Category: Public Info

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites nonprofit organizations to attenda free professional development workshop, Planning Accessible Events, on Tuesday, April 8th from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 pm on Zoom. Coordinated and hosted by the Union County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs, the workshop will address planning cultural events in compliance with the ADA, policies and procedures to implement, and communicating respectfully about disability both in messaging and interactions with participants.

“We are excited to offer our nonprofit organizations an opportunity to enhance inclusivity at their events and become even stronger supporters for residents and visitors living with disabilities,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “I welcome all nonprofits to join us in strengthening the legacy of inclusivity and diversity that Union County is known for and register for this virtual seminar today.”

Presenter Emily Ladau, a cultural access consultant and author, will present a primer on the major elements of accessible events and a “fireside chat” interspersed with audience discussion and opportunity for Q&As. Her book, Demystifying Disability: What to Know, What to Say, and How to be an Ally was named one of the best books of 2021 by NPR.

Participants will learn how to plan accessible events — especially cultural events — with regard to specific types of disabilities, to ensure that all people can fully participate. Attendees will be encouraged to join in the discussion during this interactive session.

Organizations that receive funding through Union County’s Local Arts Grant (LAP), History Grant, and HEART (History Education, Arts Reaching Thousands) Grant are encouraged to attend. Other non-profit organizations based in New Jersey are also welcome.

Organizations wanting to attend this free workshop can register here.

This workshop is made possible by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.

For more information, contact the Union County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs, an office of the Department of Parks and Recreation, at culturalinfo@ucnj.org or call 908-558-2550.

Union County residents interested in helping voters at polling locations on Election Day this year have time to apply to become poll workers. Poll workers will earn $300 for the day, starting at 5:15 a.m. through at least 8:15, after the close of the polls. The Primary Election is held on Tuesday, June 10, 2025.

Poll workers perform essential services on Election Day, by ensuring every eligible voter is afforded an opportunity to exercise their constitutional right to vote.  Serving as a poll worker in the 2025 Gubernatorial Election is a great way to be involved in the democratic process!

Any Union County resident who is 16 years or older, can apply to become a poll worker.  Union County residents who are 18 years or older shall be registered to vote.

No experience is needed. New poll workers must attend a mandatory, in-person training session. Prospective poll workers can apply online or by using a paper application form.

To apply online, visit the Union County Board of Elections at www.ucnj.org/pollworker. To receive a paper application, call the Board of Elections at 908-527-4236 or email pollworker@ucnj.org. For more information, follow the Poll Worker Resources link at ucnj.org/ucboe. For all Union County Board of Elections information visit online at ucnj.org/ucboe.

April 16th is the deadline for voters who plan to change parties before the 2025 Gubernatorial Primary Election on June 10th

The Union County Board of Elections reminds voters who plan to change their party affiliation that they must do so by April 16th, in order to participate in their new party’s Primary Election on June 10th.

“Voters often do not realize that the deadline to change their affiliation is set long before Primary Day,” said Board of Elections Administrator, Nicole DiRado. “If you plan to change parties ahead of the June 10th, 2025 Gubernatorial Primary Election, please be aware that party declaration changes must be received by the Election Board by April 16th.”

Ms. DiRado also wishes to highlight a new law that goes into effect for the first time in this year’s primary elections.

Any unaffiliated voter, who has previously voted in a Primary Election and who has opted to receive a vote by mail ballot for all future elections, or for the June 10th primary election must declare their party by April 16th in order to receive their vote by mail ballot. Only voters who have never voted in a primary election or first time voters can receive a vote by mail ballot after completing a party affiliation form beyond the April 16th party affiliation deadline. 

Ms. DiRado further reminds voters that they can call the Board of Elections at 908-527-4123 to confirm their party affiliation. Voters who conduct business with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission Office often inadvertently change their party affiliation during their transaction and may not have even noticed it.

Party Affiliation changes are easy and can be done in several ways. Voters can:

• Update their party online at https://voter.svrs.nj.gov/register;
• Request that a Party Declaration Form be mailed to them by calling 908-527-4123 or emailing ucboe@ucnj.org;
• Request a form through the Union County Votes App; or
• Download a form at https://nj.gov/state/elections/assets/pdf/forms-party-affiliation/party-affiliation-form.pdf for an English form
• To download a form in Spanish, use https://nj.gov/state/elections/assets/pdf/forms-party-affiliation/party-affiliation-form-spanish.pdf

Calling the Election Board is the best way for voters to ensure they are ready to vote for their party’s candidates in the June 10th primary.

The April 16th deadline does not apply to voters who are currently unaffiliated. They may declare their party at the polls during early voting from June 3 – June 8, 2025, or on June 10th, Election Day.

For all Union County Board of Elections information, please visit www.ucnj.org/ucboe or call 908-527-4123.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners proudly announces that Union County has been recognized as the fastest-growing county in New Jersey, according to the latest U.S. Census data. From July 1, 2023, to July 1, 2024, Union County’s population grew by 2.08%, adding 12,080 residents and bringing the total population to 594,160.

“Union County is leading the way, and this latest Census data is proof that our approach is working,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Through responsible budgeting, investments in infrastructure, and a strong commitment to shared services, we have built a county that fosters economic opportunity, quality public services, and an excellent quality of life for our residents.”

This reflects Union County’s sound fiscal management, strategic investments, and robust shared services model, which continue to make the county an attractive place to live, work, and do business. The County has also consistently maintained the highest possible credit rating from Moody’s Investors Service, reinforcing its strong financial health and ability to invest in critical services without burdening taxpayers.

A key factor in Union County’s success has been its expansive shared services program, which helps municipalities consolidate services, cut costs, and improve efficiency. The Union County Regional Communications Dispatch Center provides 9-1-1 services for multiple municipalities, ensuring rapid response times while saving millions in local operating costs. The Union County Print Shop offers affordable printing for municipal offices and schools, reducing reliance on outside vendors, while the shared equipment program gives towns access to costly public works machinery like paving machines, tree removal trucks, and snowplows.

Union County also leads in sustainability and environmental shared services, helping municipalities manage waste efficiently. The County’s textile recycling program provides collection bins for clothing, shoes, and household fabrics, keeping millions of pounds out of landfills. Additionally, its hazardous waste and electronics recycling events allow towns to safely dispose of old TVs, batteries, and chemical waste without running their own programs.

“Union County’s rapid population growth is more than just a statistic—it’s a testament to the strength of our communities and the quality of life we offer,” said Ed Oatman, County Manager. “People are choosing to live and work here because of our smart planning, strong partnerships, and commitment to efficiency. Every new resident contributes to our economy and vibrancy, and through strategic investments in infrastructure, shared services, and public safety, we’re ensuring that this growth benefits all.”

Beyond shared services, the County’s infrastructure and public safety partnerships provide grants and technical assistance for road and bridge improvements, while bulk purchasing programs for emergency response equipment and road salt help municipalities save taxpayer dollars. Meanwhile, countywide public health initiatives expand access to vaccinations and mental health services for residents.

“Union County’s continued growth reflects our strong fiscal stewardship,” said Commissioner Rebecca Williams, Chair of the Fiscal Committee. “Through responsible budgeting and smart investments, we have ensured that our county remains economically strong, while still providing essential services and keeping taxes stable.”

Union County remains dedicated to investing in infrastructure, public safety, workforce development, and social services to ensure that as the population grows, resources remain available to support all residents. The Union County Board of County Commissioners remains committed to building on this success and continuing to implement policies that drive growth and prosperity across the region. For more information about Union County’s initiatives and services, visit www.ucnj.org

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents to join the Autism Acceptance Celebration & Resource Fair on Saturday, April 5^th from 10:00am to 12:00pm on Turf Field in Warinanco Park in Roselle. In case of inclement weather, a rain date has been scheduled for Saturday, April 12, 2025.

“Union County is committed to ensuring that all residents, regardless of ability, feel supported and included,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “This celebration is a wonderful opportunity for families and friends to come together, enjoy a fun-filled day, and increase awareness about autism. We are excited to collaborate with some outstanding organizations to create an inclusive and welcoming event where everyone feels valued.”

This year’s superhero-themed celebration will feature a variety of exciting activities, including a live DJ, games, a touch-a-truck experience, and light refreshments. Children are encouraged to dress up as their favorite superheroes as the community comes together to celebrate and promote acceptance for individuals with autism. While this is a free outdoor event, pre-registration is required by visiting www.ucnj.org/opdsn-reg or calling 908-527-4781.

“Elizabeth Public Schools deeply values the years of support from the Union County Board of County Commissioners, impacting our students and the entire Elizabeth community,” said Superintendent Dr. Olga Hugelmeyer. “It’s a privilege to work alongside the County Commissioners, the Union County Department of Human Services, Prevention Links, and the Elizabeth Parent Support Group to create this special event, a celebration of the unique spirit of our youth with autism. We are dedicated to supporting them and their families on a daily basis to ensure they feel loved, valued, and empowered to succeed.”

The 2025 Autism Acceptance Celebration is brought to you by the Union County Board of County Commissioners, the Department of Human Services through the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, and in collaboration with the Union County Departments of Parks and Recreation, Prevention Links, the Elizabeth Parent Support Group, Elizabeth Public Schools and its Division of Special Services, and Elizabeth Fire & EMS.

For more information about the Autism Acceptance Celebration or other events and programs hosted by the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, call 908-527-4781 or visit http://www.ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn/.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce the launch of the 2024 UC STEP Civic Engagement Project, “Wish Upon a Star: Make a Kid’s Dream Come True,” developed by students at the annual UC STEP (Union County Student Training and Enrichment Program) Summit. The initiative, created by this year’s winning team, Team Lavender, aims to bring hope and essential resources to children in foster care by supporting Child Focus’ Open Door Store in Elizabeth.

“UC STEP continues to be a shining example of what young leaders can accomplish when given the opportunity,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “This year’s project is a testament to their creativity, empathy, and dedication to making a real difference. By coming together to support children in foster care, these students are not just learning about civic engagement—they are putting it into action in the most meaningful way possible. I commend Team Lavender and all participating schools for stepping up to help ensure that every foster child in Union County feels valued and supported.”

The project, which runs through April 12, 2025, encourages students across Union County to donate essential items that will help meet the needs of children in foster care. The Open Door Store provides clothing, toiletries, school supplies, and even diapers to children who often enter the foster system with little to no belongings. In addition to collecting donations, the initiative also includes a community awareness component, allowing schools to participate by hosting listening sessions to educate and inspire local communities about the challenges foster children face and how residents can help.

“We are honored to be part of this inspiring initiative stemming from last year’s UC STEP Summit. Every donation directly supports children in Union County foster care through our Open Door Store (ODS) in Elizabeth. Many enter foster care with little to no belongings, and ODS provides essentials like clothing, toiletries, school supplies, and even diapers to our youngest — helping all feel confident and comfortable,” said Erica Fischer-Kaslander, Child Focus Executive Director. “The Union County Student Training and Enrichment Program is a powerful way to foster leadership, personal growth, and civic engagement. For us at Child Focus, it’s especially meaningful that young people are helping young people. Future leaders who value community service are being shaped, and we are not only thrilled but grateful to participate.”

Formerly known as CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), Child Focus rebranded to better reflect its mission of advocating for the safety, well-being, and permanency of children who have experienced abuse or neglect. While the name has changed, the organization’s dedication to children in foster care remains strong.

For more information or to get involved, please contact Judith Guest, Community Engagement & Diversity Coordinator, at (908) 527-4388 or via email at Judith.Guest@ucnj.org.

The Union County Board of Elections advises Westfield residents that Tuesday, March 25th is the deadline for voter registration for the April 15th Annual School Board Election. The election will take place from 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Voting will take place at the regular polling locations, which can be found on the Election Board website at www.ucnj.org/ucboe or by calling the Election Board at 908-527-4123.

The following secure ballot drop boxes for the Westfield Annual School Board Election will open on March 28th, 2025 for voters wishing to return their mail-in ballot using the drop box:

• Fraser Building – 300 North Avenue East, Westfield
• Union County Administration Building – 10 Elizabethtown Plaza, Elizabeth
• Union County Board of Elections – 271 North Broad Street, Elizabeth

For more information on the Annual School Board Election and all things related to the Union County Board of Elections, please visit www.ucnj.org/ucboe or call 908-527-4123.

Attendees will enjoy a complimentary breakfast while gaining expert insights on brand building and growth from a trailblazer who has made a lasting impact on the beauty industry. Registration is $15, and guests can secure their spot at ucnj.org/ucmb.

Kim Baker, a former Wilhelmina model turned commercial makeup artist, has worked with A-list celebrities including Tiffany Haddish, Tom Cruise, Danica Patrick, Toni Braxton, John Legend, Dakota Fanning, and Angela Yee. Her career, shaped by collaborations with industry legends like Kevyn Aucoin and Bobbi Brown, has positioned her as a leading voice in beauty and brand-building.

At the breakfast, Baker will dive into her entrepreneurial journey, revealing how she transformed her passion for beauty into an industry-disrupting cosmetics brand now featured on HSN and Amazon. She’ll share her strategies for standing out in a crowded market, developing a bold brand identity, and navigating the ever-changing beauty landscape.

Guests will also enjoy exclusive raffles and giveaways, and the chance to network with fellow entrepreneurs, business leaders, and creatives. It’s an unmatched opportunity to connect, collaborate, and get inspired.

Reserve your seat today and be part of a one-of-a-kind networking experience where innovation meets inspiration.

For questions regarding this event, please contact Jeff Brooks of the Office of Business Development at jeffrey.brooks@ucnj.org.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that 44 organizations will receive funding through the 2025 Union County Local Arts Grant Program. These re-grants, totaling of $300,000, are a portion of the Local Arts Program grant of $434,400 awarded to the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.

“Through this funding, we continue our commitment to ensuring that the arts remain accessible and flourishing throughout Union County,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “The arts bring creativity and cultural enrichment to our communities, and we are proud to support the incredible organizations that make these experiences possible.”

Local Arts Program funds for 2025 were awarded to the following organizations:

• ACP Arts Ink, $7,600 – General Operating Support
• Afternoon Music, $4,800 – presenting a Concert Series at Beacon Unitarian Universalist Church in Summit
• Borough of Mountainside, $2,000 – presenting Art & Dance Classes for Seniors
• Catalyst Theatre Company Productions, $10,800 – General Operating Support
• CDC Theater, $13,200 – General Operating Support
• Chinese American Music Ensemble, $6,000 – General Operating Support
• Choral Art Society of New Jersey, $11,300 – General Operating Support
• City of Linden, $3,700 – presenting the Linden Art & Entertainment Festival
• City of Rahway, Dept. of Recreation and Senior Services, $3,600 – presenting Seasonal Art Classes and Summer Art Workshops
• Community Access Unlimited, $4,600 – presenting a program of Art Appreciation and Expression for Individuals with Disabilities
• Concord Singers, $8,100 – General Operating Support
• Continuo Arts Foundation, $11,500 – General Operating Support
• Cranford Public Library, $3,400 – presenting a Community Darkroom and a Series of Readings of Original Plays
• Dreamhouse Theater Company, $3,400 – presenting a Theater Production of “The Amen Corner” by James Baldwin
• duCret School of the Arts, $13,300 – General Operating Support
• Elizabeth Youth Theater Ensemble, $12,100 – General Operating Support
• Friends of Summit Public Art, $8,600 – General Operating Support
• Housing with Hope Foundation, $4,200 – presenting Golden Arts Program, Art Classes for Low-income Seniors
• Imperial Brass, $3,500 – General Operating Support
• JCC of Central NJ, $4,200 – presenting an International Jewish Film Festival
• Kenilworth Library, $4,000 – presenting Cultural Celebrations from Around the World
• Life Drawing Studio Group, $11,100 – General Operating Support
• Linden Free Public Library, $2,400 – presenting Multi-Disciplinary Programs for Children and Families
• Mostly Music, $7,400 – General Operating Support
• NJ Workshop for the Arts, $12,000 – General Operating Support
• Plainfield Senior Citizens Center, $3,800 – presenting Multi-Disciplinary Art Classes for Plainfield Seniors
• Plainfield Symphony Society, $13,200 – General Operating Support
• Roselle Park Library, $2,200 – presenting a Concert Series with diverse musical genres
• Society of Musical Arts, $3,100 – presenting a Series of Free Classical Concerts
• Steeple Concerts at St. Paul’s, $3,900 – presenting Masterworks at St. Paul’s, Season Finale of the Steeple Concerts Series
• Summit Chorale, Inc., $11,200 – General Operating Support
• Summit Public Library, $3,500 – presenting Music & Theater Performances at the Library
• Summit Symphony, $9,900 – General Operating Support
• The August Symphony, $3,700 – presenting August Symphony Orchestra’s Summer Concert
• The Celebration Singers, $11,700 – General Operating Support
• The Community Players of Westfield, $12,600 – General Operating Support
• The Kings’s Daughters Day School, $4,300 – presenting a Music & Movement Program for children
• The Playhouse Association (Summit Playhouse), $11,200 – General Operating Support
• The Theater Project, $12,300 – General Operating Support
• Township of Cranford, $3,100 – Downtown Cranford’s Senior Citizen Film Series
• Township of Union, $3,600 – presenting “The Art of U: U Parade Project,” a public art project for downtown Union
• Trinitas Foundation, $3,800 – presenting Art Classes for At-Risk Teens with a Pop-Up Art Show
• Westfield Community Band, $2,700 – General Operating Support
• YWCA of Union County, $3,400 – providing Art Classes for survivors of domestic violence

“The Commissioners are proud of the programming supported by the Local Arts Grants, which provide access to a broad range of arts experiences in every discipline. I urge all our residents take advantage of the opportunity to go and see high-quality art and performances in our communities,” said Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, Liaison to the Union County Cultural and Heritage Programs Advisory Board.

The Local Arts Program is made possible by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. For information about Union County grants supporting arts programs or history programs, organizations can contact the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs at email culturalinfo@ucjnj.org or (908) 558-2550. NJ Relay users dial 711.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce the launch of the 2025 Plant a Seed Program Grants, supporting schools and community organizations in expanding garden-based education and sustainability initiatives. This year, in addition to the Kids Dig In! School Garden Grant and the Union County Means Green Community Garden Grant, Union County is introducing the new Fruitful Futures Tree Grant—an initiative that will provide fruit trees to eligible schools, nonprofit organizations, and municipal entities.

“We are happy to continue supporting school and community gardens through our Plant a Seed Program, and even more excited to introduce the Fruitful Futures Tree Grant,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes Leon. “This new initiative will create a lasting impact, providing both an educational resource and a sustainable food source for years to come. I want to thank Commissioner Granados for his leadership in creating and now expanding this program, ensuring that our communities continue to have access to meaningful, hands-on sustainability projects.”

Administered through the Union County Open Space, Recreation & Historic Preservation Trust Fund, these grants give schools and community partners the opportunity to expand existing gardens or start new ones, creating hands-on learning experiences in agriculture, sustainability, and nutrition.

2025 Grant Opportunities

• Kids Dig In! School Garden Grant – Available to K-12 schools, this grant provides funding to create or expand school gardens, offering students hands-on opportunities to learn about healthy eating, environmental stewardship, and sustainability.
• Union County Means Green Community Garden Grant – Open to K-12 schools and community partners, this grant supports the development of community gardens that increase access to fresh produce and promote environmental awareness.
• NEW: Fruitful Futures Tree Grant – Available to K-12 schools, nonprofit organizations, and municipal entities, this grant provides a fruit tree to be planted on-site, serving as a long-term reminder of the importance of conservation and providing a sustainable food source. This grant is limited in supply and will be awarded based on need, scope, population served, and readiness to proceed.

“Since we first launched the Plant a Seed Program, it has flourished, helping to create or enhance more than 159 school and community gardens across Union County,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Chairman of the Union County Open Space Trust Fund. “These programs have introduced students and residents to hands-on sustainability education, increased access to fresh produce, and strengthened community engagement. As we continue to prioritize environmental responsibility, we are expanding this initiative to include the Fruitful Futures Tree Grant, ensuring that our communities not only grow their own food but also benefit from long-term, sustainable resources for years to come.”

Applications for all three grants are now open. Interested schools and organizations can learn more and apply at ucnj.org/plant-a-seed-garden-grants. The deadline for applications is April 7, 2025.

For questions or additional details, please contact Angelica Cedenoat 908-558-2279 or via email at acedeno@ucnj.org.