Author: Web Site Administrator

Please be advised, Union County Mosquito Controlwill be spraying for Adult mosquitoes Thursday Evening, June 27, 2024, between the hours of  6:00PM to 11:00PM (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.

Berkeley Hts. – Grant St., Garfield St., Mt. Carmel Area, Nancy Pl., Camptown Dr., Kuntz Ave., Industrial Rd., River Rd. Area behind little flower church,

Clark – Cook St., Nassau St., Prospect St. Area

Elizabeth – Essex/Union Joint Meeting, Front St.,

Fanwood – Oat Ct., Elm Ave., Patterson Rd.

Hillside – Cornell Pl., Harvard Ave. Area

Kenilworth – Dorset Dr., Area, Lafayette Ave., 

Linden – Tremley Pt. Area, Range Rd., Bradford Ave., Lexington Ave., Marion Ave., Cleveland Ave.

Mountainside – Skytop Dr., Coles Ave., Tracy Dr., New Providence Rd.

New Providence – Gales Dr., 5^th St., Bradford St., 4^th St., 2^nd St., Livingston Ave., Marion Ave.

Plainfield – Arlington Ave., Rose St.,

Rahway – Elston St., Randolph Ave., Egolf Dr., Linden Ave., Donald Ave. Area, W. Hazelwood Ave., Jaques Ave.

Scotch Plains – Karen Ct., Frank St., South Ave., North Ave., Hetfield Ave., UC DPW yard

Springfield – Marion Ave., Warner Ave.

Summit – Kent Pl. (Summit Recycling Center)

Union – Hickory Rd., Liberty Ave., Locust Dr., Pinewood Rd., Rahway Rd., Brighton St., Gifford Ct.

Please be advised, Union County Mosquito Control will be spraying for mosquitoes Thursday Evening, June 20, 2024, between the hours of  6:00PM to 11:00PM (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.

• Berkeley Hts. – Grant St., Garfield St., Mt. Carmel Area, Bolton Blvd., Nancy Pl., Camptown Dr., Kuntz Ave., Industrial Rd.
• Clark – Emerald Pl., Riverside Dr., King St., Bartel Pl., Cook St., Nassau St., Prospect St. Area
• Elizabeth – Essex/Union Joint Meeting, Front St.
• Hillside – Aldine St. Area, Munn St. Area, Cornell Pl., Harvard Ave. Area
• Kenilworth – Dorset Dr., Area, Water Co. Rd.,
• Linden – Tremley Pt. Area, Range Rd.
• New Providence – Charnwood Rd., Runnymede Pkwy., Gordon Pl., Gales Dr., 5^th St., Bradford St., 4^th St., 2^nd St., Union Ave., Lancelot Dr., Arthurst Ct.
• Plainfield– Cushing Rd., Knollwood Ct.
• Rahway – Elston St., Randolph Ave.
• Roselle Park – walking path between Chestnut St. and Galloping Hill Rd.
• Scotch Plains– Country Club La., Martine Extension, UC DPW yard
• Summit – Kent Pl. (Summit Recycling Center)
• Union – Hickory Rd., Liberty Ave., Rahway Rd., Vaux Hall Rd.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to invite all residents and community members to join us in commemorating Juneteenth with a special flag-raising ceremony. The event will take place on June 19, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. on the steps of the County Courthouse, located at 2 Broad Street, Elizabeth.

“Juneteenth is a day of profound reflection and celebration,” said Commissioner Rebecca Williams, Master of Ceremonies for the event. “As both a Commissioner and an educator with a deep personal connection to this day, I take pride in celebrating my ancestors’ emancipation and the enduring resilience of the African American community. Juneteenth fuels the pursuit of justice, and through this ceremony, we honor the past, empower the present, and shape a brighter future.”

The Juneteenth Flag was created in 1997 to commemorate June 19, 1865, when the citizens of Galveston, Texas were finally notified about the abolition of slavery. President Lincoln had signed the Proclamation of Emancipation more than two years earlier, on January 1, 1863.

“As we commemorate Juneteenth, our celebration goes beyond acknowledging the historical significance of emancipation. We emphasize the ongoing journey towards justice, equality, and empowerment,” said Commissioner Michèle S. Delisfort. “We envision sparking conversations that drive positive change, promote unity, and contribute to a future where every person is acknowledged, respected, and celebrated as the remarkable individual they are. I am looking forward to attending this flag raising, as well as other Juneteenth celebrations throughout our County.”

In addition to the flag raising, Commissioner Sergio Granados, alongside his fellow Commissioner Colleagues and County officials, will unveil a concept for a monument titled “In Memoriam of The 1741 Project: Honoring the Lives Lost to Slavery as well as the Struggle for Freedom,” which will be officially erected in the fall. This unveiling will feature a mock-up of the monument, symbolizing our commitment to remembering and honoring those who endured unimaginable suffering and fought for their freedom.

“The Juneteenth flag is a symbol of liberation and a reminder of the resilience of the African American community,” said Commissioner James Baker. “On Wednesday, we will raise the flag high in honor of those who fought for freedom and equality and I hope all of our residents and visitors join us.”

For more information about the Juneteenth Flag ceremony, please contact Judith Guest, Community Engagement & Diversity Coordinator Judith.Guest@ucnj.org or 908-527-4388.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners, in partnership with the Gateway Family YMCA, is pleased to announce the return of free swimming lessons for county youth and seniors at our Walter E. Ulrich Memorial Pool in Rahway, this summer.

“Water safety is a vital tool that every person should have, especially our children and senior citizens,” said Union County Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “These two groups of people are most at risk for drowning incidents, and it is the number one cause of death in children ages 1-4 years old. These free classes will empower them to have a safe and healthy summer, and will give everyone the knowledge and practice needed to stay safe near water. Our senior swimming exercises lessons not only give our elderly population a chance to exercise in a low-impact environment, but allows them a chance to socialize in our spacious county pool. I urge everyone from our youth and senior populations to take advantage of these lessons.”

Children/participants must reside in low-income households, they must check off one of the qualifying criteria and provide proof with their enrollment: QCT, TANF, SNAP, NSLP, SBP, Medicare Part D, SSI, Head Start and Early Head Start, Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women (WIC), Section 8 Housing, LIHEAP, and Pell Grants or be the age of 65 and above.

Swimming lessons will take place at the Walter E. Ulrich Memorial Pool, located at 3 Parkway Drive in Rahway. A variety of courses have been designed for both children and senior citizens:

Youth Beginner: Students develop comfort with underwater exploration and focus on body position and control, directional change, and forward movement in the water while also continuing to practice how to safely exit in the event of falling into a body of water. Classes will meet once a week for 8 weeks with a ratio of 1 instructor per six students. Thursday classes will meet once a week for 7 weeks due to the July 4th holiday.

• Thursday 9:50am-10:30am (3-5 yrs) 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/1, 8/8, 8/15, 8/22
• Thursday 11:20am-12:00pm (3-5 yrs) 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/1, 8/8, 8/15, 8/22
• Thursday 10:35M-11:15am (6-12 yrs) 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/1, 8/8, 8/15, 8/22
• Thursday 11:20AM-12:00pm (6-12 yrs) 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/1, 8/8, 8/15, 8/22

Youth Basic Lesson: Students learn how to swim to safety from a longer distance than in previous stages through stroke technique in front crawl and back crown while also introducing rhythmic breathing and integrated arm and leg action. Water safety is reinforced through treading water and rolling to their back to float. Classes will meet once a week for 8 weeks with a ratio of 1 instructor per six students. Thursday classes will meet once a week for 7 weeks due to the July 4th holiday.

• Tuesday 6:45pm – 7:25pm (6-12yrs) 7/2, 7/9, 7/16, 7/23, 7/30, 8/6, 8/13, 8/20
• Thursday 9:05am-9:45am (3-5yrs) 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/1, 8/8, 8/15, 8/22
• Thursday 10:35am-11:15am (3-5 yrs) 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/1, 8/8, 8/15, 8/22
• Thursday 6:45pm-7:25pm (6-12 yrs) 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/1, 8/8, 8/15, 8/22

Senior Adult Lesson: Students develop comfort with underwater exploration and focus on body position and control, directional change, and forward movement in the water while also continuing to practice safety skills like rolling to their backs and floating. Classes will meet once a week for 8 weeks with a ratio of 1 instructor per six students. Thursday classes will meet once a week for 7 weeks due to the July 4th holiday.

• Tuesday 6:00pm-6:40pm 7/2, 7/9, 7/16, 7/23, 7/30, 8/6, 8/13, 8/20
• Thursday 9:50am-10:30am 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/1, 8/8, 8/15, 8/22
• Thursday 6:00pm-6:40pm 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/1, 8/8, 8/15, 8/22

Senior Water Exercise: Participants engage in exercise through low impact movements while focusing on muscle toning and cardio endurance. This is especially helpful for those seeking the ability to exercise without jarring their joints. Classes will meet once a week for 8 weeks.

• Wednesday 9:00am-9:40am 7/3, 7/10, 7/17, 7/24, 7/31, 8/7, 8/14, 8/21

For more information about eligibility requirements and to register for lessons, visit www.ucnj.org/swim. To learn about the various programs offered by the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation, visit www.ucnj.org/parks.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is excited to invite all residents to the inaugural Union County LGBTQ Pride 5K and Fun Color Run at Oak Ridge Park on Saturday, June 8^th. In addition to the race, residents can enjoy family-friendly activities and explore various resource tables from Union County departments and our community partners.

Click here to register online

“We are thrilled to host this event that not only promotes health and wellness, but also brings our community together to celebrate our county’s diversity,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Whether you’re running for a personal best or just to show your support, all are welcome at the 5K and Fun Color Run.”

A Color Run is a unique kind of race, where participants run or walk along a chosen route while being showered with colored, eco-friendly powders. Participants usually wear light colored clothing to give the colors maximum visual impact, and the resulting photos and videos are vibrant and impactful, and sure to catch people’s attention.

The Pride 5K and Fun Color Run will be held on Saturday, June 8^th in Oak Ridge Park – 136 Oak Ridge Road in Clark. Check-in opens up at 8:00am. The 5K kicks off at 9:00am, followed by the non-competitive Fun Run at 9:15am.

The first 100 registrants will receive a free PRIDE 5K and Fun Color Run t-shirt. Registration for both the 5K and Fun Run is $25 per person, with a price increase of $30 when registering the morning of the event. Registration information can be found on www.ucnj.org/lgbtq. The 5K race is certified and professionally timed by Split Second Racing, ensuring an accurate and enjoyable race experience for all.

In addition to the races, attendees can explore resource tables and a variety of family-friendly activities during the races. Don’t miss out on this fantastic morning of fitness, fun, and festivity. Mark your calendars and join us at Oak Ridge Park on June 8^th.

“This event will be a morning filled with fun, fitness, and family-friendly activities, all in the spirit of diversity and inclusion,” said Union County Commissioner Al Mirabella, liaison to the Union County LGBTQ Ad Hoc Committee. “The resource tables will have valuable information for all members of the community, from mental health to education and employment opportunities.”

Other PRIDE events this month include a flag raising on Monday, June 3^rd at the Union County Courthouse. Bernie Wagenblast, the speaker of honor, has lived in Union County for all but one year of her life. She is a transportation journalist and the voice for many transit systems in the region, including the MTA Subway.

 For more information about the Union County Office of LGBTQ Affairs, and to register for the 5K and Fun Color Run, please visit ucnj.org/lgbtq. For any questions about these events, please contact Robert Charkowsky, LGBTQ Affairs Coordinator for the County of Union at rcharkowsky@ucnj.org.

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi announces that vote by mail ballots are available in her offices in Elizabeth and Westfield for anyone seeking to obtain a Vote-by-Mail ballot for the 2024 Presidential Primary Election.

“I urge residents to exercise their right to vote in the Primary Election. This year, not only are there local races in many municipalities, but there are crucial races on the ballot, including those for U.S. President, US Senate and Congress positions, as well as Union County Commissioners,” said Ms. Rajoppi. “Your vote is your voice, and it matters in shaping the future of our community and our nation.”

Voters who use the County Clerk’s One-Stop service can come to the Elizabeth or Westfield office, apply for their ballot, receive it, fill it out, and deposit it in a secure drop-box on site, all in the same visit. Privacy booths are located at the offices for voters to fill out their ballot.

The office locations and hours are:

Union County Courthouse

• Located at 2 Broad Street, Room 113, Elizabeth
• Regular hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30am – 4:30pm
• Open on Saturday, June 3, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm for Vote-by-Mail

Colleen Fraser Building

• Located at 300 North Avenue East (Union County Services Complex), Westfield
• Regular hours: Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 8:00am – 4:00pm; Tuesday and Thursday, 8:00am – 7:30pm; Saturday, 9:00am – 1:00pm

For more information about the County Clerk’s election services visit unioncountyvotes.com or contact the Elections Division at 908-527-4996 or ucvote@ucnj.org.

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

Last night at the Union County Board of County Commissioners meeting, the Commissioners awarded a total of $1,500,000.00 to the County’s twenty-one municipalities for the 2024 Union County Infrastructure and Municipal Aid grant program.

“We are so happy to continue supporting the growth and development of our communities through the Union County Infrastructure and Municipal Aid grant program,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “These funds represent our commitment to investing in projects that enhance the quality of life for our residents, and we are excited to see the positive impact they will have.”

Representatives from all 21 municipalities in Union County submitted videos to accept the check and share what they will do with the funds. A variety of revitalization projects are expected to be undertaken with the funds – however, road improvements are on the top of the list.

“As Chair of the Fiscal Committee, I am proud of the diligent work put into allocating these funds effectively,” said Commissioner Rebecca Williams. “This grant program stands as a testament to our dedication to responsible fiscal management, ensuring that our municipalities have the resources they need to tackle vital infrastructure projects and strengthen local economies.”

The Infrastructure grant program is aimed at providing assistance that will stimulate the development of public projects of economic, social, transportation and governmental importance to local municipalities. The Infrastructure and Municipal Aid grant is a matching grant and will assist municipalities with projects being undertaken in the 2024 calendar year.

The program was created by Commissioner Christopher Hudak in 2015, developed by the County Commissioner’s Fiscal Committee and administered by the Department of Economic Development.  This year’s Commissioner Fiscal Committee included: Commissioner Rebecca Williams as the Chair, Vice-Chairwoman Commissioner Lourdes Leon, Commissioner Sergio Granados and Commissioner Alexander Mirabella.

Funding for the grant is provided through the proceeds from the sale of Runnells Specialized Hospital in 2014.

To learn more about this grant or about any other program, please visit www.ucnj.org.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and constituents of United States Representative Donald Payne Jr.

Congressman Payne was a dedicated public servant whose lifelong commitment to social justice and constituent service made a lasting impact on our community and beyond.

Throughout his six terms in Congress, Congressman Payne tirelessly advocated for progressive policies that aimed to improve the lives of all Americans. From his strong support for Medicare for All and the Green New Deal to his efforts to address community gun violence and expand access to affordable childcare and housing, he was a champion for equity and opportunity for all.

Congressman Payne’s leadership was instrumental in securing funding for critical infrastructure projects, including the national replacement of lead pipes that significantly benefited our region. His dedication to clean drinking water and environmental justice exemplified his commitment to ensuring a healthier and safer future for generations to come.

Beyond his legislative accomplishments, Congressman Payne’s personal story of resilience and perseverance inspired many. From humble beginnings in Newark, he rose to become a respected voice in Congress, advocating for those whose voices often went unheard.

As we mourn the loss of Congressman Donald Payne Jr., we honor his legacy of service and commitment to building a more just and equitable society. His passion, integrity, and compassion will be deeply missed, but his impact will continue to be felt in the lives he touched and the causes he championed.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Beatrice, their triplets, Donald III, Jack, and Yvonne, and all who knew and loved him during this difficult time. May he rest in peace.

On Saturday, April 13^th, the Union County Police PBA Local #73 participated in the opening day parade and ceremony for the Kenilworth Little League. Members of the PBA #73 provided traffic control and police escorts for the young athletes as they marched down the Boulevard and North 14^th Street.

The PBA #73 donated funds to the Kenilworth Little League, an organization that not only teaches kids how to play baseball but how to grow up to learn the value of teamwork, dedication, perseverance and hard work. Local #73 member Dino Capra is not only the coach of the minors-level White Sox team but also an instructor at the baseball clinics, sponsored by the league, helping kids hone their batting and fielding skills.

Capra also serves on the executive board of the Kenilworth Little League, which recently constructed a new batting cage building. During the ceremony, league officials extended heartfelt gratitude to the late John Malcolm Jr., who was instrumental in having the new batting cage building constructed.

The PBA #73’s donation will assist the league with field maintenance costs, umpire expenses and the acquisition of new baseball equipment.