Category: Public Info

Union County Deputy Clerk Clara Fernández announces that the ballot position drawing for the November 3, 2026 General Election will be held in person and livestreamed on Facebook on Monday, August 10, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. in the 7th Floor Tower Courtroom of the Union County Courthouse, located at 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth.

The public is welcome to attend the drawing in person or watch it online. A link to the livestream will be posted before the drawing on the Office of the County Clerk’s elections website at unioncountyvotes.com.

Voters who wish to vote by mail must apply for a Vote-by-Mail ballot by Tuesday, October 27, 2026.

Voters should also be aware of an update from the United States Postal Service. A postmark now shows the date the Postal Service processes a ballot, not the date it is mailed. This means a ballot mailed close to Election Day may receive a later postmark. In New Jersey, Vote-by-Mail ballots must be postmarked on or before Election Day to be counted. Voters are encouraged to mail their ballots early or use a secure ballot drop box. Ballots with a postmark after Election Day cannot be counted.

Voters may also vote in person on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at their regular polling place, or vote early between October 24 and November 1 at designated early voting locations throughout Union County. Early voting locations will be posted on unioncountyvotes.com.

For more information about voting in Union County, including how to apply for a Vote-by-Mail ballot, visit unioncountyvotes.com or call 908-527-4996. For more information about all County Clerk programs and services, visit ucnj.org/county-clerk or call 908-527-4787.

Learn how to help the environment and teach about the importance of trees – no experience necessary

Union County residents who love nature and are interested in volunteering may consider joining the 4-H Master Tree Steward program this fall. Master Tree Stewards are community volunteers who visit 4^th grade classrooms each spring to present an interactive lesson on trees. No experience is needed. All training and classroom materials are provided by the Master Tree Steward program.

“Master Tree Stewards are essential to this community,” said Union County Commissioner Chair Joseph C. Bodek. “In addition to educating our youth about trees, they help young people understand the connection between responsible stewardship and its effects on future generations.  We are grateful for the work that they do, and are looking forward to welcoming new and returning volunteers this September.”

Each fall, the Master Tree Steward program offers a series of training sessions, consisting mainly of guided walks in nearby parks and nature reserves. Easy reading assignments, indoor classes, and a simple project are also part of the program. The entire program, including a tree identification guide, is covered by a $35.00 administrative fee.

Applicants who complete the series obtain a Master Tree Steward certificate and are qualified to teach lessons about trees to 4^th grade classrooms in the spring. The program provides a complete lesson plan along with posters, seeds and other supplies.

The 2026 fall training series will meet every Wednesday from September 2nd to December 9th, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., except for any holiday that falls on a Wednesday.

The 4^th grade classroom visit schedule takes place on Wednesdays from January to June. Certified Master Tree Stewards are requested to choose 6 dates for their visits. Each visit takes approximately one hour, typically from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

To apply, or for more information please contact Union County 4-H Youth Development Agent, James Nichnadowicz at 908-654-9854 (ext.3), or jnichnadowicz@ucnj.org.

The Master Tree Steward program is run by the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County, as part of a statewide program under the umbrella of the Rutgers New Jersey Agriculture Experiment Station. For information on all Extension programs in Union County, including Master Gardeners, Environmental Stewards and 4-H clubs for youth, visit ucnj.org/rce.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce the second annual Plein Air painting event will take place on Sunday, September 27, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Deserted Village of Feltville. Artists are invited to paint the beautiful sites of the Deserted Village, located at 9 Cataract Hollow Road in Berkeley Heights.

“Filled with charming, 19th-century houses and panoramic views, the Deserted Village serves as this beautiful backdrop where nature meets history, and where artists and visitors can draw plenty of inspiration from,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “Everyone is welcome to join us as we celebrate art, community, and the rich history that makes Union County unique.”

Plein air painting is the process of creating a work of art, in the outdoors, with the subject in full view of the artist. The term is derived from the French phrase “en plein air”, meaning “in the open air,” which emphasizes the artist capturing the subject or scene in the natural light directly in observation.

“After the success of last year’s inaugural event, we are excited to return to the Deserted Village and welcome seasoned artists and beginners alike to unleash their creativity and let the natural surroundings inspire them,” said Union County Vice-Chair and Liaison to the Cultural & Heritage Advisory Board,  Rebecca L. Williams. “Visitors will also enjoy seeing the incredible talent of these artists unfold in real time. It’s a fun event for everyone.”

The 2026 Plein Air Painting Festival is a free event and open to the public. Interested participants are asked to bring their own painting materials and chairs. To register, please visit www.ucnj.org/pleinair. For questions or assistance, please contact culturalinfo@ucnj.org or call (908) 558-2550.

This event is made possible by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. To learn more about the programs and services offered by the Office, please visit https://ucnj.org/parks-recreation/cultural-heritage-affairs/.

The Union County Police Department has completed a comprehensive investigation into the reported theft of funds from the Parent School Alliance account at the Academy for Allied Health Sciences in Scotch Plains and announced that an arrest has been made.

“Parent-school organizations such as the one at the Academy for Allied Health are fundamental to creating opportunities for students, keeping parents connected, and enhancing the educational experience. It is a community built on trust, fairness, and shared goals for the success of all students, and we are looking forward to this being resolved,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek.

On January 14, 2026, the Union County Police Department was notified of a reported theft involving funds missing from the Parent School Alliance account at the Academy for Allied Health Sciences at Union County Vocational-Technical Schools (UCVTS), located at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains. The Parent School Alliance is a parent -run volunteer organization that supports the students attending the Academy.

Detective Rodrigues conducted a months-long investigation into the missing funds and determined that the former Treasurer of the organization, Ms. Kathy O’Neil of Clark, NJ, DOB (05/25/1974), had sole access to the account during the 2024-2025 school year.

The investigation revealed numerous questionable transactions, including ATM withdrawals, teller withdrawals, online purchases, and other expenditures unrelated to the organization. In total, approximately $29,000.00 was found to be missing from the account. Based on the investigation, Ms. O’Neil has been charged with third-degree Theft by Unlawful Taking and third-degree Credit Card Fraud.

On July 23, 2026, Ms. O’Neil turned herself in to the Union County Police. She was processed on the charges and released, pending a Union County Superior Court appearance scheduled for August 27, 2026. If convicted, Ms. O’Neil faces 3 to 5 years of imprisonment on each third-degree conviction, fines, restitution of the missing funds, and various court assessments and/or fees.

Superintendent Gwen Ryan stated, “The District has no comment at this time, as it is a pending legal matter. We will monitor the situation closely as partnership with parent organizations continues to be an important support to our programs.”

Ms. O’Neil is presumed innocent until found guilty.

Please be advised, Union County Mosquito Control will be spraying for mosquitoes Thursday, July 30, 2026 between the hours of 6 PM to 11 PM 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 Heights – Grant St., Garfield St., River Rd. Area, Camptown Dr., Kuntz Ave., Nancy Pl., Bolton Blvd., Plainfield Ave. Little Flower Church
• Clark – Riverside Dr., King St. Area, Central Ave. Urgent Care Area, Surry Rd., Dorset Dr. Area
• Kenilworth – Water Co. Rd., Dorset Dr. Area, 200 block S. Michigan Ave., 600 Block N. Michigan Ave., Lafayette Ave.,
• Linden – Tremley Pt., area. W. 17th St., 18th St., Winans Ave., Linden/Roselle Sewage Plant
• Rahway – Leesville Ave. Area, Elston St., Randolph Ave.,
• Roselle – Chandler Ave., Jouet St. Area, 6th St., Fire House Area
• Roselle Park – Hawthorne St., Columbus Pl., W. Clay Ave., Springfield Ave. – Cottage Ln., Oakland Ave. Waverly Ave., Evergreen Ave., Leslie Ct., Bernadette Ct., Christy Ct., Commerce St., Brown Ave.,
• Summit – Summit Recycling Center
• Westfield – Prospect St., Hamilton Ave., Livingston St., Ripley Pl., Windsor Ave., Myrtle Ave.
• Winfield – U.C. Pkwy.

Reminder: please bring your own chairs

The Union County Board of County Commissioners, through the Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, welcomes residents and visitors to attend the latest event celebrating the nation’s 250^th Anniversary, Union County: American as Baseball, Hot Dogs, Apple Pie, Autos, and Music. The family-friendly event will take place on Saturday, August 8, from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Meisel Field, located at 278 Meisel Avenue in Springfield.

“Baseball is not only deeply rooted in Union County’s heritage; it is a part of America’s cultural identity. This event honors that history through these two outstanding teams, bridging our past and present, and offering a wonderful opportunity for some of our residents to reminisce while introducing new generations to the joys of baseball,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “I invite you to join us for a relaxing day outdoors, enjoying some ballpark favorites, and celebrating the spirit of vintage baseball. I hope to see you all there.”

Kicking off the event at 10:30 a.m. will be a spectacular car show hosted by the Galloping Hill Cruisers. Founded in 1988, the nonprofit organization brings together car enthusiasts while also supporting local charities, including the New Jersey Institute for Disabilities (NJID). Attendees can enjoy the display of classic and modern vehicles from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The Westfield Community Concert Band – one of the oldest community bands in the United States – will bring a lively soundtrack to the day’s events, playing from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

At the heart of the event will be the vintage baseball exhibition, featuring the historic 1859 Hoboken Base Ball Club playing the Elizabeth Resolutes. From 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., attendees can watch the players take on the field in authentic 19th-century uniforms and play under the original rules of the game, showcasing baseball as it was played over 150 years ago.

Hot dogs and ice cream vendors will be on-site throughout the event for guests who wish to purchase a treat. One free mini apple pie per guest will be distributed to the first 750 guests, courtesy of Bimbo Bakery/Entenmann’s.

“As we continue breathing life into our history and honoring our roots, it’s important to showcase the origins of sports like baseball. Even then, they were a staple of daily life, bringing traditions, aspirations, and joy to our ancestors,” said Union County Commissioner Vice Chair Rebecca L. Williams, Chair of the Union County America 250 Committee and liaison to the Cultural and Heritage Affairs Advisory Board. “One of our goals with history programs like this is that our residents return home with not only new memories, but also a renewed sense of pride in living in a county with a rich history like ours.”

This event is made possible by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. The program is organized by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs.

The event is free and open to all residents. For additional information, contact the Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs at 908-558-2550. For more information on upcoming America’s 250^th Anniversary events, visit ucnj.org/250.  

Please be advised, Union County Mosquito Control will be spraying Thursday evening, July 23, 2026, between the hours of 6:00 P.M. to 11:00 P.M. (Weather Permitting). Check below for the list of Parks 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 Heights – Grant St., Garfield St., River Rd. Area
• Clark – Oak Ridge Rd., Feather Bed Ln., Old Raritan Rd., Riverside Dr., Terminal Ave., Miller Ave., King St.
• Elizabeth – Clarkson Ave., Spencer St.
• Fanwood – Fanwood Pl.
• Hillside – Harvard Ave., Cornell Pl., John St., Westminster Area
• Kenilworth – Water Co. Rd., Dorset Dr. Area, 200 block S. Michigan Ave.,
• Linden – Tremley Pt., area. Lower Rd., W. 11th St., Hawk Rise, Miner Ter. Area, Bradford Ave. Bradford Ave., Lexington Ave., Marion Ave., Miner Ter.
• New Providence – Union Ave.
• Plainfield – Jefferson Ave.,
• Rahway – Leesville Ave. Area, Elston St., Randolph Ave., Donald Ave. Area, E. Emerson Ave. Area,
• Roselle – Chandler Ave., Jouet St. Area
• Roselle Park – Lehigh Ave., walking path, between Galloping Hill Rd. and Chestnut St.
• Scotch Plains – Country Club Ln., Martine Ave., Raritan Rd., Springfield Ave. – Cottage Ln., Oakland Ave. Waverly Ave.
• Summit – Summit Recycling Center
• Union – Audrey Ter., Debra Way, Arcadia Pl., Westside Ave.
• Winfield – U.C. Pkwy.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites seniors, their families, and caregivers to the upcoming Aging Services Kiosk (ASK) events this August to explore the wide range of senior programs and resources available. These events allow attendees to meet face-to-face with experienced professionals who can provide expert guidance and assistance with a variety of services, including form completion. Bilingual staff will be available on all dates to provide support in Spanish.

“With our ASK program, we strive to ensure seniors know they have a dependable support system in their community, and in us. This way, they can embrace this new chapter with less fear, and more confidence and peace of mind,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “We welcome all seniors and caregivers to meet with one of our friendly professionals at any of our upcoming ASK events to learn more.”

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 August:

Tuesday, August 4th

Clark Public Library

303 Westfield Avenue, Clark

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Thursday, August 13th

Hillside Public Library

1409 Liberty Avenue, Hillside

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Thursday, August 20th

Westfield Memorial Library

550 East Broad Street, Westfield

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Tuesday, August 25th

Garwood Public Library

411 Third Avenue, Garwood

9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

“Our staff at the Division on Aging is ready to assist residents in finding the resources that can improve their lives, cut costs, and support their independence for as long as possible. They truly serve as a reliable support system for seniors,” said Commissioner James E. Baker, Liaison to the Advisory Council on Aging.

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 at ucnj.org/dhs/aging.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites local business owners, entrepreneurs and professionals to attend the 2026 Union County Means Business Expo on Wednesday, September 9, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Downs Hall at Kean University, located at 1000 Morris Avenue in Union.

Admission is free, and the event is open to the entire business community. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with fellow business owners, community leaders, service providers and industry professionals while learning about resources and opportunities that can support business growth.

“The Union County Means Business Expo has become a valuable gathering place for the people and organizations driving our local economy,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “Whether someone is launching a new venture, looking to expand an established business or hoping to make new professional connections, this event brings those opportunities together in one place. We are proud to continue creating a space where ideas, partnerships and local businesses can grow.”

Established in 2016, the Union County Means Business Expo was created to help local businesses and entrepreneurs expand their networks, promote their services and identify new opportunities. This year’s event continues that mission through an in-person experience designed to bring the County’s business community together.

Vendor tables are available for $100 and include a color advertisement in the official Expo program and 10 VIP raffle tickets for an exclusive prize drawing. Vendor setup will begin at 2:30 p.m., and all vendors must register by September 1.

The Union County Means Business initiative is presented by the Union County Board of County Commissioners in partnership with local chambers of commerce, community-based organizations and higher education institutions.

Business owners, entrepreneurs and professionals interested in attending or reserving a vendor table can register at https://ucnj.org/ucmb.

For more information about the event or future initiatives, please contact Jeff Brooks, Union County Means Business, at 908-659-7412 or via email at Jeffrey.brooks@ucnj.org.