Category: Public Info

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites all residents to participate in the upcoming free scrap metal recycling drop-off events on Thursday, October 3rd, and Saturday, October 19th, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The scrap metal disposal events will take place at two collection sites in Union County and are held twice a month from April to November.

“Our scrap metal recycling events are conveniently held to make it easy for residents to contribute to waste reduction, energy conservation, and giving new life to unwanted or unused items,” said Union County Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “This October, we are asking residents to participate in our recycling efforts by dropping off any scrap metal at the nearest designated location.”

Union County scrap metal recycling drop-off will be accepted on October 3rd and October 19th between 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at two drop-off centers:

• Cranford: Emergency Services Building, 151 Kenilworth Boulevard, Kenilworth
• Rahway: Rahway River Park (follow Park Drive, Rahway off St. Georges Avenue to service yard across from swimming pool)

Residents from any Union County municipality can bring scrap metal to either of these sites. Final scrap metal recycling events for the 2024 season will be held in November, on Thursday, November 7^th, and Saturday, November 16^th. To receive schedule alerts, and to stay up to date with Union County and local recycling programs, residents are invited to download the free Recycle Coach mobile app. 

Residents must remain in their vehicle at all times. Materials should be placed in trunk, cargo area, or truck bed and be easily accessible to staff to remove from vehicle.

Acceptable items for recycling include unwanted pots and pans, air conditioners, aluminum scrap, aluminum siding, bicycles, brass, copper, dishwashers, electric fans, fencing (chair/wire), freezers (doors must be off, by law), refrigerators (door must be off by law) stoves, tire rims, toasters, gutters, irons, lawn furniture, metal cabinets, metal sheds, microwaves, railings, washers and dryers, window frames (no glass), wire hangers and drained lawnmowers.

For more information, upcoming dates and directions to all Union County recycling programs and locations, visit the Bureau of Recycling and Planning website at ucnj.org/recycle or call the Union County Recycling Hotline at 908-654-9889.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is excited to announce an inclusive Fall Fest for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs on Sunday, October 6th, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Warinanco Sport Center, located at 1 Park Drive in Roselle.

“We are excited to host the inclusive Fall Fest for our community,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “This event is always a wonderful opportunity for individuals with disabilities and special needs to connect and have fun. We are proud to offer a space where everyone can feel welcome and valued.”

This year’s Fall Fest will feature a variety of engaging activities, including line dancing instruction, games, arts and crafts, and a photo booth. Attendees can also enjoy light refreshments while participating in these inclusive activities. Admission to the Fall Fest is free, but registration is required online at ucnj.org/opdsn-reg.

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

The Union County Board of County Commissioners cordially invites all military veterans, active duty personnel and veteran’s service providers to attend a free Networking Mixer on Wednesday, October 16^th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at The Tavern, located inside the Galloping Hill Golf Course, 3 Golf Drive in Kenilworth.

“We are excited to host our Networking Mixer for all military personnel living in Union County,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “One of the several ways we honor the sacrifices they have made is by creating programs and opportunities for them to foster connections, pursue education goals, find employment, and, most importantly, feel valued and supported by the community they so bravely served.”

The Networking Mixer offers a valuable opportunity for veterans and military personnel, to connect to resources and establish relationships within the community. The event will feature complimentary food and a cash bar.

Attendance at the mixer is free, but pre-registration is required. To register, please visit ucnj.org/veterans.

“I want to thank the Office of Veteran Services for their dedication in supporting the courageous men and women who have selflessly served this country. Their commitment to the well-being of our veterans and military personnel makes these events not only possible, but successful,” said Union County Commissioner Alexander Mirabella, Liaison to the Veteran Affairs Committee. “I invite all Union County veterans and military personnel to join us on October 16th. It will be a great opportunity to explore new possibilities and connect with fellow comrades in a relaxed and beautiful setting.”

For more information on this event, or to learn about other programs through The Office of Veteran Services, please call Geoff Smith with the Office of Veteran Services at 908-527-4918 or email at W.Geoff.Smith@ucnj.org.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners cordially invites all military veterans, active duty personnel and veteran’s service providers to attend a free Networking Mixer on Wednesday, October 16^th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at The Tavern, located inside the Galloping Hill Golf Course, 3 Golf Drive in Kenilworth.

“We are excited to host our Networking Mixer for all military personnel living in Union County,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “One of the several ways we honor the sacrifices they have made is by creating programs and opportunities for them to foster connections, pursue education goals, find employment, and, most importantly, feel valued and supported by the community they so bravely served.”

The Networking Mixer offers a valuable opportunity for veterans and military personnel, to connect to resources and establish relationships within the community. The event will feature complimentary food and a cash bar.

Attendance at the mixer is free, but pre-registration is required. To register, please visit ucnj.org/veterans.

“I want to thank the Office of Veteran Services for their dedication in supporting the courageous men and women who have selflessly served this country. Their commitment to the well-being of our veterans and military personnel makes these events not only possible, but successful,” said Union County Commissioner Alexander Mirabella, Liaison to the Veteran Affairs Committee. “I invite all Union County veterans and military personnel to join us on October 16th. It will be a great opportunity to explore new possibilities and connect with fellow comrades in a relaxed and beautiful setting.”

For more information on this event, or to learn about other programs through The Office of Veteran Services, please call Geoff Smith with the Office of Veteran Services at 908-527-4918 or email at W.Geoff.Smith@ucnj.org.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners, in collaboration with the American Job Center, is pleased to announce that a Job Fair will be held on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at the Plainfield Performing Arts Center, located at 724 Park Avenue in Plainfield.

“We are committed to helping residents achieve their career goals by providing access to valuable opportunities like this job fair,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “We are proud to support our community’s growth by connecting residents with employers. If you or someone you know is seeking employment or exploring new career opportunities, we encourage you to attend.”

This free event is open to all Union County residents and will feature employers from various industries offering full-time, part-time, entry-level positions, and opportunities for career growth.

Participating employers include the Council for Airport Opportunity (CAO), Financial Resources Credit Union, InstaCare Home, FedEx, NYC Department of Corrections, The New Jersey Maritime Pilot and Docking Pilot Commission, U.S. Marshal, Valley Bank, Solar Pros, Gracious Home Care, ABM, Home Instead, Jefferson Park Ministries, Union County Savings Bank, Mary Kay.

Attendees will also have access to career resources such as resume reviews and information on employment assistance programs through the American Job Center.

“Our goal is to provide every resident with the resources they need to succeed in today’s job market,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Workforce Development Board. “This job fair is just one of the many ways we are helping to build a stronger, more resilient workforce in Union County, creating opportunities that lead to long-term success.”

The Job Fair will take place from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. While registration is not required, it is highly encouraged at www.ucnj.org/dhs/job-fairs/. Attendees are encouraged to bring multiple copies of their resumes and dress professionally.

For employers who wish to participate in the Job Fair, please call Carolina Marin at (908) 527-4373 or email ajcbusinessteam@ucnj.org.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners encourages seniors and caregivers to visit their local Aging Services Kiosk (ASK) this October. These services provide an opportunity for attendees to meet with experienced professionals who can offer expert guidance on senior programs and resources and help with form completion. Bilingual staff will be available at all dates in October to provide support in Spanish.

“Our senior residents are the backbone of our families and the foundation of this country; they deserve nothing less than our steadfast support. This initiative is important to me, as it symbolizes our dedication to ensuring the health and happiness of our senior community as they journey through the later stages of life,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “I encourage seniors, caregivers, and family members to visit our Aging Services Kiosk this October and learn about the resources that are available and could have a significant impact on your or your loved one’s life.”

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 October:

Wednesday, October 9^th

Garwood Public Library

411 Third Avenue, Garwood

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Tuesday, October 15^th

Cranford Public Library

224 Walnut Avenue, Cranford

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Thursday, October 17^th

Elizabeth Public Library – Main

11 South Broad St., Elizabeth

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Wednesday, October 23^rd

Westfield Memorial Library

550 East Broad St., Westfield

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Thursday, October 31st

Hillside Library

1409 Liberty Avenue, Hillside

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

“We are excited to share that bilingual staff will be available at all of our ‘ASK’ events throughout October,” said Union County Commissioner Vice-Chairwoman Lourdes Leon, Liaison to the Advisory Council on Aging. “We recognize that language barriers prevent some members of our senior community from seeking assistance that would benefit them. We want to express our gratitude to the Division on Aging for their efforts in addressing these challenges and ensuring that this service is accessible to a wider range of residents.”

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.

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi advises residents that Vote-by-Mail ballots for the 2024 General Election are now being mailed out to voters who have opted to receive their ballots automatically. Due to the significant volume of mail, the ballots are being sent in batches over the next several days, organized by town.

“Your participation in this election is critical. We urge residents to promptly open their received ballots and cast their votes immediately to prevent the possibility of misplacing or mistakenly discarding the ballot,” said Ms. Rajoppi.

To ensure ballots are not mistaken for junk mail, they are being mailed in bright yellow envelopes with “OFFICIAL MAIL-IN BALLOT/BOLETA OFICIAL POR CORREO” printed in bold, black lettering to the right of the addressee window.

Batches of Vote-by-Mail ballots were mailed starting on September 20th to voters in Berkeley Heights, followed by Clark on the 21st, Cranford, Fanwood and Garwood on the 23rd, and Elizabeth on the 24th. To view the Vote-by-Mail ballot mailing status of your town, visit unioncountyvotes.com.

Voters who have opted to receive their Vote-by-Mail ballots automatically can expect to receive their ballots within eight days of mailing. Each ballot includes pre-paid return postage and detailed instructions. After filling out the ballot, voters should place it in the return envelope and check to see that their home address appears in the see-through window.

For instructions on how to complete mail-in ballots, please visit unioncountyvotes.com.

Other Union County voters who wish to use a Vote-By-Mail ballot can request one by using the downloadable application form on the County Clerk’s elections website, unioncountyvotes.com, or by contacting the Elections Division at 908-527-4996 or ucvote@ucnj.org.

Voters who choose to vote in person can come to their polling place on Election Day, Tuesday, November 5^th. To look up an Election Day polling place, visit unioncountyvotes.com/where-do-i-vote.

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 information on 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 is proud to announce a Hiring Event for US Pharma Lab on Thursday, September 26^th from 12:00pm-2:00pm at Warinanco Sports Center, located at 1 Park Drive in Roselle.

“This year has seen several successful job fairs in Union County, connecting hundreds of job seekers with major employers,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “These events have proven to be a great resource for our community, helping people find rewarding careers and supporting both small local and larger regional companies.”

US Pharma Lab is a leader in the pharmaceutical industry, specializing in developing drug products to treat various diseases. They focus on early-stage research to help create and improve new treatments.  Positions are available for project coordinators, and assistant managers, as well as roles in packaging, maintenance, and other essential departments.

“This hiring event offers an opportunity for our county residents to find employment where their skills can truly make a difference,” said Union County Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Workforce Development Board. “Joining a cutting-edge company in this industry means making a positive impact on the community’s health and well-being while advancing in a fulfilling career.”

Interested applicants can register for the hiring event online at www.ucnj.org/dhs/job-fairs/. Employers looking to join this hiring event can contact Carolina Marin at (908) 527-4373 or email ajcbusinessteam@ucnj.org.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites nonprofit organizations to attenda free professional development workshop, AI for Nonprofits, on Tuesday, October 8, from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. on Zoom. The workshop is coordinated and hosted by the Union County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs.

“Nonprofit organizations play a vital role in our society by providing many services. It is crucial for these organizations to stay as informed and up-to-date as possible,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “By participating in this free workshop, nonprofit entities can gain valuable insights and tools to run their organizations more efficiently, ultimately leading to a greater positive impact on our community.”

Participants will learn how to innovate, streamline processes, and achieve results using AI technology. The session will cover the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and its importance, while also demystifying AI, giving an understanding of current trends and applications to use. Attendees can leave the workshop already using AI.

Presenter Scott Meyer, an entrepreneur and educator who co-founded Chipp, will explore cases of nonprofits using AI to attain efficiencies and remarkable outcomes. The session includes guided step-by-step exercises to start using AI as a tool in daily tasks.

Organizations that receive funding through Union County’s Local Arts Grant (LAP), History Grant, and HEART Grant are encouraged to attend. Other non-profit organizations based in New Jersey are also welcome.

Organizations wanting to attend this free workshop can register now by visiting https://ucnj.org/ai-zoom.

This workshop is made possible by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.

For more information, contact the Union County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs, a division of the Department of Parks and Recreation, at msturm@ucnj.org or 908-558-2550.