Category: Public Info

The Union County Board of Commissioners invites residents, their friends and families to celebrate Black History Month with a series of cultural and historical events taking place throughout the month of February. These programs honor the lasting contributions of Black leaders, artists, activists, and community members, both locally and nationally.

“Black History Month is a time for our community to honor the strength and resilience of Black Americans who fought injustice and created lasting change,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “Their history shaped powerful cultural and artistic contributions that continue to influence Union County and inspire future generations. We invite residents to join us throughout February for events celebrating this legacy and its impact on our community and country.”

The month-long celebration will begin with a Black History Month Flag Raising Ceremony on Monday, February 2 at 1:00pm in the Union County Courthouse Rotunda, at 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth. This ceremony will officially mark the start of the county’s observance of Black History Month.

On Thursday, February 19, the County will present a free public performance of “Madame Selika 1878: Songbird in the White House,” a re-creation commemorating the historic 1878 White House concert by soprano Marie Selika Williams, who performed at the recommendation of Frederick Douglass for President Rutherford B. Hayes. Madame Selika and her husband, Samson Williams, were the first free people of color to perform at the White House. This event, starting at 7:00pm at the Union County Performing Arts Center’s Hamilton Stage in Rahway, is free to attend, but registration is required on ucnj.org/bhm.

Later in the month, on Friday, February 27, the Union County Board of County Commissioners will present the 2026 Chester Holmes Humanitarian Award to Shawn McClain, president of the Elizabeth branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). Immediately following the ceremony, UCPAC will host a performance of Stick Fly, a play written by Lydia R. Diamond that explores the dynamics of an African American family as they navigate issues of race, class, and identity in America. A limited amount of tickets are available on www.ucpac.org/event/stick-fly.

Throughout the entire month of February, residents are encouraged to visit the Black History Month Exhibit in the Commissioners Gallery, which celebrates local Black history by highlighting the lives and accomplishments of leaders, activists, artists, and athletes from Union County. Materials on display have been donated in part by Ethel M. Washington, a Plainfield resident and the author of Union County Black Americans. Residents and guests may visit the free exhibit, located on the 6th floor of the Union County Administration Building at 10 Elizabethtown Plaza in Elizabeth, Monday through Friday, from 9:00am to 5:00pm throughout the month of February.

For more details and updates about Black History Month, please visit ucnj.org/bhm.

With demand for REAL ID appointments continuing to create challenges for travelers, Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi is encouraging residents who do not yet have a REAL ID — or are unable to secure an appointment — to consider applying for a U.S. Passport Card as a reliable alternative for domestic air travel.

A U.S. Passport Card allows individuals to travel within the United States by plane and meets the same federal security and validity standards as a REAL ID. The card also allows U.S. citizens to prove their citizenship. The cost of a Passport Card is $30.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recently announced that travelers 18 years of age or older who do not present a REAL ID at airport security will be subject to additional screening procedures. These procedures may include enhanced screening, database checks, knowledge-based questions, or biometric verification, and may result in a $45 fee. The additional screening process can take 10 to 30 minutes, potentially causing delays for travelers.

“I know how difficult it can be to get an appointment to obtain a REAL ID,” said Clerk Rajoppi. “As an alternative, a Passport Card is a great choice and will not slow travelers at the airport.”

Residents interested in obtaining a U.S. Passport Card can schedule an appointment at the Union County Clerk’s Office in Elizabeth or Westfield by visiting www.ucnj.org/county-clerk.

For more information on Passport Cards, REAL ID alternatives, and available appointments, residents are encouraged to visit the Union County Clerk’s website.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation invite community members with a passion for the outdoors to take part in the Union County Parks Adopt-A-Trail Annual Trail Stewards Orientation Meeting and Training, an in-person volunteer information session focused on preserving and maintaining the County’s park trails while strengthening community involvement.

“Programs like Adopt-A-Trail demonstrate how community involvement directly strengthens the long-term care of Union County’s park system,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “By working alongside dedicated volunteers, we are building a more resilient, well-maintained network of parks and trails that residents can enjoy today and into the future.”

The orientation and training will take place on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Trailside Nature & Science Center, located at 452 New Providence Road, Mountainside.

This annual meeting welcomes both prospective and returning Trail Stewards interested in participating in the Union County Parks Adopt-A-Trail Program. The indoor session will include a presentation and training led by Union County Park Environmental Services staff, providing an overview of the program, volunteer expectations, trail safety practices, and the role stewardship plays in protecting the county’s natural resources. Attendees will also learn about the benefits of becoming a Trail Steward and how volunteers help support the day-to-day care of Union County’s trails.

Through the Adopt-A-Trail Program, volunteers actively contribute to the care and monitoring of Union County’s extensive trail network by assisting with light clean-up, observing trail conditions, and reporting maintenance concerns. Trail Stewards play an important role in helping ensure that park trails remain safe, clean, and accessible for residents and visitors to enjoy year-round.

This event is free, open to the public, and held in person. Residents who enjoy hiking or spending time outdoors and want to make a positive impact in their community are encouraged to attend.

For more information or to register for the Trail Stewards Orientation, visit https://ucnj.org/trail-stewards-orientation or contact the Union County Park Environmental Services at park.env.services@ucnj.org or call 908-789-3683. To stay informed about County parks, events, services, and offerings, download the free Explore Union County mobile app.

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

“Our ASK program plays a vital role in our commitment to ensuring seniors across the county have access to nutritious meals, health care, transportation, and all other resources that support their health and well-being,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “I encourage all seniors and caregivers to visit the nearest location and discover how this program can help you improve your 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 February:

Wednesday, February 4th

Hillside Public Library

1409 Liberty Avenue, Hillside

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Tuesday, February 10th

(Bilingual staff available)

Fanwood Memorial Library

5 Forest Road, Fanwood

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Tuesday, February 17th

(Bilingual staff available)

Westfield Memorial Library

550 East Broad Street, Westfield

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

“This program wouldn’t be possible without the dedicated and hardworking professionals in our Division on Aging. Their commitment to our senior community shows up in every older adult who has found resources, community, and hope for their future through this service,” 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.

As Union County prepares for a major winter storm, residents are reminded that 9-1-1 is for life-threatening emergencies only. During severe weather, emergency lines must remain available for those who truly need immediate help.

CALL 9-1-1 ONLY IF:

• Someone is trapped or in immediate danger
• There is a medical emergency
• Lives are at risk

DO NOT CALL 9-1-1 OR POLICE TO REPORT:

• Power outages
• Snow-covered or unplowed streets
• Downed trees without injuries
• General storm or weather questions

Law enforcement and dispatch centers do not have additional information on power restoration or plowing schedules. Calling for non-emergencies delays response for critical situations.

POWER OUTAGE REPORTING

PSE&G Customers:

• Call 1-800-436-7734
• Text “OUT” to 4PSEG (47734)
• Report online at nj.myaccount.pseg.com/mydashboard/outage

JCP&L Customers:

• Call 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877)
• Text “OUT” to 544487
• Report online at firstenergycorp.com/outages

ADDITIONAL SAFETY REMINDERS

• Extremely cold temperatures and dangerous wind chills are expected
• Limit time outdoors and dress in layers if you must go out
• Ensure medical devices and backup batteries are fully charged
• Check on seniors, neighbors, and anyone who may need assistance

SNOW REMOVAL QUESTIONS

For snow removal concerns, please contact your local public works department. Crews will be working throughout the storm and afterward as conditions allow.

Thank you for helping keep emergency services available for true emergencies.

Stay informed. Stay prepared. Stay safe.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents of all ages to enjoy a full day of seasonal fun, learning, and outdoor exploration during February Festivities, taking place on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at the Trailside Nature & Science Center in Mountainside.

This family-friendly event features a variety of winter-themed activities designed to engage children and adults alike, from nature walks and hands-on crafts to live art instruction and wildlife education. 

“February Festivities is a wonderful opportunity for families to step outside, learn something new, and experience the beauty of Union County’s parks during the winter season,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “Events like this reflect our commitment to providing meaningful programs that bring residents together and encourage a lifelong appreciation for nature.”

The day’s activities include:

• Great Backyard Bird Count at 10:00 a.m., where participants will observe and identify birds while contributing to a global citizen-science initiative
• Winter Landscapes with Artist Dario Scholis at 10:00 a.m., an acrylic painting workshop for adults ages 18 and older
• The Journey of Sap to Syrup at 11:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m., featuring maple sap collection demonstrations and taste testing
• Winter Walk Scavenger Hunt at 2:45 p.m., discover if you and your family can find all the items on the winter scavenger hunt list followed by warming up at a campfire with hot cocoa

February Festivities programming is recommended for families with children ages 4 and older.  To register, please visit ucnj.org/trailside and follow the link to Union County’s secure online registration page. Fees apply for all special programming; both adults and children must register for the programs.  Walk-ins will be accommodated as space permits.

Throughout the event, children can enjoy free crafts, giveaways, and a prize wheel featuring fun questions about winter and winter wildlife, offering fun for attendees of all ages.

Trailside welcomes visitors free of charge every day from 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M., except for Mondays and major holidays.

The Trailside Nature & Science Center is located at 452 New Providence Road, Mountainside. For more information, residents can call 908-789-3670. To stay informed about County events, services, and offerings, download the free Explore Union County mobile app.

Union County Commissioner Michèle S. Delisfort was elected to a two-year term as Second Vice Chair of the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA) at the January 12 Board of Trustees meeting. 

“I am honored that my fellow Board members have entrusted me to serve as Second Vice Chair,” Commissioner Delisfort said. “The NJTPA provides a forum for collaboration and offers a vital regional perspective on transportation issues, whether it’s considering the critical role freight plays in our local economy or prioritizing funding for much-needed safety improvements, like the $11 million the Board approved at our January meeting for Union County to upgrade seven intersections, including new signals, high visibility crosswalks, and improved lighting.” 

The NJTPA oversees regional transportation planning and partners with local and state agencies to help fund more than $3 billion in transportation investments annually for 13 counties in northern and central New Jersey. 

Commissioner Delisfort became Union County’s representative on the Board this year. She previously served as an alternate on the NJTPA Board, since joining the Union County Board of Commissioners in 2023. She will be serving as Chair of the Planning and Economic Development Committee for 2026-2027. Additionally, Commissioner Delisfort is the first Haitian-American member of the Executive Committee.

The Commissioner is a distinguished planning professional with 30 years of experience in the field. In 2019, the American Planning Association honored her with the Outstanding Planner Award in recognition of her exceptional contributions to the profession. She currently serves as the Principal and Managing Partner of Nishuane Group, LLC, an urban planning consultancy firm. In addition, she is the newly elected President of the American Planning Association–New Jersey Chapter. Prior to joining the County Board of Commissioners, she served as Mayor of Union Township.

NJTPA Board of Trustees Executive Committee  

At the meeting, the NJTPA Board also selected four other members of its Executive Committee. In addition to Commissioner Delsifort, the elected members of the Executive Committee are Middlesex County Commissioner Charles Kenny, Chair; Warren County Commissioner Jason Sarnoski, First Vice Chair; and Passaic County Commissioner John W. Barltett, Secretary. In accordance with the bylaws, Chairman Kenny appointed Morris County Commissioner Stephen Shaw to the position of Third Vice Chair.

The Executive Committee provides guidance and leadership to the full Board on a wide range of planning, policy and administrative issues. It meets as needed to review financial, personnel and policy matters. Board membership is an uncompensated position. 

 

The NJTPA is the metropolitan planning organization (MPO) for 13 northern New Jersey counties. Under federal legislation, MPOs provide a forum where local officials, public transportation providers and state agency representatives can come together and cooperatively plan to meet the region’s current and future transportation needs. It establishes the region’s eligibility to receive federal tax dollars for transportation projects.  
   
The NJTPA Board consists of one local elected official from each of the 13 counties in the region (Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Hunterdon, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Union and Warren), and the cities of Newark and Jersey City. The Board also includes a Governor’s Representative, the Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Transportation, the Executive Director of NJ TRANSIT, the Chairman of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and a Citizen’s Representative appointed by the Governor.  

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is deeply saddened by the passing of former Governor and longtime State Senator Richard J. Codey.

Governor Codey devoted his life to public service, spending decades advocating for the people of New Jersey with integrity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to doing what was right — particularly for those who were most vulnerable. His leadership, humility, and courage left a lasting mark on our state and set an example for generations of public servants.

Union County joins the people of New Jersey in honoring his legacy and extending our heartfelt condolences to the Codey family, his friends, and all those whose lives were touched by his service.

The Union County Clerk’s Office has announced the release of the 2026 Union County Election Calendar, a trusted resource that provides residents with important election dates, deadlines, and voting information for the upcoming year.

The 2026 Election Calendar is now available to the public and can be ordered online by visiting the Union County Clerk’s website and clicking on the Election Calendar link.

In recognition of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, this year’s Election Calendar features a special historical theme honoring the men and women patriots who lived in Elizabethtown—present-day Elizabeth and Union County—during the birth of our nation. The theme highlights the area’s significant role in the American Revolution and celebrates the civic spirit that continues to define Union County today.

“Providing clear, accessible election information is one of the most important responsibilities of the Clerk’s Office,” said Joanne Rajoppi, Union County Clerk. “As we commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, this year’s calendar not only serves as a practical guide for voters, but also honors the patriots from our own communities whose dedication helped shape our democracy.”

The Union County Election Calendar has become a popular and widely used tool for residents, community organizations, and local governments. It outlines key dates for voter registration, vote-by-mail, early voting, and Election Day, helping residents stay informed and engaged in the democratic process.

Residents are encouraged to order their free copy of the 2026 Election Calendar online while supplies last.

For more information or to request a calendar, visit the Union County Clerk’s website at https://ucnj.org/county-clerk/.

The Union County Surrogate’s Court will offer free wedding ceremonies on Valentine’s Day 2026, giving couples the opportunity to get married at no cost. The ceremonies will be officiated by Union County Surrogate Christopher Hudak on February 14, 2026, at the Clubhouse at the Galloping Hill Golf Course in Kenilworth.

“My office is focused on assisting Union County residents through the most meaningful moments in our lives, and we look forward to being part of the joy that comes with the celebration of marriage on Valentine’s Day,” said Surrogate Hudak. “I am proud to highlight this service on a day that brings tremendous joy to couples.”

Ceremonies will be scheduled monthly on a first-come, first-served basis. To register, please visit https://ucnj.org/surrogate/weddings. Participants are required to obtain all licensing paperwork from their Union County municipal registrar’s office prior to the scheduled event.

“Programs like this reflect Union County’s commitment to providing meaningful, resident-focused services,” said Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “We commend Surrogate Hudak and his office for creating an opportunity that allows couples to celebrate marriage in an inclusive and welcoming way, while ensuring County services remain accessible to all.”

The Union County Surrogate’s Court thanks the Union County Board of County Commissioners, the Union County Parks Department, and Kemper Sports for their support in making these free wedding ceremonies possible.

Since 2025, couples have been able to schedule a wedding ceremony officiated by Surrogate Christopher Hudak at no charge. Ceremonies are conducted at the Warinanco Sports Center in Warinanco Park, Roselle.

This initiative reflects the Surrogate’s ongoing commitment to modernizing and increasing accessibility to Surrogate Court services for all Union County residents. For more information or to schedule a ceremony, please contact the Union County Surrogate’s Court at marryme@ucnj.org or visit ucnj.org/surrogate.