La Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union se enorgullece en anunciar que catorce artistas del Condado de Union han sido seleccionados como ganadores de premios en la 59.ª edición anual de la Exposición de Arte para Adultos Mayores de Nueva Jersey. La exposición incluye más de 300 obras de arte originales excepcionales creadas por artistas profesionales y aficionados, mayores de 60 años, de veinte de los veintiún Condados del Estado.
Todas las obras de arte expuestas en la exposición estatal ya recibieron el Primer Premio en su categoría de medios en una exposición con jurado a nivel de Condado. Obras de diecinueve adultos mayores del Condado de Union avanzaron a la exposición estatal, que ya está abierta al público. Estos artistas del Condado de Union fueron premiados a nivel estatal por su trabajo:
Audrey Yankielun (Westfield), Fue galardonada con la distinción de Mejor de la Exposición por un Artista Profesional por su trabajo artesanal, creado utilizando miles de sellos postales.
• Igor Zbrizher (Cranford), 1.er puesto, Pintura acrílica de un artista no professional
• Toru Ishiyama (Cranford), 3.er puesto, Técnica mixta de un artista no professional
• Gregory Ruffa (Scotch Plains), 3.er puesto, Pastel de un artista professional
• Gregory Tyson (Garwood), 3.er puesto, Obra sobre papel de un artista no professional
• Mark Albertson (Westfield), Mención honorífica, Pintura al óleo de un artista no professional
• Megan Connelly (Roselle Park), Mención honorífica, Manualidades de un artista no professional
• Veronica Dunscombe (New Providence), Mención honorífica, Escultura de un artista professional
• Paul Federico (Scotch Plains), Mención honorífica, Grabado de un artista professional
• Karen Freudenberger (Berkeley Heights), Mención honorífica, Pastel de un artista no professional
• Susan Haiken (Berkeley Heights), Mención Honorífica, Pintura Acrílica de un artista professional
• Anne Occi (Cranford), Mención Honorífica, Acuarela de un artista professional
• Wendy Sheridan (Rahway), Mención Honorífica, Obras sobre Papel de un artista professional
• Dorothy Siclare (Plainfield), Mención Honorífica, Pintura al Óleo de un artista professional
“Nos enorgullece ver a tantos adultos mayores talentosos del Condado de Union reconocidos a nivel estatal”, declaró Lourdes M. Leon, Presidenta de la Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union. “El arte es una poderosa herramienta para que nuestros residentes se mantengan activos y se expresen. Animamos a todos a experimentar su creatividad de primera mano visitando esta maravillosa exposición, ya sea en línea o en persona”.
La Exposición de Arte para Adultos Mayores de Nueva Jersey puede verse en línea en www.njseniorarts.com/gallery/ o en persona en el edificio principal de Meadow Lakes Senior Living, ubicado en 300 Meadow Lakes, East Windsor. Se invita al público a ver la exposición de arte en persona, desde ahora hasta el 6 de noviembre, de lunes a sábado, de 10:00 a. m. a 4:00 p. m. Los grupos de 6 personas o más deben llamar a Meadow Lakes con anticipación al 609-448-4100. Encontrará indicaciones para llegar en https://meadowlakesonline.org/contact/directions/.
La muestra de arte es un proyecto copatrocinado por la División de Cultura y Patrimonio del Condado de Mercer y el Consejo Estatal de las Artes de Nueva Jersey, una agencia asociada del Fondo Nacional para las Artes.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce that fourteen Union County artists have been selected as award-winners in the 59th annual New Jersey Senior Citizens Art Show. The exhibit includes more than 300 outstanding original works of art created by both professional and non-professional artists, ages 60 and up, from twenty of the state’s twenty-one counties.
Every artwork displayed in the state exhibit already received a First-Place award for its media category at a juried county-level show. Artworks by nineteen Union County seniors advanced to the state show, which is now on view to the public. These Union County artists were awarded at the state level for their work:
Audrey Yankielun (Westfield), was awarded the distinction of Best of Show by a Professional Artist for her craft work, created using thousands of postage stamps.
Audrey Yankielun (Westfield), 1st Place, Craft by a professional artist
Igor Zbrizher (Cranford), 1st Place, Acrylic Painting by a non-professional artist
Toru Ishiyama (Cranford), 3rd Place, Mixed Media by a non-professional artist
Gregory Ruffa (Scotch Plains), 3rd Place, Pastel by a professional artist
Gregory Tyson (Garwood), 3rd Place, Works on Paper by a non-professional artist
Mark Albertson (Westfield), Honorable Mention, Oil Painting by a non-professional artist
Megan Connelly (Roselle Park), Honorable Mention, Craft by a non-professional artist
Veronica Dunscombe (New Providence), Honorable Mention, Sculpture by a professional artist
Paul Federico (Scotch Plains), Honorable Mention, Printmaking by a professional artist
Karen Freudenberger (Berkeley Heights), Honorable Mention, Pastel by a non-professional artist
Susan Haiken (Berkeley Heights), Honorable Mention, Acrylic Painting by a professional artist
Anne Occi (Cranford), Honorable Mention, Watercolor by a professional artist
Wendy Sheridan (Rahway), Honorable Mention, Works on Paper by a professional artist
Dorothy Siclare (Plainfield), Honorable Mention, Oil Painting by a professional artist
“We are proud to see so many talented Union County seniors recognized at the state level,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “The arts are a powerful way for our residents to stay engaged and express themselves. We encourage everyone to experience their creativity firsthand by visiting this wonderful exhibition, either online or in person.”
The New Jersey Senior Citizens Art Show can be viewed online, when available, at www.njseniorarts.com/gallery/ or in person at the main building of Meadow Lakes Senior Living located at 300 Meadow Lakes in East Windsor. The public is invited to view the art show in person, now through November 6, Monday through Saturday, 10:00am – 4:00pm. Groups of 6 or more should call Meadow Lakes in advance at 609-448-4100. Driving directions are found at https://meadowlakesonline.org/contact/directions/.
The art show is a co-sponsored project of Mercer County’s Division of Culture and Heritage and the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.
6 de octubre, 2025 La Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union invita a los residentes a asistir a un seminario web virtual gratuito sobre tutela, titulado: “Cómo gestionar la tutela de seres queridos con necesidades especiales: Lo que las familias deben saber”, el miércoles 22 de octubre de 2025 a las 7:00 pm.
“Este seminario web ofrecerá recursos prácticos y perspectivas profesionales para ayudar a los residentes a comprender mejor la tutela y a tomar decisiones informadas para sus seres queridos”, declaró la Presidenta de la Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union, Lourdes M. Leon. “La Junta de Comisionados se enorgullece de apoyar programas que conectan a los residentes con el conocimiento y los servicios que necesitan”.
La sesión se realizará en línea a través de Zoom y se transmitirá por Facebook Live. Es necesario registrarse para recibir el enlace de Zoom. Los asistentes también tendrán la oportunidad de participar en una sesión de preguntas y respuestas con los panelistas.
Entre los panelistas se incluirán representantes de la Oficina de la Junta de Sucesiones del Condado de Union, Inroads to Opportunities, el bufete jurídico de Christopher A. Kozlowski y el Grupo de Apoyo para Padres de Elizabeth.
Miércoles, 22 de octubre, 2025 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Virtual (Zoom & Facebook Live) Gratis y abierto al público
Las familias que se enfrentan a la tutela a menudo se enfrentan a decisiones complejas y emotivas. Con este seminario web, buscamos brindar claridad y herramientas prácticas, a la vez que les aseguramos que nadie tiene que recorrer este camino solo”, afirmó el Juez de Sucesión del Condado de Union, Christopher E. Hudak. “Al colaborar con la Oficina para Personas con Discapacidades y Necesidades Especiales, garantizamos que los residentes tengan acceso a la información y el apoyo que necesitan en cada paso”.
El programa se ofrece en colaboración con la Oficina del Condado de Union para Personas con Discapacidades y Necesidades Especiales (OPDSN) y la Oficina de Sucesiones del Condado de Union. Está diseñado para proporcionar a las familias, cuidadores y miembros de la comunidad información útil y orientación sobre el proceso de tutela legal.
Para obtener más información, comuníquese con la Oficina del Condado de Union para Personas con Discapacidades y Necesidades Especiales al 908-527-4807 o envíe un correo electrónico a opdsn@ucnj.org, or visit https://ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn. Para obtener más información sobre este o cualquier otro programa a través de la Oficina de Sucesiones del Condado de Union, comuníquese con ellos al 908-527-4280, correo electrónico UCSurrogate@ucnj.org, o visite www.ucnj.org/surrogate.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents to attend a free virtual Guardianship Webinar, titled: “Navigating Guardianship for Loved Ones with Special Needs: What Families Need to Know” on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.
“This webinar will offer practical resources and professional insight to help residents better understand guardianship and make informed decisions for their loved ones,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “The Commissioner Board is proud to support programs that connect residents with the knowledge and services they need.”
The session will be held online via Zoom and streamed on Facebook Live. Registration is required to receive the Zoom link. Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session with panelists.
Panelists will include representatives from the Union County Surrogate’s Office, Inroads to Opportunities, the Law Office of Christopher A. Kozlowski, and the Elizabeth Parent Support Group.
Wednesday, October 22, 2025 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Virtual (Zoom & Facebook Live) Free & open to the public
“Families navigating guardianship often face complex and emotional decisions. Through this webinar, we aim to provide clarity and practical tools, while also offering reassurance that no one has to walk this journey alone,” said Union County Surrogate Christopher E. Hudak. “By partnering with the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, we are ensuring that residents have access to the information and support they need at every step.”
The program is presented in partnership by the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs (OPDSN) and the Union County Surrogate’s Office. It is designed to provide families, caregivers, and community members with helpful information and guidance on the legal guardianship process.
For more information, contact the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs at 908-527-4807, email opdsn@ucnj.org, or visit https://ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn. For more information on this or any other program through the Union County Surrogate’s Office, please contact them at 908-527-4280, email UCSurrogate@ucnj.org, or visit www.ucnj.org/surrogate.
La Escribana del Condado de Union, Joanne Rajoppi, anuncia que las boletas de muestra para las Elecciones Generales se enviarán por correo en dos envíos separados. Todos los votantes registrados recibirán una boleta de muestra a finales de la próxima semana, y los nuevos votantes registrados recibirán una boleta de muestra después del cierre del registro de votantes el martes 14 de octubre.
Las boletas de muestra son un recurso valioso para que los votantes se familiaricen con los candidatos y el diseño de la boleta. También se incluye información sobre el centro de votación e instrucciones para los votantes.
“Insto a los votantes a que revisen sus boletas de muestra tan pronto como las reciban”, dijo la Escribana Rajoppi. “Incluso pueden traerlas a las urnas”, añadió.
Para obtener más información sobre las boletas de muestra, la votación anticipada o las fechas límite electorales, visite www.unioncountyvotes.com o contacte la oficina al 908-527-4996 o por correo electrónico a ucvote@ucnj.org.
Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi announces that sample ballots for the General Election will be mailed in two separate mailing. All registered voters will receive a sample ballot late next week, and new registered voters will receive a sample ballot after the close of voter registration on Tuesday, October 14th.
Sample ballots are a valuable resource for voters to acquaint themselves with the candidates and layout of the ballot. Polling location information and voter instructions are also included.
“I urge voters to review their sample ballots as soon as they receive them,” Clerk Rajoppi said. “You can even bring it with you to the polls,” she added.
For more information about sample ballots, early voting, or election deadlines, visit www.unioncountyvotes.com or contact the office at 908-527-4996 or email ucvote@ucnj.org.
En una conferencia de prensa ofrecida esta mañana por el Presidente del Senado, Nicholas Scutari, en el Ayuntamiento de Scotch Plains, la Comisionada del Condado de Union, Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded, anunció que el Condado de Union tomará medidas inmediatas para proteger a los residentes de los peligros que representan las bicicletas y patinetes eléctricos.
Con vigencia a partir de hoy, el Condado de Union ha emitido una Orden Ejecutiva que prohíbe la operación de vehículos motorizados, incluyendo bicicletas y patinetas eléctricas, en todos sus parques. En su próxima reunión, la Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union presentará una enmienda al Código del Condado para aclarar que:
• El uso de bicicletas eléctricas de baja velocidad, bicicletas motorizadas (e-bikes), patinetas eléctricas de baja velocidad y patinetes motorizados, según se define en N.J.S.A. 39:1-1 y N.J.S.A. 39:4-14.16 — está prohibido en cualquier puente peatonal, sendero para caballos, ciclovía, césped, área boscosa, parque, área de juegos infantiles o cualquier otra propiedad, arrendada o bajo el control del Condado de Union.
• Esta prohibición no aplica a las actividades específicamente autorizadas por N.J.S.A. 39:4-14.3(b).
“Esta Orden Ejecutiva refleja nuestro compromiso de proteger al público y actuar con rapidez cuando la seguridad está en juego”, declaró la Presidenta de la Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union, Lourdes M. Leon. “Las familias merecen disfrutar de nuestros parques sin preocuparse de que los vehículos a alta velocidad pongan en peligro a niños o personas mayores. Al codificar esta medida, enviamos un mensaje claro: la seguridad siempre será nuestra principal prioridad en el Condado de Union. Seguiremos trabajando con el Presidente del Senado y los líderes estatales para garantizar que estas protecciones sensatas se extiendan a todo Nueva Jersey”.
La Orden Ejecutiva de hoy también complementa la iniciativa Legislativa anunciada por el Presidente del Senado Scutari, cuyo objetivo es modernizar las leyes de bicicletas eléctricas de Nueva Jersey mediante la actualización de los requisitos de licencia, clasificación y seguridad en todo el estado. En conjunto, estas acciones subrayan un compromiso compartido, tanto a nivel de Condado como Estatal, para proteger a los residentes, prevenir accidentes y salvar vidas.
“El drástico aumento en el uso de bicicletas eléctricas ha creado mayores peligros para sus conductores, otros conductores y peatones”, declaró el Senador Scutari. “Son más rápidas, más potentes y mucho más comunes. Nos encontramos en una nueva era en el uso de bicicletas eléctricas que requiere estándares de seguridad actualizados para ayudar a prevenir accidentes, lesiones y muertes”.
El anuncio se produce pocos días después de que un niño de 13 años en Scotch Plains falleciera en una colisión con una bicicleta eléctrica, una tragedia que ha conmocionado a la comunidad local e intensificado los reclamos por mayores protecciones.
“Como madre de cinco hijos, las recientes tragedias relacionadas con las bicicletas eléctricas, especialmente la desgarradora pérdida de un niño de 13 años en Scotch Plains, me afectan profundamente”, declaró la Comisionada del Condado de Union, Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Por eso hoy anuncié esta Orden Ejecutiva. Nuestros niños merecen calles, parques y vecindarios donde las familias puedan sentirse tranquilas. Agradezco al presidente del Senado, Scutari, por asumir un papel de liderazgo al abordar este problema urgente y por trabajar para implementar medidas de seguridad sensatas que priorizan la seguridad. Ninguna familia debería volver a sufrir una pérdida como esta”.
La conferencia de prensa también contó con la intervención del alcalde de Scotch Plains, Josh Losardo, y con la asistencia de otros miembros del consejo de Scotch Plains. La Comisionada del Condado de Union, Bette Jane Kowalski, acompañó a la Comisionada Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded en el anuncio, junto con la Asambleísta Linda Carter, el Asambleísta Jim Kennedy, el Administrador del Condado, Edward T. Oatman, y varios agentes del orden público que representan a los departamentos de todo el Condado de Union. Su presencia resaltó la importancia de la colaboración a nivel municipal, del Condado y Estatal para abordar esta urgente preocupación por la seguridad.
La medida del Condado de Union será aplicada por el personal del Condado y las fuerzas del orden, garantizando que los vehículos motorizados no pongan en peligro a peatones, corredores, personas mayores y niños en los espacios de parques compartidos. Los Comisionados enfatizaron que este es un primer paso mientras se consideran políticas Estatales más amplias, y que el anuncio de hoy demuestra el liderazgo del Condado de Union al abordar la seguridad pública de forma directa, trabajando en estrecha colaboración con las autoridades estatales para prevenir futuras tragedias.
Motorized vehicles — including low-speed e-bikes, motorized bicycles, e-scooters, and motorized scooters — are not permitted on County park property. This includes bike paths, footpaths, lawns, wooded areas, playgrounds, and other off-road spaces.
Can I still ride a regular bicycle in County parks?
Yes. Pedal-powered bicycles remain permitted where bikes are allowed. The ban applies only to motorized/assisted power devices.
What about ADA mobility devices, like medical scooters or power wheelchairs?
The ban does not apply to mobility devices used by people with disabilities, as protected under state law.
Can I or my child ride our e-bike/scooter from a road or parking lot into a park?
Yes — e-bikes and scooters may be ridden on public roadways within County parks, including entering or exiting from parking lots. However, they cannot be ridden onto fields, trails, sidewalks, or pedestrian paths inside the parks. Riders must remain on the roads at all times when on park property.
How will this be enforced? Will my child get a ticket or have their bike taken away?
Right now, enforcement is focused on education and awareness, not summonses or confiscation. Union County Police may stop riders to explain the new rules. Once a permanent ordinance is adopted, enforcement details — including whether violations could result in fines — will be reviewed and decided at that time.
What about roadways and parking lots inside parks?
Roadways and parking lots follow the same rules as public streets under state law:
Class 1 & 2 e-bikes: Allowed. Helmets required if 17 or under. No registration.
Class 3 e-bikes: Treated as motor vehicles (license, registration, insurance required).
Why ban them in parks if accidents are happening on streets?
The County can only regulate park property. Parks are shared spaces with pedestrians, children, and seniors, where high-speed motorized use poses a risk. Broader street safety issues are being addressed at the state level.
Are helmets required?
Yes:
Riders 17 and under must wear helmets on Class 1 & 2 e-bikes.
Helmets are required for all Class 3 e-bike operators.
The County strongly encourages helmet use by all riders.
Will there be licensing, registration, or insurance requirements for all e-bikes?
Not at this time under current law.
However, Senate President Nick Scutari has announced a legislative plan that would add new requirements at the state level. The County will adjust its own rules and permanent ordinance as state law evolves.
Does this apply to regular children’s bikes, skateboards, or rollerblades?
No. This EO applies only to motorized vehicles. Human-powered bicycles, skateboards, and rollerblades remain permitted in parks where allowed.
Does this apply to scooters and e-bikes used for work or commuting through parks?
Yes. The EO applies regardless of purpose and prohibits use on paths, sidewalks, and trails within County parks. Riders may still use public roadways that run through park property in accordance with State traffic laws, but devices must not be operated on pedestrian or recreational paths.
Is this permanent? What happens next?
The EO is a temporary step. It remains in effect until the Board of County Commissioners adopts a permanent ordinance, which will clarify long-term rules, penalties, and possible exceptions.
What about speed limits instead of a full ban?
The EO establishes a full restriction on e-bikes and scooters in County parks, except for use on public roadways. The Board does not anticipate allowing these vehicles on pedestrian paths or recreational areas, but may review additional measures as part of the ordinance process.
How do I report unsafe riding or violations?
To report unsafe riding or other issues in County parks, contact the Union County Police Department (non-emergency line at 908-654-9800). On streets, contact your local municipal police.
How will residents be informed about the new rules?
The County is posting on their website and social media, as well as posting message boards at major parks to make the rules clear right away.
As the Board of Commissioners works toward adopting a permanent ordinance, additional signage with QR codes will be installed at park entrances and other key locations.
These QR codes will link directly to the official rules and updates, so residents can always check the most current information.
What about riders who rely on e-bikes because they don’t have cars?
The County recognizes that many teens and adults use e-bikes for affordable transportation to work, school, or other activities. The EO focuses only on park property, where shared spaces make safety the priority.
New Jersey’s E-Bike and E-Scooter Law
Bicycles are vehicles and must follow NJ traffic laws (§39:4-14.1)
All statutes that apply to bicycles (§39:4-11) also apply to low-speed e-bikes
Helmets required for riders under 17; vendors must provide helmets for rentals (§39:4-10.3)
Required equipment: bell (§39:4-11), white headlight & red tail light at night (§39:4-10)
Ride single file on the right side of the road with traffic
No more than two riders next to each other if traffic isn’t impeded
Municipalities may prohibit sidewalk riding (kids under 10 may ride sidewalks)
E-bikes faster than 20 mph or >750 watts: license, insurance, and registration required
Low-speed e-bikes: Max 20 mph, max 750 watts, no registration/license/insurance (§39:4-14.16)
What is an E-Bike
Two types: Electric Assist or Motorized
An e-bike is a pedal bicycle with a battery or electric motor no greater than 750 watts
Battery may be inside the frame or removable
Motor may be on wheel hubs or central
More power, speed, and weight than regular bikes
Safety Tips
Bring and wear a helmet
Read directions before riding
Practice accelerating and braking in a safe place
Park at a dock or a safe place shown in the app (don’t block sidewalks/roads)
Mounting & Dismounting
E-bikes are 20 lbs heavier than regular bikes
Use a step-through or low cross bar frame if possible
Ride Smart
Always wear a helmet
Don’t use phones/headphones while riding
Take care on wet/icy roads
Be Visible
Wear helmet, gloves, sneakers, long pants
Use bell and lights
Wear bright, reflective clothing
Practice First
Read the manual
Practice in a parking lot before road riding
Start slowly
Power & Acceleration
Start with power off, pedal first
Avoid Turbo mode if you’re a beginner
Keep front wheel straight when activating power assist
Speed levels: Eco (6-7 mph), Tour (9-10 mph), Sport (12-13 mph), Turbo (20 mph)
General Bike Rules
Check tires, brakes, chain before riding
Ride with traffic, signal turns, obey all traffic signs/lights
Leave 3 ft between you and parked cars
Don’t pass cars on the right at intersections
Around Traffic & Pedestrians
Drivers aren’t used to e-bike speeds
Don’t ride on sidewalks unless allowed
Stop for pedestrians, sound bell when passing
Turns & Hills
Signal all turns, slow before turning, keep inside pedal up
Pedal uphill, use lower gears, adjust modes for efficiency
Braking
Brakes are more sensitive than regular bikes
Brake earlier with both hands
Keep brakes engaged at stops to avoid accidental throttle use
Final Safety
Always keep both wheels on the ground
Only one rider per bike (unless designed otherwise)
No tricks or attaching to vehicles (§39:4-12, §39:4-14)
Press Conference
At a press conference hosted this morning by Senate President Nicholas Scutari at Scotch Plains Township Hall, Union County Commissioner Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded announced that Union County will take immediate action to protect residents from the dangers posed by electronic bikes and scooters.
On roadways, state law governs use, and Senate President Scutari has proposed legislation that would add training, licensing, and registration requirements to make streets safer for all riders. The County’s permanent ordinance will take mobility needs into account, while still keeping parks safe for pedestrians, children, and seniors.
Effective today, Union County has issued an Executive Order prohibiting the operation of motorized vehicles — including electronic bikes and scooters — in all County parks. At its next meeting, the Union County Board of County Commissioners will move to amend the County Code to make clear that:
The use of low-speed electric bicycles, motorized bicycles (e-bikes), low-speed electric scooters, and motorized scooters — as defined under N.J.S.A. 39:1-1 and N.J.S.A. 39:4-14.16 is prohibited upon any footbridge, bridle path, bicycle path, lawn, wooded area, park, playground, or any other property owned, leased, or otherwise under the control of the County of Union.
This prohibition does not apply to activities specifically authorized by N.J.S.A. 39:4-14.3(b).
The Order specifically prohibits the following in County parks and on County-controlled property (per N.J.S.A. 39:1-1 and 39:4-14.16):
Low-speed electric bicycles
Motorized bicycles (e-bikes)
Low-speed electric scooters
Motorized scooters
“This Executive Order reflects our commitment to protecting the public and acting swiftly when safety is at stake,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Families deserve to enjoy our parks without worrying about fast-moving vehicles endangering children or seniors. By codifying this action, we are sending a clear message: safety will always be our top priority in Union County. We will continue working with the Senate President and state leaders to ensure these common-sense protections extend across New Jersey.”
Today’s Executive Order also complements the legislative initiative announced by Senate President Scutari, which aims to modernize New Jersey’s e-bike laws by updating licensing, classification, and safety requirements statewide. Together, these actions underline a shared commitment at both the county and state levels to protect residents, prevent accidents, and save lives.
“The dramatic increase in the use of e-bikes has created greater dangers for their operators, other motorists and pedestrians,” said Senator Scutari. “They are faster, more powerful and far more prevalent. We are in a new era of e-bike use that requires updated safety standards to help prevent accidents, injuries and fatalities.”
The announcement comes just days after a 13-year-old boy in Scotch Plains was killed in a collision involving an electronic bike, a tragedy that has shaken the local community and intensified calls for stronger protections.
“As a mother of five, the recent e-bike tragedies — especially the heartbreaking loss of a 13-year-old in Scotch Plains — strike very close to home,” said Union County Commissioner Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “That is why today I announced this Executive Order. Our children deserve streets, parks, and neighborhoods where families can feel at ease. I’m grateful to Senate President Scutari for taking a leadership role in addressing this urgent issue and for working to put forward common-sense protections that put safety first. No family should ever have to endure this kind of loss again.”
The press conference also featured remarks from Scotch Plains Mayor Josh Losardo, with additional Scotch Plains Council Members in attendance. Union County Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski joined Commissioner Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded at the announcement, along with Assemblywoman Linda Carter, Assemblyman Jim Kennedy, County Manager Edward T. Oatman, and several law enforcement officials representing departments across Union County. Their presence highlighted the importance of collaborative action at the municipal, county, and state levels in addressing this urgent safety concern.
Union County’s action will be enforced by County personnel and law enforcement, ensuring that motorized vehicles do not endanger pedestrians, joggers, seniors, and children in shared park spaces. The Commissioners emphasized that this is a first step while broader statewide policies are being considered, and that today’s announcement demonstrates Union County’s leadership in addressing public safety head-on while working closely with state officials to prevent future tragedies.
La Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union y la Ciudad de Rahway invitan cordialmente a los residentes con discapacidades y necesidades especiales, junto con sus familiares y amigos, a asistir a la Celebración de la Noche Familiar Espectacular de este año, que se llevará a cabo el viernes 17 de octubre, de 6:00 p. m. a 8:00 p. m. El evento gratuito se llevará a cabo en el Centro Recreativo de Rahway, ubicado en 275 East Milton Avenue en Rahway.
“Nuestra celebración anual de Halloween para residentes con discapacidades y necesidades especiales siempre es un momento divertido, y este año nos complace dar la bienvenida a toda la familia para que se unan a nosotros y disfruten de esta festividad”, dijo la Presidenta de la Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union, Lourdes M. Leon. “Como siempre, la Junta de Comisionados y yo nos dedicamos a fomentar un entorno inclusivo donde todos puedan reunirse para celebrar y crear recuerdos imborrables. ¡Espero verlos a todos allí!”
La Celebración Familiar Espectacular del 2025 contará con una variedad de juegos, bailes y una Casa Encantada para que los residentes exploren. Se anima a los asistentes a usar sus disfraces de Halloween favoritos para tener la oportunidad de ganar premios y participar en nuestro concurso anual de disfraces. También se ofrecerán refrigerios.
“La Ciudad de Rahway se complace en continuar nuestra colaboración con la Oficina del Condado de Union para Personas con Discapacidades y Necesidades Especiales para la Celebración de la Noche Familiar Espectacular del 2025”, declaró el alcalde Raymond A. Giacobbe. “Esta celebración destaca nuestro compromiso continuo de brindar oportunidades inclusivas y atractivas para todos los miembros de nuestra comunidad”.
La entrada a la Noche Familiar Espectacular del 2025 es gratuita, pero es necesario inscribirse Para registrarse, llame al 908-527-4781 o visite ucnj.org/opdsn-reg.
“Estamos encantados de traer de vuelta este popular evento que captura el espíritu de Halloween de una manera abierta y acogedora para todos”, dijo Sergio Granados, Comisionado del Condado de Union y Enlace con el Consejo Asesor de Servicios Humanos. “Esta es una gran oportunidad para que los residentes se reúnan, se relajen y disfruten de una divertida y festiva diversión sin barreras. También quiero agradecer a la Ciudad de Rahway y al Alcalde Giacobbe por su continuo apoyo para hacer esto posible. ¡Estoy deseando celebrar con todos!”
Este evento es organizado por la Oficina del Condado de Union para Personas con Discapacidades y Necesidades Especiales, que es parte de la División de Servicios de Apoyo Individual y Familiar del Departamento de Servicios Humanos del Condado de Union, en colaboración con la Ciudad de Rahway.
Para obtener más información sobre la Celebración de la Noche Familiar Espectacular del 2025 u otros eventos organizados por la Oficina del Condado de Union para Personas con Discapacidades y Necesidades Especiales, visite ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn o llame al 908-527-4781.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the City of Rahway cordially invite residents with disabilities and special needs, along with family and friends, to attend this year’s Family Spooktacular Night Celebration, taking place on Friday, October 17th, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The free event will be held at the Rahway Recreation Center, located at 275 East Milton Avenue in Rahway.
“Our annual Halloween celebration for residents with disabilities and special needs is always a fun time, and this year we’re excited to welcome the entire family to join us for some festive fun,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “As always, the Commissioner Board and I are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can come together to celebrate and create lasting memories. I hope to see you all there!”
The 2025 Family Spooktacular Celebration will feature a variety of games, dancing, and a Haunted House for residents to explore. Attendees are encouraged to wear their favorite Halloween costumes for a chance to win prizes and be entered into our annual costume contest. Light refreshments will also be provided.
“The City of Rahway is excited to continue our partnership with the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs for the 2025 Family Spooktacular Night Celebration,” said Mayor Raymond A. Giacobbe. “This celebration highlights our ongoing commitment to providing inclusive and engaging opportunities for every member of our community.”
Admission to 2025 Family Spooktacular Night is free, but registration is required. To register, please call 908-527-4781 or visit ucnj.org/opdsn-reg.
“We’re thrilled to bring back this popular event that captures the spirit of Halloween in a way that’s open and inviting to everyone,” said Union County Commissioner and Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council, Sergio Granados. “This is a great opportunity for residents to come together, unwind, and have some light-hearted, seasonal fun without any barriers. I would also like to thank the City of Rahway and Mayor Giacobbe for their ongoing support in making this possible. I can’t wait to celebrate with everyone!”
This event is hosted by the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, under the Division of Individual and Family Support Services of the Union County Department of Human Services, and in partnership with the City of Rahway.
For more information on the 2025 Family Spooktacular Night Celebration or other events hosted by the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, visit ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn or call 908-527-4781.
