- Heavy hazy and smoky conditions are present is our area due to the wildfires in Canada. These conditions can last the rest of the week. The NWS has an air quality alert in effect until midnight this evening. If you have a health condition please use caution when outdoors.
- Residents are advised not to call 9-1-1 unless they observe fire or smoke immediately associated with fire. Our dispatch centers are getting inundated with calls.
- The fire danger rating has been elevated to VERY HIGH. The New Jersey Forest Fire Service has imposed Stage 3 campfire restrictions. In Stage 3, all fires in wooded areas are prohibited unless contained in an elevated stove using only propane, natural gas, gas or electricity. No charcoal fires are allowed.
Category: Public Info
Default category for all normal press releases
The Union County Board of County Commissioners are proud to announce as part of Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados’ “Stepping Up to Mental Health” initiative, through his 2023 Chairman’s theme of “Building a Stronger Union County, the upcoming event “Mental Health Roundtable Focus on Children & Youth,” on June 13, 2023. This important event aims to bring together key stakeholders, experts, and community members to discuss and address the critical issue of access, equity, and affordability of behavioral health services for children and youth in the county.
“Stepping Up to Mental Health was one of my main focuses within my initiatives from my 2023 theme,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “This Mental Health Roundtable is a significant step in Union County’s commitment to prioritizing mental health and providing a platform for collective action and I am looking forward to attending, speaking and hearing from all of the panelists involved on how we can move forward together in helping our communities and residents who may be facing or know someone facing mental health issues.”
The event will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Kean University’s Liberty Academic Center, located at 1003 Morris Avenue, Building 2, in Union, NJ. It will feature engaging panel discussions led by prominent figures in the field, focusing on different aspects of the mental health system. The roundtable will serve as a platform to share insights, exchange ideas, and foster collaboration to improve the well-being of the children and youth in Union County.
The panel discussions will include: NJDCF Children’s System of Care, Improving Access, Equity & Affordability for Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health Services, Union County Schools, and Hospital Systems. These panels will discuss how Union County, as a community, can address children and youth mental health challenges, while working with local leaders who understand the need and can be an active agent in facilitating a meaningful dialogue to analyze community supports and systems of care. Additionally, these panels will directly shape how collectively Union County can address the challenges and build a comprehensive Behavioral Health Continuum of Care for the children and youth of Union County. Attendee’s insight and collaboration in this high level discussion will create the playbook that will allow Union County to develop creative solutions towards influencing and impacting systemic change that will lead towards community alignment.
Recently, the State of New Jersey allocated $5 million funding for the Union County Mental Health Project, which will help expand access, equity, and affordability for Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health Care Services. Furthermore, as part of the roundtable, Governor Phil Murphy and Senate President Nicholas Scutari will provide valuable insight on ways to explore strategies to improve this access and speak about the subsidies.
“The insights gathered during the event will contribute to the development of strategies, policies, and programs to improve the accessibility and quality of behavioral health services for the younger population,” said Debbie Ann Anderson, Director of Human Services. “I would like to thank the State of New Jersey, particularly Governor Murphy and Senate President Scutari for their continued support and commitment to Union County and our Mental Health initiatives.”
Anyone interested in attending and being part of this robust event, must register by Thursday, June 8th, 2023 at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stepping-up-to-mental-health-tickets-648953737097 or contact the Union County Department of Human Services at (908) 527-4846 or email difss@ucnj.org.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to invite the public to attend two events in Union County in honor of Juneteenth. First is a special free movie presentation of “The Woman King” at Cedar Brook Park in Plainfield on June 17, 2023 at 8:00 p.m. In addition, residents are invited to the fourth annual Juneteenth Flag raising ceremony on Monday, June 19, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. in front of the Union County Courthouse, located at 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth.
“This month, as we raise the Juneteenth flag high and celebrate other events, we honor the resilience, strength, and freedom of our African American community,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “This flag represents the struggles and triumphs of a community that fought for their liberation against all odds. Let it serve as a symbol of unity, justice, and progress as we continue to strive for equality and a future where every individual is truly free. I hope to see all of our residents at the both the flag raising and the movie night.”
The Juneteenth Flag was created in 1997 to commemorate June 19, 1865, when the citizens of Galveston, Texas were finally notified about the abolition of slavery. President Lincoln had signed the Proclamation of Emancipation more than two years earlier, on January 1, 1863.
“As a Commissioner and an educator with a deep personal connection to Juneteenth, I stand proud today, celebrating the emancipation of my ancestors and the resilience of the African American community,” said Commissioner Rebecca Williams. “Juneteenth is not just a historical event; it is a reminder of the ongoing fight for justice, equality, and education. Through knowledge and understanding, we honor the past, empower the present, and shape a better future for generations to come.”
The movie in the park will take place around dusk at approximately 8:30 p.m. “The Woman King” is a 2022 film that offers a fictional representation of the historical West African kingdom of Dahoney. It tells the story of an all-female elite warrior unit called the Agojie and their quest for freedom and justice. Please note that “The Woman King” is rated PG-13, and some subject matter may not be suitable for children under the age of 13. Popcorn will be available for free while supplies last.
“Knowledge and awareness in the black community unites us and makes it unfit to ignore the historical past of enslaved people, which is emblematic of Juneteenth. As we gather this month to commemorate the federal holiday, let us remember the significance of this day in history,” said Commissioner Dr. Angela Garretson. “Juneteenth symbolizes the liberation of enslaved people, and it is a time to recognize the progress black people have made and recommit ourselves to dismantling systemic injustices that persist. Let us strive to educate minds of all generations, ignite hearts, and foster a society where freedom and opportunity flourish for all.”
At the Union County flag raising, there will be a poetry reading by Elizabeth resident, Jeremiah LaPorte and a reading of the General Order No. 3, by Commissioner Rebecca Williams. The people were informed that in accordance with a Proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. There will also be a performance of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” by James Weldon Johnson, as a duet performed by singers Julia Arnold-Bouie and Willow Frazier, students at the Academy for Performing Arts in Scotch Plains.
“Together, let us stand as a united community, celebrating the diversity that enriches us and embracing the shared vision of a future where every voice is heard, every person is valued, and every dream is within reach,” said Commissioner James Baker. “Embrace freedom. Celebrate Juneteenth.”
For more information about the Juneteenth Flag ceremony, please contact Judith Guest, Community Engagement & Diversity Coordinator Judith.Guest@ucnj.org or 908-527-4388.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Parks and Recreation are looking for volunteers in the Ashbrook Reservation Adopt-A-Park event on Saturday, June 17, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. to Noon.
“This cleanup event will have a positive impact on the health of the Ash Brook Swamp and increase the enjoyment of the Ash Brook Reservation for all who pass through it,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “I would like to thank all of those for coordinating this event, as well as all of the volunteers who sign up – I encourage everyone interested to register today.”
The event will be focused on removing leaves and debris from a drainage swale that flows to the Ashbrook, an important waterway within the Rahway River Watershed. By removing the debris, the water’s flow will be restored and it will minimize flooding of an adjoining walking trail.
The Project will be directed by Union County Park Environmental Services staff, with all tools supplied by Union County Parks.
This Adopt-A-Park event will take place at Ashbrook Reservation (meeting at Union County Vo-Tech Parking Lot), located at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains.
Residents interested should register at www.ucnj.org/ashbrook23/. For more information, please call Robert Berns with the Department of Parks and Recreation at (908) 789-3683.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce that the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) has awarded the County of Union $1,500,000 in funding from the Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside Program for the Rahway Valley Rails-to-Trails Project.
The Rahway Valley Rails-to-Trails Project will create safe multi-use trails from the abandoned Rahway Valley Railroad section that traverses the Borough of Kenilworth and the Borough of Roselle Park. These new trails, designed for pedestrians and bicyclists, will connect communities, businesses, shopping and recreational opportunities.
“On behalf of the Union County Board of County Commissioners, we are grateful to the NJDOT for their commitment to creating vibrant and sustainable transportation alternatives that enrich our communities,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “The Rahway Valley Rails-to-Trails Project paves the way for a brighter future, where safe and accessible multi-use trails bring people together, boost local businesses, create jobs and unlock the beauty of Union County.”
The completion of this project will significantly improve modes of transportation in the County, specifically as it relates to cyclists and pedestrian walkways. The County has seen a growing number of trail enthusiasts and the conversion of the Rahway Valley Railroad into an active greenway trail will give residents more opportunities to exercise in and explore their community.
Administered by NJDOT in collaboration with the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA), the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC), and the South Jersey Transportation Planning Organization (SJTPO), the Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside Program focuses on providing federal funds for community-based “non-traditional” surface transportation projects. The program aims to enhance the cultural, aesthetic, and environmental aspects of the nation’s intermodal system.
The County of Union’s selection for the Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside Program funding highlights NJDOT’s commitment to enhancing transportation infrastructure and creating vibrant, accessible communities.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners, the Department of Human Services and the Office for Persons with Disabilities are pleased invite our Union County residents for their “Night Out with the New York Red Bulls” event in honor of the 33rd Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
“Union County is thrilled to join hands and celebrate the progress we have made in creating an inclusive society and we invite all of our residents to join us for an unforgettable experience as we cheer on the New York Red Bulls and honor the strong spirit of individuals with disabilities,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “Let us come together, celebrate, and inspire each other as we continue on the path towards greater accessibility and equality for all.”
The event is Saturday, July 8, 2023 at 7:30 p.m., at the Red Bull Arena in Harrison. Tickets for the Red Bulls game are $35 and will include a $10 food voucher to use at the venue. Union County residents can purchase their tickets online through the Union County secure registration website, www.ucnj.org/opdsn-reg.
Union County regularly hosts inclusive programs for children and adults with autism, through 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 for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs is the first such office in New Jersey, established in 2018 in the Department of Human Services. The Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs hosts a variety of events and programs including special sessions at several Union County facilities.
July 26, 2023, marks the 33rd Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADA is a civil rights law that affirms and protects the rights of people with disabilities to participate in public life.
To find out more about special needs programs hosted by Union County, visit www.ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn/ or call 908-527-4807.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents to bring old or unwanted metal items to Union County’s free scrap metal recycling drop-off program in June. Many different metal goods, from household appliances and cookware to sheds, fencing and gutters, are accepted at countywide collection sites in Cranford and Rahway every month from April to November.
“The scrap metal recycling program provides County residents with a free, convenient way to remove unwanted metal items from their house and yard, while also helping to raise the recycling rate in our community,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “The countywide program also fills a gap for municipalities that currently do not offer the service.”
Scrap metal will be accepted Thursday, June 1 and Saturday, June 17 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at two drop-off centers:
- Cranford: Emergency Services Building, 151 Kenilworth Boulevard
- Rahway: Rahway River Park (follow Park Drive, Rahway off St. Georges Avenue to service yard across from swimming pool)
Scrap metal from residents in any Union County municipality may be brought to either of these sites.
These events are drive-in only and contact-free. Participants should remain in their vehicles while staff at the site unloads the items. To help the event run smoothly, please place items for drop-off in the trunk, cargo hold, or other easily accessible area of the vehicle.
The scrap metal recycling schedule runs each year from April to November. After the June events, the next drop-off dates are Thursday, July 6 and Saturday, July 15.
Experts from the Union County 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 environmental programs and activities hosted by Union County 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.
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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.
Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi reminds voters that her offices in Elizabeth and Westfield will be open for extended hours on Saturday, June 3, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., for anyone seeking to obtain a Vote-by-Mail ballot for the 2023 Primary Election..
“The Saturday hours help ensure that everyone who applies for a Vote-by-Mail ballot can do so, without having to take time off from work or other weekday responsibilities,” said Ms. Rajoppi.
“I urge residents to exercise their right to vote in the Primary Election. On the ballot this year are important races including State Senate and Assembly positions as well as Commissioners. There are also local races in many municipalities,” Ms. Rajoppi added.
Voters who use the County Clerk’s One-Stop service can come to the Elizabeth or Westfield office, apply for their ballot, receive it, fill it out, and deposit it in a secure drop-box on site, all in the same visit. Privacy booths are located at the offices for voters to fill out their ballot.
The office locations and hours are:
Union County Courthouse
- Located at 2 Broad Street, Room 113, Elizabeth
- Regular hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30am – 4:30pm
- Open on Saturday, June 3, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm for Vote-by-Mail
Colleen Fraser Building
- Located at 300 North Avenue East (Union County services complex), Westfield
- Regular hours: Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 8:00am – 4:00pm; Tuesday and Thursday, 8:00am – 7:30pm; Saturday, 9:00am – 1:00pm
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.
For more information about all County Clerk programs and services, visit online at ucnj.org/county-clerk or call 908-527-4787.
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The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites non-profit organizations to attend Building Community, a free professional development workshop on Tuesday, June 13 from 3:30 to 5:30 pm, presented by Dr. Brea M. Heidelberg, Arts Management Consultant and Researcher; and Assistant Professor of Entertainment & Arts Management at Drexel University.
The workshop is free of charge. Pre-register to obtain the Zoom link here.
“We are very proud to bring Dr. Heidelberg to Union County, to share her guidance on building relationships that help non-profit organizations thrive,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “Our non-profits are an essential part of Union County. They weave us together in many different ways, united by the mission of creating a stronger community.”
Organizations that have received funding through Union County’s Local Arts (LAP), History, and HEART grant programs are especially encouraged to attend the workshop. Other non-profit organizations based in New Jersey are also welcome.
Participants will receive valuable guidance in creating meaningful and equitable relationships with stakeholders, with a focus on exploring demographics, forging new or deeper relationships with audiences, and learning how to build new relationships and increase engagement.
Building Community is coordinated and hosted by the Union County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs. The event is made possible by funds from the Union County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs, a partner of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.
For more information, contact the Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs, a division of the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation, at culturalinfo@ucnj.org or 908-558-2550.
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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.