Category: Public Info

Union County Freeholder Chair Bette Jane Kowalski and Freeholders Christopher Hudak and Andrea Staten present a resolution to Union County Vocational-Technical School District Interim Superintendent Gwendolyn S. Ryan and UCVTS students and faculty designating February 2019 as National Career and Technical Education Month in Union County.

The 21st-century career and technical education programs at the Union County Vocational-Technical Schools link rigorous academics, technical knowledge and real-world experiences to help students develop workplace skills to better prepare them for college and challenging careers.

For more information about Union County Vocational-Technical Schools, visit www.ucvts.tec.nj.us.

Union County Freeholder Chair Bette Jane Kowalski, Vice Chairman Alexander Mirabella and Freeholder Rebecca Williams present resolutions to the 2019 Union County St. Patrick’s Day Parade Grand Marshal Sister Percylee Hart, RSM, General Chairwoman Jessica Cunningham and Parade Adjutant Kerry Ricci congratulating them on the 23^rd annual parade. The 2019 Union County St. Patrick’s Day Parade steps off at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 16 on Morris Avenue in Union.

For more information please visit www.unioncountystpatricksdayparade.com.

Elizabeth, NJ:  The Union County Board of Elections is actively seeking bilingual poll workers who are eager to help the community exercise their right to vote.

Poll workers are paid $200 to work from 5:15am to 8:15pm on Election Day and must be available to work both the June Primary Election and November General Election during the year.

Poll workers must be 18 years of age, a registered voter in and a resident of Union County.  Poll workers are required to attend a training seminar. 

If you are interested in serving or need more information, please call the Union County Board of Elections at 908-527-4123.

The application for appointment as a Union County Poll Worker is available for download on our website at ucnj.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Poll-Worker-Application.pdf.

For all Union County Board of Elections information visit online at ucnj.org/board-of-elections.

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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.

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Union County, NJ – The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders is pleased to announce that summer pool manager and assistant manager positions are available at Union County’s public swimming pool, the Walter Ulrich Memorial Pool at Rahway River Park in Rahway.

“The managers of the Walter Ulrich Memorial Pool oversee the day to day operations as well as supervise approximately 50 employees and are an essential part of the successful summer season here in Union County,” said Freeholder Bette Jane Kowalski. “Employment at the county pool is a rewarding experience for employees in all positions.”

Union County residents possessing a degree from an accredited college or university who are interested in applying can contact the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation for details about hours, salary, certification and other eligibility requirements by calling 908-527-4824.

Training is available for applicants without certification. Anyone interested in a lifeguard position can call the Parks Department and find out more.

For more information about Ulrich Pool, Rahway River Park and all Union County recreation facilities visit online at ucnj.org/parks.

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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.

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Union County, NJ — The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders is pleased to announce that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has awarded $4,321,987 to the County from the federal Continuum of Care program. The funding will support 19 service projects to help the homeless.

“The Continuum of Care program helps individuals and families find housing and face other challenges, including the cost of health care, education, and support services,” said Freeholder Chair Bette Jane Kowalski. “This federal funding is an essential resource that provides our at-risk residents with tools and support for a stable home environment.”

According to the Annual Homeless Assessment Report, last year more than 1,000 individuals reported being homeless for the first time in Union County.

Another indicator of homelessness in Union County is the annual Point-in-Time survey, a national “snapshot” coordinated through HUD. The survey is conducted over a 24-hour period each January. In 2018, the survey identified more than 459 individuals as homeless in Union County, including 153 children.

Union County’s Code Blue night-time winter shelter initiative also provides a window into homelessness in Union County. During the winter of 2017-2018, the Code Blue initiative recorded 3,132 people in shelters who would otherwise face below-freezing weather on the streets. The total included 532 children.

The 19 service projects funded through HUD include permanent and transitional housing as well as support services to help homeless individuals and families obtain and maintain stable housing and independence, such as job training, mental health counseling, and substance abuse treatment.

Freeholder Chair Kowalski also noted that Union County competes for federal funding against other agencies across the country.

“Our ability to present a successful case before HUD stems from the strong, collaborative relationships we have forged with our local partners,” she said.

Each year, Union County’s Department of Human Services works with community partners to submit a joint application to HUD.

The partners included in the 2019 funding are Bridgeway Rehabilitation Services, Inc., Community Access Institute, Community Access Unlimited, Covenant House New Jersey, Elizabeth Coalition to House the Homeless, The Gateway Family YMCA, Homefirst Interfaith Housing and Family Services, Housing Authority of the City of Elizabeth, Housing Authority of Plainfield, YWCA of Union County, and the Union County Department of Human Services.

For information about all services available through the Union County Department of Human Services visit ucnj.org/human-services.

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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.

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Union County, NJ – The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders invites residents to two upcoming Sensory Friendly Theatre events at the Union County Performing Arts Center in Rahway. The Sensory Friendly series, sponsored by the Freeholder Board, showcases exciting live performances in an environment tailored to audiences with autism and other sensory sensitivities.

“Sensory Friendly Theater provides an opportunity for children and their families to enjoy the enriching experience of live performances in a beautiful theatre, while providing a relaxed, judgement-free environment,” said Freeholder Chair Bette Jane Kowalski.

The next performance in the Sensory Friendly Theatre series is the beloved ballet classic Sleeping Beauty, performed by the New Jersey Ballet Company on Saturday, March 23 at 2:00 p.m.

Since 1958, the New Jersey Ballet Company has brought the joy and beauty of dance to audiences throughout New Jersey. It is designated a Major Arts Institution by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.

On Sunday, April 28 at 2:00 p.m., Sensory Friendly Theatre presents the Theatreworks USA production of Henry and Mudge, a musical based on Cynthia Rylant’s bestselling books about a small boy and his big dog.

The Sensory Friendly Theatre series began as an initiative of Freeholder Alexander Mirabella when he served as Chairman in 2012. It is designed according to guidelines that help reduce disturbances for youngsters who experience heightened sensory sensitivity. It has been supported by the Freeholder Board every year since then.

For each of the Sensory Friendly performances, the environment at the Union County Performing Arts Center is adjusted to provide a sensory-friendly, comfortable and judgment-free space that is welcoming for all families.

Autism Friendly Spaces implements the supportive atmosphere at the performances. For more information on what to expect at Sensory Friendly Theatre visit ucpac.org/sensory-friendly-theatre.

All tickets for are $8.00 per person and can be purchased through the Union County Performing Arts Center at ucpac.org or by calling the box office at 732-499-8226.

The Union County Performing Arts Center and box office are located at 1601 Irving Street in Rahway.

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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.

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Union County, NJ – As winter’s chill gives way to blustery spring weather, Union County residents and visitors can enjoy indoor and outdoor activities at the Trailside Nature and Science Center, located in the Watchung Reservation.

Special programs for toddlers and preschool children continue each week throughout March, along with programs for school-age children.

“With the Watchung Reservation as a backdrop, Trailside helps raise awareness of our natural heritage through hands-on learning, exploration, and creativity,” said Freeholder Chair Bette Jane Kowalski. “Generations of Union County residents have grown up with Trailside, and the Freeholder Board is proud to support this unique educational resource.”

• For toddlers and children up to age three (with adult), Trailside offers the Toddler Time series on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday mornings.
• Preschool children ages three and four (with adult) are invited to join the Two of Us series on Tuesday mornings and Wednesday afternoons.
• Small Fry Days on Wednesday mornings is a drop-off series tailored for children ages four to six.

Upcoming topics for Toddler Time, Two of Us, and Small Fry Days include animal survival tricks, rainforests, owls, and more. All three programs feature hands-on exploration, crafts and other fun activities tailored for different age groups.

Older children ages 7-10 can explore life under ice, animal tracking, and winter birding activities through the new Kids Exploration series on Saturday mornings.

For complete details including hours and participation fees, visit Trailside online and view the Winter 2019 brochure.

Registration for Trailside’s summer camps begins on March 2. Register online at ucnj.org/trailside. In-person registration is welcome at the Trailside Visitor Center on March 2 from 9:00 a.m. to – 4:00 p.m. Cash and credit cards are accepted. Out-of-county residents may register online or in person beginning Monday, March 4 at 9:00 a.m. For complete details view the Summer 2019 brochure online.

For more details and pre-registration information for all Trailside programs, visit online at ucnj.org/trailside, call 908-789-3670 or email trailside@ucnj.org.

Trailside Nature and Science Center is located at 452 New Providence Road in Mountainside and is a service of the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders.

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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, NJ – In recognition of Women’s History Month, the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders is pleased to present a free performance of the play In Their Footsteps on Saturday, March 30, at 1:30 p.m., at the Union County Performing Arts Center’s Hamilton Stage, located at 360 Hamilton Street in Rahway.

The Hamilton Stage production of In Her Footsteps is presented through the Union County Department of Economic Development, Office on Women. Admission is free of charge but seating is limited and pre-registration is required at ucnj.org/women. 

In their Footsteps honors five American women who served in the Vietnam War, using their own words to tell the story. One of the five women featured in the play is Judy Jenkins Gaudino, a resident of Summit.

 “Over 50 years ago, thousands of young American women went to Vietnam to serve their country. For the most part, these women’s stories remain untold,” said Freeholder Chair Bette Jane Kowalski. “In Their Footsteps recovers this lost chapter of women’s history in vivid detail.”

“On behalf of the Freeholder Board, I would like to thank Ms. Gaudino for her participation in this project, and for her efforts to raise awareness about the lives and experiences of women in war,” Freeholder Chair Kowalski added.

The afternoon includes:

• A short talk and introduction by Freeholder Chair Bette Jane Kowalski.
• Debut of the Union County Women Making History Video, featuring Judy Jenkins Gaudino.
• Showing of the play In Their Footsteps.
• Question and Answer session with Judy Jenkins Gaudino and actors.

In Their Footsteps was created by the non-profit theatre company Infinite Variety Productions, through interviews with five women who served in Vietnam: Ann Kelsey (Special Services Librarian), Judy Jenkins Gaudino (Special Services Recreation Employee), Jeanne “Sam” Christie (Red Cross, Donut Dollie), Lily Adams (US Army Nurse), and Doris “Lucki” Allen (US Army Intelligence Specialist).

Infinite Variety Productions was established in 2011, and is dedicated to sharing the many unknown stories from women’s history.

The Union County Office on Women was created in 2016. As the first county-based office of its kind in New Jersey, the Office on Women aims to help ensure that women connect with services and programs that enable them to reach their full potential at every stage of their lives, including education, employment, business, health, and in the social fabric of Union County, as well as raise awareness of the many contributions that women make in Union County.

For additional details contact Jennifer Erdos, Union County Office on Women jerdos@ucnj.org, or 908-527-4216, or use the online contact form.

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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.

Five year agreement ensures continued care of Union County Juvenile detainees with Essex County; County to explore future usage of vacant Linden facility

In a cost-savings measure that will save millions, while ensuring the continued care of its youth offenders, the County of Union today announced it has officially closed its Juvenile Detention Center in Linden.

The closure marks the beginning of a five-year agreement with Essex County to provide ongoing juvenile detention services. The agreement has an option for renewal.

County officials decided to seek a shared services agreement as the number of County juvenile detainees at the facility have continued to show a long-term dramatic decline. The average daily population of County juveniles has declined from a high of more than 43 residents in January, 2012 to an average of just about ten this past year—a decline of more than 77 percent.

“The agreement with Essex preserves the rights, safety and dignity of incarcerated youth and minimizes the impact on effected employees of the former Linden facility,” said Union County Manager Edward T. Oatman. “Ultimately this is a prudent decision that had to be made, and one that will realize substantial savings for the County.”

Any remaining Union County detainees have been safely transferred to the Essex County Juvenile Detention facility in Newark, and all future offenders will be detained there.

The closure is expected to save $24.6 million over the first three years alone, according to Freeholder Chair Bette Jane Kowalski.

“This agreement not only realizes savings but also provides responsible and proper detention services,” said Freeholder Chair Kowalski. 

The County had considered other facilities, but the Essex County facility was picked because it is nationally accredited, offers an all-day school, and recreation programs including a swimming pool. The County of Union will continue to provide transportation for the youth and their families to the Essex County facility—which is a short distance away (5.8 miles).

In all, 82 County employees are impacted by the measure including: 56 juvenile detention officers, 12 senior juvenile detention officers, seven supervisors, and seven civilian employees. 

The County’s Workforce Development Board was made available to all employees, and separated workers were, if they wished, able to take advantage of job training, resume assistance, and other employment programs.  A number of employees were rehired for similar positions at Essex County and a number of others found employment with the County of Union.

Overall, officials attribute the decline in detainees at the Union County facility in large part to the effectiveness of the state’s Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative. This is a comprehensive approach that provides mechanisms to detain fewer youth and relies on proven, family-focused interventions, education, mental health treatment and opportunities for positive youth development.

While no immediate determination has been made for the re-use of the Union County Detention Center once it is closed, the County will explore the most effective and efficient repurposing of the facility, added County Manager Oatman.

Union County, NJ – The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders encourages all residents to recycle clean, white, block-style Styrofoam at designated drop-off locations in their municipality, or at a countywide location in Springfield. As part of the effort to encourage Styrofoam recycling, the Freeholder Board has provided nine Union County municipalities with signage, educational brochures and new recycling bins.

Berkeley Heights, Cranford, New Providence, Plainfield, Scotch Plains, Springfield, Summit, Union Township and Westfield have all received the new materials.

“The Styrofoam recycling programs enable Union County residents to help increase our efforts to conserve resources and manage our waste stream more efficiently. It is a good opportunity for all of us to ‘think globally, act locally,’” said Freeholder Chair Bette Jane Kowalski.

Styrofoam is the common name for polystyrene, which comes under the Plastic #6 recycling category.

Residents who use the drop-off locations can help ensure that the program is successful by following the recycling rules.

All Styrofoam dropped off for recycling must be clean, dry, and in block form, such as that used for furniture and appliance packaging. Residents can look for the #6 recycling label to confirm it is acceptable for recycling.

The unacceptable list includes all food service items, packing peanuts, egg cartons, and any colored, wet, or dirty foam.

All Union County residents and businesses are welcome to bring clean, dry, block-form Styrofoam for recycling to Foam Pack Industries, located off Route 22 East at 72 Fadem Road in Springfield. The recycling bin is in the company’s parking lot and is accessible at any time.

The following municipal Styrofoam drop-off sites have are available only to residents of those municipalities, during the specified days and times:

Berkeley Heights:  Berkeley Heights DPW yard, 101 Berkeley Avenue, on the first Saturday of the month from 9:00 a.m. to noon.

Cranford: Cranford Conservation Center, 210 Birchwood Avenue, on Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 3:20 p.m., and on Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 3:50 p.m.

New Providence: New Providence DPW, 29 Park Place, on the first and third Saturday of each month from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. 

Plainfield: PMUA Transfer Station, 95 Rock Avenue, Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and on Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Scotch Plains: Scotch Plains DPW, 2445 Plainfield Avenue, on Thursdays between 8:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. 

Springfield: Springfield Municipal Pool parking lot, 40-44 Morrison Road, first Saturday of every month from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 am.

Summit: Transfer station, 40 New Providence Avenue, Tuesday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. and Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Union: Union DPW, 1 Swanstrom Place, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Westfield: Westfield Conservation Center, 1300 Lamberts Mill Road. Styrofoam may be dropped off whenever the facility is open (visit westfieldnj.gov for days and hours of operation).

The Styrofoam recycling program is part of Freeholder Chair Kowalski’s environmental initiatives for 2019. Other recycling initiatives this year include a new interactive display at the Trailside Nature and Science Center, new educational programs focusing on senior centers, continued promotion of “Recycle Right!” compliance guidelines, and the new “Reel In and Recycle” anti-litter campaign for Union County Parks.

For more information about Styrofoam recycling visit ucnj.org/recycling/styrofoam.

For all other Union County recycling programs call the Union County Recycling Office at 908-654-9890 or visit online at ucnj.org/recycle.

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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.

Photo caption: Union County Freeholder Chair Bette Jane Kowalski (right) and Cranford Deputy Mayor Ann Dooley visit the Styrofoam drop-off site at the Cranford Conservation Center on Birchwood Avenue to raise awareness about Styrofoam recycling. To assist in the recycling effort, the Freeholder Board has provided new signage and recycling bins for Cranford and eight other municipalities in Union County. All Union County residents can drop off clean, white, block-style foam for recycling at designated locations in their municipality or at a countywide site located in Springfield. For complete details visit ucnj.org/recycling. Credit: Jim Lowney/County of Union.