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Union County Announces Nominees for SHERO Award Celebrating Women Making History

Celebrating Mother’s Day, the Union County Board of County Commissioners proudly unveils the nominees for the prestigious Union County SHERO Award. This award, under the theme “Union County Women Who Are Making History,” aims to recognize and honor extraordinary women within our community who embody the values of diversity, equity and inclusion while driving positive change.

“With a commitment to spotlighting the remarkable achievements of women in Union County, the SHERO Award serves as a tribute to those individuals who have dedicated themselves to championing these essential principles,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Through their tireless efforts, these nominees have demonstrated exceptional leadership, advocacy, and a commitment to promoting a more equitable and inclusive society.”

Nominations for the Union County SHERO Award were open to individuals who are at least 18 years old, reside or work within Union County, and have made significant contributions to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

After careful consideration, the following exceptional women have been chosen as the recipients of the 2024 Union County SHERO Award:

Georgette Brusso, Clark

Danielle Albuquerque, Cranford

Mariver Arcure, Elizabeth

Iliana Chevres, Elizabeth

Laura Ciraco, Elizabeth

Clemencia del Pilar Mateus, Elizabeth

Marline Edmond, Elizabeth

Lauren Delgado, Elizabeth

Dr. Monica Gonzalez, Elizabeth

Bernadette Griswold, Elizabeth

Preeti Jain, Elizabeth

Paloma Lerin Rodrigues, Elizabeth

Marbely Montas, Elizabeth

Patricia Perkins-Auguste, Elizabeth

Emy Quispe, Elizabeth

Michelle Salermo Bustamante, Elizabeth

Marie Verdon, Elizabeth

Micayla Mirabella, Fanwood

Christina Alicea-Rendon, Hillside

Dominque Garrett, Kenilworth

Samantha Dealmeida-Roman,  Linden

Regina Rogers, Linden

Renee  Sarnicki, Linden

Adriana Carrig, Mountainside

Laura Morana, New Providence

Julienne Cherry, Plainfield

Danielle West-Augustin, Plainfield

Karla A. Alvarez, Rahway

Sidra Colvin, Rahway

Hannah Hergenhan, Rahway

Joanna Miles, Rahway

Danni Newbury, Rahway

Vannie D. Parson, Rahway

Karla Timmons, Rahway

Dr. Cynthia Atkins, Roselle

Pamela Morgan, Roselle

Renaee Smith, Roselle

Morgan Thompson , Roselle

Sister Percylee Hart, Scotch Plains

Suzanne Schneider, Scotch Plains

Clara Harelik, Springfield

Marla Napurano, Springfield

Karen Positan, Springfield

Lisa Ciampa Trobaugh, Summit

Robin Tanner, Summit

Lori Tarke, Summit

Mary Zimmermann, Summit

Erica Bell, Union

Natasha Hemmings, Westfield

Elizabeth Savnik, Westfield

These nominees represent the diversity of Union County, each bringing a unique perspective and a commitment to making a difference in our community. Their dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion serves as an inspiration to us all, reflecting the spirit of Women’s History Month and the cherished values we uphold here in Union County, New Jersey.

For more information about the 2024 Union County SHERO Award, please reach out to Jennifer Erdos at the Union County Office on Women: 908-527-4216 or email jerdos@ucnj.org or visit https://ucnj.org/shero-award.

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Union County Invites Residents to Participate in Multi-site Green Brook Park Clean-Up

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents to participate in a multi-site clean-up along Green Brook Park on Sunday, May 19th, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Green Brook Park, nestled in Plainfield, is part of the Lower Raritan Watershed, encompassing 352 square miles throughout Middlesex, Monmouth, Somerset, and Union Counties, and flows through parts of fifty municipalities.

“Clean waters not only sustain life but also nurture communities, fostering a sense of stewardship and pride,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Through our collective efforts, we can ensure that future generations inherit not just clean streams but a legacy of environmental responsibility and resilience. We celebrate the dedication of our volunteers and partners, who embody this spirit of stewardship, turning passion into action for a healthier Green Brook!”

On May 19th, the Union County Bureau of Recycling and Planning will collaborate with agencies including Americorps, the New Jersey Watershed Ambassadors Program, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, the Lower Raritan Watershed Partnership, New Jersey Clean Communities, the Central Jersey Stream Team, the Mayor’s Alliance, and other municipal partners in this special cleaning initiative aimed at revitalizing the Green Brook Watershed.

The Lower Raritan watershed is a sanctuary for approximately 240 bird species and provides crucial habitat for amphibians, reptiles, and other aquatic life. Historical growth and associated pollution have left a legacy of contamination in the river. Efforts like this scheduled clean-up play a vital role in enhancing ecosystem quality and preserving biodiversity and habitat for plants and animals.

Now in its third year, this multi-site clean-up initiative will span four different locations in both Middlesex and Union Counties. Clean-up locations include Green Brook Park (Plainfield), McCoy Park (Dunellen), Green Brook Regional Center (Green Brook Township), and Mountainview Park (Middlesex Township). Participants assigned to Green Brook Park will convene at the park in the City of Plainfield. Parking is available along Park Drive.

All participants are advised to come prepared with waterproof shoes or boots and clothing suitable for wet and dirty conditions. Gloves, trash bags, and other supplies will be provided. Registration is mandatory. Interested participants may register at https://lowerraritanwatershed.org/event/may-9-multi-site-green-brook-clean-up/.

Additional stewardship efforts for the Green Brook waterway include a study of juvenile Spring glass eels coordinated by the Lower Raritan Watershed Partnership and installation of the first-in-New Jersey mechanical “litter trap” designed by the Georgia-based Stormwater Systems. The litter trap project was selected for implementation as part of the Cornell-Dubilier Electronics Natural Resource Damage Assessment and Restoration (NRDAR) Restoration Plan. Project partners include Dunellen, Green Brook, the Lower Raritan Watershed Partnership, and the Cornell Dubilier Trustees (New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, US Fish and Wildlife Service and National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration).

For more information, upcoming dates and directions to all Union County recycling programs and locations, visit the Bureau of Recycling and Planning website at ucnj.org/recycle or call the Union County Recycling Hotline at 908-654-9889. Quick links to all Union County environmental programs and activities are available at The Green Connection, ucnj.org/green-connection.

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Union County Board of County Commissioners Award 2024 Infrastructure Grants to All 21 Municipalities

Last night at the Union County Board of County Commissioners meeting, the Commissioners awarded a total of $1,500,000.00 to the County’s twenty-one municipalities for the 2024 Union County Infrastructure and Municipal Aid grant program.

“We are so happy to continue supporting the growth and development of our communities through the Union County Infrastructure and Municipal Aid grant program,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “These funds represent our commitment to investing in projects that enhance the quality of life for our residents, and we are excited to see the positive impact they will have.”

Representatives from all 21 municipalities in Union County submitted videos to accept the check and share what they will do with the funds. A variety of revitalization projects are expected to be undertaken with the funds – however, road improvements are on the top of the list.

“As Chair of the Fiscal Committee, I am proud of the diligent work put into allocating these funds effectively,” said Commissioner Rebecca Williams. “This grant program stands as a testament to our dedication to responsible fiscal management, ensuring that our municipalities have the resources they need to tackle vital infrastructure projects and strengthen local economies.”

The Infrastructure grant program is aimed at providing assistance that will stimulate the development of public projects of economic, social, transportation and governmental importance to local municipalities. The Infrastructure and Municipal Aid grant is a matching grant and will assist municipalities with projects being undertaken in the 2024 calendar year.

The program was created by Commissioner Christopher Hudak in 2015, developed by the County Commissioner’s Fiscal Committee and administered by the Department of Economic Development.  This year’s Commissioner Fiscal Committee included: Commissioner Rebecca Williams as the Chair, Vice-Chairwoman Commissioner Lourdes Leon, Commissioner Sergio Granados and Commissioner Alexander Mirabella.

Funding for the grant is provided through the proceeds from the sale of Runnells Specialized Hospital in 2014.

Total Award Amount – $1,500,000.00

To learn more about this grant or about any other program, please visit www.ucnj.org.

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Union County Hosts Touch a Truck Event on May 19th

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Parks and Recreation would like to invite all residents to our free Touch-A-Truck Event on Sunday, May 19th from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in Oak Ridge Park, located on 136 Oak Ridge Road in Clark.

“Our Touch-A-Truck event promises an unforgettable day of excitement for the whole family,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “I encourage all of our community to come out and join us for a fun-filled Sunday complete with exploration, from excavators to police cruisers, and even hayrides through the park. I am looking forward to seeing you all there and helping to create memories for our residents and their families!”

The Union County Touch-A-Truck event is the ultimate hands-on experience. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of vehicles, including those from the Union County Departments of Public Safety, Public Works, and Parks and Recreation. Additionally, guests will be able to hop on a hayride across the park, and inflatable attractions will be available for the children to enjoy.

All visitors can take part in a special Disc Golf demonstration presented by the Oak Ridge Disc Golf Club.

Food trucks will be on-site with a variety of food, drinks and snacks available for purchase to all guests. Admission is free.


For more information on Touch-A-Truck, or any event in the Union County Parks System, please call our Parks and Recreation office at 908-527-4900 or visit our website at www.ucnj.org/parks.      

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Union County Expands Initiative to Reshape Reusable Bag Recycling Landscape

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce the expansion of the reusable bag recycling program, aimed at addressing the surplus of reusable bags in our communities. This program is in collaboration with the Union County Bureau of Recycling and Planning, the Town of Westfield, the Housing Authority of the City of Elizabeth (HACE), the City of Linden, the Town of Kenilworth, the Borough of New Providence, the City of Plainfield, the Town of Hillside, the City of Summit, and GOATote, Inc. to provide a solution to this issue.

“With Union County residents at the heart of this initiative, we are transforming excess into opportunity, creating a sustainable cycle that benefits both our environment and our community,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “This program not only tackles waste but also represents unity and responsibility, showcasing the power of collective action for a greener, brighter future. Thank you to all of those who are involved in making this initiative possible.”

With the implementation of New Jersey’s Get Past Plastic law, which prohibits businesses from providing single-use plastic bags, many individuals have transitioned to using reusable bags. However, some people occasionally forget to bring their reusable bags to stores, resulting in the purchase of additional bags. Over time, this has led to an accumulation of excess reusable bags in households. Furthermore, grocery delivery services often provide customers with reusable bags, contributing to the surplus.

At the same time, Food Pantries and Food Banks have expressed that they are having difficulty keeping up with the need for reusable bags when distributing groceries to their clients. Since these entities are no longer permitted to use single-use plastic bags when handing out food and supplies, they go through reusable bags very quickly and are frequently in need of more.

Residents from any municipality in Union County can bring their gently-used reusable bags to any of the participating locations. GOATote, Inc. will collect the bags, thoroughly clean and sanitize them, and deliver them to the Community Food Bank of New Jersey in Hillside. From there, the bags will be distributed to local Food Pantries in need.

The Westfield Conservation Center at 1300 Lamberts Mill Road in Westfield:

Now, until October 20:
Thursdays/Fridays from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm
Saturdays/Sundays from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

Starting from October 21 until December 22
Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 2:30 pm
Saturdays/Sundays from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.

For more information on the operation of the Conservation Center, please visit the Westfield Conservation Center website at www.westfieldnj.gov/conservation.

Housing Authority of the City of Elizabeth (HACE) Drop-Off Locations:

Kennedy Arms
70 Westfield Avenue in Elizabeth, drop-off:
Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

Ford- Leonard Towers
69 Division Street in Elizabeth, drop-off hours:
Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

O’Donnell- Dempsey Towers
632 Salem Avenue in Elizabeth, drop-off hours:
Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

J. Christian Bollwage Building
205 First Street in Elizabeth, drop-off hours:
Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

Elizabethport Community Center
250 Second Street in Elizabeth, drop-off hours:
Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

Farley Towers
33 Cherry Street in Elizabeth, drop-off hours:
Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

Linden Recycling Center
2 Donaldson Street in Linden:
Monday through Friday from 7:00 am to 2:30 pm
Saturday from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm

Kenilworth DPW Recycling Yard
401 Sheridan Avenue in Kenilworth
Fridays from 7:00 am to 2:30 pm
First Saturday of every month from 7:30 am to noon
Third Saturday of every month from 7:30 am to noon

New Providence Drop-off Locations:


DPW Yard
4 Park Place in New Providence
First Saturday of the month from 9:00am to 1:00pm
Third Saturday of the month from 9:00am to 1:00pm

New Providence Recreation Center
360 Elkwood Avenue in New Providence
Monday through Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm

Plainfield Transfer Station
95 Rock Avenue in Plainfield:
Monday through Friday from 7:00 am to 2:45 pm

Hillside DPW Yard
274 Hillside Avenue in Hillside:
Monday through Friday from 8:00 am – 3:30 pm

Summit Transfer Station
40 New Providence Avenue in Summit
Tuesday through Friday from 7:30 am- 3:45 pm
Saturday from 7:30 am – 4:45 pm
*closed Sundays, Mondays and holidays


The primary goal of this program is to ensure that reusable bags are truly being reused and made available to those who genuinely need them. Please note that the program only accepts bags in usable condition. We kindly request excluding any ripped, damaged, or otherwise unusable bags when making your drop-off.

For the latest news and updates on all municipal and countywide recycling programs in Union County, download the free Recycle Coach app. More information is available at ucnj.org/recycling/recycle-coach-app.

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Union County to Unveil New Recycling & Litter Control Pilot in Warinanco Park

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce that the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation will start a new pilot initiative to boost recycling and curb litter in Warinanco Park, which borders Elizabeth, Roselle, and Linden.

“We believe that maintaining the cleanliness, safety, and enjoyability of our parks and playgrounds is a team effort, and are committed to making the clean-up and recycling process as convenient as possible for our park-goers,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “With the launch of this recycling initiative, we hope to make it easier for visitors to find recycling bins throughout the park and make the process more convenient. I encourage all residents and visitors to participate in this program and keep an eye out for new signage when visiting Warinanco Park.”

The Union County Bureau of Recycling and Planning and the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation have purchased one hundred 96-gallon recycling containers, one hundred 96-gallon trash containers, two recycling dumpsters, two trash dumpsters, and a satellite lifter system for an existing pick-up truck, which will help pick up the trash and recycling containers and take it to the proper recycling market. The equipment will help automate trash and recycling pick-ups in Warinanco Park.  The new containers and signage will provide a clearer message about where to dispose of trash and recycling, which will help increase recycling efforts and prevent litter in the park. Additionally, brochures with guidelines in English and Spanish will be available for park visitors.

This initiative was made possible by the Union County Board of County Commissioners, the Department of Parks and Recreation, and inspired by participants of the Rutgers Environmental Steward Program. The program has been funded through Union County’s application of the Recycling Enhancement Act Grant and the Clean Communities Grant, which is provided through the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.

For information on all recycling initiatives in Union County, visit ucnj.org/recycle. For the latest news and updates on all municipal and countywide recycling programs in Union County, download the free Recycle Coach app. More information is available at ucnj.org/recycling/recycle-coach-app.

Quick links to all Union County environmental programs and activities are available at ucnj.org/green-connection. If you are interested in becoming a Rutgers Environmental Steward or would like to learn more about the program, visit https://envirostewards.rutgers.edu/

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Union County Voters Can View Their Sample Ballots Online for the June 4th Primary Election

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi advises voters that they can view their sample ballots for the June 4th Primary Election online at the County Clerk’s elections website, unioncountyvotes.com. In addition, voters will receive a printed copy of their sample ballot in the mail.

“Due to the recent changes this year mandated by the Federal courts, it is crucial for voters to take the time to familiarize themselves with their sample ballots beforehand,” said County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi. “Understanding the information and any changes to the layout ensures an informed voting experience. While online accessibility caters to many, we are also distributing printed copies to guarantee every voter can thoroughly review their choices before heading to the polls.”

Sample ballots will be mailed out approximately two weeks before Election Day.

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

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Union County Announces Renowned Watercolor Artist James Fiorentino Showcases Paintings at Trailside

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to invite art admirers, wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers to celebrate the opening of the art exhibition, “A Glimpse into the World of Wildlife in Watercolors” by acclaimed artist James Fiorentino on Thursday, May 9th from 4:00 – 8:00 PM at Trailside Nature & Science Center.

“The serene setting of the Trailside Center offers the perfect venue to display Mr. Fiorentino’s breathtaking portraits of wildlife,” comments Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded, “The watercolor paintings displayed around Trailside’s towering 34-foot American beech tree exhibit truly brings amazing wildlife alive and helps visitors connect with the beauty of nature.”

The artwork will be displayed at Trailside Nature & Science Center, located in the Watchung Reservation at 452 New Providence Road in Mountainside, from May 9th through June 23rd, 2024. Aside from special programs and events, Trailside welcomes all visitors free of charge every day from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., except for Mondays and major holidays. Interested residents should RSVP at trailside@ucnj.org. Attendees must be age 18 or older.

James Fiorentino (b. 1977) is an American artist who currently resides in Hunterdon County, NJ. A master in watercolor, his works of art have been internationally recognized. His professional career taking off while still in high school, Fiorentino became the youngest artist ever featured in the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum for his likeness of Reggie Jackson. In 1998, he became the youngest artist to be inducted into the prestigious New York Society of Illustrators, along with such artists as Norman Rockwell and Andrew Wyeth.

His works which include landscapes, portraits, seascapes, still life’s and animals have been showcased in museums, galleries, and private collections across the globe, and his story has been told on national television and in the pages of magazines, books and newspapers. His evocative artwork inspires viewers through his life-like depictions of rare wildlife in their natural surroundings. His paintings truly bring wildlife to life on paper and his art helps to educate and engage viewers about the precipitous declines that many of these wildlife species have endured. James’ work has won numerous awards and can be seen nationally in books, magazines and on trading cards. James is also a trustee of the Raptor Trust of New Jersey and the D & R Greenway Land Trust.

For more information about upcoming programs and events at Trailside, visit http://www.ucnj.org/trailside or call 908-789-3670. For quick links to all Union County environmental programs and activities, visit the Green Connection at http://www.ucnj.org/green-connection. For more information about activities and programs of the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation visit online at http://www.ucnj.org/parks, email parksinfo@ucnj.org, or call 908-527-4900.

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Union County Announces First Haitian Flag Raising Will Take Place on May 6th

The Union County Board of County Commissioners proudly announces that the County’s first Haitian flag-raising will take place on Monday, May 6th, at 12:00 p.m. on the steps of the Union County Courthouse, located at 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth.

“We are honored to commemorate Haitian Heritage Month by hosting our first Haitian flag-raising event this May,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Union County is a unique community with a rich tapestry of different cultures. We are proud to bring this community together to celebrate the many different facets that make us who we are, and we hope you join us for this joyous occasion.”

Union County will proudly raise the vibrant and symbolic flag of Haiti for the first time, symbolizing unity, resilience, and the spirit of the Haitian people. The event promises to be a momentous occasion, bringing together community leaders, dignitaries, residents, and members of the Haitian diaspora to commemorate this historic moment.

The ceremony will commence with opening remarks from Chairwoman Palmieri-Mouded, followed by an invocation from Pastor Eric Charles of the Peniel Church in Elizabeth. Commissioners Michèle S. Delisfort and Sergio Granados will also give remarks, along with Miss Supranational Haiti 2024, Tara-Lynn Saint-Elien, and Marline Edmond, Chair of the Haitian Flag Day Planning Committee of N.J.

The flag-raising ceremony marks Union County’s month-long celebration of Haitian history and culture. This event is highly significant for Union County as it provides an opportunity to showcase the importance of recognizing and embracing cultural diversity.

An exhibit featuring the works of Haitian artists Haenley Pierre and Patrick Joseph will be available for viewing throughout the month of May at the Commissioners Gallery, located on the 6th floor of the Union County Administration Building in Elizabeth. The gallery is open to the public free of charge from Monday through Friday between 9:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. Residents are welcome to visit and enjoy the exhibit.

“As a commissioner of Haitian descent, I am excited about the upcoming events that will celebrate and recognize the history of Haitians and Haitian Americans,” said Commissioner Michèle S. Delisfort. “Our culture and influence have played a significant role in shaping this community into what it is today, and we couldn’t be happier to share this moment with all of you.”


The Haitian flag-raising ceremony was developed in collaboration with The Haitian Flag Day Planning Committee of N.J., Inc. (HFDPCNJ). Union County is grateful for their local community outreach efforts.

All members of the community are invited to join in this momentous celebration of Haitian culture and heritage. For more information about the event, please contact Judith Guest, Community Engagement & Diversity Coordinator at (908) 527-4388 or via email at Judith.Guest@ucnj.org

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Voter Registration Deadline for the June 4, 2024 Presidential Primary Election is Tuesday, May 14

The Union County Board of Elections reminds residents that Tuesday, May 14 is the deadline for voter registration for the 2024 Primary Election. Election Day will be on Tuesday, June 4.

“There are multiple options for residents to register to vote in time for the upcoming election,” said Union County Board of Elections Administrator, Nicole DiRado. “Those eligible to vote can apply online, by mail or in person in order to register.”

The Union County Board of Elections office is open Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. to accept Voter Registration Forms. On the May 14 voter registration deadline, the Board of Elections Office will remain open until 9:00 p.m. to receive forms.

Municipal Clerk offices can also provide and accept voter registration forms.

Voter registration forms in both English and Spanish can also be downloaded from the Union County Board of Elections website at ucnj.org/boe/voter-registration-information. Be sure to print and sign the form before returning.

To register online, eligible residents should visit: voter.svrs.nj.gov/register and follow the Online Voter Registration instructions. Your County Commissioner of Registration will notify you if your application is accepted. If it is not accepted, you will be notified on how to complete and/or correct the application.

You can register to vote if:

  • You are a United States citizen
  • You will be 18 years old by the next election
  • You will be a resident of the State and county for 30 days before the election
  • You are NOT currently serving a sentence because of a felony conviction
  • As of March 17, 2020, persons currently on parole or probation are entitled to vote.

To receive a voter registration form by mail, call the Board of Elections at 908-527-4123.