Category: Public Info

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the Union County Sheriff’s Office announces the tragic passing of Sheriff’s Officer Joseph DeVito, who lost his life this morning in a motor vehicle accident.

Officer DeVito was a dedicated member of the Sheriff’s Office who served with honor, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of the community. His loss is deeply felt by his colleagues, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The circumstances surrounding the accident are currently under investigation by the New Jersey State Police. No further details are available at this time.

“We are devastated by the loss of Officer DeVito,” said Sheriff Peter Corvelli. “He was not only a valued member of our department, but also a respected colleague and friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this incredibly difficult time.”

The Union County Sheriff’s Office asks the public to keep Officer DeVito’s family, loved ones, and fellow officers in their thoughts and prayers as they navigate this tragic loss.

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi is pleased to announce that the Clerk’s Westfield office will be offering one-stop vote-by-mail (VBM) voting on Saturday, April 18th, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., ahead of the April 21st Annual Westfield School Election. The Westfield office is located at 300 North Avenue East in Westfield. 

“We encourage all eligible voters to participate and have their voices heard in this election,” said Clerk Rajoppi. “This is a great opportunity for those who prefer to avoid the crowds on Election Day and want to cast their votes efficiently and securely.”

The vote-by-mail (VBM) option provides residents with an accessible and convenient way to cast their ballots ahead of the upcoming election. Voters can take advantage of this opportunity to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot, complete it, and submit it all in one visit.

Voters should also be aware of a recent update from the United States Postal Service. Postmarks now reflect when mail is processed—not when it is dropped off—meaning ballots mailed close to Election Day could 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 ballots early or use secure drop boxes to ensure timely receipt. If the postmark reflects a date after the election date, the ballot will not be valid.

For more information about vote-by-mail voting or other election-related inquiries, please contact the Union County Clerk’s office at 908-527-4996 or ucnj.org/county-clerk.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners, through the Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, presents Dr. Daisy Century as Phillis Wheatley, the first published African-American poet and the first African-American female published writer. The performance, in honor of National Poetry Month and the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution, will take place at 7:00pm on April 30th at The Plainfield Performing Arts Center, located at 724 Park Street in Plainfield.

“Union County is proud to celebrate the power of literature and history through this portrayal of Phillis Wheatley,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “This performance offers residents a meaningful chance to connect with an important voice from our nation’s early history while recognizing the lasting impact of poetry. Through Dr. Daisy Century’s portrayal, the audience will experience the voice of a writer whose words continue to inspire generations.”

Phillis Wheatley, born in West Africa, was forcibly taken to Boston as a child and sold to the Wheatley family, where her remarkable intellect was nurtured. She became a celebrated poet, corresponding with influential figures like George Washington after dedicating a poem to him. Though her life ended at 31, her powerful words continue to inspire readers to this day.

Dr. Daisy Century, an accomplished educator, performer, and author, brings Wheatley’s remarkable story to life with thoughtful research and dramatic storytelling. A graduate of Claflin University, South Carolina State University, and Temple University, Dr. Century has performed historical portrayals at venues including the National Archives and the Theodore Roosevelt National Historic Site, as well as schools, libraries, and museums across the country. Her performance honors Wheatley’s voice and highlights the lasting importance of poetry in American culture.

Created in 1996 by the Academy of American Poets, National Poetry Month is an annual celebration each April that highlights the influence of poetry and the writers who shape it. To register for the April 30th performance, and for more information on American Revolution 250th Anniversary events in Union County, visit www.ucj.org/250.

This event was possible by funds from the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, a partner of the State of New Jersey Council on the Arts, and in part by the New Jersey Historical Commission, a division of the Department of State.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is excited to announce that beginning Friday, May 1^st, Farmers Market vouchers will be available for eligible Union County seniors. Each eligible senior can obtain a $40 e-benefit card to purchase “Jersey Fresh” fruits, vegetables, and herbs at participating Farmers Markets.

“Today’s economic landscape is precarious, and that can be especially true for our seniors, who often live with fixed incomes and additional constraints,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “Our Farmers Market voucher programs is a win-win for our community, ensuring that our older residents have access to fresh, nutrient-rich foods, and that our local farmers are serving as partners in that endeavor. I encourage all eligible seniors to apply.”

To be eligible, seniors must be 60 years of age or older. A single person’s monthly income may not exceed $2,413 per month, and a married couple’s combined income may not exceed $3,261 per month.

Unlike previous years, 2026 benefits will be issued onsite at participating centers throughout the county, with locations to be announced in the coming weeks at https://ucnj.org/aging. A limited number of vouchers are available, and applications will be evaluated on a “first-come, first-served” basis. Benefits can be used starting May 1^st, 2026 and will expire on November 30^th, 2026.

“From nutritional benefits to socializing, Farmers Markets bolster the health and wellness of our senior community,” said Union County Commissioner James Baker, Liaison to the Advisory Council on Aging. “Our voucher program helps make that connection—and creates positive habits that make our population healthier for years to come.”

For more information about the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, or any other senior services provided by the Division on Aging and Disability Resource in the Union County Department of Human Services, call 1-888-280-8226 toll-free, weekdays from 8:30am to 4:30pm, or visit online at https://ucnj.org/dhs/aging.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that 44 organizations will receive funding through the 2026 Union County Local Arts Grant Program. These re-grants, totaling $300,500, represent a portion of the $434,400 Local Arts Program grant awarded to the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.

“The arts are an essential part of what makes our communities vibrant and connected,” said Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. These grants are an investment in the organizations that bring people together, inspire creativity, and enhance quality of life across Union County. We are proud to support their continued work and the meaningful experiences they provide to our residents.”

The annual program supports a wide range of arts initiatives across Union County, helping to expand access to cultural programming and strengthen the local arts community.

Local Arts Program funds for 2026 were awarded to the following organizations:

• ACP Arts Ink, $7,600 – General Operating Support

• Afternoon Music, Inc., $6,900 – General Operating Support

• Catalyst Theater Company Productions, Inc., $10,100 – General Operating Support

• CDC Theatre, $13,500 – General Operating Support

• Chinese American Music Ensemble, $5,800 – General Operating Support

• Choral Art Society of New Jersey Inc., $11,400 – General Operating Support

• City of Linden, $3,600 – Linden’s Art & Entertainment Festival

• City of Rahway Dept. of Recreation & Senior Services, $3,500 – Visual Art Classes for Children, Teens & Adults

• Community Access Unlimited, $4,600 – Individuals with Disabilities Connect with Community through Art Appreciation & Creative Expression

• Concord Singers, $8,300 – General Operating Support

• Continuo Arts Foundation, $11,300 – General Operating Support

• Cranford Public Library, $3,700 – Perfecting the Play; and Community Darkroom

• Doors of Hope Community, Inc., $1,000 – T.U.L.I.P.S. Classes (Teens Under Life’s Intense Pressure Support)

• duCret School of the Arts, $13,400 – General Operating Support

• Elizabeth Development Company of New Jersey, $3,400 – Public Art Murals Transform Public Spaces in Elizabeth

• Elizabeth Youth Theater Ensemble, $12,100 – General Operating Support

• Friends of Summit Public Art, $8,400 – General Operating Support

• Grand Artistry Inspires, $8,600 – General Operating Support

• Imperial Brass, $6,100 – General Operating Support

• Kenilworth Public Library, $3,600 – Beats, Rhythms & Roots: Celebrating Global Cultures Through the Arts

• Linden Free Public Library, $2,500 – Multi-disciplinary Programs for Children & Families at Linden Library

• Mostly Music, Inc., $7,800 – General Operating Support

• New Jersey Workshop for the Arts, Inc., $12,100 – General Operating Support

• Overlook Foundation, $3,600 – “The Poet is In” at Overlook Medical Center

• Plainfield Senior Citizens Service Center, $3,700 – Multi-Disciplinary Art Classes for Plainfield Seniors

• Plainfield Symphony Society, $13,300 – General Operating Support

• Queen City Film & Television Workshop, $3,700 – Queen City Film Festival 2026

• Rahway Valley Jerseyaires, $2,000 – General Operating Support

• Roselle Park Veterans Memorial Library, $2,000 – Concert Series with Diverse Musical Genres

• Society of Musical Arts, $3,600 – General Operating Support

• Steeple Concerts at St. Paul’s, $3,700 – Masterworks at St. Paul’s, Season Finale of concert series

• Summit Chorale, Inc., $11,200 – General Operating Support

• Summit Free Public Library, $3,700 – Music & Theater Performances at the Library

• Summit Symphony, Inc., $10,000 – General Operating Support

• The August Symphony, $4,000 – General Operating Support

• The Celebration Singers, $11,700 – General Operating Support

• The Community Players, $12,800 – General Operating Support

• The King’s Daughters Day School, $4,200 – Music, Movement and Dance Program for Children

• The Playhouse Association, Inc., $12,300 – General Operating Support

• The Theater Project, $12,500 – General Operating Support

• Township of Cranford, $3,200 – Downtown Cranford Senior Citizen Film Series

• Trinitas Foundation, $3,700 – Art for At-Risk Teens with Public Pop-Up Art Show

• Westfield Community Band Inc., $3,500 – General Operating Support

• YWCA of Eastern Union County, $2,800 – YWCA Union County Shelter’s Art Program

“Through these grants, we are able to support an incredible range of arts programming that reflects the diversity, creativity, and talent found throughout Union County,” added Commissioner Rebecca L. Williams, Liaison to the Union County Cultural and Heritage Programs Advisory Board. “From performances and exhibitions to educational opportunities for residents of all ages, these organizations play a vital role in enriching our communities and making the arts accessible to all.”

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 that support arts, history, or education programming, local organizations can contact the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs at culturalinfo@ucjnj.org or (908) 558-2550. NJ Relay users may dial 711.

To stay informed about County events, services, and programs, download the free Explore Union County mobile app, available on the App Store and Google Play.

In recognition of National Alcohol Awareness Month in April, the Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Human Services have proudly partnered with community providers New Hope Integrated Behavioral Healthcare and Prevention Links in presenting, “Community Conversation: Promoting Alcohol Awareness and Prevention,” a free webinar centered at educating the audience on prevention efforts for adults and adolescents. The webinar will take place on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and will be livestreamed via Zoom and on the County of Union Facebook page. Residents can register for free or learn more at ucnj.org/alcohol-awareness.

“Our community has been facing many challenges recently. Financial insecurities from rising costs, social conflicts happening in our country and across the world, and feelings of isolation can lead to increased alcohol consumption and addiction. That is why it is important for us to take this time to raise awareness, educate our residents, and, more importantly, to include our youth in the conversation,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “By working together, we learn to recognize the signs, seek help, and find healthier alternatives to combat stress, building a stronger, more resilient community along the way.”

The free webinar will be hosted by New Hope Integrated Behavioral Health and Prevention Links, Inc., with New Hope focusing on adult prevention efforts and Prevention Links detailing preventative techniques for adolescents. Questions from the audience are encouraged for the interactive live session. Interested participants are welcome to submit their questions by email to obhsm@ucnj.org, prior to the event. All emailed submissions will remain anonymous.

“We are excited to collaborate with dedicated partners like New Hope Healthcare and Prevention Links in bringing this program to residents. Together, we are removing the stigma of this disease by openly discussing it, giving our community the tools and support that they need to live a life that does not include substance misuse,” said Union County Commissioner Stanley J. Neron, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council. “We invite all residents to submit their questions and join us on the 21st for what promises to be an enlightening discussion.”

In addition to the webinar, the County of Union will raise awareness on alcohol misuse, overuse, and prevention measures throughout the month of April, including lighting the courthouse in red April 20^th through April 24^th. Banners honoring Alcohol Awareness month will be hung in the lobby of the County Administration Building, located at 10 Elizabethtown Plaza in Elizabeth.

A national helpline run by the Council on Substance Abuse – National Council on Alcoholism is available to the public at 800-662-HELP (4357) to provide free, confidential referrals and information on a 24/7, 365-day-a-year basis.

For more information about the 2026 Alcohol Awareness campaign in Union County, please contact Gene Tavera, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Coordinator, Division of Individual & Family Support Services, Office on Behavioral Health and Substance Misuse, in the Union County Department of Human Services at gene.tavera@ucnj.org or 908-527-4844.

To learn more about events and programs offered through the department of Human Services, visit ucnj.org/dhs/.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Human Services invite residents to the 2026 Autism Acceptance Celebration and Resource Fair, taking place on Saturday, April 25th, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Turf Field in Warinanco Park, Roselle. The annual event is held in April to recognize Autism Acceptance Month, spread awareness, and celebrate individuals experiencing autism and other sensory sensitivities.

“Events such as our Autism Acceptance Fair provide an opportunity for residents to come together and celebrate the unique strengths and abilities of individuals living with autism. They also serve as an opportunity for sharing challenges and learning more about the resources and supports available. By educating ourselves, we break away from the fear and stigma that surrounds autism and further strengthen the supportive and inclusive community Union County is known for, and where everyone feels accepted,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “Join us for a fun day making new memories and celebrating our loved ones. I hope to see everyone on the field.”

The 2026 Autism Acceptance Celebration & Resource Fair is a superhero-themed celebration, and attendees are encouraged to dress up in their favorite superhero costumes. The event will feature a variety of fun outdoor activities, including a live DJ, touch-a-truck experience, games, giveaways, and light refreshments. While attendance at the Autism Acceptance Celebration is always free, pre-registration is required. To register, visit ucnj.org/opdsn-reg or call 908-527-4781.

“Elizabeth Public Schools is proud to partner with the Union County Board of County Commissioners and other great departments and organizations within Union County to support families affected by autism,” said Superintendent Dr. Olga Hugelmeyer. “Our schools are built on the promise of every child achieving excellence and a shining example of that promise being fulfilled is the students of our autism program whose successes are truly inspiring. It is a great honor to celebrate their uniqueness and recognize their exceptional growth and development with the greater community. Thank you all who makes this wonderful event possible!”

Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a developmental disability marked by unique sensory sensitivities, challenges in social and communication skills, and other behavioral traits. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that approximately 1 in 14 adults and 1 in 31 children nationwide are affected by autism. In New Jersey, the statistics show that 1 in 29 children is diagnosed with ASD, highlighting the importance of community awareness and understanding of the neurological condition.

The County of Union invites residents to join in observing World Autism Awareness Day on Thursday, April 2nd, by wearing blue to show their support and acceptance for the millions of individuals around the globe affected by autism. On this day, Union County will illuminate the front of the courthouse in blue and invite residents to join in by lighting up their homes blue as well.

“We firmly believe that having a great support system, both at home and in the community, empowers individuals living with autism and other sensory challenges – especially children – to live safe, happy, and healthy lives,” said Union County Commissioner Stanley J. Neron, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Board. “We would also like to thank the exceptional local organizations that have partnered with us. The expression ‘it takes a village’ truly reflects the spirit of this collaboration. This event would not have achieved its significant positive impact on the autism community in Union County without their hard work and contributions.”

The 2026 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 Department of Parks and Recreation, The Sergio Granados Foundation, 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 and Resource Fair, or other events and programs hosted by the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, call 908-527-4781 or visit ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn.

To learn more about events and programs offered through the Department of Human Services, visit ucnj.org/dhs/.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that the 2026 seasonal recycling events will continue this April, featuring a variety of programs designed to help residents recycle unwanted, expired, or hazardous items and to promote sustainable waste management practices in the community.

“We’re excited to bring our residents this entirely free program that makes it easy to responsibly recycle, reduce waste, and remove hazardous items from the environment,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “We welcome all residents who are spring cleaning and decluttering their spaces to utilize this program and join us at the next recycling event.”

The next paper shredding event will take place on Wednesday, April 8^th, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Black Brook Park, located at 349 North 19^th Street in Kenilworth. The event will end before 1:00 p.m. should trucks reach capacity.

Union County’s free paper shredding events take place each year from March through October, bringing mobile paper shredding trucks to various locations throughout the County. Any Union County resident, regardless of their hometown, can take their personal documents to be shredded at any of these events and have them shredded onsite.

The shredding events are intended for personal and sensitive documents only. Residents can recycle magazines, junk mail, and other papers through their municipal recycling program. Please remove all bindings, large plastic or metal clips, and other paraphernalia prior to the event (staples are allowed). Pre-shredded, damp, or wet paper will not be accepted.

In addition to paper shredding, Union County’s additional seasonal recycling programs, Scrap Metal Recycling and Hazardous Waste Disposal, will begin this April.

Union County’s Scrap Metal events provide a space for residents to recycle various metal items, including refrigerators (with doors removed), metal cabinets, appliances, bicycles, aluminum scrap, and air conditioners. The scrap metal items are collected at two locations on the first Thursday and third Saturday of the month, from April to November. The first scrap metal events of the season will take place on Thursday, April 2nd & Saturday, April 18th, from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. On these dates, residents may dispose of unwanted scrap metal items at either of our two convenient locations:

• Cranford: Emergency Services Building, 151 Kenilworth Boulevard
• Rahway: Rahway River Park (service yard across from swimming pool), 3 Parkway Drive

Union County’s first Household Hazardous Waste event of the season will take place on Saturday, April 25th, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The event will be held at Union County Vo-Tech, West Hall/Police Academy Lot, located at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains. At these events, residents can bring a variety of household chemicals for proper recycling or disposal. These items include, but are not limited to, oil-based finishes, motor oil, gasoline, propane tanks, pool chemicals, pesticides, fluorescent light bulbs, and more. Latex (water-based) paint (wall paint), medical sharps, and welding gas/ oxygen cylinders will not be accepted. Residents are advised to dry latex paint out at home using commercial paint hardener, sand, kitty litter, or sawdust. Once hardened, it can be thrown in your household trash.

All Union County recycling events are contact-free and drive-up only.  Residents must remain in their cars while staff unloads materials from their trunk.

For a complete schedule and more information on all recycling programs hosted by Union County, please visit ucnj.org/recycle/ or call the Union County Recycling Hotline at 908-654-9889. Residents may also contact their municipal recycling coordinator for more details about recycling in their community. The free Recycle Coach mobile app provides a handy way to find out what items are included in curbside recycling programs and drop-off sites in Union County. The app provides up-to-date information on both countywide and local recycling programs. Quick links to all environmental programs and activities hosted by Union County are available at The Green Connection, ucnj.org/green-connection.

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi announces that the ballot position drawing for the June 2, 2026 Primary Election will be both in-person and livestreamed on Facebook. The drawing will be held on Thursday, April 2nd at 3:00 p.m. in Courtroom 401 in the Rotunda in the Union County Courthouse, located at 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth. A link for the livestream will be posted prior to the drawing on the County Clerk’s elections website, unioncountyvotes.com.

“The ballot drawing will take place in person as provided for by statute, and we also offer the opportunity to view the proceedings online for those who wish to follow along remotely,” said Joanne Rajoppi.

Ms. Rajoppi also reminds voters who wish to vote by mail that they must apply for a Vote-by-Mail ballot by Tuesday, May 26, 2026.

Voters should also be aware of a recent update from the United States Postal Service. Postmarks now reflect when mail is processed—not when it is dropped off—meaning ballots mailed close to Election Day could 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 ballots early or use secure drop boxes to ensure timely receipt. If the postmark reflects a date after the election date, the ballot will not be valid.

According to a recent state law, unaffiliated voters who wish to vote in the Primary Election by mail must declare their affiliation with either the Democratic or Republican Party by Wednesday, April 8. Party declaration forms are available for download at state.nj.us/state/elections/voter-party-affiliation-declaration.shtml. The completed and signed form must be returned to the Union County Board of Elections in Elizabeth. The new law does not apply to overseas voters.

Voters who wish to vote in person may do so on Election Day, June 2 at their regular polling place, or they may vote early from May 26 to May 31 at polling locations designated for early voting.

The early voting polling locations will be posted on unioncountyvotes.com.

For more information on voting in Union County elections, including applying for a Vote-by-Mail ballot, visit the County Clerk’s Elections Division online at unioncountyvotes.com or call 908-527-4996.

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

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi announces that vote-by-mail ballots for the upcoming Annual Westfield School Election will be available beginning Wednesday, April 1, 2026. Voters may obtain mail-in ballots in person at either of the two Union County Clerk’s offices:

Westfield
300 North Avenue East
Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 8:00am – 4:00pm
Tuesday and Thursday: 8:00am – 7:30pm
Saturday: 9:00am – 1:00pm

Elizabeth
2 Broad Street
Monday through Friday: 8:30am – 4:30pm

Vote-by-mail ballots for this election will also be mailed to voters who have requested them, beginning Wednesday, April 1, 2026.

The Annual Westfield School Election is scheduled for Tuesday, April 21, 2026. Voters are encouraged to plan ahead and review all election materials carefully.

For more information regarding vote-by-mail, ballot drop-off options, and polling locations, please visit www.unioncountyvotes.com, contact the office at 908-527-4996 or email ucvote@ucnj.org.