The board highlighted the innovative approaches implemented by the foundation and expressed gratitude for the positive impacts these initiatives have had on the community. The partnership between the county and the foundation was celebrated, particularly their collaboration on the upcoming Step Up Mental Health Summit. The foundation’s ambition to expand its reach to every school in New Jersey was met with enthusiasm from the board.

In other discussions, the Union County Prosecutor’s Office and the Sheriff’s Office addressed the need for essential upgrades to their equipment. The Prosecutor’s Office sought approval for the purchase of new laboratory equipment vital for controlled dangerous substance testing, replacing outdated items for which parts are no longer available. Similarly, the Sheriff’s Office presented a resolution to update aging equipment across all its buildings and satellite offices.

The Department of Economic Development proposed resolutions related to the closure of grant funds, specifically to prevent the return of unspent monies by reallocating 2023 expenses to the 2022 fiscal year. This move was deemed an allowable practice under the respective grants.

Additional resolutions from the Department of Human Services included a discussion on a transportation grant. The grant is aimed at improving access to employment opportunities, and it was noted that over 64,000 individuals utilized the service in the previous year. Furthermore, an extension of financial literacy services was approved, with no additional funding required, simply extending the program’s duration.

Lastly, the board acknowledged the achievement of a young artist from Rahway, whose artwork will be displayed at Newark Penn Station.