Category: Public Info

The Union County Board of County Commissioners, through the Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, is proud to launch its celebration of the 250^th Anniversary of the American Revolution with a series of events that honor the past and engage the community in commemorating this historic milestone.

“As we commemorate 250 years since the American Revolution, we are not just looking back at history—we are celebrating the evolution of our county and our nation,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes Leon. “Through this multiyear initiative, we aim to connect our communities with the stories and significance of this milestone while ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to take part in this momentous occasion.”

As part of this multiyear celebration, Union County has unveiled its official 250^th Anniversary Logo, which will be featured throughout the county on banners, promotional materials, and digital platforms. Additionally, a countywide event calendar has been created, allowing municipalities and authorized organizations to submit their commemorative programs for approval and inclusion. Residents can explore upcoming activities and learn more by visiting www.ucnj.org/250.

To officially launch the commemoration, Union County invites residents to join an Awareness Walk on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at Nomahegan Park in Cranford. This event will recognize the anniversary of the Battle of Lexington and Concord, known as the “Shot Heard ‘Round the World”, which marked the start of the American Revolution. Residents can register now at https://bit.ly/walk250.

The event will feature guest speakers, elected officials, live music, food trucks, and family-friendly activities. The first 100 registrants will receive a free commemorative T-shirt. Admission is $10 for registrants 15 years of age or older; for those younger than 15, admission is free but registration is still required.

Date: Saturday, April 19, 2025

Location: Nomahegan Park, Cranford, NJ

Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

“Union County has an extraordinary Revolutionary War history, and this anniversary gives us the opportunity to engage residents of all ages in remembering our past while shaping our future,” said Union County Commissioner Rebecca Williams, Chair of the Union County 250^th Committee. “Our new event calendar and kickoff walk will set the stage for an exciting and meaningful commemoration.”

Residents, historical organizations, and community groups are encouraged to submit their 250^th Anniversary-related events through the official Union County 250^th Anniversary Event Calendar, available at www.ucnj.org/250.

For more details and updates on the celebration, visit ucnj.org/250 and follow Union County on social media.

Union County Board of Elections Administrator Nicole DiRado informs voters that the polling place list and drop box locations for the 2025 Primary Election are available on the UCBOE website at ucnj.org/boe. The 2025 Primary Election will be held on Tuesday, June 10th, 2025.

All 24 secure ballot drop boxes will open April 18th, 2025 for the 2025 Primary Election and will remain open through the close of the polls on June 10th, 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.

Seats are filling quickly for the Notary Public Training Seminar hosted by Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi on Friday, April 11, 2025, from 8:45am to 11:30am at the John H. Stamler Police Academy, 1776 Raritan Road, in Scotch Plains. The seminar will be led by Union County First Deputy Counsel Moshood Muftau, Esq., who will cover the legal responsibilities of notaries and proper notarization procedures.

“This seminar provides a valuable opportunity for both new and experienced notaries to ensure they are following proper procedures,” said Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi. “We encourage those interested to register as soon as possible before space fills up.”

Space is limited to 50 participants, and only a few spots remain. Registration will close once capacity is reached or by Tuesday, April 1, 2025. A registration fee of $10.00 includes a light breakfast and is required in advance to secure registration. Attendees should note that the Business Casual dress code at the John J. Stamler Police Academy is strictly enforced. Jeans and sneakers are not permitted, and men must wear shirts with collars.

To secure a spot, use the downloadable form on the County Clerk website, www.ucnj.org/county-clerk. For additional information contact Anna Lima at 908-527-4787. 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 Elections reminds residents that Tuesday, May 20th is the deadline for voter registration for the 2025 Primary Election. Election Day will be on Tuesday, June 10th.

“There are multiple options for residents to register to vote in time for the upcoming election,” said Union County Board of Elections Administrator, Nicole DiRado. “Those eligible to vote can apply online, by mail or in person in order to register.”

The Union County Board of Elections office is open Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., to accept Voter Registration Forms. On the May 20th voter registration deadline, the Board of Elections Office will remain open until 9:00 p.m. to receive forms.

Municipal Clerk offices can also provide and accept voter registration forms.

Voter registration forms in both English and Spanish can also be downloaded from the Union County Board of Elections website at ucnj.org/boe/voter-registration-information. Be sure to print and sign the form before returning.

To register online, eligible residents should visit: voter.svrs.nj.gov/register and follow the Online Voter Registration instructions. Your County Commissioner of Registration will notify you if your application is accepted. If it is not accepted, you will be notified on how to complete and/or correct the application.

You can register to vote if:

• You are a United States citizen
• You will be 18 years old by the next election
• You will be a resident of the State and county for 30 days before the election
• You are NOT currently serving a sentence because of a felony conviction
• As of March 17, 2020, persons currently on parole or probation are entitled to vote.

To receive a voter registration form by mail, call the Board of Elections at 908-527-4123.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners would like to invite seniors and caregivers to the upcoming Aging Services Kiosk (ASK) events in April 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 at all dates in April to provide support in Spanish.

“I’m excited to share that through our ASK program, our staff has successfully guided and connected seniors to vital community resources and services for nearly nine years and counting, and we couldn’t be prouder to continue collaborating with the Department of Human Services and continuing this initiative,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes Leon. “I encourage all seniors and caregivers in Union County, especially newcomers, to visit the next event for one-on-one, professional assistance with services such as meal delivery, transportation, and even help with reading and filling out forms. No appointment necessary.”

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 April:

Thursday, April 3rd

Westfield Memorial Library

550 East Broad St., Westfield

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Wednesday, April 9th

Clark Public Library

303 Westfield Avenue, Clark

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Wednesday, April 16th

Hillside Public Library

1409 Liberty Avenue

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Tuesday, April 22nd

Elizabeth Public Library – Main

11 South Broad St., Elizabeth

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Wednesday, April 30th

Garwood Public Library

411 Third Avenue, Garwood

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

“Our Office on Aging remains dedicated to providing our seniors with access to resources designed to support their independence and well-being, ultimately enhancing their quality of life. We encourage you to stop by the nearest location and take advantage of the assistance available to you,” 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.

With the Real ID deadline fast approaching, there is an alternative choice for those who want the convenience of an official ID.  “One option,” Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi said, “is a United States Passport Card, which is a wallet-sized plastic ID that serves as proof of US citizenship and identity, and is valid for ten years.”

The Transportation Security Administration accepts a Passport Card for domestic flights in the United States, she added, although it is not valid for international air travel.  The card is also valid for land

and sea entry from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. Additionally, it grants access to federal buildings.

Starting May 7, 2025, a Real ID or another TSA-approved ID, such as a U.S. Passport or Passport Card, will be required for domestic flights. Standard driver’s licenses will no longer be accepted.

The cost for a Passport Card is $65 for adults and $50 for children under 16.  For renewal of an adult card for an additional ten years, the cost is $30. To apply, individuals must provide an original birth certificate or naturalization certificate, along with a driver’s license and a check. To print an application for a Passport Card or check the necessary items to bring, please visit www.ucnj.org/county-clerk/passport-appointment-checklist.

Appointments are required and can be made at www.ucnj.org/county-clerk/online-appointment-system for service at the Union County Clerk’s offices in Elizabeth, at 2 Broad Street, or at the Colleen Frazer Building in Westfield.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce the 2025 Summer Theater Camp Scholarship Program, in partnership with the Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC) and Theatrical Artist’s Prep. This year’s program will present Beetlejuice Jr., with specialized camps for two age groups: campers ages 8-12 and campers ages 13-18.

“The performing arts provide a foundation for creativity, self-expression, and confidence,” said Union County Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Through this scholarship program, we are giving young performers the chance to develop their talents in a nurturing and professional environment while making unforgettable memories on stage.”

This scholarship program is part of the Commissioner Chair initiatives and is administered through the Union County Open Space, Recreation, and Historic Preservation Trust Fund. The program provides young performers with a high-quality, professional theater experience at no cost, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to participate in the performing arts regardless of financial circumstances.

Participants will receive training in acting, singing, dancing, and stage performance, led by industry professionals. The program promotes a passion for theater while helping students develop teamwork, discipline, and self-assurance.

“Over the past several years, this program has provided young performers across Union County with an incredible opportunity to explore their passion for theater in a professional setting,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Chairman of the Open Space Recreation and Historic Preservation Trust Board. “Once again, we are proud to offer this scholarship, ensuring that students from all backgrounds can participate in this enriching experience at no cost to their families. The Open Space Trust Fund is dedicated to expanding access to the arts, and this initiative continues to make a lasting impact by fostering creativity, confidence, and teamwork in our youth.”

Applications are now open, and the deadline to apply is Monday, April 14, 2025. Interested families can find program details and apply online at www.ucnj.org/summertheater or contact Angelica Cedeno at acedeno@ucnj.org to request a form by mail.

Supporting required documentation can be uploaded to the online application, emailed to Angelica Cedeno at acedeno@ucnj.org or mailed to her attention at The Union County Administration Building, 10 Elizabethtown Plaza, 2nd floor, Elizabeth, New Jersey, 07207.

The Union County Performing Arts Center is supported in part by the Union County Board of County Commissioners. For more information visit www.ucpac.org. For more information about Theatrical Artists Prep visit www.theatricalartistsprep.com.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites nonprofit organizations to attenda free professional development workshop, Planning Accessible Events, on Tuesday, April 8th from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 pm on Zoom. Coordinated and hosted by the Union County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs, the workshop will address planning cultural events in compliance with the ADA, policies and procedures to implement, and communicating respectfully about disability both in messaging and interactions with participants.

“We are excited to offer our nonprofit organizations an opportunity to enhance inclusivity at their events and become even stronger supporters for residents and visitors living with disabilities,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “I welcome all nonprofits to join us in strengthening the legacy of inclusivity and diversity that Union County is known for and register for this virtual seminar today.”

Presenter Emily Ladau, a cultural access consultant and author, will present a primer on the major elements of accessible events and a “fireside chat” interspersed with audience discussion and opportunity for Q&As. Her book, Demystifying Disability: What to Know, What to Say, and How to be an Ally was named one of the best books of 2021 by NPR.

Participants will learn how to plan accessible events — especially cultural events — with regard to specific types of disabilities, to ensure that all people can fully participate. Attendees will be encouraged to join in the discussion during this interactive session.

Organizations that receive funding through Union County’s Local Arts Grant (LAP), History Grant, and HEART (History Education, Arts Reaching Thousands) 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 here.

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, an office of the Department of Parks and Recreation, at culturalinfo@ucnj.org or call 908-558-2550.

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, after the close of the polls. The Primary Election is held on Tuesday, June 10, 2025.

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 2025 Gubernatorial 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.

April 16th is the deadline for voters who plan to change parties before the 2025 Gubernatorial Primary Election on June 10th

The Union County Board of Elections reminds voters who plan to change their party affiliation that they must do so by April 16th, in order to participate in their new party’s Primary Election on June 10th.

“Voters often do not realize that the deadline to change their affiliation is set long before Primary Day,” said Board of Elections Administrator, Nicole DiRado. “If you plan to change parties ahead of the June 10th, 2025 Gubernatorial Primary Election, please be aware that party declaration changes must be received by the Election Board by April 16th.”

Ms. DiRado also wishes to highlight a new law that goes into effect for the first time in this year’s primary elections.

Any unaffiliated voter, who has previously voted in a Primary Election and who has opted to receive a vote by mail ballot for all future elections, or for the June 10th primary election must declare their party by April 16th in order to receive their vote by mail ballot. Only voters who have never voted in a primary election or first time voters can receive a vote by mail ballot after completing a party affiliation form beyond the April 16th party affiliation deadline. 

Ms. DiRado further reminds voters that they can call the Board of Elections at 908-527-4123 to confirm their party affiliation. Voters who conduct business with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission Office often inadvertently change their party affiliation during their transaction and may not have even noticed it.

Party Affiliation changes are easy and can be done in several ways. Voters can:

• Update their party online at https://voter.svrs.nj.gov/register;
• Request that a Party Declaration Form be mailed to them by calling 908-527-4123 or emailing ucboe@ucnj.org;
• Request a form through the Union County Votes App; or
• Download a form at https://nj.gov/state/elections/assets/pdf/forms-party-affiliation/party-affiliation-form.pdf for an English form
• To download a form in Spanish, use https://nj.gov/state/elections/assets/pdf/forms-party-affiliation/party-affiliation-form-spanish.pdf

Calling the Election Board is the best way for voters to ensure they are ready to vote for their party’s candidates in the June 10th primary.

The April 16th deadline does not apply to voters who are currently unaffiliated. They may declare their party at the polls during early voting from June 3 – June 8, 2025, or on June 10th, Election Day.

For all Union County Board of Elections information, please visit www.ucnj.org/ucboe or call 908-527-4123.