Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi announces that the Board of Education of the Scotch Plains-Fanwood School District Special Election will take place on Tuesday, January 28th. All vote-by-mail ballots will be sent out today, January 7th, and residents who requested them can expect to receive a large yellow envelope containing their ballot in the mail later this week.
Vote-by-mail ballots will also be available starting tomorrow at the Union County Clerk’s Westfield Office, located at 300 North Avenue East in the Colleen Fraser Building.
“The special election is an important opportunity for residents to make their voices heard on local funding issues,” said Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi. “I encourage all voters to watch for their vote-by-mail envelopes and take the necessary steps to ensure their voices are heard.”
The ballot will include a spending proposal to raise additional funds for administration, staffing, nursing, security, custodial services, operational costs, various services, supplies, and related equipment. For more information about voting in Union County elections, visit www.unioncountyvotes.com or call 908-527-4996.
At the 168th Reorganization Meeting of the Union County Board of County Commissioners, Commissioner Lourdes M. Leon was sworn in as Chairwoman of the Commissioner Board, making history as the first Hispanic woman to lead the Board. Chairwoman Leon announced her initiatives for 2025 under the theme, “Union County 2025: Connecting Communities, Committed to Progress,” emphasizing grassroots engagement, access to resources, and developing opportunities for all residents.
“Union County is a vibrant and diverse community, and our strength lies in the connections between its people and the resources we provide,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “As Chairwoman, my focus is on ensuring that every resident feels supported and empowered. Together, we will continue to build bridges, create opportunities, and create a community where everyone has the tools to succeed. I look forward to a year of connection, innovation, and growth.”
A lifelong resident of Elizabeth, Chairwoman Leon emigrated from Cuba with her family in 1971. She is a dedicated community activist and award-winning educator, serving more than 27 years in the Elizabeth School District, where she rose from a teacher’s aide to Vice Principal and Principal of the Donald Stewart Early Childhood Center. Her achievements include receiving the Donald Stewart “Strive for Excellence” Educator’s Award in 2004-2005.
After retiring in 2013, Chairwoman Leon continued her public service as President of the City of Elizabeth Mayor’s Community Development Advisory Committee and joined the Commissioner Board in 2020. She has played a critical role in initiatives like Union County’s COVID-19 response, which included administering hundreds of thousands of tests and vaccines, and distributing over 10 million meals to residents in need.
Chairwoman Leon’s 2025 initiatives include:
ACCESS Union County: A centralized initiative unifying critical programs like the Sheriff’s Lifesaver Program, Blue Envelope Program, and the Special Needs Registry to ensure accessibility and emergency support for residents.
Youth in Government Day: A new program allowing students to shadow county officials, inspiring civic engagement and future leaders.
Community Resource Access Initiative: Bringing county resources directly to residents through programs like Coffee with a Commissioner and multilingual digital tools.
Environmental Stewardship: Expanding tree planting programs, recycling initiatives, and community education for a cleaner, greener Union County.
Expanded Services for Families: Increased physical health services at county clinics, free swim lessons for seniors and children, and enhanced social services resource hubs.
Chairwoman Leon holds a Master of Arts in Educational Administration from Kean University, where she graduated summa cum laude. Her commitment to public service and dedication to Union County’s residents reflect her passion for creating meaningful connections and driving progress.
At the Reorganization meeting, Commissioners Alexander Mirabella, Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded were also sworn into their new terms; James E. Baker, Jr. was sworn into his new term prior to the meeting. Commissioner Joseph C. Bodek assumed the role of Vice-Chairman. During the meeting, the Commissioners also voted on appointments to various County advisory boards and approved the Board’s 2025 schedule and procedural rules.
Residents can find the full transcript of Chairwoman Leon’s remarks and learn more about the 2025 initiatives at www.ucnj.org.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce the submission of three Green Acres NJDEP Grant applications for 2025. These applications, facilitated through the Union County Open Space, Recreation, and Historic Preservation Trust Fund, aim to enhance and expand recreational opportunities across the County. The projects include an inclusive playground at Unami Park located in the Borough of Garwood and Town of Westfield, improvements to Wheeler Spray Park in the City of Linden, and an upcoming Stewardship Grant initiative at the Deserted Village of Feltville, located in the Watchung Reservation in the Township of Berkeley Heights.
“The Union County Board of County Commissioners is dedicated to ensuring that all of our residents, regardless of their abilities or where they live, have access to high-quality recreational spaces,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “These Green Acres grants highlight our commitment to promoting inclusivity, accessibility, and environmental stewardship throughout our parks system. We are proud to lead the way in creating spaces where families and individuals can gather, play, and enjoy the outdoors together.”
As part of the ongoing renovations at Unami Park, located in the municipalities of Garwood and Westfield, the existing playground will be updated to comply with the standards outlined in Jake’s Law. Passed in 2018, Jake’s Law encourages the development of inclusive playgrounds that exceed ADA standards, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. These renovations represent a significant step forward in creating recreational spaces that are welcoming and accessible to all residents of Union County.
In addition, Wheeler Spray Park in the City of Linden is slated for substantial upgrades under the 2025 Urban Park Green Acres Grant Program guidelines. This initiative focuses on urban parks in communities that face adverse cumulative stressors, promoting restorative and accessible recreational spaces. These improvements are part of Union County’s ongoing commitment to fostering vibrant, equitable, and inclusive community resources.
“Our Open Space Trust Fund continues to play a crucial role in transforming Union County’s parks into welcoming and inclusive spaces for all,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Chair of the Union County Open Space Trust Fund. “By advancing these projects, we are not only improving the quality of life for our residents but also setting a standard for innovation and inclusivity in public recreation. These enhancements reflect our commitment to making Union County a place where everyone feels valued and supported.”
The 2025 Stewardship Green Acres Grant Program, designed to support the restoration and preservation of natural resources and historic landscapes on properties listed in the New Jersey and/or National Historic Registers, will provide funding to restore the landscape at the Deserted Village of Feltville in the Watchung Reservation in Berkeley Heights. This project will aim to improve the site’s natural environment while preserving its cultural heritage, ensuring it will remain a valuable resource for future generations.
To ensure these projects reflect the needs and desires of our residents, Union County is launching a community outreach program. Residents are encouraged to participate by completing surveys available at https://ucnj.org/green-acres-grants. This website will also provide regular updates on each project as they progress, offering an opportunity for the community to stay informed and engaged.
For more information about these projects and Union County’s Open Space Trust Fund initiatives, please contact Angelica Cedeno at acedeno@ucnj.org or (908) 558-2279.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites seniors and caregivers to visit their local Aging Services Kiosk (ASK) to explore the wide range of senior programs and resources available. These events allow attendees to meet with experienced professionals who can offer expert guidance and assistance with a variety of services, including form completion. Bilingual staff will be available at all dates in January to provide support in Spanish.
“As we prepare for the new year ahead, I am reminded of the importance of this initiative. It reflects our commitment to promoting the health and well-being of our senior community as they navigate the later stages of life, supporting them in any way possible,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “I invite all Union County seniors, caregivers, and family members to visit our Aging Services Kiosk and see what resources and services are available that can make these winter months safer, and more comfortable for you and your loved ones.”
The Aging Services Kiosk is operated explicitly by the Division on Aging, a branch of the Union County Department of Human Services. It offers adults aged 60 and older, along with their caregivers, a friendly and convenient avenue to discover valuable programs and services and speak individually with a Division on Aging professional.
Staff at ASK locations can help older adults and caregivers connect with various services, including home-delivered meals, respite care, home care, adult day care, and support services for caregivers. Any Union County senior or caregiver can visit any ASK kiosk, regardless of their hometown. No appointment or pre-registration is needed. Below are the upcoming ASK events in January:
Wednesday, January 8th
Union Public Library
1060 Stuyvesant Avenue, Union
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Tuesday, January 14th
Westfield Memorial Library
550 East Broad St., Westfield
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Thursday, January 16th
Hillside Public Library
1409 Liberty Avenue, Hillside
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Tuesday, January 21st
Cranford Public Library
224 Walnut Avenue, Cranford
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Tuesday, January 28th
Elizabeth Public Library – Main
11 South Broad St., Elizabeth
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
“Our collaboration with the Department of Human Services and the Division on Aging on this initiative is grounded in our shared vision of creating an environment where seniors in Union County can thrive and enjoy the later stages of their lives,” said Union County Commissioner Vice-Chairwoman Lourdes Leon, Liaison to the Advisory Council on Aging. “We look forward to continuing this effort in 2025 and beyond.”
For more information about the ASK events and any other services for seniors in Union County, contact the Division on Aging and Disability Resource Connection at 1-888-280-8226 toll-free or visit online atucnj.org/dhs/aging.
Please find the latest update from New Jersey American Water (NJAW) regarding the taste and odor issues affecting drinking water in several communities, including those in Union County.
The towns in Union County currently impacted include Berkeley Heights, Clark, Cranford, Garwood, Kenilworth, Linden, Mountainside, Roselle, Roselle Park, Scotch Plains, Union, Vauxhall, and Westfield.
Late on December 17, NJAW began receiving reports of changes in the taste and odor of water in its Raritan System. NJAW immediately launched an investigation, taking water samples from the source, various points in the treatment system at two water treatment plants serving the region, and locations throughout the distribution system. Preliminary sampling results indicate that the water meets primary standards; however, NJAW continues to monitor water quality throughout the system.
Hydrant flushing began last night and will continue today as part of efforts to clear the system. This may result in low water pressure and/or discoloration for customers. If residents experience discolored water, they are advised to run cold water taps at the lowest level of their homes for 3 to 5 minutes until the water runs clear.
Updates can also be found on the Alerts page of NJAW’s website.
Under the terms of the “Open Public Act” P.L.., 1975, C. 231, the 2025 Installation Ceremony and Reorganization Meeting of the Union County Board of County Commissioners will be held on Monday, January 6, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., in the Courtroom of the Honorable Assignment Judge Lisa Miralles Walsh, at the Union County Courthouse, 2 Broad Street, Elizabeth, New Jersey.
James E. Pellettiere Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners
The Union County Board of County Commissioners announces the return of a free Expungement Clinic to Union County. The life-changing clinic will take place on Tuesday, December 17th from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and will be held at the Roselle Public Library, located at 104 West 4th Avenue in Roselle. The clinic will be available exclusively to residents of Union County.
“We understand the limitations that minor convictions can place on an individual’s trajectory in life, and for that reason, this clinic was established; your past mistakes do not always have to define your future,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “At our Expungement clinic, you’ll be connected to free legal resources and support services to help you seize your second chance and rebuild your life even better than before.”
At the clinic, participants will have the opportunity to consult with attorneys for a free expungement, learn about eligibility requirements, and receive assistance regarding pending fines, along with other related issues. Blaze Responsibly, a consulting firm, will return to provide legal support for individuals working through the often complex expungement process.
“We are proud to partner with Blaze Responsibly once again to bring this transformative opportunity to Union County residents,” said Union County Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council (HSAC) and the Workforce Development Board. “An expungement is more than just a clean slate—it’s a gateway to renewed hope, opportunity, and self-empowerment. By providing free access to expert legal guidance and connecting participants with essential resources, we are giving our residents the tools to overcome barriers and achieve their full potential. As we approach the holiday season, this clinic symbolizes the spirit of giving—a chance to rebuild lives, restore dignity, and create brighter futures for all.”
Participants can expect to receive a filed expungement at no cost from qualified attorneys. If a participant is found ineligible for expungement, they will at least walk away with a clearer understanding of their legal situation and be informed about the resources available to them.
While the Expungement clinic is free to attend, a two-step registration process is required by filling out the two required forms at ucnj.org/job-fairs. Admission will only be accepted if both forms are submitted.
Union County residents may register at www.ucnj.org/dhs/job-fairs/ or contact Carolina Marin at 908-380-6237 for more information. Due to space and resource limitations, the registration is limited to the first 75 participants.
The Expungement Clinic is organized by the Union County Board of County Commissioners, in collaboration with the Union County American Job Center, a branch of the Union County Department of Human Services. The initiative is in partnership with Blaze Responsibly, Blaze Law Firm, Vet4U, Union Grown UFCW, and the Coalition for Food and Health Equity, which will provide nutritious meals for all attendees at the event.
The Union County American Job Center is supported with funds from the United States Department of Labor (USDOL) through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), totaling $1,700,000. 100% of these services are financed through federal funding sources.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners announce that Union County residents can celebrate the season at a variety of holiday concerts presented this coming weekend in Westfield, Cranford, Summit and New Providence. The concerts are presented by arts organizations receiving a 2024 Union County Local Arts grant, administered through the Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs.
“The holiday season is a time to connect and celebrate with family, friends, and neighbors. These concerts offer a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the incredible talent of our local arts organizations, made possible through the Union County Local Arts grant,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “I encourage everyone to attend and experience the joy and inspiration that live performances bring.”
On Friday Dec. 13, the Westfield Community Band presents their 35th Annual Free Holiday Concert at 7:30 pm. The band will perform traditional, popular and contemporary holiday selections, along with the Edison Intermediate School Broadway Singers. The concert will be held at Edison Intermediate School Auditorium, 800 Rahway Ave., Westfield. http://westfieldcommunityband.com/
On Friday Dec. 13 and Saturday Dec. 14, the Celebration Singers present their annual winter concert at 8 pm. “Hearth, Harmony and the Journey Home” will include wide-ranging selections performed by the multi-generational Celebration Singers, known for choral music reflecting diverse genres and cultures. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for youth & seniors, and FREE for children under 9. The concert will be held at St. Michael’s Church, 40 Alden St., Cranford.
On Saturday Dec. 14, the Concord Singers present their holiday concert, “Keep Your Lamps,” at 4 pm, performing music inspired by the winter solstice and sacred traditions. Conducted by Matthew Zabiegala, the program will feature musical styles and genres from around the world, with works by Abbie Betinis, Josef Rheinberger, Rosephanye Powell, Ēriks Ešenvalds, Uzee Brown Jr., and Camille Saint-Saëns. Tickets are $20, available at the door or at https://concordsingers.org/events-tickets/. The concert will be held at Calvary Episcopal Church, 31 Woodland Ave., Summit.
On Saturday, Dec. 14, the Summit Chorale presents their Winter Holiday Concert, “Dona Nobis Pacem” at 7:30 pm. Marking the 80th anniversary of the December 1944 Battle of the Bulge, the Chorale will perform Dona Nobis Pacem — a powerful anthem for peace composed in 1936 by Ralph Vaughan Williams, with hope for averting a second World War. Featured soloists are soprano Julia Lamon and baritone Christian Waugh. The Chorale will also perform popular Christmas songs that Americans would have heard on the radio during World War II, including I’ll Be Home for Christmas, Happy Holiday, White Christmas, and Let It Snow! Tickets are $25 in advance at https://www.summitchorale.org/concerts-and-events.html or $30 at the door. The concert will be held at Faith Lutheran Church, 524 South St., New Providence.
On Sunday, Dec. 15, the Summit Symphony presents a Free Holiday Pops Concert at 2 pm., featuring favorite holiday songs from popular movies, plus classic holiday selections, the symphony will perform music of the season, including The Nutcracker Suite, Sleigh Ride, L’Arlessienne Suite by Bizet, The Klezmer Nutcracker, and The Christmas Song. Summit Symphony is led and conducted by Michael Avagliano. The concert is free; donations are welcomed. The concertwill be held atSummit High School, 125 Kent Place Blvd, Summit.
“The arts have the power to bring us together, especially during the holidays. These concerts reflect the diverse cultural fabric of Union County and highlight the vital role of the arts in our community,” said Union County Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, Liaison to the Cultural and Heritage Advisory Board. “We are proud to support these programs and the talented artists who make them possible.”
The concerts are made possible by funds from the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, a partner of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. The Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs is a division of the Department of Parks and Recreation. For more information, email culturalinfo@ucnj.org or call 908-558-2550 weekdays (relay users dial 711).
Union County Prosecutor William A. Daniel, Union County Chief of Detectives Dr. Harvey Barnwell, Union County Sheriff Peter Corvelli, Union County Police Chiefs Association President David Hart, and Union County Director of Public Safety Dennis Burke issue a joint public statement regarding recent drone activity in Union County:
County and local law enforcement agencies are aware of recurring reports of drone activity in and around Union County and understand the public’s concern about these sightings.
We are working closely with the FBI, New Jersey State Police, and the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness to monitor and investigate this activity. At this time, there is no known threat to public safety.
The FBI and New Jersey State Police encourage the public to report any information related to recent sightings of possible drones.
To report information, you can:
Call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324)
Submit it online at tips.fbi.gov. Citizens can also upload videos directly through the FBI’s online portal.
For more information about drones, also known as Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), please visit the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness website: NJOHSP
We thank the public for their vigilance and cooperation as we work to ensure the safety of our community.
The nominee must live, work, and/or attend school in Union County. Categories include Individual, Business Establishment, Community Organization, Nonprofit Organization, Student, Educator, Clergy/House of Worship, Faith-Based Organization, Public Servant, Law Enforcement, Healthcare, Veteran, and Media. Visit ucnj.org/uchrc to submit your nominee online.
