Category: Public Info

Poll workers will earn a $300 stipend for the Primary Election on Tuesday, June 7, 2022.

Union County residents who are interested in assisting voters at polling locations on Election Day this year can apply to become official poll workers. Poll workers will earn $300 for the day, starting at 5:15 a.m. through the close of the polls at 8:00 p.m. on Election Day, Tuesday, June 7.

“Poll workers are there to answer questions and help voters understand how to cast their ballots. It is a fulfilling way to participate in the democratic process, and the $300 stipend is a well-deserved compensation for this essential work,” said Board of Elections Administrator Nicole DiRado. “We are grateful for the support of the New Jersey legislature and Governor, who raised the stipend to $300 this year.”

Poll workers perform essential services on Election Day, by ensuring every eligible voter is afforded an opportunity to exercise their constitutional right to vote.

Any Union County resident who is 18 years or older, and registered to vote in Union County, can apply to become a poll worker.

No experience is needed. New poll workers must attend a mandatory training session.

To apply, complete the online application at ucnj.org/pollworker, or request an application form by mail by calling the Board of Elections at 908-527-4236 or emailing pollworker@ucnj.org.

For more information, follow the Poll Worker Resources link ucnj.org/boe.

For all Union County Board of Elections information visit online at ucnj.org/boe.

For more information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

#  #

Update — The link to the poll worker application in this press release is now fixed

In a resolution passed last week at the Union County Board of County Commissioners meeting, the Commissioners designated May as National Mental Health Awareness Month. In recognition of this month, the Department of Human Service’s Office on Behavioral Health and Substance Abuse in partnership with Atlantic Health System will host a free webinar titled, “Mental Health 101: How Do We Talk About Mental Health.”

“Mental and emotional wellbeing is an important component of our overall health, which allows us to have strong relationships with ourselves, our family or friends, colleagues, or neighbors in general,” said Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams. “My 2022 Chair Initiatives are “Connecting our Community” and one of my main focuses as part of the initiatives is “Making Connections for Mental Health and Wellbeing,” where connecting the community to needed resources is key to access and wellness.”

Since the start of the pandemic, an increasing number of people are talking about mental health and its importance to overall health, but mental health conditions, resources, and conversations can still feel complicated and confusing.

This webinar, which will be hosted by Sharon Kelly, LCSW of Atlantic Behavioral Health & CONCERN EAP, will feature a discussion where residents can learn the basics about mental health and how they can strengthen their own health. “This is a great opportunity to check in with your health and the health of our fellow community members.  More importantly, this is an opportunity to learn where to go if you or someone you know, needs additional support.”

The webinar will take place on Thursday, May 19, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom. Pre-registration is required and interested residents can register to join the webinar by registering at Webinar Registration – Zoom.

For more information about this webinar, please call Atlantic Behavioral Health at 973-579-8573. To learn more about the mental health services the County of Union provides, please visit www.ucnj.org/departments/human-services/mental-health-services/.

County to host several events with local agencies throughout the month of May

The Union County Board of County Commissioners have determined that the County of Union will observe May 2022 as National Community Action Month.  Throughout the month of May, Union County will work in partnership with Community Action Agencies across the country to host events and activities.

“Community Action Agencies have enhanced the lives of hundreds of people in Union County and millions of people across America by providing essential, life-changing services and opportunities,” said Commissioner Chair Rebecca L. Williams. “Through this series of events in the month of May, Union County will highlight Community Action Agencies’ role in helping low-income individuals and families to move out of poverty and achieve economic security.”

The following events are scheduled in the month of May:   

• Credit Workshop – Urban League of Union County – May 12 from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. Chase – 700 E. 1^st Ave, Roselle – RSVP: surveymonkey.com/r/ULOUC2
• Tenants’ Rights During COVID-19 – PROCEED – May 12 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (English) and 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. (Spanish) – Zoom Meeting ID: 720 289 0437
• In Person Job Fair with FEDEX – PROCEED – May 13 – May 19 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. – James Kellogg Family Success Center, 1122 East Grand Street, Elizabeth
• Forgetfulness, Normal or Not: Learn How to Recognize Normal Cognitive Changes and Train Your Mind – Gateway Family YMCA – May 17 from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. via Zoom – to register, visit: tgfymca.org/events
• First Time Homebuyer Class Series – Urban League of Union County – May 19 through May 21 – Thursday, May 19, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m./Friday, May, 20, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m./Saturday, May, 21, 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. (Must attend all sessions) – to register: 908-351-7200
• Community Walk – Jewish Family Service of Central NJ – May 24 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. – Elizabeth River Trail – Rain Date: May 25
• Taking Care of Yourself: Tips for Caregivers – Gateway Family YMCA – May 31 from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. via Zoom – to register, visit: tgfymca.org/events

During National Community Action Month and throughout the year, Community Action Agencies put a human face on poverty while helping people and changing lives.  For 58 years they have advocated for limited-income citizens without a voice, so that they may enter the middle class and reach for the American dream, replacing their despair with opportunity. 

National Community Action Month is an opportunity to call attention to poverty-related problems.  As Community Action Agencies are showcasing their programs, they are also giving local residents—many who are unaware of the poverty in their communities—a first-hand look at the struggles low-income families face and how Community Action programs help them. For more information on Community Action Agencies, visit: https://communityactionpartnership.com/

For more information about community action services in Union County, please contact:

Nicole DeAugustine at 908-527-4874 or ndeaugustine@ucnj.org.

For more information about programs offered by Union County, please visit ucnj.org.

–30–

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including the Union County COVID-19 Test Center at Kean University, the Mobile Test Unit, vaccination information, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

##

For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

 

Connect with Union County on social media.

 

 

County distinguished with three awards in total for programming during 2021

Union County will receive a 2022 NACo Achievement Award, acknowledging the groundbreaking partnership between the County and Kean University, forming the first proprietary, County and academic run COVID-19 testing lab in the nation. NACo – the National Association of Counties – has awarded Union County with three 2022 Achievement Awards in total.

“Since the onset of operations in January 2021, the Union County COVID-19 lab at Kean has, through genomic sequencing, identified every variant of the COVID-19 virus,” said Commissioner Chair Rebecca L. Williams. “We continue to provide this valuable COVID-19 testing service to our residents and the Board of County Commissioners is proud that this trailblazing work is being acknowledged by NACo with a 2022 Achievement Award.”

Union County will receive a total of three awards at the 2022 Annual NACo Conference that is scheduled to take place July 21 through 24 in Adams County, Colorado. The following programs have been awarded with 2022 NACo Achievement Awards:

• The Union County Testing Lab Partnership at Kean University – which expanded testing protocols at the first County and academic run lab in the nation to include detection of the Omicron variant of COVID-19. This lab is currently overseen by the Union County Department of Public Safety.
• Union County Fresh Start Mobile Program – this program, the first of its kind in New Jersey, was launched to provide shower, laundry and restroom facilities to persons who are unhoused, along with guidance and resources on additional services that foster self-sufficiency. This ongoing program was developed by the Union County Department of Human Services.
• The Pop-Up Parks Exhibits, celebrating 100 years of Union County Parks – which celebrated the 100-year anniversary of the Union County Parks system. The exhibit was on display at Warinanco Park, Oak Ridge Park, Rahway River Park, Conant Park, Nomahegan Park and Echo Lake Park. The program was run by the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation.

“Union County runs dozens of programs every year and we are thrilled to have the work of several departments within our structure recognized,” said County Manager Edward Oatman. “These programs assist thousands of residents and enrich their lives in a myriad of ways. We strive to continue to be pioneers on various fronts and thank everyone within the County who worked toward these recognitions. We look forward to formally accepting these awards in July.”

The National Association of Counties (NACo) strengthens America’s counties, serving nearly 40,000 county elected officials and 3.6 million county employees.  Founded in 1935, NACo unites county officials to advocate county priorities in federal policymaking and promote exemplary county policies and practices. NACo’s work is also geared towards nurturing leadership skills and expanding knowledge networks while optimizing county and taxpayer resources while enriching the public’s understanding of county level government. For more information on the National Association of Counties, visit: https://www.naco.org/

For more information about programs offered by Union County, please visit ucnj.org.

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including the Union County COVID-19 Test Center at Kean University, the Mobile Test Unit, vaccination information, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

##

 

For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

 

Connect with Union County on social media.

 

Job seekers in Union County can find the perfect match at the next job fair sponsored by the Union County Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday, May 17^th, at the Warinanco Sports Center in Union County’s Warinanco Park, located at 1 Park Drive in Roselle. The job fair will begin at 10:00 a.m. and pre-registration is required.

“Union County residents and businesses within our community are still struggling through the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Union County Commissioner Chair, Rebecca L. Williams. “Job seekers will have the opportunity to meet and interact with a global company like IKEA in the most direct manner at this event and we encourage everyone interested in a new work opportunity to come and participate.”

 

IKEA, which is a Swedish-founded, Dutch-headquartered, multinational conglomerate that designs and sells ready-to-assemble furniture, kitchen appliances and home accessories, among other goods and home services, will be hiring for multiple positions in their Elizabeth, NJ location. Openings include full-time, part-time and seasonal employment. This event is coordinated in partnership between the American Job Center and Union County College.

“The American Job Center continues to provide our residents with available job openings in various sectors for qualified workers looking for employment,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, who is the Commissioner Board Liaison to the Union County Workforce Development Board. “I want to thank IKEA for their efforts to connect with job seekers as our Commissioner Board continues find ways to help our Union County residents on the road to recovery.”

Attendees are advised to bring their resumes and wear attire that is appropriate for interviews. While this is a free event, registration is required. To register for this event, residents can follow this link: Register for Ikea Job Fair.

In addition, the American Job Center will be offering interviews and resume writing workshops to further prepare job seekers for their on the spot interview, in a private, secure area with IKEA. The link to access the workshops will be sent to the registrants. Water will provided and an indoor concession stand will be open for the purchase of food. Masks are optional.

“This initiative is an example of how employers, the Union County American Job Center and Union County College partner to provide career and employment opportunities to our residents. We look forward to continuing to build successful partnerships with Union County employers in connecting job seekers to employment opportunities,” said Dr. Lisa Hiscano, Executive Director Continuing Education and Workforce Development at Union County College.

In a statement from IKEA: “Being a good neighbor and demonstrating commitment to community is an essential part of who we are and the values that drive us as an organization. For this reason, we are honored whenever we have the opportunity to impact the lives of the members of the communities we serve.” 

For more information about employment services offered by Union County, please visit the Union County Works online portal at ucajc.org.

–30–

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including the Union County COVID-19 Test Center at Kean University, the Mobile Test Unit, vaccination information, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

##

For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

 

Connect with Union County on social media.

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi announces that  sample ballots for the June 7 Primary Election can be viewed and downloaded on the County Clerk’s elections website unioncountyvotes.com, and through the Union County Votes app, a free download for all mobile devices.

Ms. Rajoppi’s office also mails sample ballots to every registered voter after the close of voter registration, approximately 10 days before the election.

“The online format provides voters with a convenient way to familiarize themselves with their ballot before voting.” said Rajoppi. “We also continue to mail sample ballots to all registered voters, to ensure that the information reaches everyone whether or not they have Internet access.”

Voters with any questions about their sample ballots can call the County Clerk’s Elections Division, 908-527-4996 or email the Elections Division at ucvote@ucnj.org.

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.

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including the Drive-Through Test Center at Kean University, the Mobile Test Unit walk-up sites, vaccination information, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

#  #

Connect with Union County on social media.

 

 

 

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi announces that voters who wish to use a Vote-by-Mail ballot for the June 7 Primary Election can apply for one in person at the County Clerk’s offices in Westfield and Elizabeth starting today, Monday May 16. They can also fill out their ballot during the same visit and cast it in a secure drop box at the office, or take it with them to fill out later.

“We encourage voters to come to our offices and use our ‘one-stop’ service, which enables voters to apply for a Vote-by-Mail ballot and cast their ballot in the same visit,” said Ms. Rajoppi. “It helps ensure that voters don’t misplace or mistakenly discard their Vote-by-Mail ballot.”

Any voter in New Jersey can use a Vote-by-Mail ballot. Voters who have not opted to receive their Vote-by-Mail ballots automatically can apply for one in person. Voters can also request an application form by mail, by contacting the County Clerk’s Elections Division at 908-527-4996 or ucvote@ucnj.org.

Application forms are also available for download through the County Clerk’s elections website, unioncountyvotes.com, or from the free Union County Votes mobile app.

The County Clerk’s Westfield office is located at the Colleen Frasier Building in the Union County Complex, at 300 North Avenue East. Regular office hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.; and Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

The County Clerk’s office in Elizabeth is located in the Union County Courthouse, at 2 Broad Street. Regular hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For more information about all County Clerk election services visit unioncountyvotes.com, use the Union County Votes app, 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.

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

Connect with Union County on social media.

#  #

Connect with Union County on social media.

 

 

 

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the City of Rahway are proud to present a live performance of the Broadway hit musical Head Over Heels at the Main Stage of the Union County Performing Arts Center, located at 1601 Irving Street in Rahway, at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 30.

The performance is part of a series of events hosted by the Commissioner Board in recognition of Pride Month.

“With this special presentation of the musical comedy Head Over Heels, we continue to affirm Union County as a community that values the freedom of every individual to determine their own path in life,” said Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams. “Laughter clears the air and opens the heart, and we are proud to present Head Over Heels as a highlight of our Pride Month events.”

“We are very proud to include the Main Stage in Union County’s Pride Month celebrations,” said Commissioner Alexander Mirabella. “Preserving this historic gem has been a labor of love for the Commissioner Board and the Rahway community. As a centerpiece of our diverse cultural life, it is a wonderful venue for celebrating equality, dignity and mutual respect.”

“The Rahway City Council and I are thrilled to partner with the County Commissioners to present Head Over Heels as part of the City’s Pride Month activities. Rahway is a richly diverse city whose vibrance is fueled by arts and culture, so offering this high-quality production in celebration of inclusion is, in multiple ways, an expression of who we are as a community,” said Rahway Mayor Raymond A. Giacobbe.

A hilarious, exuberant celebration of love, Head Over Heels follows the escapades of a royal family on an outrageous journey to save their beloved kingdom from extinction, only to discover the key to their realm’s survival lies within each of their own hearts.

You’ll meet a king about to lose his throne, a queen about to lose her inhibitions, and two princesses about to find love. It’s a modern musical fairy tale where once upon a time is right now.

Tickets are free of charge as part of Pride Month 2022 in Union County, but seats must be reserved in advance. To reserve a free spot, visit ucpac.org; do not use any other website.  Attendees can also call the box office at 732-499-8226 to reserve free tickets in advance.

Please note that COVID-19 safety regulations are in effect for all performances at UCPAC. For details visit ucpac.org/covid-19. Those reserving tickets are advised to check for updates prior to arriving at the theatre.

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

#  #

For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

Union County residents who are not registered to vote have until May 17 to register in time for the June 7 Primary Election.

The Union County Board of Elections reminds Union County residents who are not registered to vote that they have until Tuesday, May 17 to register in time to vote in the upcoming Primary Election on Tuesday, June 7.

“We encourage all eligible residents to register to vote. Registered Democrats and Republicans are eligible to vote in a Primary Election. Also, unaffiliated voters will chose their party affiliation on Election Day,” explained Nicole DiRado, Administrator, Union County Board of Elections.

To register, a voter must be a citizen of the United States and at least 18 years old by Election Day, and they must be a resident of New Jersey and Union County for at least 30 days.

Under a new state law enacted last year, persons currently on parole or probation are eligible to vote. However, persons currently serving a sentence due to a felony conviction are not eligible.

Eligible residents can download a registration application by visiting the Union County Board of Elections website, ucnj.org/ucboe.

Residents who wish to receive an application by mail can use the online form at unioncountyvotes.com, or call the Board of Elections at 908-527-4123.

Residents can apply to register in person at the Union County Board of Elections offices, located at 271 North Broad Street in Elizabeth during regular business hours. On May 17 the office hours will be extended through 9:00 p.m.

Residents can also visit the office of their Municipal Clerk to register.

Additionally, a new statewide online voter registration system was introduced by the New Jersey Division of Elections in 2020. Eligible residents who wish to register to vote online can visit the Division of Elections online at voter.svrs.nj.gov/register.

For all Union County Board of Elections information visit online at ucnj.org/ucboe, email ucboe@ucnj.org, or call 908-527-4123.

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

#  #

For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.