Category: Public Info

The Union County Board of County Commissioners would like to announce the 2023 Cannabis Job Fair on Wednesday, October 11, 2023 at Union College of Union County in Elizabeth. This job fair is a collaboration with the Union County Board of County Commissioners, the Elizabeth Development Company, and Union College of Union County.

“The cannabis industry is growing at a rapid rate here in New Jersey,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados, who also serves as Liaison to the Workforce Development Board. “Right now, there are over 30 dispensaries in New Jersey, which allows easy access for medical marijuana for patients who can benefit from its therapeutic properties, as well as adult-use cannabis. Two of those dispensaries are right here in Union County. There are many employment opportunities residents might not know about, so this fair is a vital way to spread knowledge to our citizens of Union County.”

The Cannabis Job Fair will be begin at 10:00 a.m. in the Union College of Union County Kellogg Building, Room 519, located at 40 West Grand Street in Elizabeth. Attendees will be able to learn about the various employment positions available within the cannabis industry, including Cannabis Extraction Technician, Cannabis Manufacturing Technician, Budtender, Receptionist, Security, and Sales. Admission to the Cannabis Job Fair is free, however, pre-registration is required on www.ucnj.org/cannajobs.

Cannabis employers who are interested in participating in this event should contact Carolina Marin at (908) 527-4373.

Marijuana was made legal for recreational adult use in New Jersey in 2023. Today, the state is home to over 30 recreational cannabis dispensaries, and 13 that sell only medical marijuana. Recreational marijuana has generated close to $306 million in sales, and $18.8 million in sales tax revenue in the first two financial quarters of 2023. Cannabis job opportunities have been steadily increasing in growth over the past five years, with over 428,000 job opportunities available in the industry in 2022. 

For more updates and details about the Cannabis Job Fair and other programs in Union County, please visit www.ucnj.org.

Please be advised, Union County Mosquito Control will be spraying for mosquitoes Thursday Evening, September 21, 2023, between the hours of 7:00PM to 12:00AM (Weather Permitting). Check below for a list of areas to be sprayed. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Union County Office of Mosquito Control at 908-654-9834 or 908-654-9835.

Cities

• Berkeley Hts. – Berkeley Ave. Area
• Clark – Benish Ct., Charlotte Ct., Thomas Dr.
• Elizabeth – Clarkson Ave., Johnson St.,
• Hillside – Cornell Pl., Harvard Ave., John St.
• Kenilworth – Dorset Dr., Epping Dr., Water Co. Rd.
• Linden – Bradford Ave., Lexington Ave., Marion Ave., Tremley Pt. Area,
• Plainfield – Arlington Ave., Rose St.
• Rahway – Allen St., Dudley Ct., Elston St., Elizabeth Ave., E. Inman Ave., Leesville Ave., Madison Hill Rd., Martin St., New Brunswick Ave., Price St. Area, Revoir Dr., Riffle Ave. Whittier St.
• Roselle Park – Beechwood Ave., E. Colfax Ave., Pinewood Ave., W. Colfax Ave., Woodside Ave. 800 Block Walnut St.
• Scotch Plains – Frank St., Round Hill Rd., Wedgewood Way,
• Summit – Summit Recycling Center
• Union – Clermont Ter., Union Ave. Area
• Westfield – Stanley Oval

County Parks

• Plainfield – Cedar Brook
• Hillside – Conant
• Clark – Oak Ridge

City Parks

• Linden – Memorial

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to present a collection of artwork from Dario Scholis, Adrianna Rendon and German “Gee” Perez, currently on exhibit at the Commissioners Gallery in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. The gallery is located on the 6th floor of the Union County Administration Building, located at 10 Elizabethtown Plaza in Elizabeth, with gallery hours from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

“Together, we honor our heritage and created a space where art and culture unite,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “I invite residents to come and check out the beauty, diversity, and creativity that define Hispanic art that is on display to honor our heritage. I hope to see you at our other events that the County is hosting throughout the month!”

This collaborative project from three of Union County’s most distinguished Hispanic Artists; Dario Scholis, Adrianna Rendon and German “Gee” Perez will be on display from September 15th – October 13th in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. 

The Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, part of the Department of Parks and Recreation, coordinates the exhibits displayed at the Commissioners Gallery.

For more information about this and other programs or services related to the arts and history in Union County, please contact the Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, which is located at 633 Pearl Street, Elizabeth, NJ at (908) 558-2550 or e-mail: culturalinfo@ucnj.org. NJ relay users dial 711.

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi announces that  sample ballots for the November 7^th General Election can now be viewed and downloaded on the County Clerk’s elections website www.unioncountyvotes.com, and through Union County Votes, a free app for all mobile devices.

The County Clerk’s office will also be mailing sample ballots to all registered Union County voters. The sample ballot mailings will begin on or about October 23, 2023.

“The website and app offer a convenient way for voters to familiarize themselves with their ballot, even before they receive their copy in the mail,” said Ms. Rajoppi. “I urge all of our residents to exercise your right to preview and prepare for the upcoming election. Please visit our website to get informed, get ready, and let your voice be heard.”

Voters with any questions about their sample ballots can call the County Clerk’s Elections Division, 908-527-4996 or email the Elections Division at ucvote@ucnj.org.

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.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners would like to invite seniors and their caregivers for the upcoming ASK community events in October. At these events, attendees can meet face-to-face with skilled professionals who offer expert guidance on senior programs and resources, as well as assistance with form completion. Additionally, bilingual staff will be on hand at all events to provide support in Spanish.

“Our Division on Aging remains committed in its dedication to ensuring access to a diverse range of resources designed to improve the quality of life for our senior residents in Union County,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “With the support of our knowledgeable staff, obtaining vital information has never been more accessible for our seniors and their caregivers.”

ASK, short for Aging Services Kiosk, is a program within the Union County Department of Human Services, specifically operated by the Division on Aging and Disability Resources. It offers seniors aged 60 and older, along with their caregivers, a friendly and convenient avenue for Union County residents to discover valuable programs and services. This program brings Division on Aging professionals to local public libraries and community centers.

Staff at the ASK events can help seniors and care givers connect with a variety of services including home delivered meals, respite care, home care, adult day care and support services for caregivers. Any Union County senior or care giver can visit any ASK event, regardless of their hometown.  No appointment or pre-registration is needed. The upcoming ASK events in October all include bilingual assistance in Spanish:

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, October 20, 2023 from 8:45 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The featured speaker will be Union County First Deputy County Counsel Moshood Muftau, Esq.

Space is limited to the first 50 registrants. The registration deadline is Wednesday, October 11, 2023 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, ucnj.org/county-clerk. For additional information contact Ana 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 County Commissioners are proud to announce that Union County has received a sizable award of $1,000,000 for design and construction of a new bikeway. The new route will carry riders crossing the Goethals Bridge in the City of Elizabeth, through the Borough of Roselle and connecting to the East Coast Greenway in the Township of Cranford. Called the “NY Connects to Union County NJ East Coast Greenway Bikeway Project” this exciting project has received generous funding through the New Jersey Department of Transportation’s Local Transportation Projects Fund program.

“We are exceptionally grateful to the NJ DOT’s Local Transportation Projects Fund program for their generous support of the NY Connects to Union County NJ East Coast Greenway Bikeway Project, which aligns perfectly with my “Building a Stronger Union County” 2023 Chairman’s initiatives,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “The funding will enable us to move forward with this essential initiative, and further enhance transportation options in Union County by the creation of a new bi-state link for riders using the Goethals Bridge protected bikeway lane.  It is part of our ongoing efforts to improve our transportation system for Union County residents and visitors.”

The NJ DOT’s Local Transportation Projects Fund program is designed to address specific, focused local transportation issues throughout the state. This project is a vital step toward creating a more accessible and interconnected transportation network within the region. It aims to develop a comprehensive bikeway system that will connect Union County to the larger East Coast Greenway network promoting active transportation, reducing traffic congestion. The Greenway is a trail network from Maine to Florida.

The funding from the NJ DOT’s Local Transportation Projects Fund program will be used to support various aspects of the “NY Connects to Union County NJ East Coast Greenway Bikeway Project”, including planning, design, construction, and maintenance of the bikeway infrastructure. The project will create safe and accessible pathways for cyclists and pedestrians, contributing to Union County’s commitment to sustainability and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle.

“Union County looks forward to working closely with the New Jersey Department of Transportation to ensure the successful implementation of this project,” said Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, Liaison to the Union County Transportation Advisory Board. “As the project progresses, further details will be shared with the community about the project’s timeline and key milestones.”

The New Jersey Department of Transportation is currently in the process of fully executing the agreement for this project. For additional information about the “NY Connects to Union County NJ East Coast Greenway Bikeway Project” and other transportation-related initiatives in Union County, please contact Liza Betz, Transportation Planning Manager, Union County Bureau of Transportation Planning at (908) 558-2273.

Please be advised, Union County Mosquito Control will be spraying for mosquitoes Tuesday Morning, September 19, 2023, between the hours of 3:00AM to 7:00AM (Weather Permitting). Check below for a list of areas to be sprayed. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Union County Office of Mosquito Control at 908-654-9834 or 908-654-9835.

Cities

• Elizabeth – Devine Ave., Grove St., Johnson St., Williamson St.
• Linden – Tremley Pt. Rd., Grasselli Ave., Lower Rd., Monroe St., Madison St., Buchanan St.,
• Plainfield – St. Nicholas Blvd. Jefferson Ave., W. 8th St., 1st St., 3rd. St., N. Washington Ave.
• Rahway – Capobianco Plaza, Clarkson Ave., Elliot St., Ferndale Pl., Hedin Pl., Leesville Ave., Madison Hill Rd., New Brunswick Ave., Ralph Ave., Regina Ave., Revoir Dr., Riffle Ave.
• Scotch Plains – Cherry Blossom Ln., Frank St., Round Hill Rd., Wedgewood Way,
• Summit – Summit Recycling Center

County Parks

• Cedar Brook – Plainfield
• Oak Ridge – Clark

City Parks

• Memorial – Linden
• Milt Campbell – Plainfield

The Union County Board of County Commissioners are happy to announce the reintroduction of “OUT in Union County, NJ: Queer Empowerment Hour,” an exciting and informative virtual series hosted by Micayla Mirabella, in partnership with Union County’s Office of LGBTQ Affairs.

“We are proud to bring this exceptional program to our community, promoting open dialogue, fostering understanding, and celebrating the rich diversity within the LGBTQ+ community,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “This initiative falls in line with my 2023 Chairman theme of “Building a Stronger Union County,” with my “Equity and Inclusion” initiatives, which promote inclusivity and equality in Union County. This unique program aims to empower and educate individuals by providing a platform for engaging conversations with LGBTQ+ advocates, community leaders, and allies. I hope to see many of our residents participate.”

Queer Empowerment Hour, which began in 2020, promises an hour-long virtual dialogue that delves into LGBTQ+ specific topics, offering compelling stories and discussions involving queer individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences. The series is open to all, emphasizing inclusivity and understanding within our community.

“When the County of Union originally launching the Queer Empowerment Hour in September 2020, we were overwhelmed by the positive response it received,” said Commissioner Al Mirabella. “I am very happy to see the program come back into fruition for another year and I encourage everyone interested to join these informative and interactive series.”

Each session begins at 7:00 p.m. and will be live streamed on the County of Union Facebook page. Any questions can be taken via the zoom and within the comments posted on Facebook.  The scheduled dates and topics are as follows:

September 20, 2023
LGBTQ 101
An Introduction to the Queer Community

October 11, 2023
Reclaiming Our Narratives
A Dive into LGBTQ+ History

December 13, 2023
Pronouns Matter
Embracing Acceptance through Inclusive Language

January 17, 2024
Proud and Serving
Exploring LGBTQ+ Experiences in the Military

February 21, 2024
Amplifying Black LGBTQ+ Voices
Honoring & Celebrating Heritage, Contributions & Resilience

March 13, 2024
Unveiling Hidden Narratives
Celebrating the Trials & Triumphs of Queer Women in History

April 17, 2024
Healing with Equality
LGBTQ+ Accessible and Affirming Healthcare

May 8, 2024
Passing the Torch
LGBTQ+ Elders Reflect on the Past & Guide the Next Generation

“Now more than ever, it is important to have events/seminars like these,” said Commissioner Rebecca Williams. “While we celebrate progress and inclusivity in our own community, we must also acknowledge the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ movements across the nation. It is important to discuss these topics and I truly hope all of our residents take part in these conversations and show their support and solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community.”

To participate in these enlightening conversations, individuals are required to register online at www.ucnj.org/lgbtg.

For more information about this event, please contact the Union County Office of LGBTQ Affairs at 908-527-4897 or visit our website at www.ucnj.org/lgbtg.

Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados, Vice Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded, Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, Commissioner Al Mirabella , Commissioner Joseph Bodek, Surrogate Christopher Hudak, County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi, Sheriff Peter Corvelli, County Manager Ed Oatman, Deputy County Manager Amy Wagner joined Union County Veterans Services Coordinator W. Geoff Smith and special dignitaries at the County’s annual POW-MIA Remembrance Day Flag Raising Ceremony in front of the Union County Courthouse in Elizabeth.

This year’s guest speaker was Colonel Dennis J. Dougherty, First Region President Emeritus at the Association of the United States Army. Colonel Dougherty retired a decorated veteran from his 31-year military career with the United States Army and the New Jersey Army National Guard in 2000.

An invocation was led by Union County Commander, VFW Bobby Jeans. The presentation of colors was performed by Honor Guards from the Union County Sheriff Office, Union County Prosecutor’s Office, Elizabeth Police and Fire Honor Guard and the ceremony included a rifle salute, TAPS and the singing of the National Anthem.