Category: Public Info

Please note rescheduled date.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce a free online Q&A workshop providing information and guidance on three 2025 grant programs administered by the Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs: the Union County HEART (History, Education, Arts Reaching Thousands) Grant, the History Grant, and the Local Arts Grant.

“Arts, history, and cultural programming are vital to the enrichment of our community,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “We encourage organizations with interest to participate in this workshop and explore these funding opportunities to bring engaging programs to Union County.”

The live Q&A will be hosted on Zoom on Wednesday, September 4, 2024 from 3:30 p.m. to 4:45 p.m., and is geared towards organizations and individuals needing basic information about these grant programs and the application processes. Guidelines for the grants will be provided.

Union County arts, history, and cultural organizations, as well as municipal government offices and libraries, are welcome to register to learn about these opportunities to apply for funding of programming to take place during the 2025 calendar year, January 1 through December 31.

“The grant programs administered by our Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs provide crucial support to local organizations, helping them to preserve our rich history and present arts and educational programs,” said Union County Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, Liaison to the Cultural and Heritage Advisory Board. “This workshop is an excellent opportunity for organizations to learn how they can benefit from these grants.”

The Union County HEART Grant funds projects related to local history, the arts, and humanities and is funded through the Union County Board of County Commissioners. The Union County History Grant funds history organizations and history projects, and is made possible by funds from the New Jersey Historical Commission, a division of the Department of State. The Union County Local Arts Program funds arts organizations and arts projects, and 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 register for this workshop, visit ucnj.org/cha-workshop. For questions, please contact the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, 633 Pearl Street, Elizabeth NJ 07202. Telephone: 908-558-2550. NJ Relay users dial 711, or email: culturalinfo@ucnj.org.

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi advises all students who are Union County residents attending schools outside of Union County this fall to immediately apply for their vote-by-mail ballot to ensure they are received in time for the 2024 Presidential Election. Vote-by-mail ballots will be available for mailing on or about September 21^st. There is no option to vote by email.

“Your participation in the democratic process through voting is critical. With the presidential election fast approaching, it’s important to exercise your right to vote and contribute to shaping the future of our country,” said Ms. Rajoppi. “I strongly urge all college students to apply for their mail-in ballot as soon as possible so their ballots can be sent in the first wave of mailings.”

Applications for vote-by-mail ballots can be downloaded at unioncountyvotes.com. Completed applications must be sent through the mail or brought to the County Clerk’s Elizabeth or Westfield offices.

All signatures on the vote-by-mail application and ballot envelope are validated through a voter registration system. No one other than the voter may sign either the application or the ballot envelope.

Voters who prefer the County Clerk’s One-Stop service can come to the Elizabeth or Westfield office and apply for their ballot in person. Once received, they can complete it and place it in the inner envelope, fill out the info, then put it in the outer envelope and mail it. They may also deposit it in a secure drop-box on-site, all in the same visit. Privacy booths are located at the offices for voters to fill out their ballots.

Due to Post Office delays, ballots must be mailed back and received no later than election day (Tuesday, November 5^th) in order to be counted.

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

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

Please be advised, Union County Mosquito Control will be spraying County and City Parks Tuesday morning, August 6, 2024, between the hours of 3:00 A.M. to 7:00 A.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.

County Parks

• Clark – Oak Ridge, Esposito
• Cranford – Nomahegan
• Elizabeth – Warinanco, Mattano, Rizzuto
• Garwood – Unami
• Hillside – Conant, DiFilippo, Rutgers
• Kenilworth – Black Brook
• Linden – Wheeler
• Mountainside – Echo Lake, Watchung Reservation Loop Area
• Plainfield – Cedar Brook, Green Brook
• Rahway – Rahway Pk.
• Scotch Plains – Ponderosa
• Springfield – Meisel

Town Parks

• Berkeley Heights – Columbia
• Linden – Memorial
• Plainfield – Milt Campbell
• Westfield – Tamaques, Mindowaskin, Brightwood
• Rahway – Madison Av., Maddsen Field
• Union – Biertuempfel, Zimmerman

Please be advised South Ave will be closed from Central Ave in Westfield to Center St in Garwood on Monday. August 5, 2024 for work by private contractor that will take place in the roadway. The closure will take place from 9:00AM to 2:00PM.Local and business traffic will be allowed into the closure from either end up to 607 South Ave in Garwood where the work will take place. Emergency vehicles will not be allowed through the work zone and should plan accordingly.A detour route will be in place diverting traffic around the closure. Motorist who use either South Ave or North Ave should plan alternate routes to avoid delays.

Please be advised, Union County Mosquito Control will be spraying for mosquitoes Thursday, August 1, 2024, between the hours of 6:00PM to 11:00PM (Weather Permitting). Check below for a list of areas to be sprayed. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Union County Office of Mosquito Control at 908-654-9834 or 908-654-9835.

Cities

• Berkeley Hts. – Grant St. Area, River Rd., Snyder Av., Garfield St., Mt. Carmel Area, Washington St., Kuntz Av., Camptown Dr., Summit Av., Berkeley Hts. Water Treatment, Park Av., Hamilton Av., Lincoln St., Plainfield Av., Station St., Berkeley Av., Passaic Av., Mt. Carmel Area, Columbia Av.
• Linden – Tremley Point Area, Bradford Av., Lexington Av., Marion Av., Miner Ter., Spruce St., Brook St., Furber Av., Pallant Av., Orchard Ter., Raritan Rd.
• New Providence – Charnwood Rd., Runnymede Pkwy., Central Av., Gales Dr. area, Park Dr., New Providence D.P.W.
• Plainfield – Jefferson Av., 1^st St., Rock Av., (PMUA), Bradford St., E. Front St., Lealand Av., St. Marks Pl., Netherwood Av., 2^nd Av., Watson Av., George St., North Av., E.th St., Harvey Pl., Hillcrest Av., St. Nicholas Blvd., Chelsea Blvd.,
• Rahway – Elston Av., Randolph Av., Leesville Av. Area, Linden Av., Walking Path between Whitter St. and Price St., Donald Av., Price St., Allen St., Kearney Av.Jowett Pl., Ward Dr., Desisto Dr., Ross St., Area
• Roselle Park – Sheridan Av., Clay Av., Bender Av., Walking path between Galloping Hill Rd. and Chestnut St.
• Scotch Plains – Ashbrook Dr., Frank St., Cherry Blossom Ln., Lenape way, Raritan Rd., Ashbrook G.C. service yard, Martine Av. Extension, Country Club Ln., Morse Av., Hill Rd., Allwood Rd., Marboro Rd. Area
• Springfield – Cottage La., Oakland Av., Waverly Av., S. Springfield Av.
• Summit – Kent Pl. (Summit Recycling Center)

County Parks

• Passaic River
• Cedar Brook

Town Parks

• Berkeley Heights – Lower Columbia Park
• Plainfield – Milt Campbell

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that over $25,000 has been awarded to various Union County schools and non-profit organization through the new STEM Educational Growth Grant, aimed at further enriching the impact of garden-based education initiatives. This grant is an extension of the Plant-A-Seed Program and will offer additional resources to 2024 awardees to develop educational programming in agriculture, food science, nutrition, climate-change and sustainability.

“STEM education is essential in schools because it prepares students for future jobs, fostering creativity and critical thinking,” said Union County Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Grant funding helps Union County offer high-quality STEM programs in schools as well as non-profits, ensuring all residents can benefit.”

The STEM Educational Growth Grant is awarded to programs and experiences that enhance understanding and promote educational opportunities to expand awareness of Science, Technology. Engineering and Mathematic initiatives related to agriculture, food science, nutrition, and sustainability. Examples include science fairs, farm to table cooking demonstrations and activities, lectures and workshops related to agriculture, food science, nutrition, and sustainability.

With this grant opportunity, Union County will continue to invest in STEM-based education that nurtures creativity, innovation, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in our youth and communities.

A list of grants awarded to schools and organizations in Union County are as follows:

Cranford:

• Livingston Avenue School – $700
• Hanson Park Conservancy – $1,000

Elizabeth:

• Dr. Antonia Pantoja School No. 27 – $2,000
• William Halloran No.22 – $1,500
• John E. Dwyer – $365
• Woodrow Wilson School No.19 – $500
• JVJ STEM Academy – $1,000
• Dr. Albert Einstein Academy School No. 29 – $1,000
• J. Christian Bollwage Finance Academy – $250
• John Marshall School No.20 – $500
• Elmora Community Garden – $964
• Elizabeth Community Center/Prevention Links – $764.43
• Housing Authority of the City of Elizabeth – $1,000
• Jewish Family Services of Central New Jersey – $750

Hillside:

• AP Morris Early Childhood Center – $250
• Hurden Looker School – $1,000

Linden:

• Linden School No.4 – $250

Plainfield:

• Plainfield High School – $1,500
• Joanne Hollis Garden Resident Association – $1,000
• Richmond Towers – $696

Roselle:

• Inroads to Opportunities – $500

Roselle Park:

• Robert Gordon Elementary School – $1,000
• Sherman Elementary School – $365
• Roselle Park Middle School – $860

Scotch Plains:

• Scotch Plains Community Garden – $850

Springfield:

• Springfield Public Library – $770

Summit:

• Reeves-Reed Arboretum – $353
• Summit Area YMCA – $650

Union:

• Livingston Elementary School – $750
• Battle Hill Elementary School  – $1,000
• Township of Union Community Garden – $525

Westfield:

• Crossroads School – $1,000
• Westlake School – $228.97
• Jefferson Elementary School – $600

“With the support of the Plant A Seed Program, my fellow commissioners and I were inspired by the innovative programs created by our existing gardens in Union County that help promote urban farming, foster community relationships, and has cultivated a love for learning in our youth through hands-on-experiences,” said Union County Commissioner Sergio Granados, Chair of the Open Space, Recreation & Historic Preservation Trust Fund Board. “The expansion of the Plant of Seed Program that I worked to create alongside our Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded through the Office of Open Space will help our educators and residents in Union County continue to create incredible educational program opportunities related to Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM). These opportunities will better prepare our community in STEM related challenges in the future and encourages a culture of learning and sustainability.”

The STEM Educational Growth Grant is offered through the Open Space Trust Fund, designed to carry out the Union County Board of County Commissioners’ policies to conserve open spaces, offer recreational opportunities, and preserve historic sites. For more information about the Office, please call 908-558-2278.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is excited to announce a historic achievement that the Union County Regional Communications Center has been awarded the prestigious APCO International’s Agency Training Program Certification, a Project 33® Initiative. Union County is not only the first center in the state to receive this distinguished designation but also the only agency in the county to achieve this honor.

“Receiving this certification is a significant milestone for Union County and reflects our ongoing commitment to providing top-tier public safety services,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded, “I am incredibly proud of our team’s dedication and the exceptional quality of our training program.”

This certification confirms that their training curriculum meets the APCO ANS 3.103.2-2015 standards for Minimum Training Standards for Public Safety Telecommunicators. The certification is valid for three years and will require recertification on a three-year cycle. This certification highlights Union County Public Safety’s commitment to excellence in public safety communications and positions the center as a leader in the industry. The re-accreditation recognizes the superior quality of their training program and reaffirms their dedication to maintaining the highest standards in emergency communications.

“Achieving this certification as the first center in the state is a remarkable accomplishment for Union County,” said County Manager Ed Oatman. “It highlights the exceptional work and dedication of our training officers and the leadership of our Public Safety team, particularly Gareth Williams and Jim Harris. Their efforts have set a new benchmark for excellence in public safety communications and firmly position us as a leader in the field. We are honored to be recognized on a national level.”

The Union County Regional Communications Center will be honored during the Food for Thought Luncheon at APCO’s 91st Annual Conference & Expo, taking place in Baltimore, MD, from July 27-30, 2025.

Union County is proud to host the nation’s first-ever inclusive, accessible, and sensory-supportive National Night Out, taking place on Tuesday, August 6th, 2024, from 4:30 pm to 8:00 pm at the Cranford Campus of UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ.

This collaborative effort between the Union County Board of County Commissioners, Union County Prosecutor’s Office, Children’s Specialized Hospital, Union County Police Department, Union County Sheriff’s Department and UCNJ promises a fun-filled evening welcoming all ages and abilities.

The event will be held both indoors and outdoors at UCNJ and will feature a variety of activities for the whole family, including but not limited to:

• Interactive Activities: Photo Booth, Connect Four Game, Bubbles Corner, Silent Disco, Meet the Police Canines, Touch-a-Truck with Rescue Vehicles, and an appearance by McGruff the Crime Dog.
• Food and Drinks: Delicious treats from Rita’s Italian Ice Station, fresh fruit, and snacks.
• Informational Tables: Representatives from Union County Public Information, UCNJ Admissions, Kean University, UCPO Welcome Headquarters & Volunteer Station, UCPO Table, ARRIVE Together/CIT, Blue Envelope/Special Needs Registry, Autism New Jersey, Inroads to Opportunities, The Arc, ICMS (Integrated Case Management Services), Children’s Specialized Hospital, Office of the Ombudsman for Individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities and Their Families.
• Sensory Support Stations: Dedicated spaces offering temporary tattoos, face painting, coloring sheets, activity sheets, color and calm books for caregivers, and electronic displays in a common area.
• Movement and Play: Interactive and movement-based games, a Lightning Wheels apparatus, a plastic can toss game, plastic Jenga, a Police Q&A spinning wheel, and an obstacle course.
• Relaxation and Support: A designated quiet zone with social stories available.

Union County Prosecutor William Daniel shares his excitement about the first-of-its-kind event.

“National Night Out is a wonderful tradition in building police-community relationships, but it is important to remember that not everyone experiences the world in the same way. It’s vital to ensure everyone feels welcome and safe. By creating an environment with designated quiet areas and offering adaptable activities, we can make this event truly inclusive for all residents of Union County, regardless of physical, intellectual, developmental, and cognitive abilities.”

“We are immensely proud to be the first county in the nation to host an inclusive and sensory- supportive National Night Out,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri- Mouded. “This event allows all residents, regardless of their abilities, to come together and celebrate, developing stronger, more inclusive connections across Union County. We invite everyone to join us for this historic celebration of community, safety, and inclusion.”

“We’re thrilled to be a partner of Union County’s National Night Out for Everyone and to share our expertise in creating an inclusive, sensory friendly and accessible environment,” said Matthew B. McDonald III, MD, President and CEO, Children’s Specialized Hospital. “We applaud the County for recognizing a gap in offerings at this national event and enlisting the needed support to create a space where everyone can participate equally. We look forward to a wonderful night of community camaraderie.”

“We are proud to partner with the County of Union and the Prosecutor’s Office to support this important community event. Not only is it a great way to connect law enforcement to residents, but it is an opportunity for us to showcase our Cranford Campus. As an open-access community college, we meet students where they are. We have students of all abilities, and we are particularly proud to partner on this kind of inclusive, welcoming event,” stated UCNJ President Dr. Margaret M. McMenamin.

National Night Out is a nationwide campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. Union County’s event is a fantastic opportunity to connect with local law enforcement, learn about valuable resources, and celebrate our diverse community in an inclusive, accessible, and sensory-supportive environment.

Union County National Night Out for Everyone promises to be a unique and memorable event for all. Join us as we celebrate community, safety, and inclusion!

This event is free and open to the public. Pre-registration is encouraged but not mandatory. More information can be found at ucnj.org/ucnno.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is excited to present a special performance by Five Against One, a tribute band dedicated to celebrating the music of Pearl Jam.

“Echo Lake Park provides a beautiful backdrop for an evening of great music and relaxation with family or friends,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “We are excited to host Five Against One, so I encourage our residents to bring their yoga mats for a rejuvenating yoga session before the concert, and then settle in for an evening of live music with all of those who attend. See you there!”

This concert will take place on Wednesday, August 7^th, at Echo Lake Park in Mountainside. The evening begins with a yoga session with Fearvana Yoga from Kenilworth at 6:30 p.m., followed by the concert at 7:30 p.m.

Five Against One pays homage to Pearl Jam, one of the seminal bands of the Seattle grunge rock movement that captivated America in the early ‘90s. The band passionately re-creates iconic hits like “Yellow Ledbetter,” “Alive,” and “Better Man,” offering concertgoers a nostalgic journey back to that unforgettable era in music history.

For more information or updates about the 2024 Summer Arts Concert Series, visit www.ucnj.org/summer24.

For more information about the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation’s activities and programs, please visit ucnj.org/parks, email parksinfo@ucnj.org, or call 908-527-4900.