County of Union, New Jersey

Union County Commissioner Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded has been selected as Chairwoman of the Union County Board of County Commissioners and announced a series of initiatives for 2024, titled “Growing Together in Union County,” with a few key focuses on enhancing connectivity, inclusivity, supporting seniors, mental health, women’s initiatives, and fostering family connections.

“Union County has always been made up of diverse lives, stories, and aspirations; and the strength of our community comes from the connections between its county government and its residents,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “As Chairwoman, while we start the journey of “Growing Together in Union County,” I will be dedicated to breaking down barriers, opening doors, and building a stronger community that promises a brighter future for all residents. Let us continue to work together for an even better Union County, where the bonds of community grow stronger and the seeds of progress are sown for generations to come.”

A lifelong resident of Union County, Palmieri-Mouded was born and raised in Elizabeth, NJ, and now lives in Westfield with her husband George and their five children: Matthew, Christopher, Nicholas, Ryan and Adeline. The Chairwoman announced her initiatives at the 167^th annual reorganization meeting held in the Union County Courthouse in Elizabeth on Thursday.

Chairwoman Palmieri-Mouded’s vision includes launching a new app and updating the county’s website for residents’ easy access and senior enrichment programs that focus on social activities, swim lessons, and a Seniors Against Scams program. Addressing mental health, the Chairwoman introduced the Train the Trainer Mental Health Program and she emphasized her support for women, relaunching the Union County Commission on the Status of Women. Her family connections involve a reading and tutoring program, expanded youth programs, a mobile sensory unit, and the purchase of aquatic wheelchairs. Lastly, a motivating literacy initiative, inspired by a young resident, Ben Steinberg, who was present at the reorganization meeting, that will introduce inclusive books in 116 Union County public elementary school libraries.

Union County Sheriff Peter Corvelli was sworn in for his second term, alongside Union County Commissioners Lourdes Leon, Joseph Bodek, and newly elected Michèle Delisfort, who were sworn in for their terms. Commissioner Bodek, appointed in December 2022, transitions into his first elected term, while Commissioner Leon assumes the role of Commissioner Vice-Chairwoman. The Commissioners also voted on various County advisory board positions and approved the Board’s 2024 schedule and procedural rules.

Residents can find a transcript of this speech on the Union County website at www.ucnj.org.

To view a video about the Financial Opportunity Center, please click here.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is excited to announce the full roll-out of the new Financial Opportunity Center, in partnership with the Urban League of Union County. As part of Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados’ 2023 Chairman’s theme of “Building a Stronger Union County,” under his “Pathways to Opportunities” initiative, this official ribbon cutting ceremony took place this morning at its location of 921 Elizabeth Avenue in Elizabeth.

“By minimizing barriers to employment goals and offering clear career pathways, we are dedicated to creating a conducive environment for personal and professional growth,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “This initiative emphasizes the County’s commitment to equipping individuals with the tools they need to achieve financial success and build fulfilling careers. By combining our resources and expertise, with the Urban League of Union County, we are confident that we can make a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve.”

This collaboration aims to provide enhanced professional services to customers certified through the American Job Center. The Financial Opportunity Center, developed in conjunction with the Urban League of Union County, represents a significant milestone in our commitment to empowering individuals on their journey towards financial stability. As a HUD Certified Counseling Agency, the Urban League brings a wealth of experience in licensed financial counseling, further augmenting the support available to our valued customers.

Key features of the Financial Opportunity Center include comprehensive financial literacy programs, tailored to meet the specific needs of individuals engaged in training, job-seeking services, and other career development activities.

To be eligible for the services offered at the Financial Opportunity Center, customers must be registered in UC Works and enrolled in a training program, career service, or post-training activity. This strategic partnership ensures that individuals not only receive valuable financial counseling but also benefit from a holistic approach to career development.

For more information about the Financial Opportunity Center, please call 908-558-8000 or visit www.ucnj.org/ajc.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and County Manager Ed Oatman are proud to announce a partnership with Trinitas Regional Medical Center, an RWJBarnabas Health facility, with support from Ritesh Shah Charitable Pharmacy (RSCP) to enhance access to essential medications for residents facing financial difficulties. This new program, which falls under Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados’ “Equity & Inclusion” initiative, will offer certain medications free-of-charge to those living within 300 percent of the federal poverty level, which represents over 54,000 residents in the county.

“In a world where individuals often find themselves forced to make difficult choices, such as paying for rent, putting food on the table, or acquiring life-saving medications they need, it is their health that frequently takes a backseat,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “The collaborative effort between Union County and these stakeholders are set to make a significant and positive impact on the lives of numerous residents and their families in need. It reflects our shared dedication to improving access to healthcare services and promoting a healthier, happier community.”

Each participant must obtain their prescriptions from Trinitas Regional Medical Center’s Early Intervention Program and the County will use its clinical staff to facilitate distribution of prescriptions to participants of the program through their Immunization Center. Clients of this program will be carefully screened for eligibility.

Residents who wish to make an appointment can visit:

• Location: Dorothy B. Hersh Medical Clinic
• Address: 655 East Jersey Street,  Elizabeth, NJ 07206
• Phone: 908-994-5030

The mission of the Ritesh Shah Charitable Pharmacy (RSCP) is to increase access to medications, immunizations, health education, and pharmacy services for uninsured and underserved patients, to reduce clinical and social health inequities in the community and the County thanks RSCP for their support in their initiative.

For more information about this program, please call 908-965-3756 or email RSCPUC@ucnj.org.

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.