Category: Public Info

The Union County Board of County Commissioners proudly announces that Union County has been recognized as the fastest-growing county in New Jersey, according to the latest U.S. Census data. From July 1, 2023, to July 1, 2024, Union County’s population grew by 2.08%, adding 12,080 residents and bringing the total population to 594,160.

“Union County is leading the way, and this latest Census data is proof that our approach is working,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Through responsible budgeting, investments in infrastructure, and a strong commitment to shared services, we have built a county that fosters economic opportunity, quality public services, and an excellent quality of life for our residents.”

This reflects Union County’s sound fiscal management, strategic investments, and robust shared services model, which continue to make the county an attractive place to live, work, and do business. The County has also consistently maintained the highest possible credit rating from Moody’s Investors Service, reinforcing its strong financial health and ability to invest in critical services without burdening taxpayers.

A key factor in Union County’s success has been its expansive shared services program, which helps municipalities consolidate services, cut costs, and improve efficiency. The Union County Regional Communications Dispatch Center provides 9-1-1 services for multiple municipalities, ensuring rapid response times while saving millions in local operating costs. The Union County Print Shop offers affordable printing for municipal offices and schools, reducing reliance on outside vendors, while the shared equipment program gives towns access to costly public works machinery like paving machines, tree removal trucks, and snowplows.

Union County also leads in sustainability and environmental shared services, helping municipalities manage waste efficiently. The County’s textile recycling program provides collection bins for clothing, shoes, and household fabrics, keeping millions of pounds out of landfills. Additionally, its hazardous waste and electronics recycling events allow towns to safely dispose of old TVs, batteries, and chemical waste without running their own programs.

“Union County’s rapid population growth is more than just a statistic—it’s a testament to the strength of our communities and the quality of life we offer,” said Ed Oatman, County Manager. “People are choosing to live and work here because of our smart planning, strong partnerships, and commitment to efficiency. Every new resident contributes to our economy and vibrancy, and through strategic investments in infrastructure, shared services, and public safety, we’re ensuring that this growth benefits all.”

Beyond shared services, the County’s infrastructure and public safety partnerships provide grants and technical assistance for road and bridge improvements, while bulk purchasing programs for emergency response equipment and road salt help municipalities save taxpayer dollars. Meanwhile, countywide public health initiatives expand access to vaccinations and mental health services for residents.

“Union County’s continued growth reflects our strong fiscal stewardship,” said Commissioner Rebecca Williams, Chair of the Fiscal Committee. “Through responsible budgeting and smart investments, we have ensured that our county remains economically strong, while still providing essential services and keeping taxes stable.”

Union County remains dedicated to investing in infrastructure, public safety, workforce development, and social services to ensure that as the population grows, resources remain available to support all residents. The Union County Board of County Commissioners remains committed to building on this success and continuing to implement policies that drive growth and prosperity across the region. For more information about Union County’s initiatives and services, visit www.ucnj.org

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents to join the Autism Acceptance Celebration & Resource Fair on Saturday, April 5^th from 10:00am to 12:00pm on Turf Field in Warinanco Park in Roselle. In case of inclement weather, a rain date has been scheduled for Saturday, April 12, 2025.

“Union County is committed to ensuring that all residents, regardless of ability, feel supported and included,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “This celebration is a wonderful opportunity for families and friends to come together, enjoy a fun-filled day, and increase awareness about autism. We are excited to collaborate with some outstanding organizations to create an inclusive and welcoming event where everyone feels valued.”

This year’s superhero-themed celebration will feature a variety of exciting activities, including a live DJ, games, a touch-a-truck experience, and light refreshments. Children are encouraged to dress up as their favorite superheroes as the community comes together to celebrate and promote acceptance for individuals with autism. While this is a free outdoor event, pre-registration is required by visiting www.ucnj.org/opdsn-reg or calling 908-527-4781.

“Elizabeth Public Schools deeply values the years of support from the Union County Board of County Commissioners, impacting our students and the entire Elizabeth community,” said Superintendent Dr. Olga Hugelmeyer. “It’s a privilege to work alongside the County Commissioners, the Union County Department of Human Services, Prevention Links, and the Elizabeth Parent Support Group to create this special event, a celebration of the unique spirit of our youth with autism. We are dedicated to supporting them and their families on a daily basis to ensure they feel loved, valued, and empowered to succeed.”

The 2025 Autism Acceptance Celebration is brought to you by the Union County Board of County Commissioners, the Department of Human Services through the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, and in collaboration with the Union County Departments of Parks and Recreation, Prevention Links, the Elizabeth Parent Support Group, Elizabeth Public Schools and its Division of Special Services, and Elizabeth Fire & EMS.

For more information about the Autism Acceptance Celebration or other events and programs hosted by the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, call 908-527-4781 or visit https://www.ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn/.

The Union County Board of Elections advises Westfield residents that Tuesday, March 25th is the deadline for voter registration for the April 15th Annual School Board Election. The election will take place from 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Voting will take place at the regular polling locations, which can be found on the Election Board website at www.ucnj.org/ucboe or by calling the Election Board at 908-527-4123.

The following secure ballot drop boxes for the Westfield Annual School Board Election will open on March 28th, 2025 for voters wishing to return their mail-in ballot using the drop box:

• Fraser Building – 300 North Avenue East, Westfield
• Union County Administration Building – 10 Elizabethtown Plaza, Elizabeth
• Union County Board of Elections – 271 North Broad Street, Elizabeth

For more information on the Annual School Board Election and all things related to the Union County Board of Elections, please visit www.ucnj.org/ucboe or call 908-527-4123.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce the launch of the 2024 UC STEP Civic Engagement Project, “Wish Upon a Star: Make a Kid’s Dream Come True,” developed by students at the annual UC STEP (Union County Student Training and Enrichment Program) Summit. The initiative, created by this year’s winning team, Team Lavender, aims to bring hope and essential resources to children in foster care by supporting Child Focus’ Open Door Store in Elizabeth.

“UC STEP continues to be a shining example of what young leaders can accomplish when given the opportunity,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “This year’s project is a testament to their creativity, empathy, and dedication to making a real difference. By coming together to support children in foster care, these students are not just learning about civic engagement—they are putting it into action in the most meaningful way possible. I commend Team Lavender and all participating schools for stepping up to help ensure that every foster child in Union County feels valued and supported.”

The project, which runs through April 12, 2025, encourages students across Union County to donate essential items that will help meet the needs of children in foster care. The Open Door Store provides clothing, toiletries, school supplies, and even diapers to children who often enter the foster system with little to no belongings. In addition to collecting donations, the initiative also includes a community awareness component, allowing schools to participate by hosting listening sessions to educate and inspire local communities about the challenges foster children face and how residents can help.

“We are honored to be part of this inspiring initiative stemming from last year’s UC STEP Summit. Every donation directly supports children in Union County foster care through our Open Door Store (ODS) in Elizabeth. Many enter foster care with little to no belongings, and ODS provides essentials like clothing, toiletries, school supplies, and even diapers to our youngest — helping all feel confident and comfortable,” said Erica Fischer-Kaslander, Child Focus Executive Director. “The Union County Student Training and Enrichment Program is a powerful way to foster leadership, personal growth, and civic engagement. For us at Child Focus, it’s especially meaningful that young people are helping young people. Future leaders who value community service are being shaped, and we are not only thrilled but grateful to participate.”

Formerly known as CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), Child Focus rebranded to better reflect its mission of advocating for the safety, well-being, and permanency of children who have experienced abuse or neglect. While the name has changed, the organization’s dedication to children in foster care remains strong.

For more information or to get involved, 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 is pleased to announce that 44 organizations will receive funding through the 2025 Union County Local Arts Grant Program. These re-grants, totaling of $300,000, are a portion of the Local Arts Program grant of $434,400 awarded to the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.

“Through this funding, we continue our commitment to ensuring that the arts remain accessible and flourishing throughout Union County,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “The arts bring creativity and cultural enrichment to our communities, and we are proud to support the incredible organizations that make these experiences possible.”

Local Arts Program funds for 2025 were awarded to the following organizations:

• ACP Arts Ink, $7,600 – General Operating Support
• Afternoon Music, $4,800 – presenting a Concert Series at Beacon Unitarian Universalist Church in Summit
• Borough of Mountainside, $2,000 – presenting Art & Dance Classes for Seniors
• Catalyst Theatre Company Productions, $10,800 – General Operating Support
• CDC Theater, $13,200 – General Operating Support
• Chinese American Music Ensemble, $6,000 – General Operating Support
• Choral Art Society of New Jersey, $11,300 – General Operating Support
• City of Linden, $3,700 – presenting the Linden Art & Entertainment Festival
• City of Rahway, Dept. of Recreation and Senior Services, $3,600 – presenting Seasonal Art Classes and Summer Art Workshops
• Community Access Unlimited, $4,600 – presenting a program of Art Appreciation and Expression for Individuals with Disabilities
• Concord Singers, $8,100 – General Operating Support
• Continuo Arts Foundation, $11,500 – General Operating Support
• Cranford Public Library, $3,400 – presenting a Community Darkroom and a Series of Readings of Original Plays
• Dreamhouse Theater Company, $3,400 – presenting a Theater Production of “The Amen Corner” by James Baldwin
• duCret School of the Arts, $13,300 – General Operating Support
• Elizabeth Youth Theater Ensemble, $12,100 – General Operating Support
• Friends of Summit Public Art, $8,600 – General Operating Support
• Housing with Hope Foundation, $4,200 – presenting Golden Arts Program, Art Classes for Low-income Seniors
• Imperial Brass, $3,500 – General Operating Support
• JCC of Central NJ, $4,200 – presenting an International Jewish Film Festival
• Kenilworth Library, $4,000 – presenting Cultural Celebrations from Around the World
• Life Drawing Studio Group, $11,100 – General Operating Support
• Linden Free Public Library, $2,400 – presenting Multi-Disciplinary Programs for Children and Families
• Mostly Music, $7,400 – General Operating Support
• NJ Workshop for the Arts, $12,000 – General Operating Support
• Plainfield Senior Citizens Center, $3,800 – presenting Multi-Disciplinary Art Classes for Plainfield Seniors
• Plainfield Symphony Society, $13,200 – General Operating Support
• Roselle Park Library, $2,200 – presenting a Concert Series with diverse musical genres
• Society of Musical Arts, $3,100 – presenting a Series of Free Classical Concerts
• Steeple Concerts at St. Paul’s, $3,900 – presenting Masterworks at St. Paul’s, Season Finale of the Steeple Concerts Series
• Summit Chorale, Inc., $11,200 – General Operating Support
• Summit Public Library, $3,500 – presenting Music & Theater Performances at the Library
• Summit Symphony, $9,900 – General Operating Support
• The August Symphony, $3,700 – presenting August Symphony Orchestra’s Summer Concert
• The Celebration Singers, $11,700 – General Operating Support
• The Community Players of Westfield, $12,600 – General Operating Support
• The Kings’s Daughters Day School, $4,300 – presenting a Music & Movement Program for children
• The Playhouse Association (Summit Playhouse), $11,200 – General Operating Support
• The Theater Project, $12,300 – General Operating Support
• Township of Cranford, $3,100 – Downtown Cranford’s Senior Citizen Film Series
• Township of Union, $3,600 – presenting “The Art of U: U Parade Project,” a public art project for downtown Union
• Trinitas Foundation, $3,800 – presenting Art Classes for At-Risk Teens with a Pop-Up Art Show
• Westfield Community Band, $2,700 – General Operating Support
• YWCA of Union County, $3,400 – providing Art Classes for survivors of domestic violence

“The Commissioners are proud of the programming supported by the Local Arts Grants, which provide access to a broad range of arts experiences in every discipline. I urge all our residents take advantage of the opportunity to go and see high-quality art and performances in our communities,” said Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, Liaison to the Union County Cultural and Heritage Programs Advisory Board.

The Local Arts Program 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 information about Union County grants supporting arts programs or history programs, organizations can contact the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs at email culturalinfo@ucjnj.org or (908) 558-2550. NJ Relay users dial 711.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce the launch of the 2025 Plant a Seed Program Grants, supporting schools and community organizations in expanding garden-based education and sustainability initiatives. This year, in addition to the Kids Dig In! School Garden Grant and the Union County Means Green Community Garden Grant, Union County is introducing the new Fruitful Futures Tree Grant—an initiative that will provide fruit trees to eligible schools, nonprofit organizations, and municipal entities.

“We are happy to continue supporting school and community gardens through our Plant a Seed Program, and even more excited to introduce the Fruitful Futures Tree Grant,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes Leon. “This new initiative will create a lasting impact, providing both an educational resource and a sustainable food source for years to come. I want to thank Commissioner Granados for his leadership in creating and now expanding this program, ensuring that our communities continue to have access to meaningful, hands-on sustainability projects.”

Administered through the Union County Open Space, Recreation & Historic Preservation Trust Fund, these grants give schools and community partners the opportunity to expand existing gardens or start new ones, creating hands-on learning experiences in agriculture, sustainability, and nutrition.

2025 Grant Opportunities

• Kids Dig In! School Garden Grant – Available to K-12 schools, this grant provides funding to create or expand school gardens, offering students hands-on opportunities to learn about healthy eating, environmental stewardship, and sustainability.
• Union County Means Green Community Garden Grant – Open to K-12 schools and community partners, this grant supports the development of community gardens that increase access to fresh produce and promote environmental awareness.
• NEW: Fruitful Futures Tree Grant – Available to K-12 schools, nonprofit organizations, and municipal entities, this grant provides a fruit tree to be planted on-site, serving as a long-term reminder of the importance of conservation and providing a sustainable food source. This grant is limited in supply and will be awarded based on need, scope, population served, and readiness to proceed.

“Since we first launched the Plant a Seed Program, it has flourished, helping to create or enhance more than 159 school and community gardens across Union County,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Chairman of the Union County Open Space Trust Fund. “These programs have introduced students and residents to hands-on sustainability education, increased access to fresh produce, and strengthened community engagement. As we continue to prioritize environmental responsibility, we are expanding this initiative to include the Fruitful Futures Tree Grant, ensuring that our communities not only grow their own food but also benefit from long-term, sustainable resources for years to come.”

Applications for all three grants are now open. Interested schools and organizations can learn more and apply at ucnj.org/plant-a-seed-garden-grants. The deadline for applications is April 7, 2025.

For questions or additional details, please contact Angelica Cedenoat 908-558-2279 or via email at acedeno@ucnj.org.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that the 2025 seasonal recycling events will begin this March. The program will kick off with a “Weekend of Shredding,” the first shredding events of the season, taking place on Saturday, March 29th and Sunday, March 30th from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the West Hall parking lot (Police Academy) of the Union County VoTech Campus, located at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains.

“With Spring right around the corner, we are thrilled to bring back our popular seasonal recycling events. These initiatives not only help our residents refresh and declutter their living spaces, but they also play a vital role in our shared recycling efforts, conserving valuable resources, and protecting our environment,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Join us at the next recycling event in your area, and help make Union County a cleaner and safer space for everyone to enjoy.”

Union County’s free paper shredding events take place each year from March through October, bringing mobile paper shredding trucks to various locations throughout the County. Any Union County resident, regardless of their hometown, can take their personal documents to be shredded at any of these events and have them shredded onsite.

The shredding events are intended for personal and sensitive documents only. Residents can recycle magazines, junk mail, and other papers through their municipal recycling program. Please remove all bindings, large plastic or metal clips, and other paraphernalia prior to the event (staples are allowed). Pre-shredded, damp, or wet paper will not be accepted.

In addition to paper shredding, Union County’s additional seasonal recycling programs, Scrap Metal Recycling and Hazardous Waste Disposal, will resume this Spring.

Union County’s Scrap Metal events provide a space where residents can recycle various metal items, including refrigerators (with doors removed), metal cabinets, appliances, bicycles, aluminum scrap, and even air conditioners. The scrap metal items are collected at two locations on the first Thursday and third Saturday of the month, from April to November. The first scrap metal events of the season will take place on Thursday, April 3rd & Saturday, April 19th, from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. On these dates, residents may dispose of unwanted scrap metal items at either of our two convenient locations:

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

Union County’s first Household Hazardous Waste event of the season will take place on Saturday, April 26th from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and will be held at UCNJ, Union College of Union County, NJ, parking lots 5A and 5B, located at 1033 Springfield Avenue in Cranford. At these events, residents can bring a variety of household chemicals for proper recycling or disposal. These items include, but are not limited to, oil based finishes, motor oil, gasoline, propane tanks, pool chemicals, pesticides, fluorescent lightbulbs, and more. Latex (water-based) paint (wall paint) will not be accepted. Residents are advised to dry latex paint out at home using commercial paint hardener, sand, kitty litter, or sawdust. Once hardened, it can be thrown in your household trash.

All Union County recycling events are contact-free and drive-up only.  Residents must remain in their cars while staff unloads materials from their trunks.

For a complete schedule and more information on all recycling programs hosted by Union County, please visit ucnj.org/recycle/ or call the Union County Recycling Hotline at 908-654-9889. Residents may also contact their municipal recycling coordinator for more details about recycling in their community. The free Recycle Coach mobile app provides a handy way to find out what items are included in curbside recycling programs and drop-off sites in Union County. The app provides up-to-date information on both countywide and local recycling programs. Quick links to all environmental programs and activities hosted by Union County are available at The Green Connection, ucnj.org/green-connection.

On February 12, 2025, Union County Police Officers Rijos and Pizzarelli arrested Pereire DeJesus for producing fraudulent motor vehicle insurance (2C:21-2.3b) and possessing fraudulent motor vehicle insurance (2C:21-2.3c) after he attempted to retrieve his impounded vehicle from Police Headquarters in Westfield, NJ.

“This arrest demonstrates the diligence of our Union County Police Officers in ensuring the integrity of our roads and preventing fraudulent activities that put our residents at risk,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes Leon. “We commend the officers for their professionalism and commitment to public safety.”

Mr. DeJesus’ vehicle had been towed following a traffic stop on Liberty Avenue in Hillside, NJ, during which officers issued seven traffic summonses for multiple motor vehicle violations involving both the vehicle and its operator.

Captain John da Silva, Officer in Charge of the Union County Police Department, emphasized the department’s efforts to maintain accountability. “Insurance fraud not only undermines public safety but also increases costs for law-abiding residents. Our officers remain vigilant in detecting and addressing these offenses to keep our roads safe,” he said.

Following his arrest and processing, Mr. DeJesus was given a court date and released.

For more information, please contact the Union County Police Department at (908) 654-9800.

After an extensive investigation by the Union County Police Investigations Division, two juveniles from Plainfield have been charged in connection with the October 23, 2024, arson of the Tëmike Park Playground in Plainfield, NJ.

“Acts of vandalism like this not only destroy public spaces but also impact the children and families who rely on them,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes Leon. “I want to thank our Union County Police Department for their persistence in bringing those responsible to justice.”

On the night of October 23, 2024, Union County Police received 911 calls reporting a fire engulfing the playground. Fire crews responded quickly to extinguish the blaze, which was later determined to have been intentionally set, causing significant damage to the structure.

Through a thorough investigation, detectives identified and arrested two juvenile male suspects, aged 16 and 17. Both were charged with second-degree arson (2C:17-1B(2)) and criminal mischief (2C:17-3A(1)). The juveniles were released to their guardians pending a court appearance.

“Public parks are essential to our neighborhoods, and crimes like these will not be tolerated,” said Captain John da Silva, Officer in Charge of the Union County Police Department. “Our detectives worked diligently to identify the suspects, ensuring accountability and safeguarding our shared spaces.”

For more information, please contact the Union County Police Department at (908) 654-9800.

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi will host a notary public training seminar at the John H. Stamler Police Academy, at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains on Friday, April 11, 2025 from 8:45am to 11:30am. The featured speaker will be Union County First Deputy Counsel Moshood Muftau, Esq.

Space is limited to the first 50 registrants. The registration deadline is Tuesday, April 1, 2025 or until the openings are filled. 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.

“This Notary Training Seminar represents an opportunity for individuals to acquire valuable skills and expertise in notary services,” said County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi. “Our commitment to empowering our residents with the tools they need to contribute effectively is strong, and we invite you to be a part of this educational journey.”

Ms. Joanne Rajoppi will make opening remarks and review the application process. Mr. Muftau will speak about the legal aspects of the functions of notaries public.

The seminar will cover the Notary Public application process and new legal requirements and responsibilities. It will also cover the steps for proper notarization and other topics, including how to complete a notary journal and how to examine identification documents.

To register, 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.