Annarelly McNair | Director / Health Officer
She was president of the West New York’s Memorial High School 1988 senior class and has always been oriented toward science. To broaden her knowledge of preventive medicine, McNair completed a master’s degree at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health in 1996.
From 1996 to 1999, McNair worked for New York Medical College, in Valhalla, New York, as program coordinator of the Hudson Valley childhood lead poisoning prevention resource center; between 1999 and 2000, she was program coordinator for the Harlem Adherence to HIV/AIDS Treatment Study at Harlem Hospital Center/Columbia University; and in 2000, she returned to New York Medical College, putting in five years as program director of New Yorkers Caring for New Yorkers. She also underwent a six-year stint at Hudson Regional Health Commission, based in Secaucus, in the dual role as Medical Reserve Corps coordinator and Public Health Practice Standards Partnership coordinator. From 2011 to 2014, McNair served Hackensack Meridian Health/Palisades Medical Center in North Bergen as director of Hospital Public Health Initiatives, implementing a cardiac care intervention strategy; and from 2014 to 2021, she served as health officer/director of health management for Union County.
In coordinating the county’s response to the pandemic, McNair set up a database tracking the incidence, distribution and control of COVID-19 cases, oversaw contact tracing and investigation of cases of those who tested positive for the virus, supervised a call center that updated the community on new developments with the pandemic and daily vaccination clinics including planning for mobile vaccination centers — all in addition to her regular duties as health officer.
201-997-0600
amcnair@kearnynj.org
201-997-9703
645 Kearny Ave, Kearny, NJ 07032
The Health Department is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Mission Statement
The Kearny Health Department strives to promote physical and mental health, and to prevent disease, injury and disability amongst the residents of Kearny.
Public Health
- Prevents epidemics and the spread of disease.
- Protects against environmental hazards.
- Prevents injuries.
- Promotes and encourages healthy behaviors.
- Responds to disasters and assists communities in recovery.
- Assures the quality and accessibility of health services.
Essential Public Health Services
- Monitor health status to identify community health problems
- Diagnose and investigate health problems and health hazards in the community.
- Inform, educate and empower people about health issues.
- Mobilize community partnerships to identify and solve health problems.
- Develop policies and plans that support individual and community health efforts.
- Enforce laws and regulations that protect health and ensure safety.
- Link people to needed personal health services and assure the provision of health care when otherwise unavailable.
- Assure a competent public health and personal health care workforce.
- Evaluate effectiveness, accessibility, and quality of personal and population-based health services.
- Research for new insights and innovative solutions to health problems.
General Information
Some general pograms provided by the Health Department include:
Rabies Clinic: Conducted annually for dogs and cats residing in Kearny. Rabies vaccination is free and required for all dogs and cats older than 6 months of age
Animal Licensing: Required for all dogs and cats residing in Kearny. Proof of current rabies vaccination is required in order to obtain a license. Acceptable methods of payment are cash (exact amount required), check, or money order payable to Town of Kearny.
- Dog licenses: Fee is $21.00, or $18.00 if spayed/neutered. Annually expire on the last day of December of the calendar year in which they were issued. Renewals after the last day of March are subject to an additional $25.00 late fee. Licensure fee for a potentially dangerous dog is $700.00.
- Cat licenses: Fee is $21.00, or $18.00 if spayed/neutered. Annually expire on the last day of January of the calendar year following the calendar year in which they were issued. Renewals after the last day of March are subject to an additional $10.00 late fee
Animal Control: Provided by the Bergen County Animal Shelter and Adoption Center located at 100 United Lane, Teterboro, NJ 07608. They can be reached at 201-229-4616
Retail Food Establishment Licensing: Required for all permanent, mobile, and temporary vendors operating in Kearny. All non-temporary licenses annually expire on the last day of May of the calendar year following the calendar year in which they were issued. Please call the Health Department at 201-997-0600 for license fee information.
Retail Food Establishment Inspections: Provided by the Bergen County Department of Health Services located at 1 Bergen County Plaza, 4th Floor, Hackensack, NJ 07601. They can be reached at 201-634-2600.
Social Services: Includes Food Distribution, Dial-a-Ride, Meals-on-Wheels, Senior Bus Program, and assistance with Medicare/Medicaid, SNAP, and TANF applications. Please call the Health Department at 201-997-0600 for more information and eligibility.
WIC (Women, Infants, & Children) Program: Provided by the North Hudson Community Action Corporation located at 407 39th Street, Union City, NJ 07087. They can be reached at 201-866-4700.
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The Environmental Health Division is responsible for the following activities:
INSPECTIONS
- Annual retail food establishment inspections
- Annual pool inspections
- Annual youth camp inspections
- Annual body art facility inspections
- Annual animal facility inspections
- Annual tanning facility inspections
- Pre-demolition inspections
INVESTIGATIONS
- Food borne Illness investigations
- Animal Bite investigations
- Communicable Disease Surveillance
COMPLAINTS
- Heating/Hot Water
- Weeds
- Rodent Control
- Food
- Nuisance
- Animal Complaints
- Housing/Multiple Dwelling
The Health Department works closely with other organizations such as the American Association of Retired Persons (“55 Alive”/Mature Driving Class), the NJ Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (Vision Screening), American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, American Academy of Dermatology and American Diabetes Association. Referrals are made to local and county providers for various health services not directly available at the Health Department.
SENIOR SERVICES: Information & Referral
In an effort to meet the needs of our senior population, the Senior Services Program was developed. Senior residents can access a number of programs specifically designed for them that include:
- Dial-a-Ride: Transportation to and from medical appointments. Appointments must be made at least one week in advance. Operates Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 1:00pm excluding holidays. Please call the Health Department at 201-997-0600 for more information and appointments.
- Meals-on-Wheels: Nutritionally balanced hot lunches delivered to homebound seniors residing in Kearny that are financially eligible. Please call the Health Department at 201-997-0600 for more information and eligibility.
- Senior Bus Program: Two buses operate Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 12:00pm and from 1:00pm to 4:00pm except for holidays. One bus operates Saturday and Sunday from 9:00am to 1:00pm except for holidays. Transporation route includes local supermarkets, churches, Kearny Plaza Shopping Center, and the Kearny Avenue Shopping District. Riders must possess bus passes issued at the Health Department located at 645 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032. Please call the Health Department at 201-997-0600 for more information and eligibility.
- Senior Picnic: Offered to seniors age 60 and older, annually in June at Riverbank Park. Hot Dogs, hamburgers and fun for all. Picnic tickets available at various locations within town, such as Town Hall, Health Department and the Public Library.
- Senior Boat Ride: Sponsored by Hudson County annually in July. Pre-registration required.
THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA)
The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) is landmark federal legislation that opens up services and employment opportunities to the millions of Americans with disabilities. The ADA affects access to employment; state and local government programs and services; transportation, and access to places of public accommodation such as businesses, non-profit service providers; and telecommunications.
ADA COMMITMENT AND COMPLIANCE
The Kearny Senior Bus Program is committed to ensuring that no person is excluded from participation in or denied the benefits of its services on the basis on their disability as provided by the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Kearny Senior Bus Program and all supervisors and employees share direct responsibility for carrying out this commitment to the ADA. Health Officer Annarelly McNair ensures accountability in this commitment, supports all parts of the organization in meeting their respective ADA obligations, coordinates internally with all appropriate offices in the investigation of complaints of discrimination, and takes a lead role in responding to requests for information about the Kearny Senior Bus Program’s civil rights obligations and operations.
ADA COMPLAINT OF DISCRIMINATION PROCESS
If you wish to file an ADA complaint of discrimination with the Kearny Senior Bus Program, please contact Health Officer Annarelly McNair at 201-997-0600. A complaint or inquiry may also be filed by writing to Health Officer Annarelly McNair at Kearny Health Department, 645 Kearny Ave, Kearny, NJ 07032. Complaint forms can be obtained in the Health Department section at https://www.kearnynj.org/forms/. A complaint must be filed within 180 days of the alleged discrimination. A complaint may also be filed directly with the FTA, Office of Civil Rights, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington DC 20590.
What happens to my ADA complaint of discrimination to the Kearny Senior Services Program?
All ADA complaints of discrimination received by the Kearny Senior Bus Programs are routed to local area management for prompt investigation and resolution. All complaints received will be investigated, so long as the complaint is received within 180 days from the date of the alleged discrimination. The Kearny Senior Bus Program will provide appropriate assistance to complainants who are limited in their ability to communicate in English or require accommodation. Complainants will be requested to leave contact information for follow-up about their complaints. The Kearny Senior Bus Program aims to complete investigations into all complaints received within 90 days of receipt. In instances where additional information is needed to complete an investigation, the investigator will contact the complainant using the contact information provided. Failure of the complainant to provide contact information or any requested additional information may result in a delay in resolution, or the administrative closure of the complaint. The Kearny Senior Bus Program has a zero-tolerance policy on discrimination and will take appropriate corrective measures in all instances where a violation of the Kearny Senior Bus Program’s non-discrimination polices has been established. Once a complaint investigation is complete, complainants will receive a notice of finding via their preferred/available mode of contact. If contact information is not provided, then a note regarding the outcome of the investigation will be saved on file for a minimum of three years. Complainants can contact the Health Officer Annarelly McNair at any time to check on the status of their complaint.
LA LEY DE ESTADOUNIDENSES CON DISCAPACIDADES (ADA)
La Ley de Estadounidenses con Discapacidades de 1990 (ADA, por sus siglas en inglés) es una legislación federal histórica que abre servicios y oportunidades de empleo a los millones de estadounidenses con discapacidades. La ADA afecta el acceso al empleo; programas y servicios del gobierno estatal y local; transporte y acceso a lugares de alojamiento público como empresas, proveedores de servicios sin fines de lucro; y telecomunicaciones.
COMPROMISO Y CUMPLIMIENTO DE ADA
El Programa de Autobuses para Personas Mayores de Kearny se compromete a garantizar que ninguna persona quede excluida de la participación o que se le nieguen los beneficios de sus servicios en función de su discapacidad, según lo dispuesto por la Ley de Estadounidenses con Discapacidades. El Programa de Autobuses para Personas Mayores de Kearny y todos los supervisores y empleados comparten la responsabilidad directa de cumplir con este compromiso con la ADA. La Oficial de Salud Annarelly McNair garantiza la responsabilidad en este compromiso, apoya a todas las partes de la organización en el cumplimiento de sus respectivas obligaciones de ADA, coordina internamente con todas las oficinas correspondientes en la investigación de quejas de discriminación y asume un papel de liderazgo en la respuesta a las solicitudes de información sobre la Operaciones y obligaciones de derechos civiles del Programa de Autobuses para Personas Mayores de Kearny.
PROCESO DE QUEJA DE DISCRIMINACIÓN ADA
Si desea presentar una queja de discriminación de la ADA ante el Programa de Autobuses para Personas Mayores de Kearny, comuníquese con la Oficial de Salud Annarelly McNair al 201-997-0600. También se puede presentar una queja o consulta escribiendo a la Oficial de Salud Annarelly McNair en el Departamento de Salud de Kearny, 645 Kearny Ave, Kearny, NJ 07032. Los formularios de queja se pueden obtener en la sección del Departamento de Salud en https://www.kearnynj.org/forms/. Se debe presentar una queja dentro de los 180 días de la supuesta discriminación. También se puede presentar una queja directamente ante FTA, Office of Civil Rights, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington DC 20590.
¿Qué sucede con mi queja de discriminación de la ADA al Programa de Autobuses para Personas Mayores de Kearny?
Todas las quejas de discriminación de la ADA recibidas por los servicios de transporte de la ciudad de Kearny se envían a la administración del área local para una pronta investigación y resolución. Todas las quejas recibidas serán investigadas, siempre que la queja se reciba dentro de los 180 días a partir de la fecha de la supuesta discriminación. El Programa de Autobuses para Personas Mayores de Kearny brindará la asistencia adecuada a los denunciantes que tengan una capacidad limitada para comunicarse en inglés o que requieran adaptaciones. Se solicitará a los denunciantes que dejen información de contacto para el seguimiento de sus denuncias. El Programa de Autobuses para Personas Mayores de Kearny tiene como objetivo completar las investigaciones de todas las quejas recibidas dentro de los 90 días posteriores a la recepción. En los casos en que se necesite información adicional para completar una investigación, el investigador se comunicará con el denunciante utilizando la información de contacto provista. El hecho de que el denunciante no proporcione la información de contacto o cualquier información adicional solicitada puede resultar en una demora en la resolución o el cierre administrativo de la denuncia. El Programa de Autobuses para Personas Mayores de Kearny tiene una política de tolerancia cero con respecto a la discriminación y tomará las medidas correctivas apropiadas en todos los casos en los que se haya establecido una violación de las políticas de no discriminación del Programa de Autobuses para Personas Mayores de Kearny. Una vez que se completa la investigación de una queja, los denunciantes recibirán un aviso de hallazgo a través de su modo de contacto preferido/disponible. Si no se proporciona la información de contacto, se guardará una nota sobre el resultado de la investigación en el archivo durante un mínimo de tres años. Los denunciantes pueden comunicarse con la Oficial de Salud Annarelly McNair en cualquier momento para verificar el estado de su queja.
NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY TITLE VI NOTICE TO BENEFICIARIES
The Kearny Senior Bus Program operates without regard to race, color, or national origin, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended. Any person who believes she or he has been subjected to discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin, or wishing to obtain additional information regarding the Kearny Senior Bus Program’s Title VI obligations, may contact Health Officer Annarelly McNair at 201-997-0600. A complaint or inquiry may also be filed by writing to Health Officer Annarelly McNair at Kearny Health Department, 645 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032. Complaint forms can be obtained in the Health Department section at https://www.kearnynj.org/forms/. A complaint must be filed within 180 days of the alleged discrimination. A complaint may also be filed directly with the FTA, Office of Civil Rights, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington DC 20590. The Kearny Senior Bus Program aims to complete investigations into all complaints received within 90 days of receipt. In instances where additional information is needed to complete an investigation, the investigator will contact the complainant using the contact information provided. Failure of the complainant to provide contact information or any requested additional information may result in a delay in resolution, or the administrative closure of the complaint. The Kearny Senior Bus Program has a zero-tolerance policy on discrimination and will take appropriate corrective measures in all instances where a violation of the Kearny Senior Bus Program’s non-discrimination polices has been established. Once a complaint investigation is complete, complainants will receive a notice of finding via their preferred/available mode of contact (phone, email, letter mail, etc.). If contact information is not provided, then a note regarding the outcome of the investigation will be saved on file for a minimum of three years. Complainants can contact Health Officer Annarelly McNair at any time to check on the status of their complaint.
POLÍTICA DE NO DISCRIMINACIÓN TÍTULO VI AVISO A LOS BENEFICIARIOS
El Programa de Autobuses para Personas Mayores de Kearny opera sin distinción de raza, color u origen nacional, de acuerdo con el Título VI de la Ley de Derechos Civiles de 1964, enmendada. Cualquier persona que crea que ha sido objeto de discriminación por motivos de raza, color u origen nacional, o que desee obtener información adicional sobre las obligaciones del Título VI del Programa de Autobuses para Personas Mayores de Kearny, puede comunicarse con la Oficial de Salud Annarelly McNair al 201-997-0600. También se puede presentar una queja o consulta escribiendo a la Oficial de Salud Annarelly McNair en el Departamento de Salud de Kearny, 645 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032. Los formularios de queja se pueden obtener en la sección del Departamento de Salud en https://www.kearnynj.org/forms/. Se debe presentar una queja dentro de los 180 días de la supuesta discriminación. También se puede presentar una queja directamente ante la FTA, Oficina de Derechos Civiles, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington DC 20590. El Programa de Autobuses para Personas Mayores de Kearny tiene como objetivo completar las investigaciones de todas las quejas recibidas dentro de los 90 días posteriores a la recepción. En los casos en que se necesite información adicional para completar una investigación, el investigador se comunicará con el denunciante utilizando la información de contacto provista. El hecho de que el denunciante no proporcione la información de contacto o cualquier información adicional solicitada puede resultar en una demora en la resolución o el cierre administrativo de la denuncia. El Programa de Autobuses para Personas Mayores de Kearny tiene una política de tolerancia cero con respecto a la discriminación y tomará las medidas correctivas apropiadas en todos los casos en los que se haya establecido una violación de las políticas de no discriminación del Programa de Autobuses para Personas Mayores de Kearny. Una vez que se completa la investigación de una queja, los denunciantes recibirán un aviso de hallazgo a través de su modo de contacto preferido/disponible (teléfono, correo electrónico, carta postal, etc.). Si no se proporciona la información de contacto, se guardará una nota sobre el resultado de la investigación en el archivo durante un mínimo de tres años. Los denunciantes pueden comunicarse con la Oficial de Salud Annarelly McNair en cualquier momento para verificar el estado de su queja.
REASONABLE MODIFICATION AND ROUTE DEVIATION POLICY
The Kearny Senior Bus Program recognizes that disabilities are as diverse as the individuals they serve and recognizes the need to make reasonable modifications to its policies, regarding assistance offered to passengers who may require additional assistance to use its services.
Under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), State and local governments are required to make reasonable modifications to policies, practices and procedures where necessary to avoid discrimination.
For those riders who require additional assistance, the Kearny Senior Bus Program will endeavor to accommodate all reasonable modification requests for such assistance by following procedures outlined below:
- Riders must inform the Health Officer and/or their designee of the need and specific type of additional assistance requested at the time a reservation is made. Requests shall be made a week in advance of the scheduled reservation by calling the Kearny Health Department at 201-997-0600.
- The Health Officer and/or their designee will evaluate the request with the Omnibus Operators on whether the request is reasonable to perform.
- If the Health Officer and/or their designee deems the request to be unreasonable to perform or to repeat on a regular basis, then they must cite specific reasoning to support the finding to the rider via phone call. The finding must also be communicated to the rider expeditiously by written correspondence.
Riders may appeal any such decisions by following established ADA grievance procedures. Complaints that a program, service or activity is not accessible to persons with disabilities should be directed to Health Officer Annarelly McNair at 201-997-0600. A complaint or inquiry may also be filed by writing to Health Officer Annarelly McNair at Kearny Health Department, 645 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032.
Complaints may also be filed to the US Department of Transportation at the following address:
US Department of Transportation
Office of Civil Rights
Federal Transit Administration
Office of Civil Rights
Attention: Complaint Team
East Building, 5th Floor – TCR
1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
Washington, DC 20590
In addition, a route deviation of 1/8 of a mile off the bus routes may be requested by all riders. A reservation is required by calling the Health Officer and/or their designee. Requests shall be made a week in advance of the scheduled reservation by calling the Kearny Health Department at 201-997-0600.
Please note that upon request all documents are available in alternative formats.
POLÍTICA DE MODIFICACIÓN RAZONABLE Y DESVIACIÓN DE RUTA
El Programa de Autobuses para Personas Mayores de Kearny reconoce que las discapacidades son tan diversas como las personas a las que sirven y reconoce la necesidad de hacer modificaciones razonables a sus políticas, con respecto a la asistencia que se ofrece a los pasajeros que pueden necesitar asistencia adicional para utilizar sus servicios.
Según el Título II de la Ley de Estadounidenses con Discapacidades (ADA), los gobiernos estatales y locales deben realizar modificaciones razonables a las políticas, prácticas y procedimientos cuando sea necesario para evitar la discriminación.
Para aquellos pasajeros que requieran asistencia adicional, el Programa de Autobuses para Personas Mayores de Kearny se esforzará por acomodar todas las solicitudes de modificación razonables para dicha asistencia mediante los siguientes procedimientos que se describen a continuación:
- Los pasajeros deben informar al Oficial de Salud y/o su designado de la necesidad y el tipo específico de asistencia adicional solicitada en el momento de hacer la reserva. Las solicitudes deben hacerse una semana antes de la reserva programada llamando al Departamento de Salud de Kearny al 201-997-0600.
- El Oficial de Salud y/o su designado evaluarán la solicitud con los Operadores de Omnibus para determinar si la solicitud es razonable de realizar.
- Si el Oficial de Salud y/o su designado consideran que la solicitud no es razonable para realizarla o para repetirla regularmente, entonces deben citar un razonamiento específico para respaldar el hallazgo al pasajero a través de una llamada telefónica. El hallazgo también debe ser comunicado al ciclista de manera expedita por correspondencia escrita.
Los pasajeros pueden apelar dichas decisiones siguiendo los procedimientos de queja establecidos por la ADA. Las quejas de que un programa, servicio o actividad no es accesible para personas con discapacidades deben dirigirse a la Oficial de Salud Annarelly McNair al 201-997-0600. También se puede presentar una queja o consulta escribiendo a la Oficial de Salud Annarelly McNair al Departamento de Salud de Kearny, 645 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032.
Las quejas también pueden presentarse ante el Departamento de Transporte de los EE. UU. en la siguiente dirección:
US Department of Transportation
Office of Civil Rights
Federal Transit Administration
Office of Civil Rights
Attention: Complaint Team
East Building, 5th Floor – TCR
1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
Washington, DC 20590
Además, todos los pasajeros pueden solicitar una desviación de la ruta de 1/8 de milla de las rutas del autobús. Se requiere una reservación llamando al Oficial de Salud y/o su designado. Las solicitudes deben hacerse una semana antes de la reserva programada llamando al Departamento de Salud de Kearny al 201-997-0600.
Tenga en cuenta que, previa solicitud, todos los documentos están disponibles en formatos alternativos.
- Baby Keep Well Clinic: Provides immunizations for resident children age newborn to 5 years old. Board certified pediatrician conducts a developmental assessment and pediatric examination and administers immunizations as required by the State of New Jersey. Nurses deliver health education regarding car seat safety, nutrition, safety in the home, etc. The clinic is by appointment only.
- Blood Pressure Screening: Conducted every Wednesday from 9:00am to 11:00am. No appointment necessary. Participants have the opportunity to discuss health concerns with a public health nurse and have their blood pressure taken. Participants receive information on cardiovascular risk reduction, including diet modification, smoking cessation, and benefits of exercise.
- Immunization Audits: Annual audits of immunization records conducted for all nursery, preschool and childcare programs operating within the Town of Kearny. An annual review of public school immunization records is also conducted.
- Annual Flu Clinics: KHD provided approximately 850 influenza vaccine doses for this season. The last one was given on December 11, 2021.
The fees are as follows:
- Death Certificates are $10.00 per copy.
- Birth / Marriage / Civil Union / Domestic Partnership are $20.00 per copy. Valid Photo Driver’s License or 2 other forms of Identification (See list below). Proof of your relationship to the record is also required.
If you have any questions, please contact the Registrar’s Office at (201) 997-0600, Ext. 3503
Address: 645 Kearny Ave, Kearny, NJ 07032
Hours of Operation:
| Day | Open | Closed For Lunch | Closed For Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday – Friday | 8:30 am | 1:00pm – 2:00pm | 4:30pm |
Marriage/Civil Union License Applications
By Appointment Only
| Day | Open | Closed For Day |
|---|---|---|
| Monday – Friday | 9:30 am | 12:00pm |
Vital Records Request
By Appointment Only
| Day | Open | Closed For Day |
|---|---|---|
| Monday – Friday | 8:30am | 4:30pm |
HOW TO APPLY FOR A MARRIAGE LICENSE
Requirements for entering into a Marriage:
For two persons to establish a Marriage in the State of New Jersey, it shall be necessary that they satisfy all of the following criteria:
- a. Be at least 18 years of age.
- b. Not be a party to another civil union, domestic partnership or marriage in this State or recognized by this State.
Where to apply:
- The marriage license is to be made in the New Jersey municipality in which either party resides and the license is valid throughout the State of New Jersey.
- If neither applicant is a New Jersey resident, submit the application in the municipality where the marriage ceremony will be performed, the license is only valid in the issuing municipality.
Required documents when applying for a marriage license:
- Proof of identity by presenting your driver’s license, passport, or state/federal I.D.
- Proof of your (Kearny)residency
- Your social security card or social security number *
- A witness, 18 years of age or older, also presenting their valid photo ID. Note: The witness must be able to speak/understand English for translation purposes
- The $28 application fee (Cash – exact amount, check, or money order).
* Social Security number is required by law for US citizens and will be kept confidential
Any documents in a foreign language must be accompanied by a certified English translation.
Requested additional documents
these documents are helpful but not required:
- A copy of your birth certificate to establish your parents’ names and related birth information
- If you are divorced, have had a previous civil union dissolved, domestic partnership terminated, or have had a civil union annulled, please bring the decree(s) or the civil annulment documents.
- If your former spouse/civil union or domestic partner is deceased, please bring the death certificate.
After you apply:
There is a 72-hour waiting period before the license is issued*. The waiting period begins when the application is filed with the Local Registrar. There is no 72 hour waiting period for a remarriage; however, you must bring a certified copy of your existing marriage. *Note: when the license has been issued, it is valid for 30 days.
*Please be advised, it is the couple’s responsibility to pick up their marriage license during normal business hours (Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM & 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, excluding holidays).
The Town is under no obligation to make a license available during non-business hours. In the event a couple requests delivery of their license during non-business hours, delivery is subject to (1) the availability of the Registrar staff at the requested time and (2) payment by the couple of the Town’s personnel costs associated with the request, which payment shall be made at the time of delivery of the license to the couple.
Please be advised that the cost of delivery of a license during non-business hours can be as high as $327.68 if on a weekend or holiday or $245.76 if after 4 PM during the work week.
Town of Kearny Resolution 2016-107
In addition, the witness who was present for the filing of the marriage license application may pick up the license
The marriage license application is valid for six months from the date accepted, unless the Registrar has given prior approval to extend the validity of the application to a maximum of one year.
Only one marriage license may be granted from a marriage application, if the license expires before being used, a new application must be made and another $28 fee remitted.
The only exemption to this requirement is in the case where a civil and religious ceremony are to be performed on the same day. In this case, the Local Registrar will photocopy the Marriage application, marking the one “A” and one “B”, and issue the corresponding marriage licenses, marking them “A” and “B” as well, One copy will be used for the religious ceremony and the other for the civil ceremony.
Remarriage:
- For individuals who are currently in a marriage in New Jersey or are in an opposite sex marriage in another state or country there exists the option to reaffirm your relationship/vows by registering a Remarriage
- In order to apply for a Remarriage, the couple must provide proof of their existing opposite sex marriage, meet the requirements for entering into a marriage in New Jersey and follow the guidelines above to completing the license application.
- The process for a Remarriage License are the same as for the Marriage License, except that the Remarriage License must be accompanied by the proof of existing marriage and once the application is filed there is no 72 hour waiting period before the license is issued.
BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
Marriage & Re-Marriage License Applications are taken Monday through Friday, between the hours of 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
MARIELA IRIZARRY, Registrar of Vital Statistics | (201) 997-0600, Ext. 3503.
Note: Marriage ceremonies performed at Town Hall by Mayor Alberto G. Santos are subject to an officiant’s fee of $50.00 (Town of Kearny Ordinance 2007-O-16).
Download Application & Instructions
HOW TO APPLY FOR A CIVIL UNION LICENSE
Requirements for entering into a Civil Union:
For two people to establish a civil union in New Jersey, they must satisfy all of the following requirements:
- a. Not be a party to another civil union, domestic partnership or marriage in this State or that is recognized by this State*;
- b. Be of the same sex ; and
- c. Be at least 18 years of age, except that applicants under 18 may enter into a civil union with parental consent. Applicants under age 16 must obtain parental consent and have the consent approved in writing by any judge of the Superior Court, Chancery Division, Family Part.
*Same sex couples who meet the above requirements and are registered as domestic partners may enter into a civil union with the same person without terminating their domestic partnership first. If the domestic partnership was registered in New Jersey, it automatically terminates when the civil union is registered. If the domestic partnership was registered in another state, that state’s laws determine the impact on the domestic partnership. A couple that has previously entered into a civil union or a same-sex marriage may apply for a Reaffirmation of Civil Union License.
NOTE: BOTH APPLICANTS AND 1 WITNESS MUST BE PRESENT TO FILE THE APPLICATION.
Where to apply:
- You may apply in the New Jersey municipality in which either person resides. The license is valid throughout the State.
- If neither applicant lives in New Jersey, submit the application in the municipality where the civil union ceremony will be performed. The license is only valid in the issuing municipality.
Required documents when applying for a Civil Union license:
- Proof of identity by presenting your driver’s license, passport or state/federal I.D.
- Proof of your residency.
- Your social security card or social security number.*
- A witness, with their photo ID, (18 years of age or older). Note: The witness must be able to speak/understand English for translation purposes.
- The $28 application fee (Cash – exact amount, check, or money order).
* Social Security number is required by law for US citizens and will be kept confidential
Any documents in a foreign language must be accompanied by a certified English translation.
Requested additional documents
these documents are helpful but not required:
- A copy of your birth certificate to establish your parents’ names and related birth information.
- If you are divorced, have had a previous civil union dissolved, domestic partnership terminated or have had a civil union annulled, please bring the decree(s) or the civil annulment documents.
- If your former spouse/civil union or domestic partner is deceased, please bring the death certificate.
After you apply:
- There is a 72-hour waiting period before the license is issued. The waiting period begins when the application is filed with the Local Registrar. There is no 72 hour waiting period for a reaffirmation of Civil Union; however, you must bring a certified copy of your existing marriage or civil union.
- The Civil Union license application is valid for six months from the date accepted, unless the Registrar has given prior approval to extend the validity of the application to a maximum of one year.
- Only one Civil Union license may be granted from a Civil Union application. If the license expires before being used, a new application must be made and another $28 fee remitted.
- The only exception to this requirement is in the case where a civil and religious ceremony are to be performed on the same day. In this case, the Local Registrar will photocopy the Civil Union application, marking one “A” and one “B”, and issue the corresponding Civil Union licenses, marking them “A” and “B” as well. One copy will be used for the religious ceremony and the other for the civil ceremony.
Reaffirmation of Civil Union:
- For individuals who are currently in a Civil Union in New Jersey or are in a same sex union in another state where the rights afforded that union are equal to the rights afforded married couples, there exists the option to reaffirm your relationship/vows by registering a Reaffirmation of Civil Union.
- In order to apply for a Reaffirmation of Civil Union the couple must provide proof of their existing same sex union, meet the requirements for entering into a civil union in New Jersey and follow the guidelines above to completing the license application.
- The process for a Reaffirmation of Civil Union License are the same as for the Civil Union License, except that the Reaffirmation of Civil Union License must be accompanied by the proof of existing union and once the application is filed there is no 72 hour waiting period before the license is issued.
BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
Civil Union Applications are taken Monday through Friday, between the hours of 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
MARIELA IRIZARRY, Registrar of Vital Statistics | (201) 997-0600, Ext. 3503.
Note: Civil Union ceremonies performed at Town Hall by Mayor Alberto G. Santos are subject to an officiant’s fee of $50.00 (Town of Kearny Ordinance 2007-O-16).
DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIPS AFFIDAVITS
Effective February 19, 2007 Domestic Partnerships may only be registered by individuals who are each 62 years of age or older and meet all other requirements for being deemed eligible to register a domestic partnership. Domestic Partnerships may be registered by same sex or opposite sex couples (again if age 62 years or older)
HOW TO OBTAIN VITAL RECORDS
See Section 4.7 for vital record request form
ELIGIBLE INDIVIDUALS WHO CAN OBTAIN CERTIFIED COPIES OF VITAL RECORDS (BIRTH, MARRIAGE / CIVIL UNION, DEATH, OR DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIP CERTIFICATES)
The individual of legal age, the parents of, a brother or sister of legal age (with proof of their relationship i.e. a certified copy of birth certificate showing parents names), the spouse / partner (with proof of marriage, civil union, or domestic partnership certificate), the child of legal age (with proof of their relationship i.e. certified copies of birth certificate showing parents names), the grandchild of legal age (with proof of their relationship i.e. certified copies of birth certificate showing parents and grandparents names), the legal guardian / representative with proper court documents within a 2 year period.
Required Identification:
- A valid photo drivers license showing CURRENT address and signature
If a valid photo drivers license is not available, two of the following are necessary:
- A non-photo drivers license
- County ID
- Passport
- Vehicle registration and/or insurance card
- Copy of utility bill, bank statement within the previous 90 days
- Tax return for current or previous year
- Proof of signature is required
TO GET A COPY OF A VITAL RECORD
Obtaining a Vital Record
When obtaining a copy of a vital record you must first determine the type of copy that will meet your needs.
Types of copies:
- Certified copies have the raised seal of the Town of Kearny – Board of Health and are
always issued on State of New Jersey safety paper. Certified copies may be used to establish identity and are legal documents. - Certifications are issued on plain paper with no seal and clearly indicate they are not valid for establishing identity or for legal purposes. Certifications are generally only useful for genealogy. Certifications of deaths records do not contain the Social Security Number or the Cause of Death medical terminology.
- Certified copies have the raised seal of the Town of Kearny – Board of Health and are
To get a copy of a vital record, you must submit:
- A completed application
- A copy of the proof(s) of your identity
- The correct fee
- Proof of your relationship to the person listed on the vital record you are requesting
(Only required for certified copies)
4.1 BIRTH CERTIFICATES
Issued for persons born in the Town of Kearny. Certified copies issued in person or by mail for $20.00 per copy. If requested by mail, include check or money order payable to Kearny Health Department, give person’s name and exact date of birth, father’s and mother’s (full maiden) name.
Valid photo driver’s license or 2 forms of identification required. See list above. Proof of your relationship.
4.2 MARRIAGE / CIVIL UNION CERTIFICATES
Issued for persons whose marriage/civil union ceremonies were performed within the Town of Kearny. Certified copies are issued in person or by mail for $ 20.00 per copy. If requested by mail, include check or money order payable to the Kearny Health Department. For marriages: must provide groom’s name and bride’s full maiden name and exact date of marriage. For civil unions: must provide partner’s names and exact date of civil union ceremony.
Valid Photo Drivers License or 2 forms of identification required. See list above. Proof of your relationship.
4.3 DEATH CERTIFICATES
Issued for persons who died within the Town of Kearny. Certified copies issued in person or by mail for $10.00 per copy. If requested by mail, include check or money order payable to Kearny Health Department; give person ’ s name and exact date of death.
Valid photo driver’s license or 2 forms of ID, your relationship to the deceased. See list above.
4.4 DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIP CERTIFICATES
Issued for persons who have filed a Domestic Partnership Affidavit within the Town of Kearny. Certified copies are issued in person or by mail for $20.00 per copy. If requested by mail, include check or money order payable to the Kearny Health Department. Must provide exact names and affidavit filing date.
Valid Photo Drivers License or 2 forms of identification required. See list above. Proof of your relationship.
4.5 GETTING A NON-GENEALOGICAL RECORD
Birth, Death, Marriage, Civil Union, and Domestic Partnership
Non-Genealogical Records (current events) are:
- Births occurring within the last 80 years
- Marriages occurring within the last 50 years
- Deaths occurring within the last 40 years
- All domestic partnerships and civil unions
For all orders, the following must be sent with your application:
- all required copies of ID for proof of identity
- the correct fees
- copies of documents proving your relationship to the person named on the record, if requesting a certified copy
Your application will be returned if you do not send in all required documentation.
You must be able to fully identify the record by providing all of the information listed below on the application form.
Your request cannot be accepted unless you provide the information below.
- Full name on the record
- Exact date of the event (month, day and year)
- Mother’s maiden name
- Father’s name (if recorded on the record)
- For Marriage, Civil Union or Domestic Partnership — Instead of parents’ names, you must provide the name of the spouse/partner.
You must provide acceptable ID in order to get a copy of any vital record. Copies of vital records must be mailed to the address listed on your identification.
The following are acceptable forms of ID:
- A current, valid photo driver’s license or photo non-driver’s license with current address
OR
- A current, valid driver’s license without photo and one alternate form of ID with current address
OR
- Two alternate forms of ID, one of which must have current address.
Alternate forms of ID are:
- Vehicle registration
- Vehicle insurance card
- Voter registration
- US/Foreign Passport
- Immigrant Visa
- Permanent Resident Card (Green card)
- Federal/State ID
- County ID
- School ID
- Bank Statement (within previous 90 days)
- Utility bill(within the previous 90 days)
- Tax Return or W-2 for current/previous tax year
People who are homeless can have a social worker or the coordinator of the homeless shelter where they are temporarily residing submit a request on behalf of the homeless person. The request must be on their agency letterhead and provide the identifying information on the homeless person’s vital record. The request must be accompanied by proof of employment by the agency and valid identification. The resulting copy of the vital record will be mailed to the agency.
People who are incarcerated can provide legal imprisonment, conviction papers or release documents that include the name, social security number and all possible aliases used in the past or identification from a prison/probation official.
Other governmental agencies requesting vital records must provide their request on their agency’s letterhead and proof of their valid identification. The resulting copy of the vital record will be mailed to the agency.
Please do not send in original ID documents. Only copies are required.
Death Certificate: Ten Dollar ($10.00) fee for each copy. Birth, Marriage, Civil Union, and Domestic Partnership: Twenty Dollar ($20.00) per certified copy. Please make your check or money order made payabe to Town of Kearny. Please do not send cash through the mail.
Proof of relationship is not required if you are asking for a certification, which is an uncertified informational copy of the vital record not valid for establishing identity or legal purposes. However, you must still provide proof of identity when requesting a certification.
To get a certified copy of a person’s vital record, you must provide proof of your relationship to the person listed on the record and the proof must establish you are one of the following:
- The subject of the record
- The subject’s parent, legal guardian or legal representative
- The subject’s spouse/civil union partner; child, grandchild or sibling, if of legal age
- A state or federal agency for official purposes
- Pursuant to court order
If you are requesting a certification (an informational copy of a vital record not valid for legal purposes), you do not need to provide proof of relationship.
If you are looking for a certified copy of your own birth certificate and you have assumed your spouse’s/civil union partner’s surnameyou must provide a copy of the certified copy of your marriage/civil union certificate to link the name on your current ID to the name on your birth certificate.
- your child’s birth certificate you don’t need any additional documents.
- your spouse’s/civil union partner’s birth certificate you must provide a copy of your marriage/civil union certificate.
- your parent’s or sibling’s vital record you must provide a copy of your birth certificate.
- your grandparent’s vital record you must establish that you are the person’s grandchild by providing proof that links
- the name on your ID to the name of the grandparent.
For example, if you changed your last name after marriage/civil union and want a grandparent’s vital record, you must:
- Provide your marriage/civil union certificate to show your name at birth,
- provide your birth certificate to identify your parent, and
- provide the parent’s birth certificate to identify the grandparent.
If you are not a person qualified to get a certified copy of a record but you are helping a person receive a certified copy of a vital record they are eligible to receive you must show your valid ID and a notarized, written release authorizing you to get the record on that person’s behalf OR, you can supply a written release from the person you are helping along with a copy of that person’s valid photo ID.
If you are an attorney who is executor of an estate you must supply proof of appointment as the executor.
who is the legal representative of the executor of an estate you must supply proof of legal retainer by the executor and proof of the appointment of the individual as the executor.
who is the legal representative of an individual that is eligible to receive a certified copy of a vital record you must supply proof of legal retainer by the eligible individual and their proof of relationship.
who needs a certified copy of a vital record and you are not the legal representative of an eligible person you must obtain a court order directing the Registrar to issue a certified copy of the record. A subpoena is not sufficient to issue a copy of a vital record.
4.6 GETTING A GENEALOGICAL RECORD
Birth, Death, and Marriage
Step 1 | Identify the Genealogical Record
Genealogical Records (family history research) are:
- Birth, death, and marriage records for people who are deceased
You must identify the record by providing the following required information, if you provide the optional information it may assist us in locating the record.
Required Information:
- Full name on the record
- City or county where the event occurred
- Year the event occurred
Optional Information:
- Exact Date of Event
- Mother’s maiden Name
- Father’s Name
- Social security Number (deaths only)
Step 2 | Provide Acceptable Documentation
You must provide acceptable ID in order to get a copy of any vital record. Copies of vital records must be mailed to the address listed on your identification.
The following are acceptable forms of ID:
- A current, valid photo driver’s license or photo non-driver’s license
OR
- A current, valid driver’s license without photo and one alternate form of ID
OR
- Two alternate forms of ID, one of which must have current address.
Alternate forms of ID are:
- Vehicle registration
- Vehicle insurance card
- Voter registration
- US/Foreign Passport
- Immigrant Visa
- Permanent Resident Card (Green card)
- Federal/State ID
- County ID
- School ID
- Bank Statement (within previous 90 days)
- Utility bill(within the previous 90 days)
- W-2 or tax return for current/previous tax year
Step 3 | Payment and Fees
Step 4 | Proof of Relationship
(only required if ordering a certified copy of a vital record)
Proof of relationship is not required if you are asking for a certification, which is an uncertified informational copy of the vital record which is not valid for establishing identity or legal purposes.
To get a certified copy you must provide proof of your relationship to the person listed on the vital record and the proof must establish you are one of the following:
- The subject of the record
- The subject’s parent, legal guardian or legal representative
- The subject’s spouse/civil union or domestic partner; child, grandchild or sibling, if of legal age
- A state or federal agency for official purposes
- Pursuant to court order
AND where
- the birth occurred more than 80 years ago
- the marriage occurred more than 50 years ago
- the death occurred more than 40 years ago
Your request cannot be processed as a genealogical request if the person On the record is still living or the event was more recent than listed above.
