating a sense of togetherness among residents,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “The installation of this state-of-the-art LED lighting system signifies our commitment to modernity and community engagement. The County Courthouse, was the perfect location for the lights, as is serves as the County seat and hosts numerous flag raisings and cultural events throughout the year. It stands as a symbol of celebration and with the new lights, I believe it will continue to shine on the diverse and vibrant spirit of Union County.”

The first set of colors to kick off the system will be red and green in light of the upcoming Christmas holiday. The Courthouse will be able to illuminate for different occasions, for example a vibrant, rainbow of colors during Pride Month, a calming blue for World Autism Awareness Month,  cultural celebrations or the victorious colors of a local winning sports team. There is a number of things that the courthouse will be a canvas upon which it paints the stories and celebrations that make Union County unique.

The newly installed LED lighting system is a testament to Union County’s commitment to bringing a sense of unity and celebration among its residents. The system, managed entirely through a user-friendly mobile app, allows for the customization of lighting colors, transitions, and effects. This app-based control ensures flexibility and adaptability, making it easy to synchronize the Courthouse’s appearance with various events and causes.

For more information about Union County or to learn about other initiatives, please visit our website atwww.ucnj.org.

To view a video from Union County Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados on this initiative, please click here.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners proudly announces the “Blue Hearts, Warm Coats” initiative, in partnership with the Moving New Jersey Forward Foundation, with the support of Union County Police Department, and Union County Police Chiefs Association, as part of Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados’ 2023 Chairman’s theme, “Building a Stronger Union County.”

“The harsh winter conditions pose a particular challenge for residents in need of warmth. With the collection of these generous donations and the support of our county and local police departments, we are committed to ensuring that individuals facing the cold has access to a coat.” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “Together, we are reinforcing giving back and the notion that by taking care of each other, we truly elevate the spirit of our Union County community.”

Under this program, children’s, women’s and men’s coats will be distributed by county and municipal law enforcement officers across their towns through the Union County Police Department and the Union County Chiefs Association. This initiative not only addresses the immediate needs of the community but also fosters a sense of collaboration and trust between residents and law enforcement. By having county and municipal officers actively involved in the distribution process, it creates opportunities for positive interactions that go beyond traditional law enforcement duties.

“It is with great pride that the Moving New Jersey Forward Foundation join forces with Union County to collect more than 500 winter coats to be distributed to the county’s most vulnerable population,” said Fernanda Correia, President of the Moving New Jersey Forward Foundation. “Working together, this initiative highlights the strong commitment of Union County’s leadership in ensuring an improved quality of life for every resident, regardless of their circumstances.”

“The Union County Police Chiefs Association is thrilled to once again collaborate with the County of Union and now, the Moving New Jersey Forward Foundation for this significant initiative,” said Chief Giacomo Sacca, Union County Police Chiefs Association President and Elizabeth Police Chief. “This program embodies law enforcement’s commitment to community service and allows us to contribute to a meaningful cause. Together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of those in need.”

Union County would like to especially thank its donors for making this initiative possible, including: Helpsy, Northfield Bank, DIGroup Architecture, MGE, Jack’s Laundromat, MLB Mortgage, Santander Bank, Lewis Environment Consulting Group and Kidstown in Elizabeth.

“This program not only enhances our ability to serve and protect but also strengthens the bond between law enforcement and the community we proudly serve in Union County,” said Martin Mogensen, Chief of the Union County Police Department. “We will continue to work together to create a safer, warmer and more compassionate environment for all residents.”

For more information about this initiative or other programs and services through Union County, please visit www.ucnj.org.  

 The Union County Board of County Commissioners announces the official start of the voting process for this year’s UC-STEP project. This year, the project will revolve around mental health, aligning with Union County Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados’s initiative, “Stepping Up to Mental Health,” and building upon his Chairman’s theme of “Building a Stronger Union County.”

“We are excited to reveal the three outstanding proposals centered around mental health for this year’s UC-STEP service project,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “The commitment of our high school students to address pressing community issues is admirable. Their innovative ideas and passion for promoting mental well-being showcase the potential for positive change that can be initiated by the younger generation. We cannot wait to witness the impact these projects will have on both individuals and the Union County community.”

For the past eight years, high school students participating in the UC-STEP enrichment program have presented a range of service proposals, and the entire Union County community is invited to participate in selecting the project that will involve and benefit the community.

This year, the focus is on addressing the crucial issue of mental health, with three proposals submitted by the talented high school students in the program. Each proposal aims to make a positive impact on mental health within the Union County community. Now, the community is encouraged to actively participate in the selection process by voting for their favorite proposal. The voting period begins today and ends on January 22nd. To cast your vote, please visit the UC-STEP website at ucnj.org/uc-step.

Established in 2013, The Union County Student Training and Enrichment Program (UC-STEP) has consistently provided a platform for young people to contribute meaningful service programs that enhance the well-being of Union County residents. This annual tradition not only empowers young leaders, but also ensures that the chosen project reflects the needs and priorities of the Union County community.

For more information about UC-STEP and to cast your vote, please visit ucnj.org/uc-step.

The Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County, with support from the Union County Board of County Commissioners, invite residents interested in protecting the environment to join the Rutgers Environmental Stewards of Union County volunteer training program. This program is designed to introduce volunteers to the science behind important environmental issues and the impacts of climate change affecting New Jersey. Stewards then give back to their own communities by helping to tackle local environmental problems.

“Empowering our community to become stewards of our environment is a shared responsibility,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “Each of our mindful actions contributes to a sustainable future, which can help address critical environmental issues and the profound impacts of climate change for future generations. For many years, Union County has been at the forefront of various environmental efforts, covering waste-to-energy, recycling, urban forestry, green purchasing, and LEED construction standards. We are proud to continue our partnership with the Rutgers Cooperative Extension, fostering a community dedicated to safeguarding the environment for the well-being of all.”

Environmental Stewards are people who feel a strong sense of responsibility to sustainable society through preserving natural resources. The Rutgers Environmental Stewards of Union County volunteer training program is designed to assist the public in developing skills to design projects that are both effective and impactful. The Environmental Stewards training program involves a set of weekly classes and field trips, followed by an internship project in the spring using the knowledge gained during class.

Classes are held weekly on Tuesdays from 5:30pm-7:30pm, starting on January 23^rd and running through May 14^th. Most classes are held online, however, some in-person classes will take place based on region for field activities, demonstration, and in-person discussion. Each class is led by a content expert who covers that week’s topic. From 7:30pm – 8:00pm, classes split based on regions to cover local issues and meet with their coordinator for further discussion and activities. After successfully finishing the classes and internship, participants receive certification as Environmental Stewards.

The training program has an early bird rate of $300 through December 31^st, and a rate of $325 if registered on or after January 1^st. Registration information can be found on https://envirostewards.rutgers.edu/program-overview/annual-class/. Residents must be 16 years of age or older to join, with parental consent and oversight required for those under 18.

The Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County operates as part of the New Jersey Agriculture Experiment Station and Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, in collaboration with county governments. This Extension model is a nationwide system overseen by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, aiming to provide university-based information to local communities. The Union County Board of County Commissioners extends support to various programs, including Rutgers Master Gardeners, Tree Stewards, 4-H youth development, and Environmental Stewards. For additional assistance about the Environmental Steward program, contact Michele Bakacs, County Agent and Associate Professor for the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County at bakacs@njaes.rutgers.edu or 732-398-5274. For more information about Extension programs in Union County, visit http://www.ucnj.org/rce

To view a video from Union County Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados about this initiative, please click here.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners proudly announces the launch of SkillUp Program, as part of Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados’ “Pathway to Opportunities” initiatives under his 2023 Chairman’s theme, “Building a Stronger Union County.”

“As we wrap up 2023 and step into the New Year, I am happy to announce this new initiative designed to empower residents with the tools to enhance their career skills and obtain nationally-recognized credentials and certifications,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “Union County believes in being the most up-to-date and qualified, ensuring our community thrives in the ever-evolving job market and the SkillUp Program is not just about helping residents; it is about empowering employees and employers countywide.”

Developed by the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, the SkillUp Program is a catalyst for change, offering free, online, self-paced training portals. It offers an extensive curriculum, featuring over 6,000 courses across 10 career pathways and 200 occupations. For those who prefer a more interactive approach, a game-based learning app is also available.

The program provides opportunities for individuals to receive training in various certifications, learn new skill sets, or simply refine existing abilities. The comprehensive nature of SkillUp, caters to individuals seeking new career paths, those aiming to advance in their current roles, and business owners aspiring to build a more skilled workforce.

To enroll in the SkillUp Program, residents can visit www.ucnj.org/skillup/ or contact the American Job Center at 908-558-8000 for assistance.