Category: Public Info

The Union County Board of County Commissioners welcomes seniors and caregivers to the upcoming Aging Services Kiosk (ASK) events in May to explore the wide range of senior programs and resources available. These events allow attendees to meet face-to-face with experienced professionals who can offer expert guidance and assistance with a variety of services, including form completion. Bilingual staff will be available on several dates in May to provide support in Spanish.

“At our ‘ASK’ events, seniors and caregivers have the opportunity to meet with our knowledgeable staff who are happy to answer their questions, connect them with resources, and provide support and guidance as they navigate the next chapter of their lives,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes Leon. “I encourage all interested seniors to attend the next ‘ASK’ event to learn more about this useful program and how it can benefit them.”

The Aging Services Kiosk is operated explicitly by the Division on Aging, a branch of the Union County Department of Human Services. It offers adults aged 60 and older, along with their caregivers, a friendly and convenient avenue to discover valuable programs and services and speak individually with a Division on Aging professional.

Staff at ASK locations can help older adults and caregivers connect with various services, including home-delivered meals, respite care, home care, adult day care, and support services for caregivers. Any Union County senior or caregiver can visit any ASK kiosk, regardless of their hometown.  No appointment or pre-registration is needed. Below are the upcoming ASK events in May:

Wednesday, May 7th

Clark Public Library

303 Westfield Avenue, Clark

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Wednesday, May 14^th

(Bilingual staff available)

Elizabeth Public Library – Main

11 South Broad St., Elizabeth

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Tuesday, May 20th

(Bilingual staff available)

Westfield Memorial Library

550 East Broad Street

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Thursday, May 29th

Garwood Public Library

411 Third Avenue, Garwood

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Friday, May 30th

(Bilingual staff available)

Hillside Public Library

1409 Liberty Avenue, Hillside

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

“Our Division on Aging remains committed to improving the quality of life of our seniors. The Commissioner Board is proud to continue collaborating in this initiative that addresses the unique needs and challenges faced by our older residents, ensuring they receive all of the support and care they deserve,” said Union County Commissioner James Baker, Liaison to the Advisory Council on Aging.

For more information about the ASK events and any other services for seniors in Union County, contact the Division on Aging and Disability Resource Connection at 1-888-280-8226 toll-free or visit online at ucnj.org/dhs/aging.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce the second annual Haitian flag-raising ceremony. This ceremony will take place on Friday, May 2nd 12:00pm on the steps of the Union County Courthouse, located at 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth.

“Raising the Haitian flag here in Union County is a celebration of unity and pride,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “As we gather for the second year, we are building a tradition that honors the Haitian community’s rich history, and reminds all of us that our diversity is our greatest strength. This is what community looks like, and I am proud to be part of it.”

The ceremony will begin with opening remarks from Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon, followed by a performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” by Edess Damis, a Union County native of Haitian heritage and a host on UnionTV. Damis will also sing “La Dessalinienne,” the National Anthem of Haiti, as the Haitian flag is raised. An invocation will be given by reverend Moise “Mo” Paul, Pastor at Outreach Evangelism Ministries Church in Elizabeth. Remarks will be given by Commissioner Michèle Delisfort, Commissioner Sergio Granados, and Marline Edmond, the Chair of the Haitian Flag Day Planning Committee of NJ.

“As a Union County Commissioner, I am proud to celebrate Haitian Flag Day, a symbol of resilience, unity, and pride for the Haitian community,” said Union County Commissioner Michèle Delisfort. “In times where immigration has become a focal point of national discourse, it’s vital that we recognize and honor the contributions of Haitian immigrants, who have enriched our community with their culture, strength, and unwavering spirit. Let us come together to celebrate this significant day, acknowledging the rich heritage that shapes our diverse community.”

The following municipalities are planning their own Haitian flag raising events—be sure to reach out to them directly for more details:

• Tuesday, May 13 – Plainfield

• Thursday, May 14 – Union

• Friday, May 16 – Roselle

• Sunday, May 18 – Linden

• Monday, May 19 – Hillside

• Saturday, May 24 – Elizabeth

• Tuesday, May 27 – Rahway

In honor of Haitian Heritage Month, The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to present a collection of artworks from local artists in the Commissioners Gallery of the Union County Administration Building in Elizabeth. The gallery, located on the 6^th floor, can be viewed Monday through Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm.

The Haitian flag-raising ceremony was developed in collaboration with The Haitian Flag Day Planning Committee of NJ. 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.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners, in partnership with the City of Plainfield and Assemblywoman Linda S. Carter, invite residents to attend Government Day on Saturday, May 10, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Plainfield City Hall, located at 515 Watchung Avenue.

“Government Day is about breaking down barriers,” said Union County Commissioner Lourdes Leon. “Too often, people don’t know where to go for help — we’re changing that. By bringing state, county, and city services together in one place, we’re making government real, local, and accessible. This is about empowering residents, strengthening trust, and showing up for our communities in a big way.”

This free community event will bring together a wide array of government services and support programs in one convenient location. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet with local, county, and state representatives, ask questions, and access in-person assistance on issues ranging from healthcare and taxes to public transit, food security, and more.

“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to coordinate this Government Access Day in collaboration with the City of Plainfield and Union County,” said Assemblywoman Linda S. Carter. “Bringing together a variety of state agencies to directly engage with the community on Saturday, May 10th, is an exciting step toward making government more accessible and responsive to the people we serve. It’s a privilege to work alongside local leaders to ensure that residents have the resources and support they need to thrive.”

Government Day will include representatives from:

• County of Union (Various Departments)
• Office of Assemblywoman Linda S. Carter
• City of Plainfield
• NJ Economic Development Authority
• RWJBarnabas Health
• NJ Division of Aging Services
• NJ Board of Public Utilities
• NJ Office of Food Security Advocate
• NJ Treasury Division of Taxation
• NJ Shares
• The Office of Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman
• Kean University
• NJ SNAP Navigators

“We are proud to host Government Day here in Plainfield—a city that believes government should work for the people, not the other way around,” said Mayor Adrian O. Mapp. “Plainfield is a community rooted in connection, compassion, and civic pride. When residents can speak directly to those who represent and serve them, it strengthens trust and ensures that no one is left behind. This event brings essential services directly to our residents, eliminating red tape and building stronger connections between the community and those who serve it. It’s a clear example of how collaboration between local, county, and state partners can transform how we support and uplift our residents. I’m grateful to our partners for standing with us to put people first.”

In case of rain, the event will be moved to the parking deck at Assemblyman Gerald B. Green Plaza, 200 West 2^nd Street.

Government Day is open to all residents of Plainfield and surrounding communities. No registration is required. For more information, contact Raine Cuseglio at aswcarter@njleg.org.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to present the 2025 Union County Senior Art Exhibit, featuring more than 160 original works created by older adults, age 60 and above. The public is invited to view the exhibit now through June 3, in the Conference Center of UCNJ Union College of Union County NJ, at 1776 Raritan Road, Scotch Plains.

The exhibit is open from 9 am to 5:30 pm Monday through Friday, and open until 8 pm on Tuesday evenings. The venue is located approximately a quarter-mile from Martine Ave. Upon entering the campus from Raritan Road, visitors should proceed to the third building on the right. Ample parking is available on site.

The annual Senior Art Exhibit showcases artworks by both professional and non-professional artists who reside in Union County. The varied media categories include drawing, pastel, watercolor, oil painting, acrylics, photography, digital art, mixed media, printmaking, craft and sculpture.

“This annual celebration brings people together in a way which encourages our seniors to develop their interest and cultivate local community,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes Leon. “The Board of County Commissioners is proud to dedicate space for this art exhibit each year, and we hope everyone in Union County—regardless of age—can take something great away from this experience.”

Awards for outstanding entries in each media category were selected by independent professional artists Barbara Wallace, Brian Branch-Price and Joseph Borzotta.

Best in Show by a Professional Artist was awarded to Audrey Yankielun of Westfield for her craft work created from thousands of postage stamps, titled “Party Dress.” Best in Show by a Non-Professional Artist was awarded to Mark Albertson of Westfield for his oil painting titled “Patience.”

First-place artworks will advance to the state level, to be exhibited in the fall at the 2025 New Jersey Senior Citizens’ Art Show in East Windsor.

The Union County Senior Art Exhibit is made possible by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. The exhibit is coordinated annually by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, a division of the Department of Parks and Recreation. For more information, email msturm@ucnj.org, or call 908-558-2550 weekdays (relay users dial 711).

For more information about cultural programs offered by the County of Union, visit www.ucnj.org/cultural.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to invite residents to the annual Spring Garden Fair & Plant Sale, hosted by the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Union County on Sunday, May 18, 2025, from 12:00pm to 4:00pm in the Demonstration Garden at Trailside Nature and Science Center, located at 452 New Providence Road in Mountainside.

“The Spring Garden Fair & Plant Sale is always one of the highlights on our calendar as the weather warms up. It brings together the community, celebrates the hard work of our Master Gardener volunteers, and offers residents a chance to bring home something beautiful or edible for their gardens,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “This event supports horticultural education and programs throughout Union County, and we’re proud to see it grow year after year.”

This rain-or-shine event kicks off with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 12:00pm. Attendees will be able to shop a diverse selection of native plants, vegetables, herbs, annuals, perennials, and more. In addition to the plant sale, the event will feature Rutgers Soil Test Kits available for purchase, free Rutgers Fact Sheets with gardening and lawn care tips, and expert advice at the Garden Helpline Plant and Insect Problem Clinic. Visitors can also explore the Square Foot Gardening display, learn about local mosquito control efforts from the Union County Bureau of Mosquito Control, and enjoy educational activities for kids hosted by the 4-H Master Tree Stewards.

Admission is free, and cash-only sales will be available onsite. Attendees are encouraged to bring a small wagon to help transport their purchases. While service animals are welcome, please note that pets are not permitted at the event. Parking is free and available at both Trailside and the Scout Camping Area within the Watchung Reservation.

“We’re excited to once again welcome visitors to the garden, and extremely grateful for the continued partnership with Rutgers Cooperative Extension,” said Union County Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, Liaison to the Rutgers Cooperative Extension. “Thanks to the dedication of our Master Gardener volunteers, this event continues to bloom year after year.”

The Spring Garden Fair & Plant Sale is organized by the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Union County, a volunteer organization supported by the Rutgers Cooperative Extension and the Board of County Commissioners. Proceeds help fund horticultural programs, educational outreach, and community services across Union County. For more details, visit https://www.mastergardeners-uc.org.

Union County, in partnership with the Patriots’ Path Council of Scouting America (formerly Boy Scouts of America), hosted the second annual Operation WRIP (Watchung Reservation Invasive Plant removal) service project on Saturday, April 5, in the Watchung Reservation.

“Operation WRIP is a perfect example of what can be accomplished when community, youth, and local government come together for a shared purpose,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “We are proud to support programs that protect our environment, engage young leaders, and strengthen the bond between our residents and our County parks.”

Participation surged this year with 261 volunteers—nearly double last year’s turnout—including Scouts and their families, Trail Stewards, members of the Beta Pi Phi sorority, WRIP Team members, County staff, and representatives from the Scout Council.

The project targeted invasive multiflora rosa and Japanese barberry shrubs—thorny, fast-growing plants that crowd out native species and can even harbor ticks that spread Lyme disease. By mid-spring, these are among the only green plants in the Reservation, making them easier to identify and remove.

“We were thrilled to see such a tremendous turnout from so many different communities,” said Daniel J. Bernier, Director of the Union County Division of Park Environmental Services. “Events like Operation WRIP show the power of collaboration in protecting our environment while providing young people with a meaningful way to give back.”

Volunteers gathered at 8:30 a.m. at the Trailside amphitheater for a safety and work briefing, before carpooling to 15 designated sites throughout the park. Despite brief rain, the majority of volunteers stayed through noon, successfully eliminating an estimated 2,400 invasive shrubs.

The event drew participation from 26 Scout troops and Cub Scout packs representing Union, Somerset, Middlesex, Morris, and Hudson Counties. In addition to environmental benefits, Scouts earned service hours and strengthened leadership skills. Four troops extended their stay with a weekend campout in the park’s Scout Camping Area.

For more information about future volunteer opportunities in Union County parks, visit ucnj.org/parks.

Union County Surrogate Christopher Hudak is proud to announce the Surrogate’s Court will begin to offer monthly wedding ceremony services for Union County residents.

Beginning June 2025, couples may schedule, at no charge, a wedding ceremony officiated by Surrogate Christopher Hudak. Ceremonies will be conducted at the Warinanco Sports Center in Warinanco Park, Roselle.

“The Surrogate’s Court is proud to expand its role in creating forever families in Union County,” said Surrogate Hudak. “My office is proud to focus on the most meaningful moments in our resident’s lives and are looking forward to being part of the joy that comes along with the celebration of marriage.”

Ceremonies will be scheduled monthly on a first-come, first-serve basis, with intention to increase dates and hours as demand grows. At this time reservations are limited to Union County residents and participants are required to obtain all licensing paperwork from the municipal registrar’s office prior to the scheduled event.

Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon highlighted Surrogate Hudak’s plan to offer wedding ceremony services as part of her 2025 initiatives, themed, Union County 2025: Connecting Communities, Committed to Progress. “Union County is proud to support Surrogate Hudak’s expansion of services in offering wedding ceremonies to our residents,” said Chairwoman Lourdes Leon. “In addition to the importance of offering this vital service, I can think of no better location than Warinanco Park. The park will serve as a picturesque background all while showcasing the amenities the park has to offer.”

This development reflects the Surrogate’s dedication to modernize and increase accessibility to Surrogate Court services for all Union County residents.

For more information or to schedule your ceremony with the court, please contact the Union County Surrogate’s Court at 908-527-4280, email marryme@ucnj.org or visit ucnj.org/surrogate for more information. 

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi announces that vote by mail ballots for the upcoming Primary Election will begin mailing tomorrow, April 17, on a rolling, town-by-town basis in alphabetical order.

Ballots are being sent to all voters on the permanent vote by mail list over the course of the week. The mailing process is anticipated to be completed on or about April 25.

Voters are advised to look out for an oversized bright yellow envelope, which contains their Official Primary Election Ballot. The yellow envelope is designed to help ensure voters can easily identify and locate their ballot when it arrives.

To apply for a vote by mail ballot, go to www.unioncountyvotes.com and click on “How to Vote by Mail,” request an application, fill it out, and mail it to the County Clerk’s office.

For additional information, including a list of candidates and important election updates, please visit www.unioncountyvotes.com.

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi will hold two free informational webinars for residents interested in running for school board on Thursday, May 22nd and May 29th via Zoom. The non-partisan presentation will focus on the petition process for candidates, including new signature requirements, affidavit, notary, and oath requirements as well as qualifications for candidates.

“Some school board candidates have indicated they would like more guidance about the petition process,” said Clerk Rajoppi. “Incomplete or incorrect petitions cannot be accepted. If signatures are not done correctly, for example, petitions can be challenged and ultimately candidates can forfeit the opportunity to run. The goal is to make sure the process works by providing interested candidates the necessary information to run.”

A daytime webinar will be held on Thursday, May 22nd at 2:00 p.m., and an evening webinar will be held on Thursday, May 29th at 6:30 p.m., providing access to those who cannot attend in the afternoon hours.

http://www.ucnj.org/school-board-webinars/Pre-registration is required. To register, please visit ucnj.org/school-board-webinars/.

The Clerk added that new candidates as well as those running for re-election are welcome to attend the free webinar.

Petitions for school board candidates must be delivered to the County Clerk’s office no later than 4:00 p.m. on Monday, July 28th. Petitions may also be filed during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Elections Division of the Union County Clerk’s Office, Room 113, Union County Courthouse, Elizabeth, NJ.

For questions or more information on the webinars, visit ucnj.org/county-clerk  or call 908-527-4787.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents and visitors of all ages to celebrate wildlife and learn about environmental conservation at Wild Earth Fest, hosted by the Trailside Nature and Science Center on Sunday, April 27, 2025 from 11:00am to 5:00pm, rain or shine. The event has a new location this year in Union County’s scenic 2,000-plus acre Watchung Reservation in Mountainside; the location is moving from the Trailside grounds to the Loop Area.

“Wild Earth Fest raises awareness about the importance of conservation and environmental stewardship here in the Union County community and throughout the state,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “This unique event combines fun activities for all ages with hands-on learning experiences that encourage a deeper appreciation for nature. Through the interactive exhibits and expert presentations, we hope to inspire a love for the environment and a commitment to protecting it.”

Admission to Wild Earth Fest is $5.00 per person for seven years and older. Children six years old and younger are free. No pre-registration is required. Pets are not permitted. Wild Earth Fest 2025 features special presentations with live music, great food, children’s activities and live animals. There will be many ongoing activities such as children’s crafts, a petting zoo, vendors and educational table displays throughout the event.

New this year, Dinosaurs Arise will bring the prehistoric world to life with thrilling, interactive experiences for young explorers! Whether your children are budding paleontologists or simply fascinated by dinosaurs, Wild Earth Fest visitors are in store for excitiFor ImmFng educational activities while having a blast. Dig into discovery to unearth fossils and meet lifelike dinosaurs that interact and playful baby dinosaur puppets.

The Lizard Guys are new to Wild Earth Fest this year with educational and entertaining live animal shows. The Lizard Guys are a group of animal enthusiasts who tour New Jersey and New York giving presentations geared for children and adults alike using live animals. Get a close up look to find out where in the world these fascinating reptiles come from and what they eat.

Event highlights include a sea creature touch tank from Jenkinson’s Aquarium, a petting zoo from Swift Farms, Trash to Treasure Recycled Art, Trailside’s outreach van with a touch table and giveaways, and an obstacle course from Child’s Play Challenge Courses with “course crusher” challenges for all ages.  Sustainable, green-themed art and nature gifts will also be available for purchase.

Trailside welcomes back the electric vehicle display from the nonprofit organization, New Jersey Electrical Vehicle Association. Members of the group will share their EV experiences and answer any questions.

Wild Earth Fest includes an exciting schedule of special presentations:

• Unique Creatures (11:30am & 12:30pm): Learn about some of the most interesting animals from all over the world and meet live reptiles, mammals, birds and insects up close.
• Kids in Motion (12:00pm and 1:00pm): Join DJ Jo Jo Russell for interactive fun with his music and entertaining dance moves.
• Live Music from NRG Acoustic Trio Band (12:00pm – 4:00pm): Enjoy their popular hits!
• The Lizard Guys (1:30pm & 4:00pm): Get an up-close look at live animals and learn about the fascinating world of reptiles and more.
• Trashaganza (2:00pm): Enjoy a performance by the Bash the Trash Band with musical instruments made from recycled materials. Try your hand at making instruments, and join the Trashaganza Musical Parade. Trashaganza is sponsored by Union County Clean Communities to raise awareness about the importance of Reuse, Reduce & Recycle.

Other activities include; a rock wall climb and a giant inflatable slide.  Attendees are also welcome to plant a take-home flower and make a colorful Gyotaku fish print.

Vendors and exhibitors include; New Jersey Electric Vehicle Association, Toadshade Wildflower Farm, Lees Bees, Friends of the Great Swamp, Union County Bureau of Recycling & Planning, Hartshorn Arboretum, Pui and Skin, Planet B, Union County Master Gardeners, Pond Builders, 4-H Master Tree Stewards, Beadiful Bliss, Enchanted Forest, Naked Botanicals, Garden Innovations and more!

For more information about Wild Earth Fest and other upcoming programs and events at Trailside, call 908-789-3670 or visit www.ucnj.org/trailside. The Trailside Nature and Science Center is a service of the Union County Board of County Commissioners in the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation. For more recreation programs and activities visit www.ucnj.org/parks or call 908-527-4900. For quick links to all Union County environmental programs and activities supported by the Commissioner Board, visit The Green Connection, www.ucnj.org/green-connection.