Categories
Public Info

Christopher Hudak sworn in as new Union County Surrogate

Christopher Hudak being sworn in

Christopher Hudak of Clark has been sworn in as the 16th Union County Surrogate. Hudak assumes the position of Surrogate after serving 12 years on the Union County Board of County Commissioners, formerly the Board of Chosen Freeholders, where he served as Vice Chair this past year.

“I thank the residents of Union County for their confidence in first electing me in 2010 and now it is an honor to have been elected Union County Surrogate. Serving our constituents has been one of the greatest privileges of my professional life and I look forward to serving all of our residents in a different capacity,” said Union County Surrogate Chris Hudak. “As I begin the work of the Surrogate, I remember my predecessor, James S. LaCorte, who held this position for 20 years and was a man of grace. My staff and I are committed to extending that same poise to anyone who walks through our doors.”

Hudak was nominated by Governor Phil Murphy in October to complete the unexpired term of Surrogate LaCorte in October and was confirmed by the New Jersey Senate. He will begin a new five-year term on January 1, 2023.

The County Surrogate is an elected position, established by the New Jersey Constitution, which oversees the probating of wills, qualification of will executors, appointment of administrators for those estates without wills, and qualification of guardians for incapacitated persons and minors, as well as certain matters related to adoption. The office also operates the Surrogate’s Intermingled Trust Fund for Minors and Incapacitated Persons. Elections for County Surrogate are held every five years.

While on the Board of County Commissioners, Hudak led the creation of the Union County Infrastructure Grant program, which to date has distributed over $12 million in matching grants for road resurfacing and other municipal infrastructure priorities. He proudly sponsored the County’s initiative to combat heroin addiction by supporting Operation Helping Hand, which connects residents with rehab services, created a grants program to support STEM opportunities in elementary and middle schools countywide, and during his tenure, Union County became the first county, nationwide, to ask gun vendors for their positions on gun safety.

A licensed attorney, Hudak’s experience in public and non-profit service includes Kean University, the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, the Partnership for a DrugFree New Jersey, and as a staff member in the New Jersey Assembly and State Senate. Hudak graduated from Roselle Catholic High School, holds a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Kean University, and received his Juris Doctorate, as well as his Bachelor’s Degree, from Rutgers University. He was born and raised in Linden, and now resides in Clark with his wife, Terri, their daughter, Catherine, and son, Jackson.

The Union County Surrogate’s office is located in the Union County Courthouse at 2 Broad Street, Elizabeth NJ 07207.

For more information about the programs and services of the Union County Surrogate, visit ucnj.org/surrogate, email ucsurrogate@ucnj.org or call 908-527-4280.  Questions and concerns may also be faxed to the Surrogate’s Office at 908-351-9212.

–30–

For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form. Connect with Union County on social media

Categories
Public Info

Celebrate the Season with Holiday Shows in Union County

Union County residents and visitors can celebrate the season with a variety of cultural events made possible in part by funds from the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, a partner of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.

“We are very proud to support our local performing artists, who bring the enriching experience of live music and theatre to audiences of all ages during the holiday season, and throughout the year,” said Union County Commissioner Chair Rebecca L. Williams.

The upcoming events funded through the Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs in December are:

elf the musical flyer

The award-winning CDC (Cranford Dramatic Club) Theatre presents Elf, the Musical from Dec. 9–11 and Dec. 16–18 (weekends) in Cranford. Based on the beloved holiday film, this fish-out-of-water comedy follows Buddy the Elf in his quest to find his true identity. Elf features songs by Tony Award nominees Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin, with a book by Tony Award winners Thomas Meehan (Annie, The Producers, Hairspray) and Bob Martin. Tickets are $25 online; $30 at the door. Performance times are: Fridays Dec. 9 and 16 at 8 pm; Saturdays Dec. 10 and 17 at 1 pm and 8 pm; and Sundays Dec. 11 and 18 at 2 pm. The CDC Theatre is at 78 Winans Ave., Cranford (908-276-7611) www.cdctheatre.org

what can I give flyer

On Dec. 11, Concord Singers present their Holiday Concert, “What Can I Give,” at 3 pm in Summit. With Matthew Zabiegala conducting, choral selections will center around the message of “giving joyfully,” both physically and spiritually. The program will feature an arrangement of Gustav Holst’s ‘In the Bleak Midwinter” by award-winning composer Jen Wagner. Tickets are $20. The concert will be held at Calvary Episcopal Church, 31 Woodland Ave., Summit www.concordsingers.org

image of westfield community concert band

On Dec. 16, the Westfield Community Concert Band presents their free Holiday Concert at 7:30 pm. The Band’s 32nd annual holiday concert will feature both traditional and contemporary holiday selections, including Rhapsody for Hanukkah, Variants on a Moravian Hymn, Sleigh Ride, and popular carols — with special guests, the Edison Intermediate School Broadway Singers. The concert will be performed atEdison Intermediate School Auditorium, 800 Rahway Ave., Westfield (908-337-9073) www.westfieldcommunityband.com

the celebration singers

On Dec. 16 & 17, the Celebration Singers perform their annual Holiday Concert at 7:30 pm in Cranford. Led by Music Director Louise Chernosky, the concert will include the return of the youth choir. The multi-generational Celebration Singers are known for singing selections from varied genres and cultures. Tickets at the door are $20 for adults, and $15 for students and seniors. At St. Michael’s Church. 40 Alden St., Cranford www.celebration-singers.org

image of choir

On Dec. 18, the Choral Art Society of New Jersey presents their Holiday Concert & Toy Drive at 3 pm in Westfield. Conducted by Martin Sedek and joined by professional soloists, the chorus will perform the Saint-Saens Christmas Oratorio and other holiday choral gems by Kirby Shaw, Samuel Adler, Donald Fraser and more. Those attending are asked to consider bringing a wrapped new toy for a child in need, ages 2-12. Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the door; for students and seniors, $20 in advance or $25 at the door. Children under 12 are FREE of charge. The concert will be held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 414 East Broad St., Westfield (908-209-5435) www.casofnj.org.

The Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs is a division of the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation. For more information about grant programs, events and activities of the Office visit ucnj.org/cultural, e-mail culturalinfo@ucnj.org or call 908-558-2550(NJ relay users dial 711).

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

#  #

For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

Categories
Public Info

Sensory Friendly Theatre Presents “The Nutcracker” at the Union County Performing Arts Center, Nov. 30

The Union County Board of Commissioners invites children with autism and other sensory sensitivities to enjoy The New Jersey Ballet in a live performance of the beloved classic ballet The Nutcracker, on Wednesday, November 30 at 6:00 p.m., at the Union County Performing Arts Center, located at 1601 Irving Street in Rahway.

the nutcraker

“The story of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince is a favorite holiday tradition that can be shared by our special needs families in the supportive, judgement-free environment of the Sensory Friendly Theatre series,” said Commissioner Chair Rebecca L. Williams.

The Commissioner Board has supported the Sensory Friendly Theatre series at the Performing Arts Center since 2012. Audiences can expect relaxed lighting and sound along with other adjustments and supportive services during Sensory Friendly performances.

For complete details and to purchase tickets online visit ucpac.org/sensory-friendly-theatre.

 As a reminder, do not purchase tickets through another vendor. Only purchase tickets for Sensory Friendly Theatre through the Union County Performing Arts Center.

To purchase tickets in person, come to the UCPAC Box Office, located at 1601 Irving Street in Rahway. For Box Office hours and other information call (732) 499-8226 or email boxoffice@ucpac.org.

Please note that COVID-19 safety regulations are in effect for all performances at UCPAC. For details visit ucpac.org/covid-19. Ticket holders are advised to check for updates prior to arriving at the theatre.

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

#  #

For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

Categories
Public Info

Special Needs Residents Invited to “Skating with Santa” Event in Union County

skating with santa flyer

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents with special needs and their loved ones to enjoy Skating with Santa, a free ice skating session and holiday party at the Warinanco Sports Center, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 10. A limited number of spaces are still available for the event.

The event is free to attend but pre-registration is required. To register, visit Union County’s secure registration page at ucnj.org/opdsn-reg.

“Union County residents have been making holiday season memories at the Warinanco ice skating rink for generations. It’s a community tradition for all to enjoy, and we welcome our special needs families,” said Commissioner Chair Rebecca L. Williams.

“Skating with Santa is one of many recreational programs we provide throughout the year, to help ensure that enriching social activities are accessible and inclusive for everyone in the Union County community,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, who serves as Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Board. “We are looking forward to a wonderful event that brings smiles to everyone who comes, and brings families together to skate with Santa during the holiday season.”

Presents will be provided to all children attending the event, courtesy of the Moving New Jersey Forward Foundation.

The event includes an appearance by Santa and light refreshments along with ice skating. Skate rental is also provided free of charge.

The Warinanco Sports Center is located at 1 Park Drive in Union County’s Warinanco Park, in Roselle.

Skating with Santa is a program of 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. The Office hosts seasonal events and recreational activities throughout the year.

For more information about activities and support services offered through the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs visit ucnj.org/special-needs. To contact the office, use the online form at ucnj.org/special-needs 908-527-4807 or 4781.

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

#  #

For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

Categories
Public Info

Union County to Hold Emergency Holiday Food Distribution, Dec. 17

emergency food distribution flyer

Union County, NJ – November 28, 2033 — The Union County Board of County Commissioners announces that an emergency food distribution event for Union County residents will take place on Saturday, December 17.

Details are as follows:

  • Saturday, December 17, 2022 at 8:00 a.m.
  • KEAN University in Union Township, located at 1000 Morris Avenue
  • Drive-Thru Event

The food distribution is open to all Union County residents. Food will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis and no registration is required. The events will take place rain or shine.

“Union County recognizes that with recent inflation and residual effects of the pandemic, many residents continue to experience food insecurity,” said Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams. “Tens of thousands of households within Union County have benefitted from our food distribution programs over the past two and a half years.”

Residents wishing to pick up food at the drive-up distribution event at Kean University must arrive in a vehicle.

“These food distributions are a continuous lifeline for many who are still struggling financially, and they also help strengthen our entire community by helping to ensure that everyone feels included in the seasonal festivities, especially households with children and seniors,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados who also serves as Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Board. “We thank Village Super Market, Gargiulo Produce and all volunteers for their continued collaboration.”

emergency food distribution flyer

All drive-up recipients must remain in their cars. Food boxes will be placed in the trunk or truck bed of the vehicle by volunteers. Attendees are reminded to clear a space to make room for the boxes.

Upon arrival, proof of residency and indication of how many people reside in their household will have to be provided. Recipients will receive a special holiday food box and produce with all the trimmings. Please note that only one box of food will be provided per recipient.

To learn more about Village Super Market, visit: https://www.myvillagesupermarket.com. To learn more about Gargiulo Produce, visit: http://www.gargiuloproduce.com.

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

#  #

For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

Categories
Public Info

“ASK” about Services for Seniors in Union County

Seniors and their caregivers can come to any one of Union County’s ASK community events in December, to meet in person with professional staff for expert guidance on senior programs and resources. Help with filling out forms is also provided.

ask(aging services kiosk)

Bilingual staff will be present at two of the events to offer assistance in Spanish.

“The ASK program is a friendly, convenient way to find out about helpful programs and services, in the familiar environment of your local public library,” said Union County Commissioner Chair Rebecca L. Williams. 

ASK stands for Aging Services Kiosk, a program of the Union County Department of Human Services through the Division on Aging and Disability Resources, serving seniors age 60-plus and their caregivers.

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 events are as follows:

Thursday, December 1

Union Public Library

1060 Stuyvesant Avenue

Union, 07083

10:00 – 12:00

Monday, December 5 (bilingual staff will be present at this event)

Westfield Memorial Public Library

550 E. Broad Street

Westfield, 07090

10:00 – 12:00

Monday, December 12

Clark Public Library

303 Westfield Avenue

Clark, 07066

10:00 – 12:00

Wednesday, December 14 (bilingual staff will be present at this event)

Elizabeth Public Library – Main

11 S. Broad Street

Elizabeth, 07202

12:00 – 2:00

To check for other upcoming ASK events, call the Division on Aging and Disability Resource Connection 1-888-280-8226 toll free or visit the Division online at ucnj.org/dhs/aging.

ASK updates are also posted on Union County’s social media channels and are frequently carried by local media, both print and digital.

The goal of the Division on Aging and Disability Resource Connection is to promote wellness, independence, dignity and choice for seniors and their families, in accordance with a statewide initiative adopted by Union County in 2012. It is one of 622 “Area Agencies on Aging” nationwide established under the federal Older Americans Act.    

For more information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

#  #

For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

Categories
Public Info

Student Volunteers Help Plant New Native Trees in Union County’s Oak Ridge Park

Union County’s Oak Ridge Park in Clark is home to six new American Dogwood trees, a native species valued as forage for songbirds and other wildlife. The trees were provided by the Union County Commissioner Board and were planted by County staff with help from the Rutgers University Collegiate 4-H Club. 4-H volunteer Greg Bikofsky of Cranford will also help with ongoing care of the trees. The Commissioner Board thanks all the 4-H volunteers and Bartell’s Farm and Garden Supply of Clark, which donated soil amendments for the project. To learn more about 4-H volunteer activities in Union County, contact 4-H Agent James Nichandowicz at 908-654-9854 (ext. 3) or jnichnadowicz@ucnj.org.

volunteers planting trees

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

#  #

For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

Categories
Public Info

Try 4 New Ways to Trim Holiday Waste this Year

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the amount of trash generated by American households can jump an average of 25 percent between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve. Union County residents can help reduce excess waste at home by exploring new opportunities to conserve resources.

four ways to reduce flyer

“Cutting down on waste at the source is important, and we also want to make sure that our residents are aware of new recycling programs that help make a difference,” said Union County Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams.

The additional waste related to holiday season activity adds up to 25 million extra tons of trash either heading to landfills or burned in incinerators each year in the U.S.

Union County residents can help cut down that number with these four strategies:

1. Keep Up to Date with Local Recycling:  Union County has launched a new plastic film recycling program with municipal partners. Now every resident can recycle bubble wrap, plastic mailing envelopes and several other kinds of plastic film that often enter the home during the holiday season. Please note that all plastic film must be clean and dry.

Another common holiday shipping material is block-type Styrofoam. Many municipalities in Union County provide a drop-off Styrofoam bin for their residents. Please note that only block-type Styrofoam is accepted.

For more details about plastic film, Styrofoam and other recycling programs in Union County, and to find your local recycling coordinator, visit ucnj.org/recycle.

2. Reduce Pumpkin Waste: Last year, Union County residents saved five tons of pumpkins from the waste stream by bringing their Jack o’ Lanterns to the County’s new pumpkin recycling program. The pumpkins are processed locally to make renewable biogas. This year’s pumpkin recycling program is up and running until Monday, November 28. For more details visit ucnj.org/recycle.

3. Compost Holiday Food Waste: Fruit and vegetable scraps, decorative gourds, and other plant-based holiday decorations also account for the big jump in the household waste stream over the holidays. Residents with access to a yard can start a home compost pile to convert these items into a natural, nutrient-rich soil enhancer for their garden beds. For details visit Union County’s community outreach partner, the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County, at ucnj.org/rce.

Residents without a yard can contact their local recycling coordinator or environmental commission to see if a community garden or other local drop-off composting site is available. A list of municipal environmental commissions and green team is available at on the Union County website at ucnj.org/green-connection.

4. Reuse the Reusable Bags: A new state law has helped to stem the tide of single-use plastic bags, but some residents are now finding themselves overwhelmed with excess reusable bags from delivery services, e-commerce sites and other retailers. Excess clean, dry bags can be offered to a local food bank or other charity. Some farmer’s markets also provide space for a free take a bag/leave a bag table.

Another way to avoid accumulating a pile of bags at home is to shop locally and bring your own bags.

Experts from Union County’s Bureau of Recycling and Planning are available to present recycling information to schools, community groups and other organizations. To schedule a program contact Heather Miara, heather.miara@ucnj.org.

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.

For more information and updates on all Union County recycling programs and locations, visit the Bureau of Recycling and Planning website at ucnj.org/recycle.

Quick links to all Union County environmental programs and activities are available at The Green Connection, ucnj.org/green-connection.

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

#  #

For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

Categories
Public Info

Union County Pitches in for “Jets Dream Express” 2022

The Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs provided outreach and chaperone assistance for Jets Dream Express last Sunday, November 6, in partnership with State Senate President Nicholas Scutari. Jets Dream Express is a transportation and pro sports experience for children with special needs, under a collaboration between the New York Jets football team and NJ Transit. 

a group of jets fans standing for a photo
A group of special needs children from Union County and their chaperones visited MetLife Stadium to see the New York Jets in action on November 6. The “Jets Dream Experience” event was hosted by the Jets and NJ Transit, and sponsored by New Jersey Senate President Nicholas Scutari. The Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs assisted with outreach and staffing.

“The Commissioner Board established the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs to help ensure that community activities and opportunities for socialization are accessible to all residents. Forming relationships and creating inclusive environments are important parts of our work, and it was an honor to help Senate President Scutari, the Jets, and NJ Transit connect with our special needs families for the Jets Dream Experience,” said Union County Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams.

“I want to thank all the partners for working together to create an unforgettable day for special needs children from Union County. The Jets Dream Experience is a wonderful complement to local programs that give special needs children the opportunity to engage with the whole community at sporting events and other activities. To top off this great experience, the Jets won their game,” said Senate President Scutari.

Each year, the Jets Dream Express works with a legislative sponsor to identify ten special needs children and chaperones from their district to enjoy the Jets Dream Express. Senate President Scutari represents the 22nd Legislative District, which includes Clark, Fanwood, Linden, Plainfield, Rahway, Scotch Plains and Winfield in Union County.

Sunday’s event included a ride in a reserved front-end NJ Transit train car from Secaucus Train Station to MetLife Stadium, along with reserved seats for the game, a $15 gift card for each guest to buy refreshments at the venue, and photos with Jets personnel.

Jets Dream Express began as an annual program in 2010. Last Sunday’s game against the Buffalo Bills marked the return of the event after a three-year hiatus.

The Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs provides outreach services and hosts a wide variety of recreational activities, programs and classes.

For information about activities and support services offered through the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs visit ucnj.org/special-needs. To contact the office, use the online form or call 908-527-4807 or 4781.

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

#  #

For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

Categories
Public Info

Union County Commissioners Uphold Gun Safety on County Property

A new amendment to the Union County Code bans firearms from County property, properties affiliated with the County, and public transportation vehicles operated by the County. An exemption for law enforcement officers is included. A final hearing and vote on the new Ordinance took place at the Commissioner Board meeting on November 10, 2022. It will be published on Wednesday, November 16.

image a of a park
Union County parks and other facilities under County jurisdiction are covered by the new Ordinance (photo credit: County of Union, NJ).

“We take this legislative action to hold firm on gun safety in our public spaces. Our residents have the right to conduct business with the County, go to school, cast their ballot in an election and enjoy our parks without having to worry about gun violence,” said Commissioner Board Chair Rebecca L. Williams. “The U.S. Supreme Court has opened the door for a torrent of guns to enter our community, as a result of its decision on the Bruen case last July. We are resolved to shut that door.”

“Governor Murphy and our state legislators are working hard to stem the damage done by the Bruen decision, and we are proud to support their efforts with this new amendment to Article XI,” said Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded, who chairs the Commissioner Board’s Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee. “The facts are clear: easy access to guns is a recipe for violence and fear, not safety and security.”

The properties covered by the ban include, but are not limited to, all County parks, office buildings and other facilities, as well as affiliated entities including polling places in all 21 municipalities, the Union County Courthouse and Family Court in Elizabeth the Vocational-Technical Schools Campus in Scotch Plains and the three Union College campuses in Cranford, Elizabeth and Plainfield.

The U.S. Supreme Court decided the case of New York Rifle & Pistol Assn. Inc. v. Bruen last July. A 6-3 majority of the Justices determined that New York’s “proper cause” requirement for obtaining a permit to carry a handgun in public was invalid. In effect, the decision enables anyone in New York State to carry a gun anywhere, for any reason, unless countervailing state law is upheld as constitutional.

The Bruen decision only impacts gun safety laws in New York State, where the plaintiff is located. However, Bruen sets a precedent for challenges to gun laws in other states such as New Jersey, which currently requires residents to show a “justifiable need” to obtain a permit.

The new section of Article XI is intended to ensure that the Bruen decision does not enable persons to carry guns on Union County property, within the restrictions allowed by the U.S. Constitution and case law stemming from the Constitution.

As amended, section 115-57 of Title XI reads:

  • No person shall be permitted to carry any firearm concealed or otherwise, in any Sensitive Area within Union County, New Jersey.
  •  This restriction shall not apply to law enforcement officers, on or off duty, in the course of their lawful and official duties.
  •  A person who violates or causes to be violated a provision of this article shall be subject to a penalty of imprisonment for a term not exceeding 90 days, or to a fine, or both, of $500.00, for the first offense and $1,000.00 for each subsequent offense.

Section 115-58 reads:

            “Sensitive Area” shall be defined as:

  • All buildings or portion thereof, owned, controlled, leased or otherwise under the jurisdiction of the County, whether open to the public or not;
  • Any Courthouse or building containing judicial functions of the state or County;
  • Any building or portion thereof, which is the location of any program operated or funded by the County; including but not limited to Union County Vocational-Technical Schools and Union College;
  • All recreational facilities and parks owned or operated by the County;
  •  Any vehicle owned or operated by or on behalf of the County while used for public transportation;
  •  Any polling place or location while open and operating for purposes of voting; and
  • Any location, building or function of a similar nature to the above, owned or occupied by the County.

The New Jersey state legislature has also enacted additional common sense gun safety laws. In July, Governor Phil Murphy signed a suite of seven new state laws that enhance gun safety by requiring firearm training to obtain a gun permit, banning .50 caliber weapons, making it easier to sue gun manufacturers and dealers over gun crimes, requiring new residents to register firearms, requiring micro-stamping technology, regulating handgun ammunition, and cracking down on ghost guns.

Earlier this month, state lawmakers also introduced a new bill that bans non-permitted guns from 25 categories of buildings and facilities including government buildings, health care facilities, airports and more.

The bill also requires gun owners to purchase liability insurance. If the measure passes into law, it will be the first statewide mandate of its kind in the nation.

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

#  #

For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

#  #

For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.