Union County Honors Heroic Sergeant for Saving Lives from Bus Fire
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Meeting Type:
County Council
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Meeting Date:
06/05/2024
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Recording Published:
06/18/2024
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Duration:
23 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Union County
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Towns:
Berkeley Heights, Clark, Cranford, Elizabeth, Fanwood, Garwood, Hillside, Kenilworth, Linden, Mountainside, New Providence, Plainfield, Rahway, Roselle, Roselle Park, Scotch Plains, Springfield (Union County), Summit, Union (Union County), Westfield, Winfield
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent Union County Board of County Commissioners meeting, the most significant event was the honoring of Sergeant Jorge Vasquez of the Union County Sheriff’s Office for his heroic actions in saving eight children and a bus driver from a burning school bus. On May 14, 2024, in Sayreville, New Jersey, Sergeant Vasquez’s quick response and bravery ensured the safety of all passengers moments before the vehicle was engulfed in flames. The Commissioners presented a resolution commending Sergeant Vasquez, who is not only a dedicated public servant but also a Navy veteran.
Additionally, the meeting addressed gun violence awareness, highlighting the 10th Annual National Gun Violence Awareness Day and weekend on June 7-9. A resolution was provided to Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America, acknowledging their efforts to advocate for common-sense gun laws and enhance community safety. The organization was recognized for its work in reducing gun-related deaths and injuries and was commended for urging communities to wear orange to honor victims and survivors of gun violence.
Furthermore, the Board discussed a new initiative focusing on educational support for students. The County Manager introduced a tutoring program aimed at aiding students from fifth to eighth grade who have fallen behind academically, particularly due to disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The program will also create job opportunities for local high school and college students who will serve as tutors.
The Department of Parks and Recreation announced a summer initiative offering swimming lessons for children and seniors, which received an enthusiastic response from the community. The classes, to be held at the Rahway outdoor pool, were filled almost immediately upon announcement.
The meeting proceeded with discussions on various resolutions and initiatives, including an amendment to the Consolidated Action Plan for additional funds for a project in Plainfield and an employment program for at-risk youth during the summer. The Department of Finance presented fourteen resolutions for consideration, while other departments, including Human Services, Engineering, Public Works, and Facilities Management, discussed their respective agenda items.
Edward Oatman
County Council Officials:
Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded, Lourdes M. Leon, James E. Baker, Jr., Joseph Bodek, Michèle S. Delisfort, Sergio Granados, Bette Jane Kowalski, Alexander Mirabella, Rebecca Williams
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Meeting Type:
County Council
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Meeting Date:
06/05/2024
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Recording Published:
06/18/2024
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Duration:
23 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Noteworthy
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Union County
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Towns:
Berkeley Heights, Clark, Cranford, Elizabeth, Fanwood, Garwood, Hillside, Kenilworth, Linden, Mountainside, New Providence, Plainfield, Rahway, Roselle, Roselle Park, Scotch Plains, Springfield (Union County), Summit, Union (Union County), Westfield, Winfield
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