Category: Public Info

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is happy to inform all residents that the County of Union has been awarded one-hundred percent of the active recreation and stewardship grants that it applied for back in February by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP). Additionally, the County was awarded more in the supplemental grant category (for previous acquisitions) than normally received.

“Outdoor recreational areas and historic attractions are vital for our community’s health and well-being,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “They provide a sanctuary for revitalization, relaxation, and cherished moments with loved ones. We deeply appreciate the grants from NJDEP, which enable us to enhance our county parks and landmarks. These renovations will make them more inclusive and enjoyable for all visitors.”
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Below is a breakdown of the active recreation and stewardship grants:

Jake’s Law Grant: To develop and construct a completely inclusive playground
• This grant is a 75/25 match. Union County requested and received $915,000.00, with a County match of $312,500 for a playground at Warinanco Park.

Urban Parks Grant: To develop and construct a playground in an Adversely Stressed Overburdened Community in, or easily accessible to, an Urban Aid municipality
• This grant does not have a matching component. Union County requested and received $500,000.00 for a playground upgrade in Rahway River Park.

Local Park Development and Stewardship Projects Grant: To restore and protect natural resources and Historic Landscapes
• This grant is a 50/50 matching grant. Union County requested and received $239,900 for landscape restoration work at the Homestead Farmhouse at Oak Ridge Park

“We’re excited to announce that Union County has secured 100% of our NJDEP/Green Acres Program grants this year, including extra funding in supplemental grants,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Chairman of the Union County Open Space Trust Fund. “Our sincere gratitude goes to all County residents who actively participated in the community outreach surveys and contributed to the initial planning of these projects. These grants signify trust in our initiatives and acknowledge the positive impact they have on the community, enhancing outdoor spaces for Union County residents.”

The total amount in grants awarded to the County of Union this round was $3,754,900. This includes $2.1 million in supplemental grants received from previous acquisitions.

For more information on the green acres grants project, visit www.ucnj.org/green-acres-grants/.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce the Local Advisory Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse (LACADA) Annual Municipal Volunteers of the Year (VOY), who were honored at the annual Volunteer Recognition Ceremony, Tuesday, April 23, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. at the Galloping Hill Caterers, 325 Chestnut Street, Union, NJ. The event coincides with National Volunteer Week 2024 (April 21st – April 27th) & Alcohol Awareness Month (April).

“The Union County Board of County Commissioners proudly recognized the dedication of Municpal Alliance volunteers who tirelessly promote healthy lifestyles and combat substance misuse within our communities,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “We honored the selflessness, dedication, and compassion embodied by our volunteers, the backbone of our County, who actively create positive change. The statstics from 2023, represent not just numbers, but testimonies to the power of community, the strength of collaboration, and the beauty of selfless service.”

This year the Commissioners, through the County’s Department of Human Services, Division of Individual and Family Support Services, are proud to honor the volunteers and staff who work tirelessly to prevent alcoholism and drug misuse throughout the year. At last night’s annual Volunteer Recognition Ceremony the following were honored:

2024 Municipal Volunteers of the Year
o Plainfield: Detective Jesse McNiell, Jr.
o Roselle Park: Ana Amu Chacon
o Elizabeth: Julian Robles
2024 Union County Municipal Volunteer of the Year
o Elizabeth: Julian Robles

 
Remarks were delivered by Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded, Union County Commissioner and LACADA Liaison James E. Baker, Jr., Debbie-Ann Anderson, Director of Union County Department of Human Services, and Carol Berger, Chair of the Local Advisory Committee on Alcoholism & Drug Abuse (LACADA). The keynote address was delivered by Jill Hall, FY2022 VOY Winner, Union HS Student Assistant Counselor.

By state law, members of the Municipal Alliance are appointed by the governing body (Board of County Commissioners) from a variety of community stakeholders including representation from education, health, law enforcement, faith-based entities, business, civic groups, non-profit organizations, and government officials. Municipal Alliance members develop alcohol and substance prevention and treatment plans to address local priorities. These plans are reviewed by the LACADA and the Commissioner Board. Funding comes from the state’s Governor’s Council on Substance Use Disorder (GCSUD) and the Board of County Commissioners.

“In my role as the Advisory Board liaison, it was my privilege to speak last night and express our appreciation for the extraordinary individuals in our volunteer community,” said Commissioner James Baker, Liaison to the LACADA Advisory Board. “The passion and commitment each one brings are the catalysts for our progress, propelling us forward with each endeavor. Our volunteers are the driving force behind our initiatives, representing the spirit of selflessness and dedication that sets a standard for us all.”

The most current Municipal Alliance data is from FY2023 (FY2024 statistics are not yet available, as the grant ends 6/30/2024):

• 40,279 citizens participated in County and Municipal Alliance activities.
• 52 activities were run by 14 Union County Municipal Alliances.
• 940 community members volunteered on their local Municipal Alliance activities.
• 228 community members have volunteered on their Municipal Alliance committees.
• 7 Community members have volunteered on the Local Advisory Committee on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse (LACADA).
• 6 Community members have volunteered on the County Alliance Steering Sub-committee (CASS).

In 2024, Union County will receive $244,862 from the state for Municipal Alliance activities.

For more information about Union County’s substance misuse services, please contact the Union County Department of Human Services, Division of Individual and Family Support Services, by calling (908) 527-4844 or online at https://ucnj.org/dhs/alliance.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Union County are hosting their 33rd annual Spring Garden Fair and Plant Sale on Sunday, May 19^th from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Demonstration Garden of the Trailside Nature and Science Center, located within the Watchung Reservation at 452 New Providence Road in Mountainside.

“The Spring Garden Fair is an excellent opportunity to support the efforts of our Master Gardener volunteers while refreshing your garden or dinner table with new plants and produce,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Additionally, all proceeds from the fair will be used to fund additional horticultural programs for our community. Join us in supporting this worthy cause while enjoying a fun and informative event.”

The Spring Garden fair showcases a wide variety of vegetable transplants, native and ornamental perennials, annual flowers, and houseplants for sale. Home gardeners can seek advice at the Master Gardener Garden Helpline and Square Foot Gardening demonstration tables. The 4-H Master Tree Stewards will host a children’s activity, and visitors are invited to explore the 24 themed garden beds situated in the Demonstration Garden.

This free event will be held rain or shine on May 19^th. Visitors are advised that all sales are cash only, and are recommended to bring a small wagon to transport their purchases. Service animals are welcome, but pets will not be allowed.

Free parking is available throughout the Trailside Nature and Science Center parking lot and the Scout Camping Area in the Watchung Reservation.

“We are thrilled to announce the return of this event to Trailside for yet another season, and are equally proud of our partnership with the Rutgers Cooperative Extension and the Master Gardeners, who work tirelessly to make our community a more vibrant and beautiful place to live,” said Liaison to the Rutgers Cooperative Extension, Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski.

The Spring Garden Fair and Plant Sale is organized each year by the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Union County, an all-volunteer organization run by the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County and supported in part by the Commissioner Board. They create and run programs for the public including educational workshops and horticulture programs for people with special needs. The centerpiece of the program is the 1.5-acres Union County Demonstration Garden, located adjacent to the Trailside Nature and Science Center in the Watchung Reservation, at 152 New Providence Road in Mountainside.

For more information about the Spring Garden Fair and the Master Gardener Program visit: http://www.mastergardeners-uc.org.

Ballots will be mailed to voters in bright yellow envelopes

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi announces that Vote by Mail Ballots are being mailed to all registered Voters on the permanent vote by mail list in Union County.  The process will take about a week with over 50,000 ballots being sent out. The ballots are sent in bright yellow envelopes to help voters avoid misplacing their ballot.

County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi advises voters that the Democratic primary vote by mail ballot will look dramatically different due to a statewide court order mandating an office-block format for this primary election.  The order prohibits the use of the organizational line for Democrats although slogans are permitted.  The Republican ballot is not affected and will appear as it usually does.

Ms. Rajoppi urges voters to review the ballot carefully before voting.  Voters are urged to contact the Clerk’s office with any concerns or questions.

http://UnionCountyVotes.comVoters can view the updated schedule of mailings on the County Clerk’s elections website, at UnionCountyVotes.com. The schedule is also available on the County Clerk’s free mobile app, UC Votes. Ms. Rajoppi has a “How to Vote a Vote by Mail Ballot” video on the Clerks website to assist voters with the process of filling them out and Mailing the ballots back. Residents can view the video at:  https://unioncountyvotes.com/vote-by-mail-ballot-application/.

Voters can choose several ways to return their Vote by Mail ballot as early as possible before Election Day: by Postal Service (postage is pre-paid), secure drop-off box, or hand delivery to the County Clerk’s offices or Board of Elections office.

The drop-off boxes are available on a 24/7 basis until 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 4, 2024 when the polls close.

The Board of Elections office will be open for voters to hand deliver their vote by mail ballots until 8:00 p.m. on June 4^th. Voters who hand deliver their ballots to this office must sign a registry and present a valid New Jersey driver’s license or other New Jersey identification.

For more details, including the location of offices, drop-off boxes, and polling places, visit UnionCountyVotes.com.

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.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and constituents of United States Representative Donald Payne Jr.

Congressman Payne was a dedicated public servant whose lifelong commitment to social justice and constituent service made a lasting impact on our community and beyond.

Throughout his six terms in Congress, Congressman Payne tirelessly advocated for progressive policies that aimed to improve the lives of all Americans. From his strong support for Medicare for All and the Green New Deal to his efforts to address community gun violence and expand access to affordable childcare and housing, he was a champion for equity and opportunity for all.

Congressman Payne’s leadership was instrumental in securing funding for critical infrastructure projects, including the national replacement of lead pipes that significantly benefited our region. His dedication to clean drinking water and environmental justice exemplified his commitment to ensuring a healthier and safer future for generations to come.

Beyond his legislative accomplishments, Congressman Payne’s personal story of resilience and perseverance inspired many. From humble beginnings in Newark, he rose to become a respected voice in Congress, advocating for those whose voices often went unheard.

As we mourn the loss of Congressman Donald Payne Jr., we honor his legacy of service and commitment to building a more just and equitable society. His passion, integrity, and compassion will be deeply missed, but his impact will continue to be felt in the lives he touched and the causes he championed.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Beatrice, their triplets, Donald III, Jack, and Yvonne, and all who knew and loved him during this difficult time. May he rest in peace.

Union County Board of Elections Administrator Nicole DiRado informs voters that the polling place list and drop box locations for the 2024 Primary Election are available on the UCBOE website at www.ucnj.org/ucboe. The 2024 Primary Election will be held on Tuesday, June 4.

All 24 secure ballot drop boxes will open April 19, 2024 for the 2024 Primary Election and will remain open through the close of the polls on June 4, 2024 at 8:00pm. Drop boxes are under camera surveillance 24/7, available to voters 24/7 and ADA accessible.

For a complete list of polling locations and ballot drop boxes in Union County, please visit the Board of Elections website online at ucnj.org/boe.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites all residents with special needs to participate in “Paint in the Park” on Saturday, May 18^th, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Warinanco Park in Elizabeth.

“I am pleased to announce our “Paint in the Park” event will be taking place in Elizabeth on May 18th. This event has become a source of joy and inspiration for our special needs community, and we are delighted to be able to provide it again,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “I’m excited to see how this change of scenery and location will invigorate and bring forth new ideas from our artists.  I invite you to join us and look forward to seeing you there.”

The “Paint in the Park” event offers a unique opportunity for participants to express their artistic talent amidst the natural scenery of Warinanco Park.

“Artistic expression through painting offers a unique channel to convey ideas and emotions, particularly impactful for individuals with special needs or disabilities who may face exclusion,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council. “Events like ‘Paint in the Park’ are vital in promoting inclusivity and fostering a community spirit that unites us through positive experiences in Union County and I hope all of our residents who are interested take part in this event.”

“Paint in the Park” is hosted by the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs under the Division of Individual and Family Support Services of the Union County Department of Human Services.

The event is free of charge, but registration is required. To register online, visit: ucnj.org/opdsn-reg.

For more information about “Paint in The Park” or other programs or events hosted by the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, visit ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn/ or call 908-527-4781.

Union County residents interested in helping voters at polling locations on Election Day this year have time to apply to become poll workers. Poll workers will earn $300 for the day, starting at 5:15 a.m. through at least 8:15 pm, after the close of the polls. The Primary Election is held on Tuesday, June 4, 2024.

Poll workers perform essential services on Election Day, by ensuring every eligible voter is afforded an opportunity to exercise their constitutional right to vote.  Serving as a poll worker in the 2024 Presidential Election is a great way to be involved in the democratic process!

Any Union County resident who is 16 years or older, can apply to become a poll worker.  Union County residents who are 18 years or older shall be registered to vote.

No experience is needed. New poll workers must attend a mandatory, in-person training session.

Prospective poll workers can apply online or by using a paper application form.

To apply online, visit the Union County Board of Elections at www.ucnj.org/pollworker.

To receive a paper application, call the Board of Elections at 908-527-4236 or email pollworker@ucnj.org.

For more information, follow the Poll Worker Resources link at ucnj.org/ucboe. For all Union County Board of Elections information visit online at ucnj.org/ucboe.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners excitedly announces the Union County Means Business “AI Unleashed,” Networking Breakfast and Panel Discussion event will be held on Tuesday, May 21^st from 8:30 A.M. to 10:00 A.M. at the Kean University STEM Building – Donald Conklin Conference Center, located at 1075 Morris Avenue in Union.  All Union County business owners, managers and entrepreneurs are invited to attend and explore the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence in the realm of business.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for Union County business owners, employers, and professionals to connect with one another, share experiences, and exchange resources,” said Union County Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on how artificial intelligence is transforming the modern workplace and generating optimism in the world of business. We hope to see you there.”

“AI Unleashed” is a networking event and panel discussion that aims to explore the vast potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the realm of business. The event will bring together industry experts, academics, and professionals to delve into the opportunities and challenges presented by AI technologies.

Join us for an insightful experience with a complimentary breakfast. Register now at ucnj.org/ucmb as seats are limited. The event fee is set at $15. Stay tuned for upcoming details on the event, including the list of panelists and the full agenda.

“By collaborating with business owners, experts, and educators in providing our residents with the necessary resources, we can alleviate any fears or doubts that may arise from new technologies, such as AI, in the workforce,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Workforce Development Board. “Our commitment to working together with our residents strengthens this community and inspires us to achieve even greater success.”

Union County Means Business is an initiative of the Union County Board of County Commissioners that aims to support economic growth and business development in Union County, New Jersey. Through various programs and events, Union County Means Business provides resources, information, and opportunities for businesses to thrive and contribute to the local economy. For more information, visit ucnj.org/ucmb.

For more information, please contact Jeff Brooks, Union County Means Business, at 908-659-7412 or by email at Jeffrey.brooks@ucnj.org

In recognition of Autism Acceptance Month, the Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce the launch of a Mobile Communication Board, an initiative from the Office of Open Space, Recreation & Historic Preservation Trust Fund. Developed to promote communication and interaction for non-verbal children, this innovative resource highlights Union County’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.

“Autism Acceptance Month is a key time to raise awareness about autism spectrum disorders and promote acceptance, understanding, and appreciation of individuals on the spectrum,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Increasing our understanding of autism spectrum disorder gives us the opportunity to promote a culture of empathy and inclusivity within our community. The introduction of the Mobile Communication Board reflects our dedication to empowering individuals with communication needs, allowing everyone to fully participate in county-wide events and activities. I cannot wait to see the Mobile Communication Board in operation, providing a platform for individuals who may not always possess the capability to verbalize their thoughts.”

A communication board is a vital tool utilized by individuals with speech and language impairments, including those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. These boards feature symbols, pictures, or words that individuals can point to or touch to convey their thoughts when verbal communication is challenging. For children on the autism spectrum who may experience difficulties with language, a communication board allows them to express themselves effectively, encouraging social engagement and connection.

In 2023, communication boards were installed in Warinanco Park in Roselle, Mattano Park in Elizabeth, Ponderosa Park in Scotch Plains, and Nomahegan Park in Cranford. These permanently installed boards provide consistent accessibility for individuals with communication challenges.  The new Mobile Communication Board can be transported to various county events, ensuring a welcoming and accommodating environment, no matter their communication needs.

“The communication boards we installed last year have been instrumental in creating a universal language for all children to play together – regardless of ability – and we are excited to expand their reach by introducing mobile boards at various county events,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Chairman of the Union County Open Space Trust Fund. “These boards will not only provide opportunities for both nonverbal and verbal children to interact and play together, but they will also cultivate inclusive spaces for our entire resident population. It is a perfect way for our children to engage socially, enriching their educational and recreational experiences, while promoting understanding and compassion within our community.”

For more information about these boards, please contact Victoria Durbin Drake at 908-558-2278 or vdurbin@ucnj.org. To learn more about events and activities for children and adults with special needs, please contact the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities & Special Needs at (908) 527-4807.