County of Union, New Jersey

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi will host a Notary Public Training Seminar at the John H. Stamler Police Academy, at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains on Friday, October 20, 2023 from 8:45 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The featured speaker will be Union County First Deputy County Counsel Moshood Muftau, Esq.

Space is limited to the first 50 registrants. The registration deadline is Wednesday, October 11, 2023 or until the openings are filled. A registration fee of $10.00 includes a light breakfast and is required in advance to secure registration. Attendees should note that the Business Casual dress code at the John J. Stamler Police Academy is strictly enforced. Jeans and sneakers are not permitted, and men must wear shirts with collars.

“This Notary Training Seminar represents an opportunity for individuals to acquire valuable skills and expertise in notary services,” said County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi. “Our commitment to empowering our residents with the tools they need to contribute effectively is strong, and we invite you to be a part of this educational journey.”

Ms. Joanne Rajoppi will make opening remarks and review the application process.  Mr. Muftau will speak about the legal aspects of the functions of notaries public.

The seminar will cover the Notary Public application process and new legal requirements and responsibilities. It will also cover the steps for proper notarization and other topics, including how to complete a notary journal and how to examine identification documents.

To register, use the downloadable form on the County Clerk website, ucnj.org/county-clerk. For additional information contact Ana Lima at 908-527-4787.

For more information about all County Clerk programs and services, visit online at ucnj.org/county-clerk or call 908-527-4787.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners are proud to announce that Union County has received a sizable award of $1,000,000 for design and construction of a new bikeway. The new route will carry riders crossing the Goethals Bridge in the City of Elizabeth, through the Borough of Roselle and connecting to the East Coast Greenway in the Township of Cranford. Called the “NY Connects to Union County NJ East Coast Greenway Bikeway Project” this exciting project has received generous funding through the New Jersey Department of Transportation’s Local Transportation Projects Fund program.

“We are exceptionally grateful to the NJ DOT’s Local Transportation Projects Fund program for their generous support of the NY Connects to Union County NJ East Coast Greenway Bikeway Project, which aligns perfectly with my “Building a Stronger Union County” 2023 Chairman’s initiatives,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “The funding will enable us to move forward with this essential initiative, and further enhance transportation options in Union County by the creation of a new bi-state link for riders using the Goethals Bridge protected bikeway lane.  It is part of our ongoing efforts to improve our transportation system for Union County residents and visitors.”

The NJ DOT’s Local Transportation Projects Fund program is designed to address specific, focused local transportation issues throughout the state. This project is a vital step toward creating a more accessible and interconnected transportation network within the region. It aims to develop a comprehensive bikeway system that will connect Union County to the larger East Coast Greenway network promoting active transportation, reducing traffic congestion. The Greenway is a trail network from Maine to Florida.

The funding from the NJ DOT’s Local Transportation Projects Fund program will be used to support various aspects of the “NY Connects to Union County NJ East Coast Greenway Bikeway Project”, including planning, design, construction, and maintenance of the bikeway infrastructure. The project will create safe and accessible pathways for cyclists and pedestrians, contributing to Union County’s commitment to sustainability and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle.

“Union County looks forward to working closely with the New Jersey Department of Transportation to ensure the successful implementation of this project,” said Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, Liaison to the Union County Transportation Advisory Board. “As the project progresses, further details will be shared with the community about the project’s timeline and key milestones.”

The New Jersey Department of Transportation is currently in the process of fully executing the agreement for this project. For additional information about the “NY Connects to Union County NJ East Coast Greenway Bikeway Project” and other transportation-related initiatives in Union County, please contact Liza Betz, Transportation Planning Manager, Union County Bureau of Transportation Planning at (908) 558-2273.

Please be advised, Union County Mosquito Control will be spraying for mosquitoes Tuesday Morning, September 19, 2023, between the hours of 3:00AM to 7:00AM (Weather Permitting). Check below for a list of areas to be sprayed. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Union County Office of Mosquito Control at 908-654-9834 or 908-654-9835.

Cities

• Elizabeth – Devine Ave., Grove St., Johnson St., Williamson St.
• Linden – Tremley Pt. Rd., Grasselli Ave., Lower Rd., Monroe St., Madison St., Buchanan St.,
• Plainfield – St. Nicholas Blvd. Jefferson Ave., W. 8th St., 1st St., 3rd. St., N. Washington Ave.
• Rahway – Capobianco Plaza, Clarkson Ave., Elliot St., Ferndale Pl., Hedin Pl., Leesville Ave., Madison Hill Rd., New Brunswick Ave., Ralph Ave., Regina Ave., Revoir Dr., Riffle Ave.
• Scotch Plains – Cherry Blossom Ln., Frank St., Round Hill Rd., Wedgewood Way,
• Summit – Summit Recycling Center

County Parks

• Cedar Brook – Plainfield
• Oak Ridge – Clark

City Parks

• Memorial – Linden
• Milt Campbell – Plainfield

The Union County Board of County Commissioners are happy to announce the reintroduction of “OUT in Union County, NJ: Queer Empowerment Hour,” an exciting and informative virtual series hosted by Micayla Mirabella, in partnership with Union County’s Office of LGBTQ Affairs.

“We are proud to bring this exceptional program to our community, promoting open dialogue, fostering understanding, and celebrating the rich diversity within the LGBTQ+ community,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “This initiative falls in line with my 2023 Chairman theme of “Building a Stronger Union County,” with my “Equity and Inclusion” initiatives, which promote inclusivity and equality in Union County. This unique program aims to empower and educate individuals by providing a platform for engaging conversations with LGBTQ+ advocates, community leaders, and allies. I hope to see many of our residents participate.”

Queer Empowerment Hour, which began in 2020, promises an hour-long virtual dialogue that delves into LGBTQ+ specific topics, offering compelling stories and discussions involving queer individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences. The series is open to all, emphasizing inclusivity and understanding within our community.

“When the County of Union originally launching the Queer Empowerment Hour in September 2020, we were overwhelmed by the positive response it received,” said Commissioner Al Mirabella. “I am very happy to see the program come back into fruition for another year and I encourage everyone interested to join these informative and interactive series.”

Each session begins at 7:00 p.m. and will be live streamed on the County of Union Facebook page. Any questions can be taken via the zoom and within the comments posted on Facebook.  The scheduled dates and topics are as follows:

September 20, 2023
LGBTQ 101
An Introduction to the Queer Community

October 11, 2023
Reclaiming Our Narratives
A Dive into LGBTQ+ History

December 13, 2023
Pronouns Matter
Embracing Acceptance through Inclusive Language

January 17, 2024
Proud and Serving
Exploring LGBTQ+ Experiences in the Military

February 21, 2024
Amplifying Black LGBTQ+ Voices
Honoring & Celebrating Heritage, Contributions & Resilience

March 13, 2024
Unveiling Hidden Narratives
Celebrating the Trials & Triumphs of Queer Women in History

April 17, 2024
Healing with Equality
LGBTQ+ Accessible and Affirming Healthcare

May 8, 2024
Passing the Torch
LGBTQ+ Elders Reflect on the Past & Guide the Next Generation

“Now more than ever, it is important to have events/seminars like these,” said Commissioner Rebecca Williams. “While we celebrate progress and inclusivity in our own community, we must also acknowledge the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ movements across the nation. It is important to discuss these topics and I truly hope all of our residents take part in these conversations and show their support and solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community.”

To participate in these enlightening conversations, individuals are required to register online at www.ucnj.org/lgbtg.

For more information about this event, please contact the Union County Office of LGBTQ Affairs at 908-527-4897 or visit our website at www.ucnj.org/lgbtg.

Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados, Vice Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded, Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, Commissioner Al Mirabella , Commissioner Joseph Bodek, Surrogate Christopher Hudak, County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi, Sheriff Peter Corvelli, County Manager Ed Oatman, Deputy County Manager Amy Wagner joined Union County Veterans Services Coordinator W. Geoff Smith and special dignitaries at the County’s annual POW-MIA Remembrance Day Flag Raising Ceremony in front of the Union County Courthouse in Elizabeth.

This year’s guest speaker was Colonel Dennis J. Dougherty, First Region President Emeritus at the Association of the United States Army. Colonel Dougherty retired a decorated veteran from his 31-year military career with the United States Army and the New Jersey Army National Guard in 2000.

An invocation was led by Union County Commander, VFW Bobby Jeans. The presentation of colors was performed by Honor Guards from the Union County Sheriff Office, Union County Prosecutor’s Office, Elizabeth Police and Fire Honor Guard and the ceremony included a rifle salute, TAPS and the singing of the National Anthem.

Please be advised, Union County Mosquito Control will be spraying for mosquitoes, Thursday Evening, September 14, 2023, between the hours of 5:00 P.M. to 10:00 P.M. (Weather Permitting). Check below for the areas to be sprayed. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Union County Office of Mosquito Control at 908-654-9834 or 908-654-9835

Cities

• Hillside – Columbus Ave., Cornell Pl., Harvard Ave., John St., Locust Ave., McMichael Ave., Rutgers Ave.
• Plainfield – W. 8th St. 800 block
• Roselle Park – Beechwood Ave., Pinewood Ave., W. Colfax Ave., Woodside Ave.
• Scotch Plains – Frank St., Round Hill Rd., Wedgewood Way, Nepawin Ln., Crabapple Ln., North Ave., South Ave. Hetfield Ave.
• Summit – Summit Recycling Center

County Parks

• Hillside – Conant, Rutgers
• Plainfield – Cedar Brook

City Parks

• Plainfield – Milt Campbell

This event has been cancelled due to rain. Will be rescheduled for the spring

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Parks and Recreation would like to invite all residents to our Touch-A-Truck Event on Saturday, September 23, 2023 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in Oak Ridge Park, located on 136 Oak Ridge Road in Clark.

“As our children go back to school and we resume our carpooling and parent-teacher meetings, organizing family outings takes some thoughtful planning and a touch of creativity,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “The Touch-a-Truck event in Union County promises an exciting and memorable experience for the whole family. Join us for a perfect autumn day, where you can explore fire trucks, check out police cruisers, and enjoy a hayride through the park. Let’s create new memories together, and I look forward to seeing you there.”

The Union County Touch-A-Truck event is the ultimate hands-on experience. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of vehicles, including those from the Union County Departments of Public Safety, Public Works, and Parks and Recreation. Additionally, guests will be able to hop on a hayride across the park.

Food trucks will be on-site with plenty of food, drinks and snacks available for purchase to all guests. Admission is free for all.

For more information on Touch-A-Truck, or any event in the Union County Parks System, please visit our website at www.ucnj.org/parks.

The Union County Board of Elections reminds residents that Tuesday, October 17 is the deadline for voter registration for the 2023 General Election. Election Day will be on Tuesday, November 7.

“There are multiple options for residents to register to vote in time for the upcoming election,” said Union County Board of Elections Administrator, Nicole DiRado. “Those eligible to vote can apply online, by mail or in person in order to register.”

The Union County Board of Elections office is open Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. to accept Voter Registration Forms. On the October 17 voter registration deadline, the Board of Elections Office will remain open until 9:00 p.m. to receive forms.

Municipal Clerk offices can also provide and accept voter registration forms.

Voter registration forms in both English and Spanish can also be downloaded from the Union County Board of Elections website at www.ucnj.org/boe/voter-registration-information. Be sure to print and sign the form before returning.

To register online, eligible residents should visit: voter.svrs.nj.gov/register and follow the Online Voter Registration instructions. Your County Commissioner of Registration will notify you if your application is accepted. If it is not accepted, you will be notified on how to complete and/or correct the application.

• You can register to vote if:
• You are a United States citizen
• You will be 18 years old by the next election
• You will be a resident of the State and county for 30 days before the election
• You are NOT currently serving a sentence because of a felony conviction
• As of March 17, 2020, persons currently on parole or probation are entitled to vote.
•  

To receive a voter registration form by mail, call the Board of Elections at 908-527-4123.