Union County Deputy Clerk, Clara Fernández announces that vote-by-mail ballots for the upcoming Roselle Special School Election are now available. Voters may obtain vote-by-mail ballots in person at either of the two Union County Clerk’s offices:
Westfield 300 North Avenue East Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday: 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
(This office will be closed on Saturday, September 5, 2026)
Elizabeth 2 Broad Street, Rm 113 Monday through Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
The Union County Clerk’s offices will also be open on Saturday, September 12, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. for voters who wish to obtain or return vote-by-mail ballots. Vote-by-mail ballots have also been mailed to voters who have previously requested them.
Sample Ballots for the Roselle Special School Election are now available on the Union County Clerk’s website.
Voters are encouraged to review their Sample Ballots and all election materials carefully before voting.
The Roselle Special School Election is scheduled for Tuesday, September 15, 2026. The ballot includes two Bond Proposal Questions for voters to consider.
For more information regarding vote-by-mail, ballot drop-off options, sample ballots, and polling locations, please visit www.unioncountyvotes.com, contact the Union County Clerk’s Office at 908-527-4996, or email ucvote@ucnj.org.
As Union County continues to commemorate the nation’s 250th anniversary, the Union County Board of County Commissioners, through the Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, invites residents to attend “The History of U.S. Immigration,” a free lecture exploring how immigration has shaped the United States from its earliest days through the present.
The program will be held on Thursday, September 17, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Liberty Hall Academic Center, located at 1003 Morris Avenue in Union. The event coincides with U.S. Constitution Day and is also being presented as part of Union County’s Hispanic Heritage Month celebration.
“The history of immigration is inseparable from the history of the United States,” said Union County Commissioner Chair Joseph C. Bodek. “As we continue to mark our nation’s 250th anniversary, this program gives residents an opportunity to look more closely at the generations of people who came to this country and helped shape its communities, culture and future.”
The lecture will be presented by Dr. Frank Argote-Freyre, a professor of Latin American history at Kean University. Dr. Argote-Freyre earned his Ph.D. in Latin American History from Rutgers University and is the author of Fulgencio Batista: From Revolutionary to Strongman. He also coauthored A Brief History of the Caribbean with Danilo Figueredo and served as assistant editor of the Encyclopedia of Cuba.
In addition to his academic work, Dr. Argote-Freyre has been actively involved in efforts supporting immigrant rights and social justice. He previously served as Chair of the New Jersey Commission on New Americans and is President Emeritus of the Latino Action Network and Director of the Latino Coalition. Earlier in his career, he worked as a journalist, columnist and congressional press secretary.
“Constitution Day invites us to think not only about the founding of our nation, but also about the people who have carried its promise forward,” said Union County Commissioner Vice Chair Rebecca Williams, Liaison to the Cultural and Heritage Affairs Advisory Board. “Here in Union County, immigration is part of the history of nearly every community. This conversation will help us better understand where we came from and how those experiences continue to shape who we are today.”
The presentation is free and open to Union County residents. Advance registration is required. To register, visit www.ucnj.org/250.
This event is funded in part by a grant from the New Jersey Historical Commission, a division of the New Jersey Department of State. The program is organized by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs in partnership with Kean University’s Center for Raising Excellence and Cultural Empowerment and Department of History. For additional information, call 908-558-2550.
America’s 250th Anniversary: On July 4, 2026, the United States marked the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This historic milestone provides an opportunity to reflect on our nation’s past, recognize the many people and communities that have shaped its history, and look ahead toward the future we seek to build for generations to come.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents and families to enjoy a favorite fall tradition with the return of Hayrides & Campfires this October at Warinanco Park and the Trailside Nature & Science Center.
The annual program offers families an opportunity to enjoy a crisp fall evening outdoors with a hayride, campfire, entertainment, hot chocolate and marshmallows.
“Fall is one of the best times to enjoy Union County’s parks, and our Hayrides & Campfires give families a chance to spend an evening together outdoors and enjoy a tradition that has become a favorite for so many residents,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “We encourage families and friends to make plans early, reserve their tickets and come enjoy a great night in our parks.”
The 2026 schedule is:
Warinanco Park
Friday, October 2 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Trailside Nature & Science Center
Sunday, October 4 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Friday, October 9 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Sunday, October 11 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Friday, October 16 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Tickets are $6 for Union County residents and $12 for non-residents and go on sale Tuesday, September 1 at 9:00 a.m.All tickets must be purchased in advance and will not be sold at the event. Group sales are limited to 15 people, and no refunds or exchanges will be offered. Tickets may be purchased online at www.ucnj.org/ticket or in person at:
Trailside Nature & Science Center 452 New Providence Road, Mountainside Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 908-789-3670
Union County Parks Reservations Warinanco Sports Center 1 Park Drive, Roselle Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 908-527-4900
Each ticket includes one hayride, entertainment, hot chocolate and marshmallows. Guests are encouraged to bring a blanket or chair to enjoy the campfire.
Upon arrival, participants should report directly to the check-in table, where their ticket will be exchanged for a numbered hayride pass. Hayrides depart approximately every 20 minutes, with passes assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
Friday participants must check in before 8:00 p.m., and Sunday participants must check in before 5:00 p.m. Participants who arrive after those times are not guaranteed a hayride.
In the event of rain, ticket holders will be rescheduled to another available hayride date or an alternate date, as space permits. For Friday rain information, call the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation at 908-558-4079 after 3:00 p.m. For Sunday rain information, call Trailside Nature & Science Center at 908-789-3670 after 1:00 p.m.
For more information about Union County parks and recreation programs, visit www.ucnj.org.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners, through the Department of Human Services’ Office on Behavioral Health and Substance Misuse, will host a free educational webinar on Wednesday, September 16th, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Pathways to Wellness: Navigating the Road to Recovery & Suicide Prevention will be presented in collaboration with the New Jersey Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services.
“Recovery is possible, help is available, and no one should ever feel that they must face a mental health or substance use challenge alone,” said Union County Commissioner Chair Joseph C. Bodek. “This webinar is an opportunity to connect residents and families with reliable information, compassionate support and potentially life-saving resources. We encourage everyone to join us and learn how each of us can help build a stronger and more supportive community.”
The virtual event is being held in recognition of National Recovery Month and National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, both observed throughout September. The webinar will provide information and resources related to recovery, behavioral health and suicide prevention while encouraging open, supportive conversations about these important issues.
The webinar is free and open to the public. Advance registration is required. To register, visit ucnj.org/dhs-webinar. The program will also be streamed on Facebook Live.
“Many people want to help a family member, friend or neighbor who may be struggling, but they may not know what to say or where to turn,” said Commissioner Stanley J. Neron, liaison to the Union County Human Services Advisory Council. “By making trusted information and resources easier to access, we can reduce stigma, encourage people to seek support and remind our residents that they are not alone.”
National Recovery Month promotes and supports evidence-based treatment and recovery practices while recognizing the individuals, families, service providers and communities that make recovery possible. National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month brings attention to suicide prevention, reduces stigma surrounding mental health and highlights resources available to people experiencing emotional distress or crisis.
For additional information about the webinar, contact the Union County Office on Behavioral Health and Substance Misuse at OBHSM@ucnj.org or 908-527-4844.
If you or someone you know is struggling or experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis, call or text 988 to connect with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Free and confidential support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Online chat is also available at 988lifeline.org. If there is an immediate danger or medical emergency, call 911.ReachNJ is a central call-in line for New Jersey residents who are looking for help with a substance use disorder (SUD). If in need call New Jersey’s 24/7 helpline at 1-844-732-2465.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites seniors and caregivers to attend the Aging Services Kiosk, or ASK, events scheduled throughout September. These events provide an opportunity to meet one-on-one with knowledgeable professionals and learn about programs and services available to Union County’s older adults and their caregivers. Bilingual assistance will be available.
“The ASK program brings essential information and personalized assistance directly into our communities, making it easier for seniors and caregivers to receive the support they need,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “We encourage residents to stop by any of the September locations, speak with our knowledgeable staff and learn more about the many resources available through Union County.”
ASK is operated by the Union County Division on Aging and Disability Resource Connection, part of the Department of Human Services. The program offers adults age 60 and older, as well as their caregivers, a convenient way to learn about available programs and speak individually with a Division on Aging professional.
Staff can provide information and assistance related to home-delivered meals, respite care, home care, adult day care, caregiver support services and other resources. They can also assist with completing forms and help residents determine which programs may best meet their needs.
“Finding and understanding available services can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially for families balancing caregiving responsibilities,” said Union County Commissioner James Baker, Liaison to the Advisory Council on Aging. “ASK gives residents a welcoming place to ask questions, receive individual guidance and connect with services that can make a meaningful difference in their daily lives.”
Any Union County senior or caregiver may visit any ASK location, regardless of their hometown. No appointment or pre-registration is required. The September ASK schedule is as follows:
Tuesday, September 1 Cranford Public Library 224 Walnut Avenue, Cranford 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Thursday, September 17 Fanwood Memorial Library 5 Forest Road, Fanwood 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Wednesday, September 23 Union Public Library 1980 Morris Avenue, Union 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Tuesday, September 29 Rahway Public Library 2 City Hall Plaza, Rahway 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
For more information about ASK events or other services available to seniors in Union County, contact the Division on Aging and Disability Resource Connection toll-free at 1-888-280-8226 or visit ucnj.org/dhs/aging.
For all Union County programs and services, visit ucnj.org, call the Public Information Line at 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online contact form.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce the continuation of its 2026 seasonal recycling programs in September, including two mobile paper shredding events and two dates for scrap metal recycling. The County’s final Household Hazardous Waste event of the season will follow in October.
“These free programs make it easier for residents to securely dispose of personal documents and responsibly recycle items that should not enter the regular waste stream,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “We encourage residents to take advantage of the upcoming events and join us in keeping reusable materials out of landfills while protecting our communities and environment.”
Union County will host two free mobile paper shredding events in September, offering residents a convenient and secure way to dispose of sensitive personal documents on-site:
Friday, September 18: Westfield Pool Parking Lot, 713 Cumberland Street, Westfield
Saturday, September 26: UCNJ Parking Lots 5A/5B, 1033 Springfield Avenue, Cranford
Both events will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., rain or shine, or until the shredding trucks reach capacity.
The shredding program is available to Union County residents only and is not open to businesses. There is a limit of four bags or boxes per vehicle, with each bag or box weighing no more than 10 pounds.
Only confidential and sensitive personal documents will be accepted. Magazines, junk mail and other non-sensitive papers should be recycled through residents’ municipal recycling programs. Residents should remove bindings, large plastic or metal clips and other non-paper materials before arriving. Staples are permitted. Pre-shredded, damp or wet paper will not be accepted.
Union County’s Scrap Metal Recycling Program will continue in September, with events scheduled for Thursday, September 3, and Saturday, September 19, from 9:00 a.m. to noon at the following locations:
Rahway: Rahway River Park Service Yard, 3 Parkway Drive
Residents may use either location on either date.
Accepted items include refrigerators and freezers with doors removed, metal cabinets, household appliances, bicycles, aluminum scrap, air conditioners, microwaves, washers, dryers, stoves, metal fencing, tire rims, wire hangers and other eligible metal items.
Union County’s final Household Hazardous Waste event of the 2026 season will be held on Sunday, October 25, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Union County Vocational-Technical Schools’ West Hall/Police Academy parking lot, located at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains.
Residents may safely dispose of a variety of household chemicals and materials, including oil-based paints and finishes, motor oil and filters, gasoline, propane tanks, pool chemicals, pesticides, fluorescent bulbs and other accepted hazardous household products.
Latex or water-based paint, medical sharps and pressurized welding gas or oxygen cylinders will not be accepted.
Residents with leftover latex paint should dry it at home using a commercial paint hardener, sand, cat litter or sawdust. Once the paint has hardened completely, it may be disposed of with regular household trash.
All Union County recycling events are contact-free and drive-up only. Residents must remain in their vehicles while staff removes materials from their trunks. The events are funded through Recycling Enhancement Act grants that Union County applies for and receives through the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.
For a complete schedule and additional information about Union County recycling programs, visit www.ucnj.org/recycling or call the Union County Recycling Hotline at 908-654-9889. Residents may also contact their municipal recycling coordinator for information about programs in their community.
The free Recycle Coach mobile app provides current information about countywide and municipal recycling programs, including accepted materials, curbside schedules and drop-off locations. For more information, visit www.ucnj.org/recycling/recycle-coach-app.
For all Union County programs and services, visit ucnj.org, call the Public Information Line at 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online contact form.
Dr. Cesar DePaço’s latest contribution continues his support ofthe Sheriff’s Office K9 Unit
Union County Sheriff Peter Corvelli announced that Dr. Cesar DePaço has donated $3,800 to provide a ballistic vest for K9 Kona, helping protect the patrol-trained K9 during deployments throughout Union County.
The donation follows Dr. DePaço’s recent visit to the Union County Sheriff’s Office canine facility, where he met K9 Kona and learned more about the work of the K9 Unit. The unit serves all 21 municipalities in Union County and provides mutual aid to law enforcement agencies throughout New Jersey.
“We are extremely grateful to Dr. DePaço for once again supporting K9 Kona and the important work of our K9 Unit,” said Union County Sheriff Peter Corvelli. “His generosity made it possible for us to bring Kona into our agency, and this latest donation will help ensure that Kona is properly protected while serving alongside our officers. This continued commitment to the safety of our K9 partners and the communities they serve is sincerely appreciated.”
Dr. DePaço previously donated $10,500 for the purchase of K9 Kona. After completing months of extensive training and earning certification, K9 Kona was officially placed into service as a member of the Union County Sheriff’s Office K9 Unit.
The ballistic vest will provide K9 Kona with an additional layer of protection while assisting Sheriff’s Officers during patrol duties and other law enforcement operations.
The Union County Sheriff’s Office extends its sincere appreciation to Dr. DePaço and the DePaço Foundation for their continued generosity, dedication to public safety and support of the officers and K9 partners who serve Union County.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners, through the Department of Public Safety’s Office of Health Management and the Department of Human Services’ Division of Social Services, is partnering with RWJBarnabas Health and the New Jersey Department of Health to offer back-to-school children’s vaccinations and school physicals on Monday, September 21, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Union County Family Clinic, located at 40 Parker Road in Elizabeth.
The clinic will offer all recommended childhood vaccines and school physicals to children from pre-K through age 18. Pre-registration is required, and walk-ins will not be accepted.
Please note that the Union County Family Clinic will be closed during its regular operating hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on September 21. The clinic will open only for the scheduled event from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
“Making sure children begin the school year healthy and prepared is one of the most important things we can do for our families,” said Union County Commissioner Chair Joseph C. Bodek. “By bringing vaccinations, physicals and helpful community resources together in one convenient location, we are making it easier for parents and caregivers to access the support their children need. I encourage families to register before the deadline and take advantage of this valuable opportunity.”
Registered attendees will receive a lunch box filled with nutrition information, healthy recipes, nutritious snack items and fresh produce, while supplies last.
RWJBarnabas Health Community Health Workers and SNAP navigators will also be available during the event to connect families with community resources and provide guidance on accessing available health and social services.
La Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union invita a los residentes a disfrutar de dos noches adicionales de cine al aire libre en el parque Warinanco, tras las cancelaciones por mal tiempo ocurridas a principios de este verano.
El calendario actualizado de *Family Fun & Flix* es el siguiente:
• Martes 25 de agosto: *GOAT*
• Martes 8 de septiembre: *A Minecraft Movie*
Ambas películas se proyectarán al atardecer en el campo de críquet (*Cricket Field*) del parque Warinanco, en Roselle; las actividades recreativas para niños comenzarán a las 7:00 p. m.
“Aunque el clima alteró nuestros planes originales, nos complace ofrecer a las familias otra oportunidad para disfrutar juntas de estas películas en el parque Warinanco”, declaró el Presidente de la Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union, Joseph C. Bodek. “Esperamos que los residentes nos acompañen en estas dos noches más de entretenimiento al aire libre para cerrar la serie *Family Fun & Flix* de este año”.
Se recomienda a los asistentes traer mantas o sillas plegables. En caso de mal tiempo, se aconseja a los residentes consultar el sitio web y las redes sociales del Condado de Union para obtener actualizaciones antes de dirigirse al parque.
Para obtener la información más reciente sobre los programas de verano del Condado de Union, visite www.ucnj.org/summer.
Para más información sobre los parques y programas recreativos del Condado de Union, visite www.ucnj.org/parks o llame al Departamento de Parques y Recreación del Condado de Union al 908-527-4900.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents to enjoy two additional evenings of outdoor movies at Warinanco Park following weather-related cancellations earlier this summer.
The updated Family Fun & Flix schedule is:
Tuesday, August 25: GOAT
Tuesday, September 8: A Minecraft Movie
Both movies will be shown at dusk on the Cricket Field at Warinanco Park in Roselle and Kids’ Fun begins at 7:00 p.m.
“While the weather may have disrupted our original plans, we are pleased to give families another opportunity to enjoy these movies together at Warinanco Park,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “We hope residents will join us for two more evenings of outdoor entertainment as we bring this year’s Family Fun & Flix series to a close.”
Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs. In the event of inclement weather, residents should check Union County’s website and social media pages for updates before traveling to the park.
For the latest information about Union County’s summer programs, visit www.ucnj.org/summer.
For more information about Union County parks and recreational programs, visit ucnj.org/parks or call the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation at 908-527-4900.
