to the township committee meeting of May 26, 2026. An executive session was held at 6:33. We are now reconvening. Miss Break, please call roll. >> Committee Bing, >> here. >> Committee Gomez.
>> Commun Ham, sorry, there's an echo here. >> Here. >> Deputy Mayor Lefani >> here. >> Mayor here. >> Administrator Ferrer. >> Attorney Willard >> here. >> Please join me in a salute to the flag to the flag of the United States of
America and the Republic. As we have no approval of minutes, I'd like to begin a proclamation and recognize one of our police officers for his truly heroic efforts. Uh, may I have a motion and a second to go out of order and move the proclamation for officer
Wackenman to this up on this evening's agenda? >> Motion. >> Second. >> Thank you. Roll call, please. >> Committing. >> Yes. Committee woman hand. >> Yes. Deputy Mayor Leani. >> Yes. Mayor B. >> Yes. Thank you, Mr. Come forward.
Officer Recman is on duty. So, I wanted to be cognizant of that fact and get him back on the road as quick as possible and go find more barns to put out. So, um, Patrolman Wackman, while on his way to the 2026 Police Unity Tour, observed
a fire at 889 Amwell Road with flames coming out of the rear barn window. Patrolman Wackman responded to the back of the property to ensure that no children or animals were inside the burning structure. After calling 911, ironic, and providing status updates,
Patrolman Wcman ran into the burning barn to remove power equipment and a gas can full of fuel from the burning barn, preventing the further spread of fire. He then located the owner and evacuated everyone in the residence. While waiting for the fire department to arrive,
patrolman WCman assisted with traffic and also picked up a small dashon dog who was frightened and running into traffic. literally does not get better than this story. Now, therefore, be it proclaimed that we, the mayor and Hillsboro Township Committee, do hereby recognize the
heroic efforts of patrolman Christopher Wackenman, appreciate his commitment to the residents of our town, Hillsboro, and congratulate him for being a shining member of our community. Okay, he doesn't want to say anything. But if your house is on fire, he's
coming for you. I promise. >> Yes, of course. Sorry. Wait, hang on. We'll give them a second to All right. Excuse me. I have a curl that's stuck. Okay. So, for my remarks this week, we
have um on May 7th, I had the joy of attending puppy yoga hosted by Burough Safe and the Hillsboro Milstone Munip Municipal Alliance. Puppy yoga is just one of the events presented to wear awareness. Oh my goodness. To raise
awareness for Mindful May or Mental National Mental Health Month. I'll get better. I promise. I'm sorry. At the Hope for Tomorrow mental health fair on May 14th, I presented members of the Hillsboro Milstone Municipal Alliance with a proclamation recognizing May as
National Mental Health Awareness Month. The allianc's mindful May initiative and Hillsboro status as a stigmafree community serve as vital reminders that is okay to not be okay and that seeking help is a true sign of strength. With one in five
adults experience mental illness each year. The goal is to ensure every resident feels supported and empowered to prioritize their well-being without the fear of judgment. On May 17th, it was a very busy day for the semi-quincentennial celebrations
here in Hillsboro. I started it with a visit from George Washington at Flounder Brewing on his beautiful horse Nelson before a lecture on top. Then on to the parish of St. Joseph's to listen to the amazing voices of the Rare and Valley Coral Society as they sang of the We
Sing and American Song Book. The rain may have canceled our parade, but it certainly couldn't cancel the gratitude for our veterans. It was a privilege to honor our local heroes during the annual salute to military service breakfast. We had a full house and excuse me, sorry, I'm sick again you
guys. I'm sorry. And the morning was made truly special by the moving tribute from Grand Marshall Frank Pizzy. A heartfelt thank you goes out to VFW Post 8371 for your generous donation to the Girl Scouts for your invaluable assistance and to the Hillsboro High School Corral for your beautiful
performance along with this solo by Molly Campbell singing Amazing Grace ac Capella. This event would not have been possible without the hard work of our Hillsboro Township staff, especially the parks and recck department, public works, and administration departments.
And we can't forget IHOP. Thank you for pivoting and making this morning such a success. Most importantly, we extend our deepest thanks to all of our veterans and their families. We are forever grateful for your service and your sacrifice. Hillsboro Township is excited to host
its annual family funday and fireworks on Saturday, June 27th at Auton Road Intermediate School. This year's events carry special significance as a grand celebration for the United States semi-quincentennial making, marking 250 years of American
independence. The festivities begin at 5:00 PM with a deep dive into Americans roots. The event kicks off with a reenactment by local boy scout troop 1776, followed by a performance of the Rogue March by the West Jersey Artillery's FIFA drum brigade. As the
evening progresses, the energy shifts to the stage where the Somerville School of Rock will take a more modern approach. Starting at 700 p.m. During the musical intermission, the New Jersey Harmony Chorus will perform a series of patriotic tunes to keep the celebration
in high spirit. In honor of the 250th anniversary, attendees can visit a special commemorative family photo booth to capture memories of the MI milestone and visit the Hillsboro Township tent to receive exclusive semiquincentennial souvenirs. Our celebration will also
feature the activities and food that are family fun traditions. I'm thrilled to serve as Hillsboro's mayor during this historic milestone that I get to celebrate with Hillsboro's residents is definitely one of the highlights of my year. Deputy Mayor,
>> I'd give you some water, but you don't have >> I know. I have a I have a >> Mississippi. All right. Uh now, just echo the the mayor's remarks of um this past weekend with the veterans breakfast. It's truly like my favorite event uh that we do to honor our vets
and just to see them get together and and bond and just share a few stories. Uh it's and then the the corral and their their their singing always makes me tear up quite honestly. Uh so it's very emotional and um I'd like to thank
the township for continuing this this tradition and uh someday when I'm not on this this office I still want to be able to go to attend um I'll crash it if I have to uh because it it means that much to me. So thank you. Um,
so from uh with this rainy weather, I actually spent the whole weekend watching documentaries on History Channel and everything else about the Revolutionary War, Korean War, Vietnam War. So I took the opportunity to immense myself in the 250th anniversary
of our country. Um, and uh, and I just say that uh, there's plenty of good documentaries out there. just as a refresher. You probably know the history, but it's always good to watch it. It kind of just brings out some more patriotism and also maybe learn something you didn't know. But as we approach Independence Day, uh we honor
Hillsboro's legacy is New Jersey Victory Town. Strategically vital to the Continental Army, General Washington utilized the Sland Mountains to drill his troops while local Revolutionary War heroes and militia defended the front lines. Now a
proud Revolutionary NJ community, Hills continues to preserve these historic contributions as a cornerstone of our nation's birth. Here are some announcements as they relate to the 250th anniversary. Is there anything that we're announcing?
Nope. Okay. Um I'm I'm teasing. I don't know if there was videos, but okay, we're good. So, first one is fire hydrant painting for all our artistic people out there. Uh and those who just like to clean up some red hydrants. If you look to the left here, we are going to be painting
Hillswood's bringing back a classic bit of nostalgia by partnering with New Jersey American Water and Sherwin Williams to give fires a patriotic makeover just time for Fourth of July. The project was inspired by residents who finally remember similar celebrations during the bsentennial in
1976 and we want to create a creative way to commemorate the nation's 250th anniversary. Registration information for fire hydrant painting will be available next week on the website and in the e-news and the first 60 to sign
up will receive the free paint kit. So, please, it' be a great uh thing to do with your children if you got kids. Uh make them part of it. It's simple. Just throw some paint on there, make it look nice, and and uh commemorate the 250th anniversary. Patriotic house decorating. Okay, for
all those who like to bling out their house, this is your opportunity, we're going to do this. We used to do, you know, obviously for the holidays we do it, but now we're going to break it out for the 250th. Break out your bunting. Show your patriotic spirit for a chance to win a Hillsboro historic bundle and a photo op with the mayor. Entries must be
submitted by June 25th. Starting June 27th, we will release the interactive map so the community can tour the displays and vote for their favorites. Visit the township website or see e news tomorrow to register and help celebrate
the semiquincentennial. Where's dad? She here not here. I always struggle with that word in style. We also like to thank and celebrate America's 250th anniversary through the generous support of our community. All
commemorative activities are funded entirely by private donations. Ensure these events come at no cost to taxpayers. We extend our sincere grat to the following businesses and organizations for making this milestone celebration possible. The Hillsboro
Rotary Club, the York Fence Construction Company, Central Jersey Nurseries, Concus Construction, Hillsboro Republican Club, Hudmed USA, Sherwin Williams, New Jersey American Water, and Avalon Assisted Living. Businesses and organizations that would like to donate
can donate. Contact contact excuse me, Deb and at the clerk's office for more information. donations must be received no later than Wednesday, June 17th to have your logo appear on the backdrop for the family fund photo booth. I also
broke out, I don't know if you can see, my Betsy Ross flag here in commemoration of the 1776 um and our 250th anniversary. So, anything you got to to show your patriotism, let's get it out there and make this a fun summer.
Uh, if you haven't noticed, early voting for the 2026 primary elections begins today, May 26th. There are booths are open right now and runs through Sunday, May 31st at the Hillsboro Municipal Building. Please note that there is no voting on
Monday, June 1st. Primary election day is Tuesday, June 2nd, and will take place at your usual polling location. If you're not sure, it should be written on the front of your sample ballot that you received in the mail. The engineering department reminds pe
property owners that any planned change to the grading or topography of their property requires a township engineering permit because such changes can adversely affect adjoining properties. If if the regrading exceeds 5,000 square feet, which is roughly an eighth of an acre as people want to understand how
big that is. A permit from Somerset County Soil Conservation and a professionally engineered plan are required for changes under 5,000 square feet. The owner may submit a sketch provided the topography changes clearly demonstrate no impact to any neighboring
property. From our Hillsbor human resources, Hillsboro is hiring. Please see the Hillsbor Township website and e newsws tomorrow for a list of the open uh positions are listed over there. Um but if you're interested, please cons look
at our website from planning zone. As election season approaches, it is good time for a quick refresher on the local rules for campaign signs to ensure everyone stays compliant. Local signs are welcome in all zones, but there are a few important guidelines to keep in
mind. Please make sure that your signs don't block or obstruct any traffic or safety signals. And remember, these signs should never be illuminated. Most campaign signs require a zoning permit and must stay under 12 square feet in size. They can be displayed for up to 30
days during an election period, though they they do uh need to be taken down within 10 days once the campaign wraps up. It is important to note, however, that these specific sizes and timing restrictions do not apply to temporary political signs placed on private
property. Following these simple steps helps keep our community organized and safe while we are allowing everyone to share their support. And lastly, uh, from my notes here, this is the time of year when the assessor's office conducts farmland inspections. We kindly ask property owners to comply
with requests for access. According to NJ division of taxation, all farmland properties must be inspected at least once every three years. If you have a question, you may contact the assessor's office at 9083698077. And I'd like to end with on May 9th, I
attended the Hillsboro High School Hall of Fame induction. And I'd just like to congratulate the following students and adults that were inducted into 2026 Hillsboro High Hall of Fame. Brad Zo swimming. Lindseay Temple swimming.
Rachel Stoddard for swimming. Alexis Pisa for softball. Allison Shimco for softball. Alessa Vandervir for softball. Coach Steve Maul an hour a wrestling coach. and our own former community Jim Ru as a contributor to the school. And
that's all, mayor. Thank you very much. >> You're welcome. So, while I was reading quickly, I did miss one important but mighty u mention here for to congratulate the Hillsboro High School girls track and field team on their historic achievement of capturing their 10th state sectional championship title.
And I missed it. I'm sorry. So, um, Committeeman Britney, >> thank you, Mayor. I think I'll just do the call. Would they nine and0 the, uh, was the girls flag football team, too? I think I'll just from memory. I mean, they're crushing people. I think they won by 50 almost 50 points this last
game. Something like that. It was crazy. Really, really congratulations on that. It's great athletes here. All right. Health. Uh, so Somerset County is holding it next household hazardous waste collection day on June 13, 2026 at the South County Public Garage, 410 Roycefield Road, Hillsboro, New Jersey
08844. Uh, from 900 a.m. to 2 p.m. I didn't have to read the zip code. I think we all know the zip code. Sorry about that. So, recreation. So, carpenter bees. My boys are obsessed with carpenter bees and bees. They think they're so cool. And Disney, by the way, has a really good um documentary on bees if you're looking at it with your
grandchildren or children. Disney Plus. As the warmer weather settles in, you may notice an increase in local wildlife activity, particularly from carpenter bees. These industrious insects become much more active this time of year and are frequently spotted hovering around fences, gazeos, and other wooden structures throughout our township
parks. While these bees are a natural part of our ecosystem, we encourage visitors to remain mindful of their presence while enjoying the outdoors. They are genuinely genuinely docel and focused on their nest, but giving them a little extra space ensures a peaceful environment for both our residents and those local pollinators as they go about
their seasonal work. They sometimes will do a dive bomb on you pretty heavy, too. You have to be careful. They're big guys. So, next one is a swimsuit and the goggle drive. So, donate swimsuits and goggles to save lives. The New Jersey ba in New Jersey bathing suits are required for swimming lessons. Help more families
access swimming lessons to reduce the danger of drowning. Donations can be dropped off at the Hillsbury Municipal Building, Hillsboro YMCA, and Pinnacle Health and Pinnacle Health and Fitness. Last one from me, mayor, is from social services. The Hillsboro senior citizen buses provide safe and dependable
transportation for indiv individuals 60 and over. This service provides curbto curb service for a variety of essential activities to help keep seniors independent and thriving. It's a fantastic service in this town. I'm very proud that we have that. Arrangements for transportation uh can be made by calling the Department of Social
Services at 908 369 3880. The bus operates Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 4:30m. All passengers must first register to ride by providing a complete registration form to the office. This form can be found through the link on the social services web page or by calling the office. That's all for
me, mayor. Thank you. >> Thank you, committee woman. >> Yes. Thank you, mayor. All right. Um, so again, I don't know if any of you were able to attend the uh Memorial Day Veterans Breakfast. It was a very meaningful um very meaningful event. I'm
sorry the weather has not worked out for us over Memorial Day. Um I feel like each year we seem to get a lot of rain that weekend. Um shifting gears, wanted to congratulate the Hillsboro Middle School. Um, we had 100 students from the
Hillsboro Middle School that participated in the Somerset County Teen Arts Festival at Ruden Valley Community College. So, this was an exciting um display where they had dance, art, all different um types of uh displays. Um,
and it was just wonderful that a hundred students from our middle school were represented. So, congrats to all of them. Switching to OEM as summer is upon us. The weather is very nice this week with summer and hurricane sc seasons
approaching. Hillsboro Township OEM, that's our office of emergency management, encourages everyone to take proactive steps. Um, now is the ideal time to sit down, check your household emergency plans and your supplies,
refresh any of your um supply kits, water, things like that. Um, water, batteries, um, n perishables. Now is a great time to refresh, make sure everything is accessible and uh within within date. Um stay informed. It is critical to not only have your your
stocked kit, but also ensure that you're signed up for the official township alerts and notifications. By verifying your contact information, monitoring the local weather updates, you can ensure that you and your neighbors remain safe, connected, and ready for whatever the
season may bring. from the police department. Again, summer's approaching, so they we are reminding all Hillsboro residents not to leave pets unattended in the car. Um it is especially important as the as the weather heats
up. If you come across a pet in a car that is unattended, if you cannot immediately summon the driver, the owner, um please call the police. Um, also and and I know uh Committeeman Britain had excuse me, Committeeman
Leani had discussed political signs from a size and zoning perspective. The police would like to remind everybody that it is illegal to steal political signs. Signs are posted on private property can only be removed by the property owner and um anyone caught
stealing signs can and will be charged as a disorderly person and fined up to $1,000 and serve jail time of up to six months. That goes under the category of not worth it. Um so don't do it. Leave the signs alone. All right. National
Night Out. Um, the Hillsboro Police are hosting their annual National Night Out coming up on August 5th from 5:30 to 8. And I believe it's at Mountain View Park. It doesn't say on here, but it should be at Mountain View. Um, it's one of the really fabulous events. All of
our first responders are out there. It's just a wonderful uh, wonderful evening. So, please um, put it on your calendar. All right. Thank you, Mayor. Back to you. >> Thank you. Moving on. We have some personnel items. So there's going to we will hear all the comments all of the
comments first. After that if any committee me member would like to vote on any of the personnel items separately I'll give you the opportunity to do so. There's no need to take items separately for the purpose of commenting. Are there comments from the deis?
None. We went out of order the last time. I just want to make sure. Are there comments from the floor on personnel items? Okay, seeing none, would anyone like to take any of the items separately? >> Awesome. May I have a motion in a second
to approve personnel items one and two? >> So moved. Second. >> Roll call, please. >> Committing. >> Yes. >> Committeewoman Hand. >> Yes. >> Dr. Mayor Lean, >> yes. >> Mayor Payne, >> yes. Thank you. Consent agenda. We're going to hear all the comments
first. After that, if any committee member would like to take an item off the consent agenda for separate voting, I will give you the opportunity to do so. There's no need to take the item separately for commenting or questioning. Are there any comments from the day on the consent agenda? >> Excellent. >> Oh, okay.
>> You're quick. >> I am. >> So, um question on I was looking at um number two the emergency services. Um could you just speak a little I don't know who's our public health is that you committeeman reading or or mayor if you
could just speak a little to um this this shared service agreement >> beyond what was in the notes >> for the public just so we we can be clear on what this um public health mutual aid agreement for public health sure emergency services
>> I think I have that um I don't have it was on the agenda also do you have that by chance. >> There's not a separate note on >> it was on the TC confidential packet. >> Do you have it available on your
computer? Committee woman hand. >> Do you have that available on your computer? >> The um I will I will look. >> Can you read it? Thank you. Your mic's on. >> I'm sorry. I'm I should know this. I've
been here a while. The Township of Hillsboro, the Township of Bernards, the Township of Branchburg, Middlebrook Regional Health Commission, the Township of Montgomery, and Somerset County desired to enter a shared service agreement for furnishing mutual aid for an emergency public health service in
accordance with NJSA4A65-1. >> Yep. >> So, that's what it is. >> Thank you. >> No, but so I read that too. that that's actually the proclamation, but I even looked at the the resolution and it wasn't clear. Are we talking about um God forbid? Are we talking if there's
another COVID and they need um public health? We're going to supply public health to other towns, they're going to supply it to us. Like it it wasn't clear after reading the backup documentation. So, I was hoping that somebody had additional information. >> Clerk break, do you happen to know what
that entailed? Nothing. Right. Okay. >> I just didn't want to vote on it if we're not all about that at all. >> I was just curious if there's maybe a financial impact of something. >> Yeah. Okay. >> So, >> the one thing it's a collaboration
collaboration collaboration, right? >> You guys agree He did the same thing. >> Every municipality in the county and in the state has a health officer. And what they're indicating though is in
the event one municipality in the county ends up to have a health emergency, the other municipalities will volunteer and according to this agreement contribute to answering that health emergency. It's mutual aid. So if Hillsboro has an incident within Hillsboro Township, the surrounding communities will come to
Hillsboro's aid and and help them and assist. Likewise, if there is something in another township, Hillsboro's health department will assist them. That's that that's all it is. It's mutual aid. Same thing, mutual aid with police, fire, everything else. It's just mutual aid. >> Okay, great. Thanks.
>> That was the clarification. I was wondering, you know, God forbid we have another COVID. That's that's the deal. All right. Thank you for that. And then my other question was around um on number six with this was a um residential property
included here with the resolution and it talks about um it talks about an agreement with the township. >> Yep. >> So mayor, could you expand upon this one? >> I can. So 29 Horseshoe Drive has a storm
water facility behind it and it's a home There's a storm water facility behind it and we're going to execute um maintenance for that wording, but >> Okay. >> Mayor Mayor, yes, this is a private
home. They came in. They are increasing the impervious coverage, I believe, by putting a roof over a certain outdoor deck. And in connection with that approval from the land use board, they have to put some storm water measures on their property. Um what is typical and uh you might have seen it it it's kind
of become routine uh we have prepared a stormwater management uh maintenance agreement with respect to all so anytime even a development application comes to the township. They have storm water facilities that are approved on their property and basically this agreement says to them hey you property owner
you're responsible for the storm water management facilities on your property. You agree to maintain them in accordance with all D regulations. We, the township, have the right to inspect those to make sure that they're operating properly. And if they're not operating properly, we will let you know that and you'll have to fix it. If you
don't fix it, then we have the right to actually go onto your property, fix it, and then charge a lean against your property for that. So, it's basically an enforcement document. It's letting the homeowner know you have obligations. Please comply with those obligations. If you don't, the township has enforcement mechanisms if you don't.
>> Perfect. Thank you. very helpful. Thank you. I had one more question. Did anyone else have questions? >> Not yet. >> So my other question was around on number number one. Uh this one was was
interesting. This seemed um this seemed uh you know more like political theater. Um can you speak a little to this one? >> Sure. the League of Municipalities that all of us basically I don't know if the right term is report into but get
guidance from had posted a uh resolution for adoption to all mayors in the state and um this is one of the ones that we're adopting based on the league's guidance. So, the League of Municipalities,
every municipality reports into them essentially, like I said, and uh this was one that they selected help us to try and fight some of the health increases that are going on. >> Again, it seems interesting because this is all part of like collective
bargaining. So, very very interesting approach. Um, thank you so much. >> Well, I'll say Calcon, it's not really collective bargaining. This affects all towns. The it's not it's not a Republican Democrat thing. This is every municipality is fighting increased
health care costs which create undue burdens on the municipalities and they've gone unchecked for for years. And this is just the all the municipalities to try and urge leaders to implement some reforms to help uh give some relief to the municipalities
that are getting overwhelmed which we'll discuss later here later today about this. And it's not it's not political. It's strictly asking for help um for the future because it's not hasn't gotten better.
Okay. Any other questions from the floor? >> Good evening. Roy Fryman, 31 Snowborn Place, Hillsboro, New Jersey. Consent item number one. >> Yep. >> My name was misspelled. Thank you. >> Noted. We'll let the league know.
Thanks. Any other comments from the floor on the consent agenda? Excellent. Seeing none, does anyone want to take any separate? >> I would take number one separate. >> Sure. Can I have a motion um and a
second for the approval of resol consent agenda res um gosh number one? >> You want first? >> Yes. taking that separately, right? >> Yes. >> Yeah. So moved. >> Can I have a second? Thank you.
>> Roll call, please. >> Bing. >> Yes. >> Committee woman hand. >> Yes. >> Deputy mayor, are we voting on one or >> We're voting on one. We're voting to remove voting on that. So one >> try again. >> Okay. >> Hand.
>> No. >> Deputy Mayor Leani. >> Yes. >> Mayor Payne. >> Yes. Okay. consent to agendas 2 through six. Can I please have a motion and a second? So move second. >> Thank you. >> Roll call, please. >> Committee Bing, >> yes.
>> Committee woman hand. >> Yes. >> Deputy Mayor Lani, >> yes. >> Mayor P. >> Yes. The budget 2026-05 ordinance to exceed the 2026 municipal budget appropriation limits and to establish a cap bank further
consideration and public hearing on May 26, 2026. >> That's today. >> Yeah, I know. Was I not supposed to read the date? >> I was supposed to delete that. >> Oh, okay. It's all good. May I have a motion and a second to open the public hearing for ordinance 2026-05?
>> So, second. >> Wow. Roll call, please. >> Committee member. >> Yes. >> Can we have one hand? >> In this I'm sorry. This says to approve the capping not to open for public session. >> This is >> a motion and a second to open the public
hearing for ordinance 20265. >> I will open the public hearing. Yes. Dep. >> Yes. Mayor. >> Yes. Comments from the DEAS, comments from the floor. May I have a motion, a second to close
and adopt ordinance 2026? >> Okay. >> Make sure make sure he understands it's for that ordinance, not the whole budget. >> Uh, good evening. I'm Jean Reinhardt. been 12 years with senior citizens chapter A. >> Yeah. >> And all of that time I've been involved
with the executive committee. >> One thing I wanted to be sure of is that we've properly thanked the township for their support for so many years. Um if if we've been uh unappreciative, we
we are sorry for that. But I know we've said it many times in the smaller groups and uh individuals and certainly we to ourselves. >> Sir, I'm just going to pause you. I'm sorry. So, this is actually this ordinance specifically around the budget
is for um a municipal like a pro um sorry, municipal budget appropriation limit to be increased. Your question is on the actual budget. >> Okay. >> Sorry. >> So, just one more one more cycle. >> Yep. You can come right back.
>> We know where you're going. >> You'll have your opportunity. >> Yep. Stay close. Coming soon. >> Yeah, just you might as well just stand. >> Okay. Are there any other comments from the floor on this ordinance specifically as it relates to the budget
appropriation cap? Okay, that's what I thought. May I have a motion and a second? >> So moved. >> Second. >> Roll call, please. >> Command Britting. >> Yes. >> Woman hand. >> No.
Jeffrey Bani. >> Yes. >> Mayor Payne. >> Yes. Thank you. Okay. Also, in your notes, I didn't include a roll call for this next one, which we will also need. >> Okay. >> So, now we have a resolution authorizing
the 2026 municipal budget to be read by title only. May I have a motion and a second to read the budget by title only? >> So moved. Second.
>> Thank you. Roll call >> comments. >> Oh, sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. Yeah. I mean, it's just to read a title. >> It's literally just to read a title. >> I I do have a comment, though. >> All right. So, um I am going to read a comment. This is from committeewoman
Jill Gomez. She was unable to attend tonight. So, here we go. Um I regret that I cannot be present this evening and that joining virtually was not available. I appreciate the understanding of my colleagues and my constituents. I would like to thank our
CFO and deputy mayor Sean Leani and our our other finance liaison for their hard work in what was a difficult budget process. Earlier this year, it became clear that several line items had increased significantly, putting us in a
challenging financial position. Additionally, our surplus fund has significantly decreased over the years. In 2021, our fund stood at over $6 million. We ended 2025 with less than three million in our surplus fund,
meaning half of it has been depleted in four years. As a direct result, our SNP credit rating, that's import rating, has been downgraded for the first time in years, raising the interest rate on our municipal debt. We cannot continue on
this path and must take concrete steps to reverse this trend. That means rebuilding our surplus fund, growing our revenues, and reducing spending while continuing to deliver the essential services our community depends on. It
will take years to improve our financial stability, but addressing it honestly and directly is the only responsible path forward. I urge my colleagues on the deis to be straightforward with our constituents and not mislead them into believing that everything is fine when
it is not. Our residents deserve transparency and truth. The road ahead is difficult, but so is our responsibility to meet it with integrity. I remain committed to working with my colleagues towards a stronger financial future for our community.
So unfortunately, committee woman hand, I think you meant to read that for the public hearing opening, not the title. >> Okay. >> Um, so yeah, on that part, you know, it was really unfortunate that committeewoman Gomez couldn't be here tonight. She was the lead finance
liaison to creating the budget. So we were really, you know, it was very unfortunate timing that she couldn't make the meeting tonight. So that said, can we have a roll call, please, for the Read the title. Yeah. >> Committee member.
>> Yes. >> Committ H. >> Yes. >> Deputy Mayor Leani. >> Yes. >> Mayor P. >> Yes. Now, may I have a motion and a second for the PO to open the public hearing for the 2026 municipal budget. >> So move.
>> Second. >> Thank you. Roll call, please. >> Committee Ring. >> Yes. >> Committee woman hand. >> Yes. >> Lean. >> Yes. >> Mayor P. >> Yes. Okay. With that, we will now take comments at the purple point for from the deis.
Are there any other comments on the budget opening from the deis? >> I'm not sure if uh deputy mayor is going to say anything since you're the second leazison, but >> well, >> I have some things I'd like to say as well. I'll just say that um as you've go
through the budget and command Gon Gomez and I and Christian and Mr. Ferrer and our Harriet from personnel and and a bunch of the people sat down and we had to go deal with some some strong
headwinds um of which was most of it was out of our control. Uh we've talked about this um last year I believe and uh and actually we one of the resolutions we we asked for help for was healthcare
uh costs going up 20 plus% year-over-year pensions, electrical costs. You know, you get obviously your your own budget at home when you get your bills, right? You see how much things go up. Our
government's a zero is a balanced budget. We can't go into a deficit like the state can or or the federal government. Our our dollars have to match 00. So this does this this budget
is a difficult budget. It actually to be quite frank is does not provide additional services for the community. actually removes services to our community.
It takes away and puts more burden on some of our employees because we we've had to do some restructuring. But essentially, this is what we had to do to keep the lights on, keep our police department
funded, our DPW being able to plow snow, our offices filled with staff enough to do that. But there is not a lot of excess ROI, I'll call it, coming back to the residents this year.
Um, and it's unfortunate because um the the fact of the matter is people that um unless things change because it's we're we live in a residential community.
People always come to say, you know, we don't want all the building in town, right? We want to keep it great place to live. We want homes. We want good schools. Whatever. Um, so the tax base falls upon the homeowner. We don't have a 22 quarter. We don't
have a Edison shopping centers or whatever. So, you know, 80% of it falls on the residents. Uh, and the businesses like I own pay a good part of it also. But this budget, let's make no that's a
no no doubt about it is is a difficult budget. And um Christian spent hours looking at everything for us, looking at every line item to see
what we could do. And everyone felt a pinch. There isn't a person in this building, including ourselves, that didn't get affected by the budget. And we went internal first before it
went external. So, as you as you listen to the budget and you sit there and you ask why something may not have happened or why this is this is the way it is, this this unfortunately is is the situation that's been presented us over
the years by the escalating outside costs that we have no control over. Um, and I don't know if it's going to get any better anytime soon. As the statement is from from Miss
Gomez, there are headwinds in here that we're going to be facing. Um, and it's it's just a matter of the fact of what it is. >> I just want to add a comment to the this evening there has been a change from the
state. We got uh a notice on Saturday that there is a slight change that the we might have to make to the budget. Um so we will not be voting on the budget tonight. And also because our finance lead committee woman Gomez is not here.
We're not going to do that. We need a majority, not just a twothirds vote. So for those reasons, we're going to hold off voting this evening either way. Just to put that in some perspective to you today. Yeah. So, the state didn't assign us a
reviewer till Friday. >> We submitted the budget three weeks ago, Christian. >> Everything went down to the state on April 30th. >> April 30. We didn't get someone assigned our budget to review it till Friday and then they sent us comments Sunday morning, >> Sunday morning,
>> and Monday morning. So that's that's the fact that we are answering questions and we haven't been certified by the state, but it took them three weeks plus to assign someone to even look at our budget. And I'll give you one other little
tidbit. We got an email to tell you what's going on. This is only to the budget, but we had bought a piece of property 1170 Amwell Road that was supposed to be a warehouse and they had applied for an LOI with the D four and a half years ago. They just
got the LOI last yesterday and they gave it to us just to have on record that we own the property now. But four and a half years to get an LOI to do a development if they had wanted to build on the property. four and a half years to get a piece of property
delineate an LOI from the New Jersey D. That's insane, right? >> Any other comments from the deis? >> I'd just like to um just add a little bit to to what deputy mayor had mentioned to just the ground for this evening because I know a lot of people here for questions. I think it's
important for you to have everything on the table. So, uh we started the year, correct Christian, correct me if I'm wrong, about $870,000 in the hole, something like that. $900,000 and that had to go towards higher pension obligations, rising in joint insurance
uh fund costs and also substantial increases to health insurance. That's almost a million dollars upfront. Um I'm proud of a number of things in this budget that we were able to maintain. Um it was a very tough year, but first let me go just few few things that are very frustrating to me that um forced to vote
for or forced to vote on tonight. Put it that way. So some of the senior program >> voting tonight. Oh, not voting the the next the next time, but just the the um the next meeting. Sorry. But there's three things that are just very frustrating to me. The senior programs and community services is number one. Um very frustrated. That is something that
is increasingly difficult to fund. Again, uh deputy mayor mentioned that we'd looked internally first and there were um a number of uh of people internally that impacted it. Um so I want people to keep that in mind when we're thinking about that and when we're coming up to talk. Infrastructure and
road improvements. uh we're not doing um as many roads as we could be doing uh not could be doing or had been doing in the past due to this due to a lot of challenges related to the budget and that's very frustrating as well too. That's something we see, touch and feel every day. And then parks and recreation. Uh that's another area that
I think in the future I'd like to see if we can invest a little bit more into because the beautifification of the town is very important. Um just a last thing just to ground as well too. So when you look at our township budget, you look at the 100% of the taxes you pay. It's a percentage, right? It's a big pizza, big pie, right? 100%. About 15% of that pie
is the municipal portion. That's what we're talking about here. 65 or so percent goes to the school. Another 15% so goes to the county and the rest goes to open space and fire. Something to that effect. 15% come to the town. Tonight, you you'll probably see here, you'll see an 8.3% increase, but that's
just to the municipal portion. So, I want to make sure you're grounding on that as well, too. That's essentially a 1.2% increase to that overall pie. Want to make sure we're grounded on that. what we're talking about tonight is not 8.3% increase to the overall budget. So, um that you pay, excuse me, that you overall that you pay. So, I think it's
important to to to state upfront before we get into the conversation and take your questions as well, too, because I want you to be fully informed. But thank you everyone for being here tonight. I'm really happy to see people here um engaged. >> With that, I'll open it up to the floor if the audience will indulge me. Sir,
>> thank you for patiently waiting. So, yeah, I'll try to be uh brief. Um, just following up that that we >> can you state your name, name and address for the record. >> Name and address. >> Address for the record, please. >> Okay. Jean Reinhardt, address 874 ML
Road. As I mentioned before, I was uh I've been 12 years in chapter 8, senior citizens. Most of that time on executive committee and uh we've uh appreciated
the long-term support of the township to our senior citizens. Um we were surprised and almost shocked to see that the budget was changed to zero this year. Uh rather drastic and it kind of sent a message to us. Um, we
recognize these are tough times and and you're working on it and we appreciate that you you recognize that uh the seriousness how that impacts uh our organizations. Um so we only hope that
uh there's there's some light at the end of the tunnel at some future time that uh this could be reconsidered and um we can enjoy some funding again and provide services ourselves to our senior citizen
group. Um there may be others that would mention others, but we appreciate it, >> Mr. Reinhardt. So, I'll actually answer that for you. I have an email here. Um so, the bad news is is you'll never see that money from the township again. The
worst news is it was actually against state law that we were giving it to you in the first place. So, New Jersey Archives. Um, this is information. C >> Can I read? I'm reading. So, Diane
Sherry, she's the CMFO and the QPA of um Springfield, New Jersey. And under section three, Christian, the whole email didn't pop out, but do you have the law? No donation of land or appropriation of
money shall be made by the state or any county or municipal corporation to or for the use of any society association or corporation whatever
do you have the fuller the which law that came from please >> okay >> yeah I'm going to pull from my email >> hang once One second folks. >> Yeah, this is from the state. Christian, I can't find the Do you have
the other half of that? >> Oh, you don't. >> Sorry. No, >> I will find the law that it is according to, but it did come from the state of New Jersey. >> So, yep. Go ahead. Is it your interpretation that uh this uh applies
directly to uh nonprofit organizations like senior citizen group >> any society association or corporation whatever >> sir sir that doesn't mean that the township can't appropriate funds through its wreck and social services department
to support senior programs which they can Okay. So, it's programs for seniors or other groups, but nothing directly to those groups. >> Correct. >> It's I think what becomes problematic is just giving a check to a third party
group that is not a township entity, right? Even though you're a form nonprofit. However, however, there's specific statutory authority that does allow municipalities to appropriate funds for senior w programs just like, you know, just a recck program might
benefit 5-year-olds playing baseball. Well, you know what? A recck program can also benefit our seniors, whether whether it's exercise classes that I know the township does, uh, or those things. Yes, the township can do that. Uh, the question about the legality is whether we can actually just write a check and give it to a nonprofit
organization. So I found it. Um, okay. Um, Committeewoman Gomez was inquiring again about the legality of our past appropriations to senior groups A and B. Since we aren't appropriating any funds this year for these groups, we just want
to let what we just want to know if you agree with the wording of the law. And then this law comes from and we can certainly post this for you. It's uh nj.govstatearchchives const.html HTML and I can add a link um in my e
newswsletter to this exact document so that you guys can have it and see it for yourselves. >> Sorry, let me click on it and see. Hang on. 1947 state constitution. >> Yeah, that's a great There you go.
Assemblyman Fman. There you go. It's a state constitution. I'm pretty sure it applies. in the in the crowd. Thank you. >> So, I'll send out the news. >> Did you have any other questions?
>> Just for clarity to the Just for clarity too, the um exercise classes and the YMCA programs are still existing for the seniors. >> Stanley Stanley White Tech 11 stats drive
Thank you. >> Well, I'd like to say a few words about the budget. I realize and I agree with you that we are in a difficult position.
However, I don't see a way out of it. as I well I know the reasons obviously you know operating costs are high state funding's been reduced throughout the years so forth and so forth what can we
do about that as the way I understand the major chunk of expenditures is the personnel cost is there anything that can be done to curtail the size of personel
For instance, even before the budget is approved, there have already been three renewed position with a very generous salary increase in the range of
of $250,000. Okay. Now, I also understand that as soon as the budget is approved, there there already proposal for 29 new hirees. Most of those are once again the executive positions.
Very few teachers are included. >> Sir, we don't have teachers on our staff. And you're referring to the board of education. >> I'm sorry. >> You're referring to the board of education and their administrator staff.
>> Okay. >> That's not us. It's separate. I'm sorry. That's not you. >> No. So, the board of ed has their own budget which is separate from the township committee. I'm sorry, from the township municipality. >> Okay. Then >> we have
>> another another remark. >> Sure. >> I've been paying attention to some of your meetings and I like to refer to your February meeting. >> Okay.
>> Where you discuss the release of million dollar fund prior to the budget approval to cover some of the expenses. >> Correct. >> Now the attitude that the majority display during that meeting
is abhorent. You know I was upset just by reading the the description of the meeting the proceedings in the press. How the level intimidation that was
displayed towards the descending two personnel members of the of the planning board. How the person was ridiculed by some of your members. It's beyond pale just because
why? Okay. Yeah. Because because the person raised concern pointing out that of the hardship that many residents felt
yet from the last huge tax increase and once again you know they are exposed to accept another one. The member was basically expressing concerns shared by me and hundreds of
property owners. for that she was severely ridiculed by a colleague. Now this is really unfortunate and I would expect this board to
basically conduct the meetings in that fashion. The level of intimidation was bey. So, we're going to explain uh what the emergency appropriations are versus like an actual budget, if you
would please. >> The temporary emergency appropriations, as we discussed before, were just mechanisms to basically fund the budget prior to adoption. It's basically the bridge between the temporary budget and where we are today.
That's what they are. So for the public watching the meeting so the audience comment was that our meetings are too formal. Yes sir. We're aware we do have to follow Robert's rules of order. >> Yes. I actually did a full video
recently on on that whole thing. >> Yeah. Next question. Come on. >> You can cue if you want. >> My name is Richard Gillio. G I L L I O. I'm with Chapter B.
Thank you for your bad news in the first place. It's all you ever give us. But more importantly, we're old. We're all old. I'm 82. When are you going to get this matter straightened out so that I get a benefit
of living here? I came here because I thought I thought senior citizens this was a great place to live. It's not. I'm paying for it. I don't understand what the hell is going on. I
I I hear about Minnesota and all the draft and all the d I mean, what the hell is going on? I It's not you people. It's the people above. They're stealing. They don't care. But in the meantime, we do care. All we're
asking for is a fair shot. I'm going to have to now chapter B is gone. Are you going to build a senior center? What happened to the senior center you were going to build? >> So, we do have a builder who is building 50. >> We ain't going to be there.
What the hell good is a building if we're not in it? That's exactly what I'm getting at. We're getting no services at all. You just built buildings. Buildings. Those people don't know what's happening. You I'm talking about the ones on Anwell Road and the ones
over here. Do they know they're going their taxes are going to go up? What do you think they're going to go down? You talk about insurance. Who the hell cares about insurance? Unless you work for an insurance company. I I I have to put a roof on my house,
right? Yeah, I do. Huh? How come the people in Florida, they got to vote? They I don't want to change anything. Meanwhile, I got to pay for it. I live in Hillsboro. I don't live in Florida. The whole matter is screwed up. So, you're talking to older people who are
sitting here hoping that we'll finally get some good news. We're not getting it. Chapter A, chapter B. What the hell's the difference? We're in chapter Z. We all care about the few years we got left. It's all we got. I'm not going
to get anything out of what I'm going to pay. Nothing. Zero. My wife don't My wife says don't say anything. I have to. I have to say something because this is garbage. I need you like I need a hold.
My dog would do better than you people are going to do because you can't do anything. So what the hell good are you doing here? You don't even get a paycheck. You decided I can't do it. You're an honorable person, but unfortunately what can you do? You only
make so much. I want millions and billions of dollars that's being stolen. Don't tell me it's not. You know where the governor was today? >> Not today. I do know where she was yesterday. worrying about ICE. She's worried about ICE. How about here? The older people.
The hell is she doing over there? They're trying to help us. Not trying to hurt us. May maybe they're not helping us, but they're certainly not hurting us. Meanwhile, she's over there. Or he, whoever the hell. I think it's a woman. >> And here we're dying. >> I agree.
>> But let me tell you something. You people are very nice. I'm not blaming you for anything. >> We just need help. >> We are. You're not going to be able to do it. I know it. >> Yeah, >> you may get the benefit out of what we're paying,
>> but I'm 82. How long do I have left? It could be tomorrow. It could be could be next week. Whatever it is, it isn't the point. The point is these people worked hard all their lives. All they're asking for is a few more decent lives. That's all.
>> So, I thank you for acknowledging that. I'm just saying. Oh, I yeah, but honestly it matters, right? So, and you do matter and what we can do for you at very little levels. We do try the food that we give for the lunchons, the things that we do to subsidize like we
do try, right? And to your point, is it enough? No. >> And now we're not to your other point, we're not get garnish like we don't get a stipen or anything anymore either. >> You people are sweet. I'm not blaming. I we just need your help. That's all. >> We believe me desperately we want to
give it to you. >> Thank you. >> You're welcome. >> Ma'am, George Val um 208 South Branch Road, Hillsboro. My husband grew up here. Um, we have a road named Mar family um that
we can't afford to live on, by the way. And uh I've lived here in my house for 50 years and you are taxing me to the point where I'm going to have to move because I can't afford to live here. And when you talk about the board of education, I happen to know because I looked it up before I came. 65% of my
tax dollars go to the schools. A school that I have not had a child in since 1985. Okay? Okay. So, I've been paying for your schools for 41 years while you continually build houses, apartments, affordable housing where
those people don't get everything for free and I have to support them. And now you're telling us that we I mean, your budget is in the billions. And you tell us we can't have a few thousand dollars to help run our own programs. There is no way that is fair. and you're taking the word of this Jill Gomez who's
inexperienced, young, and only cares about the bottom line of her children and the children coming up because that's all you seem to care about anymore are the young people in this town. What about all of us who've given so much all these years? I mean, when I came to Hillsboro, there was hardly
anybody here. I mean, you know, in the meantime, you have built around my home, and we won't even get into the water problems that you've created. my home. You've built seven new houses around me. Huge houses. All of them having kids that now I have to support my taxes
because now I live in a higherend residential area because I've got mega mansions next door. My taxes have gone up $4,000 in one year. >> Yes. >> I mean, you know, and you talk about your medical, you think Medicare doesn't go up. You think our taxes don't go up.
Our insurance doesn't go up. I just got my house insurance bill. It went up another three or $400. My car insurance goes up. our our bills go up too. I mean, you know, Medicare is not free despite what Bernie Sanders may say. I mean, >> right? Is Medicare free? I mean, you
know, the supplements are even higher. So, I mean, you know, we're not asking for a lot. Your budget is very big. Somewhere you can do a little bit. We have two clubs here. Both of them have over 300 members, not counting all the seniors that live in this town who don't have any, who don't belong to the clubs.
How can you just ignore all of the seniors in this community who have given to you? I've given you 50 years of my tax money and my time and I've never asked for anything in return. I've gotten nothing from Hillsboro Township ever. What? You know, and you can't give back. Now that I'm a senior and belong
to a club, you can't help supplement that just a little bit. I mean, it just doesn't make sense to me. I'm sorry. I think you're all wrong. And I think you owe it to us who've supported you, who have voted for you, and you know, have always gone along with everything that's going on in Hillsboro. You owe us
something like that. I mean, you just can't ignore the senior community. We're a large part of your community and you're chasing us all out. >> So, thank you, Christian. Just to clarify,
we were giving $15,000 a year to each club, right? We were giving $15,500 to each senior, >> right? So why cut it down if you need to, but don't take it away completely. I mean, you're just going from feast to famine. >> But you just said in a second ago, with
all the rising costs that are going on, Hillsboro Township is not immune from these rising costs. We had to make some difficult decisions for this budget. I could read you the list of, >> but you can cut somewhere besides all the the senior programs. You can cut it down. You don't have to cut it out. I
mean, I know you talked about the board of education, but as I pointed out, 65% of my tax money goes to the schools. And I just read in the patch that they have they just renewed contracts for three assistant supervisors or whatever they
call themselves superintendent for over 200,000. >> God, if I had $200,000 in Hillsboro, I'd be living like a queen. I mean, you know, it's like, you know, you're just, you know, and you have some control. I know the board of education and all this, but you know, you just can't keep spending. Nobody needs $200,000 to live
on. Not when you expect us to live on 20. >> Ma'am, we're not the board of ed. >> We're Yeah, >> you're the municipal. >> I understand. I know you don't get a big salary. I already know that. >> What I'm saying is, >> but >> I know you're not the board of ed either, but I'm just saying, but that's incorporated in our taxes. Is not
education incorporated in our tax? It's a huge huge chunk of our taxes. >> If if I may ask a question back. Sorry, Christian. One second. So, if I may ask a question back, are any of the are either of the treasurers in the room from chapter
>> So, do you not have about $40,000 in the account? >> About $30,000 is the answer. Okay. >> Can you come to the mic, please? You don't have to leave. I'm not trying to push you out. I'm just trying to I trying to guard her information for the
public. >> And while she's on her way, I just have to correct something you had mentioned. So this So Committee Gomez is not here tonight. This was not her doing to be clear. Um this was >> uh removed from the budget when they received the draft and it was
determined. I believe you said that you had done some research and that this was possibly not legal. So just please we just want to make sure that that's clear. This wasn't one person trying to to remove this. >> So
>> we have this is a B is different, >> right? He's behind you. >> About $30,000. >> Okay. >> Right now. >> How long do you think that can sustain you >> into sometime next year? >> Okay. >> About halfway. Maybe not even halfway. I
predicted that at the end of this year we'll be down to 142. Okay. >> And we need we spend more than your 155, >> right? >> So, what we're going to have to do, just like you, we're going to have to
increase dues considerably. We're going to have to um I've written it down. >> Good, good, good. >> Okay. We're going to have to ask the members to contribute more to special events like lunchons and so forth,
>> right? We're going to have to curtail some of our activities. We're not going to be able to do as much. >> So, here's what >> we're going to do our best to try to hold it together, but it's going to be a lot more difficult for us. >> Here's what I would propose back. And I'll give you a chance to speak for B
because you're A, correct? Okay. >> And you're A. Okay. Just trying to get everybody straight. So, here's what I I I would like to propose that you work with our social services team to perhaps get food donated for the lunchon so that
we can continue to do things like that. Also to looking for grants to sustain some of the other programs that you like to do. There are options that we haven't had to look at before that we need to get creative with as this budget rolls
through. Right. So right now we haven't looked at a grant for the senior services. We haven't looked at a grant for that. So if that's an opportunity that we can, you know, capture, we will. >> So we there are other things that we can do to get back this other subsidy. Maybe
not in a financial form necessarily, but in other donations. >> Mayor, may I also suggest they reach out to me as a social social services leaison? The two the two Yeah. The two uh treasures. I'll work with you to figure out all the options that you have
to try to help build that up. >> We'll look everywhere. >> One thing I just want to say, >> I looked at your budget. If I didn't happen to look at your budget, we would not have known that we were cut. Nobody told us when the president tried to get
clarification. Nobody, you know, she >> Who did she ask? >> I guess she went to Well, Yeah, she's not available. Okay. >> I don't know who she asked. >> Okay. Okay. Okay. >> But >> you can always come to me.
>> I'll follow that for you. >> Yep. >> When she pressed it more, we got clarification. We were said it's a done deal. That's it. >> Well, and like I always say, the facts matter, right? So, it is a done deal, but if it were going against the state
constitution, that's a whole different thing. Sir, >> the good news is this budget is not done. And I will tell you, I know where I can find $3,200 that we'll talk about here in a little bit tonight. Um, so there there the
budget is not done. And I think just even just all of you showing up and the fact that the budget there is some some uh, you know, changes going back and forth with the state. This just tells me that we should not be closing the public comment tonight and that this public
comment should continue into our June 9th meeting with if that's the meeting where we would um would look to adopt the budget because this is a very worthy conversation. We appreciate the input, sir. >> Yeah. Well, I just want to add some to
it. I mean, you know, we're concerned that, you know, raising taxes and all that, but we've been doing all of this and all of a sudden now we're not going to be able to socialize or be together anymore and perform tax, you know, uh, functions that we've been doing it
>> and the other uh, you know, uh, chapter a president mentioned, we're going to have to raise uh, you know, the fees and for lunch that we've been doing it and like chap uh, chapter B also is in the same situation. pretty much >> and and we're not looking to deplete
your coffers either. So, I think working with Committeeman Britting to get to an answer that can maybe make sense. We can find other things, other places. Again, we're not promising that it'll be financial, but it will be something that
substantiates what you're missing out. >> Okay. >> You know, the the another thing I just want to add on to it. I mean, we're all seniors. The youngest one in our club is 65 years old and the oldest is 98, >> right? >> So, it's going to be hard for us to come
up with something to raise money. So, you know, that's an option for us to uh you know, to do that >> and we certainly don't want people who are already on a fixed income stretching it further. >> Understood. >> Also, that too. >> Yes, exactly. >> Sir, can you just give your name I'm
sorry, and address? Can you just give your name and address? >> Julio Capra, 54 Murray Drive. >> You didn't. >> You didn't. Okay. Can you please too? >> Okay. My name is Kathleen Paige. I live
at 200 South Branch Road. Okay. >> I've lived there over 50 years. I paid taxes for over 50 years. >> Thank you. >> I am Diana Reinhardt, 874 Amwell Road. Um, I run trips for chapter A. Now,
there's a game you have to play. You have to anticipate getting out the deposit and sometimes you're not getting the money in from your members because you have to get the deposits out. If our treasury is so
tight, we won't be able to run trips because we won't have the money sitting in our treasury. So we can make the deposits, >> right? >> And most of our trips go, we have about 10
trips a year. We have to figure out, we try to make them balance. We don't make money, >> right? >> Unless we have a a comp and then that's very little, maybe a $100 or 200 at the
most. If it's an expensive trip, we won't have any money in our budget to make these trips, the deposits. When I get the money, I give it to the treasurer. She has to go home and
calculate it. And then she has to go to the bank. The bank holds it. But at the same time, I'm calling up the tour agent and saying, "Um, send me the invoice." So she got to get the invoice out before the money gets into the bank. If we
don't have any money in our treasury, we won't be able to go on trips. And I think it's the same for be. >> It is. Yes. Thank you. >> Take your time. You have all night, sir. My name is Chuck Ser.
I live on 568 Montgomery Road. I've been a resident of Hillsboro for 52 years. Come November. I'm living on a fixed income. Okay? And I don't know all the ins and outs about your budget. I really don't understand
about us being a called a society and you can't give you can't fund us. I don't understand that. I'd like to find out more about it. >> Sure. >> But I just would like I I also don't know how much the township contributes
to chapter A and chapter B. All right. >> We were contributing 15,000. >> Whatever that figure is. Okay. I I just want to mention I've couldn't help over the years the senior
citizens have lost ground in the parking lots. Okay, there's employees with reserved spots who are empty a lot of times. They disregard the sign that says this parking lot is reserved for
seniors. And I just would ask you to consider the I don't know what's going on with the number of employees we have here in Hillsboro, but I can tell you by the
parking spaces that are uh reserved for them. It's there's been a significant increase. And all I'm asking for, could you please look at is are all of these positions absolutely
necessary? Corporations are cutting back left and right and and condensing all over the place and economizing. I hope the same thing is going on here in Hillsboro, but I just don't from my
point of view, I don't see it happening. All right. Again, I'm on a fixed income and I'm trying to make ends meet and I don't know how long I can stay here, >> but if you would just maybe consider
uh looking at maybe the uh number of people that are employed here, are they all necessary? And I'll have to tell you one thing. I I look at some of these road crews sitting at Auto Park, okay,
with a Hillsboro uh emblem on the truck, sound asleep and sitting there for hours at at a time. Could that be looked at and maybe cut down uh some employment there or
elsewhere and give us part of that uh just to keep us going? Thank you very much. >> Thank you, Mr. Se. >> Are you coming up? Oh, nope. Okay. Is anyone else >> as As they're coming up, if if someone sees someone sleeping behind the wheel
of a vehicle, please reach out. >> Yeah, definitely reach out. not interested in paying for that. We all work really hard and we expect everyone at the township and I do believe that they are working hard. Please let you know please let us know if you see something that uh you don't appreciate
in our town. >> Sir, I will tell you hillsborj.gov please email me. Thank you so much. Sir, I will tell you too that just the other day when one of the senior I don't know which one it was was meeting, there was a couple employees in employee marked
vehicles blocking some of the spots and we were able to rectify it immediately with knowing that that was happening. To your other point, we have already reduced our staff by six this year alone and those positions have not been backfilled nor will they be. Are there
any other questions from the floor? Come on. I'm Michael Isizo, 102 Royce Brook Road. I'm vice president of chapter A. The president regrets not being able to be here. She's out of town because of the holiday. >> Yes. >> But I would just like to ask based on
the information we've received tonight, how did you fund A and B for over 50 years if it's illegal? >> Does anybody know the answer to that question? This is my first year and >> yeah,
>> excuse me. Unfortunately, this predates most of us. I think the person who would be able to folks I think the person that would be able to answer that most appropriately would be um administrator Ferah and he won't be back until our next meeting. But we will definitely
post some information. let us know beforehand, unlike today where we had to find out surreptitiously that you were going to vote us off the budget. I also have one other thing I'd like to say. I'm a disabled vet. I have hearing aids in both ears. It I have my hearing aids
turned up two notches and I barely can hear anybody in this room. The sound needs to be improved. Thank you. >> Anyone else from the floor? Uh, Filamina Salili. I've been a resident here for 44 years. And one of
the questions I have, I'm not sure it's a question or a comment, is the $15,000 per year that you're um have a need to take away from each one of these. What kind of an impact is it going to have?
Is it going to be a significant impact? Did you take that into consideration? Because I know in that number there's other resources that you provide to the township. So maybe a little bit of clarity would help us understand, you know, $15,000. What is the impact going
to be >> on each one, chapter A or chapter B? Because we do pay for trips and we do pay for lunchons and we do pay for this and we do pay for that. So the concern that I have is $15,000. Maybe we need to and see what kind of an
impact it's going to have. It's a shock. It's a surprise because we are senior citizens. >> Yeah. >> Um but maybe that would help us to understand you know why it was necessary number one which you explained attempted to explain but it's challenging for
sure. >> So I appreciate that. First of all I just want to clarify it's 15,500 to each organization just to be fair. Um and right so again I know that um committeewoman Gomez questioned it. I
don't know what made her question it. So that's neither here nor there. So as secondary to finance, was there ever any discussion that you can elaborate? >> Was there ever any discussion that you can elaborate on around the senior and
the legality of this constitution? Um there was really no no real um discussion. It was brought up um by Miss Gomez and in discussions where we say we looked at everything in this budget and
to answer the question, you know, we did uh I think I forget who it was, but we did reconsolidate positions. We did lose three full-time employees. We cut back part-time employees from 25 to 20 hours.
We cut back other employees from 20 to so everyone like I said was was uh was done. Um we fa we faced a significant um deficit that we had to come up in our levy cap which is basically the spending
cap for there's two different caps that we have to get under. And the other thing is that we're only allowed to go up to a 2% increase too. So we we can't just quote unquote raise taxes to to fund the difference which none of us wants to do, right? We don't want it's
bad enough or hard enough to go up 8%, right? But if we had to cover all the the things that we had to cut, it would have gone up substantially more and we really couldn't even do that by law. Um so like I said, the the fact of the matter is and I think the gentleman said for me, everyone's costs are, you know,
he kind of just was yelling at everybody and I, you know, didn't take it personally. It's the same thing. I own a business in town and um have to pay things that I can't control. Um and uh we have to we are a re the revenue that
we generate in this this town is only three ways either grants taxes and fees that we collect in inspections and everything else. Right? So, um, we can't magically just go
generate more money into the township to help offset the costs that rise. Um, when uh there's building going on, which young lady in the back said, all these homes are going up, but that generates revenue because we have to do
inspections and then they they will pay taxes and then we'll offset some of yours. But it does it it does it wait I I wasn't going to go there. I mean affordable housing in in aside from what are we what are in favor or not it
brings revenue. I'm just talking about revenue generating into the township to alleviate the burden of the taxpayer. Right? We get money from the state to part of the like the school board gets money from the state. We haven't had an
increase in aid from the state of New Jersey in I was a Christian 20 years, 10 years, whatever. >> Deputy mayor, I just want to bring us back to focus. >> Yeah. But I'm just saying so it's >> Was there anything regarding the seniors as a discussion point between you and committeewoman Gomez? >> Not much. No.
>> Okay, great. So, as I mentioned, excuse me, >> mayor, I'm sorry. >> I was speaking. Excuse me. So, as I mentioned earlier too, we will continue to work through committee wind Britting with our social services team to see how we can offset some of these
deficits. Again, not sure if they'll be financial, not sure if there's grants out there, but we will absolutely work and see what we can do to help both of the chapters. Now, you may speak. >> Thank you, Mayor. I had gotten clarification. Committeewoman Gomez and
and Deputy Mayor Le Panny had just questioned the leg legality as it was brought to them by our CFO. So again, this wasn't something that they came up with on their own. It was brought to their attention and they asked for clarification. That was their role.
>> Right. I'm trying to understand how they came to question it as illegality. You questioned it. You caught it. >> Yeah. When I say >> Okay. Okay. >> I can I can explain. >> That's what I was asking. >> Okay. I can explain to the woman's question about how we >> someone help me >> how we arrived here at our budget. When
we first sat down around middle midFebruary to actually put the budget together >> your mic >> it's on. You hear me? >> Sorry. Okay. >> Sorry. Um when we put the numbers together for the budget, our first approach, my first approach was to
basically fund the township if we wanted everything to be funded. We're talking about positions, seven positions in our construction office that are unfilled and unfunded. We have positions in other departments that are unfilled, unfunded.
We added money to OE because as we are all talking about the costs are going up in every single department, right? We have everything that you could think about costs are going up. >> OE is operating expenses. >> Yes. In the budget document, thank you, mayor. In the budget document, the the
money is broken down by basically two buckets. salary, wage, and OE, which is other expenditures. That money is pretty much an allowance that is for the department to basically operate their department. So, when we put everything together in the budget, the first result
was when when Deputy Mayor Leani was mentioning about the two different caps, the spending cap and the levy cap, we were over by two and a half million on the spending cap. We were over by 2.7 million on the levy cap. Clearly, the first approach was not going to work. The second approach that I took was to
basically okay let's bare bones the budget to see what we can do to basically keep our lights on. When we did that approach that we were still over by roughly around 800,000 on the spending cap and roughly a little bit more on the levy cap. That was when we
sat down with our finance leaison and that's when we had to make the tough decisions to get to where we got today. I know it sounds like it's only 30 grand, but let me tell you how we got to the 30 grand or what the decisions we had to make to get to the 30 grand. We no longer have floater coverage starting
May 1st. We reduced hours for most of our part-time staff. Most of our part-time staff are elderly seniors. We had to reduce their hours. All departments received a 3% cut in their OE to basically operate their
department, which is the services that they provide to you guys, the residents of the township. We have positions that I mentioned before that are going unfunded. We have inspections that are happening throughout the town where there's a backlog of six to eight weeks because
not only can we not find people because we don't pay them enough to do the inspections. We can't fill the positions for the inspectors to do the work for the inspections. That's how far back we are. That's the money we don't have.
The governing body is going without pay starting July 1 through the rest of the year. We had to uh reduce or eliminate prior year appropriations. The senior contributions are one of them. We had to tap reserves. Normally as a CFO, I would
love to be budgeting in our budget each and every year reserves in case we have the unexpected incidents COVID storm recovery. We had storms this year in January and February that cost over 300 grand that we had to basically raise in this year's budget because we don't
have a reserve in our storm recovery trust to actually pay for these other these these expenditures. Even one of our budget comments that the state provided to us because if you all remember last year we did a budget uh we did a special emergency for the
severance liabilities for the people that are retiring. We call them cost outs right we owe them their personal time off. That was in the neighborhood of 350 grand. The state literally came back with our budget comments for this year and they wondering why if we did the 350,000 note
last year why we're not budgeting money for the accumulated absences this year. I wish I could put $200,000 into that line item so we could start building up our reserves. We don't have the ability to do that. We also had to lay off three staff
members. So on April 27th, three people that worked here, one of them who has worked here for 20 years had to get walked out the door by the end of that week. These weren't easy decisions that any of us had to make to
get here. So I appreciate your concern about the 31 grand. I I do. It's wasn't an easy choice. But when I look at the numbers that I mentioned earlier, when we had to come and actually arrive at a decision, a voluntary contribution to a
group was far outweighed by keeping employees in the building. I'm sorry if that's not what you guys want to hear. I I really am sorry if that's not what you hear, but we literally are having trouble here. We are going to be back in
the same position next year. Come to the mic. Come to the mic, please. >> Sir, sir, can you come to the mic? >> Of course. >> Yeah. The the guys above you, not you. The guys above you are causing you to
have to do what you did. These young people need a job. They got to work. I don't give a if there's five extras. They've got to work. How are they going to pay their bills? Who wants $1,500 a month for rent? Where are they going to get that from? up in the tree.
You got to work. You got to at least show up. Now, you talked about a guy with 20 years in this in this business in your in your company. You shouldn't have to do what you had to do. What we have to do is attack the people above.
They're crooks. Most of those people are millionaires. They don't need the job, but they steal. Nobody takes a job and not want money. You got to steal. I'm telling you, I had a president of companies I work for. You think they
made $50 a week or $100 a week? They made thousands a week. >> Y >> hundreds of thousands a week. And you people are worried about a guy with 20 years of experience. He needs the job. That poor guy is paying a freight for
everybody. And so are we. The young people need to work. I was young. All our money is old. We have old money. We didn't make 50 My my my nephew makes $50,000 a year. My boss
was lucky to make $50,000 a year. I never made $50,000 a year that I can remember. But even if I did, I used it. We are gray gayhaired people. We're the only ones with money. That's it. We That's it. My daughter
lives with me. She can't afford to live on her own. You people know what I'm talking about. You have family. I'm not telling you anything you don't know. I'm tired of talking. But my wife says, "Don't say anything." I don't give a what she says.
>> We love him. You bring him every >> meeting. I know. >> But am I right, guys? I mean, you know. So, you're not wrong. And ladies, I'm I'm not saying anything that all of us feel. >> I know. Listen, I have an adult daughter >> and it's a shame because you people have no control over it. >> We don't.
>> You don't. and and the school budget. Let me tell you something. The man was right. It isn't the locals. It's the people above. That lady that runs the the union is still still working. She that broad made about a half a million dollars a day, >> sir.
>> The teachers don't make it. It's the people above that make it. Wake up. >> Yep. >> But we're dead. You know what? You're going to be raising taxes in a heartbeat. In a heart how where you going to get the money from? Up in the sky. Where you going to get it from? You got
to tax us. I can't afford you anymore. But where am I going to go? Florida, >> right? >> Where am I going to go now? Florida's going to They're going to do it. They're going to do it. They have to do it. They don't have a choice. >> Yeah.
>> Thank you. >> Come to the mic. >> Come to the mic first. The spending cap that you gentlemen mentioned has been raised to three and a half% long time ago and in addition you
are able to take some expenditures from under >> folks in the back if you're not at the mic please lower your voices >> siritt to come up and say something. I can't help myself. >> Kathy and Julie 64, Michelle Lane.
>> So, I think you've shocked us twice here. One is you're getting rid of our budget for this year. And the other thing is this legality thing that none of us know anything about. And it seems to me that that needs to be researched further. What do other towns do? I came
from Piscatoaway at one time. They have a beautiful senior center, bunch of stuff for their people, and it seems like you've given us like no choices here. I know you're going to try and find other avenues to try and give back through grants or whatever.
>> Yep. >> But something is wrong with this picture. That's what I think. So, >> thank you, >> mayor. If I could I because I do want to have an honest conversation. So with respect to her comment again, there's nothing in the law that prohibits
appropriations for our our our seniors through our senior services department. >> Correct. >> The issue is giving them a check directly and say here go ahead do whatever you want. Right. But your comments are on point still because again there is nothing prohibiting a
municipality from appropriating money to its wreck and social services departments to them through the recck department and through the senior uh department to fund programs. >> We just have to look and see what they are. That's all. Ma'am, again, we're going to try and
find what we need to sustain the groups and what you've become expected to through other means. That's the best we can do for a, you know, from a tonight's perspective is that give committeeman Brit a chance to look into some of the
options and we can go from there. Come up, ma'am. >> Come up. There's people online and when you talk in the mic they can hear. >> More importantly, it's because it's on the record if you come to the mic. >> All right. I don't know your name and
address. >> Christian. Yes, ma'am. >> You mentioned the short. >> Can we have your name and address first? I'm sorry. >> Esther Wallak. >> Murray Drive. >> Murray Drive. Thank you. >> Okay. We're neighbors. I didn't know. >> You mentioned a shortage of inspectors
and that's going to bring in revenue. So a question is what are you doing to encourage to get more inspections uh inspectors and do they have to reside in Hillsboro to be an inspector? So if they don't have to reside in Hillsboro wow go for it. I mean what's the problem?
>> They don't have to reside in Hillsboro but we can't pay them enough to draw them. >> And there's >> that's the problem. >> Oh brother. So it's a it's a catch 22. >> Other towns throw extra money at people to steal them all. >> And what's that? >> To be other towns throw money at them to steal them all the time. They jump around. Well, how are you ever going to
solve that then? >> Well, that's the point. >> That's the catch 22. But we've we've had inspector positions open for I've been on the township committee for eight years. It's been eight years been open and >> eight years. >> We've had less and we get an inspector
then they they come in as a retired because usually what you get is a retired contractor that just wants to work and has the license, right? So, a young kid coming out of school can't be an inspector. They don't have the the chops, so to speak. Right. So, the insp the we pay a little over $100,000 a year
for an inspector, 97 plus benefits, whatever. Other towns pay more, but we have had open musicians. We don't even get people submitting their application. >> Well, what's with the backlog? What are the people doing who have homes that need inspected? What are they doing? >> So, shared services. So, we have
part-time inspectors that work weekends that are have jobs other other towns and come in and help that we pay on an hourly basis. And then we have shared services with Branchburg and Montgomery. We all kind of help each other out because everyone is in the same boat. It's not just a Hillsboro problem.
Everyone's in the same boat. >> So, if you got if you got kids, tell them get in the trades. They can make money. >> Exactly. >> Yep. Thank you, ma'am. Just one last point since I initiated the explanation and thank you very much
for that detailed explanation. I found it very helpful and I know others did as well. So, it's very appreciated and uh committeeman Britty, thank you very much for helping us senior citizens to find ways that we can work together to
enhance the situation. Okay. So, I think that needs to be acknowledged here that we're all on the same team. >> Yeah. >> It's very difficult. It's hard to comprehend. Financial genius. I am not. But I did understand your explanation because you have this and you have that and then there's this and then there's
that. So, you helped understand the $15,000 and the $15,000. So, now step two is what can we do to recoup what unfortunately was mandated? I don't like to use the powers above or whatever because not what it's about. So, I thank
you for that, Bob, for thanks for volunteering. And I always say thank you for all of you because you do an awesome job. >> Thank you. Does anyone else have a comment from the floor? Can I have a motion and a second to close public comment?
>> So moved. >> Second. >> So, thank you. >> Roll call, please. So, Mayor, I wanted to make a motion not to close public comment because we will be talking about the budget January June >> closing it. We reopen it. We're going to
reopen it. >> It'll be reopen. >> That's how it goes. >> We'll reopen. >> Can we have a roll call, please? >> Committee. >> Yes. >> Committee one hand. >> Yes. >> Deputy Mayor Leani. >> Yes. >> Mayor P. >> Yes. Now we have a
resolution authorizing emergency temporary appropriations prior to the adoption of the budget. I have a motion and a second to adopt the resolution authorizing emergency temporary appropriations prior to adopting the budget. >> So wait, so I would like to make a
motion that that we amend this by removing the $3,200 for township committee salaries. um and amend it to give that money back. I know we are not taking Can we open it first? Can we
>> But can we I'm just saying that's I want to amend it. >> No. So that's not how it works. >> So we're going to open it. Go ahead. >> We're going to do a roll call and then you're going to add a comment and then that comment gets taken into account before we close it. >> As long as we can.
>> It's Robert. Okay. >> Roll call, please. >> Motion. Motion and second. >> Second. >> Who was the motion? Bill, can you get that >> and then we'll do comments and then >> correct?
>> Sorry. Comments from the deas. >> Now you're ready to go. >> I would like to >> I don't make the last amendment >> to >> the temporary appropriations. There is $3,200
that is being allocated towards the salaries for the township committee for the month of June. We are not taking salary from July on. I propose we do not take salary in June either and this $3,200
be removed. That is my motion. >> Well, that's your comment. >> Well, for now it's a comment. Comments from the floor. Oh, sorry. Are there any other comments? >> I'll just So for those who are kind of
confused here, so because we're not voting on the budget today, >> we have to continue the pay the bills. So this is a they call the emergency appropriations, but basically is allows us to fund the
>> the township till the budget is adopted in June at some point. So this is this is all this is. This isn't a budget or anything. This is basically and 99% of it is salary and wage for all the departments um and uh and some of our
legal legal fees. So this essentially is just to allow us to pay the bills until the budget is officially adopted. So that's all this is. >> With that said, other comments from the floor. Okay. Seeing none, can I have an amendment
to remove $3,200? Is that the exact amount, Christian? >> I'll trust her. Sorry, I don't have to pass, but yes. >> Okay. I just want to make sure. >> Item wages.
>> Okay. I have it printed, too. I just want to make sure that we're on the right thing. >> Can I comment though, Mayor? >> Yes. >> Um, with regards to the emergency temporary approach appropriation, when we actually put the numbers together to get to the budget, we budgeted for the
first half of the year, that's what these numbers get. So, if the governing body is agreeing to >> instead of not getting paid for the rest of the year starting July 1, yeah, it's going to be an earlier date. >> Correct. >> I have no problem with the amendment. That's up to you guys, too.
>> Of course. Right. So, may I have a motion and a second to adopt the resolution authorizing emergency temporary appropriations prior to adopting the budget minus $3,200 for the township committee salaries.
>> Motion. >> Second. >> Thank you. Roll call, please. >> Committee member Ring. >> Yes. Committee woman hand. >> Yes. >> Deputy Mayor Leani. >> Yes. >> Mayor B.
>> Yes. So, we have an introduction for a new ordinance. Uh 2026-06 is an ordinance amending chapter 188 land use and development article 2 title guarantees and inspection. Section
188-14, Inspections and Improvements of the Code of the Township of Hillsboro, Somerset County, New Jersey, to update owner occupied engineering inspection fees. Further consideration and a public hearing to be held on June 23rd, 2026. But I have a motion and a second to open
the public hearing for ordinance 2026-06. >> That's a typo. It should be introduced. >> Introduction. >> It's not you, it's the paper. I have a motion and a second to introduce the public hearing for ordinance 2026. Ocean. >> So moved. Second.
>> Thank you. Roll call, please. >> Yes. >> Yes. >> Yes. 20. Okay. May I have a motion and a second to introduce Do I have to read the whole thing again? Oh jeez.
Okay. Ordinance adopting Sun Coney Landfill redevelopment plan for the property identified as Sun Came Road block 182 lot 6 and 7.02 02 previously determined to be a non-condemnation redevelopment
area and amending chapter 188 land use and development of the municipal code of the township of Hillsboro to establish a new Sunnybean landfill redevelopment district. The development of which would be in accordance with the redevelopment plan. Further consideration and a public hearing to be held on June 23rd, 2026.
May I have a motion and a second to >> introduce the public hearing for ordinance 2026-07. Second. >> Thank you all. >> Roll call. >> Yes. >> Bing. >> Yes. >> Committee woman hand. >> Yes. >> Deputy Mayor Leani. >> Yes. >> Mayor Payne. >> Yes. Claims list. May I have a motion
and a second to approve claims list 2026-09? >> Can I have a second? Thank you. >> Comments from the DEAS. Comments from the floor on the claims list only. Okay. Thank you. May have a uh sorry
roll call. >> Committeeman Bringing >> yes. >> Committee woman hand. >> Yes. >> Mayor Lani. >> Yes. >> Mayor Payne. >> Yes. Uh new business. Seeing none. Public comments for matters not on the agenda. I will now open the floor for comments. Please keep in mind that this is
comments for matters not on the agenda. Miss Brink, please read the statement regarding public comment. >> The township committee now opens the floor for public comment. To ensure a productive and civil environment for all. Please approach the microphone. your name and address and spell your name for the record. The township of Hillsboro maintains a strict standard of
decorum. Please ensure your remarks remain respectful and focused on township business. Each speaker is limited to a single threeminute aotment. This is a forum for public comment rather than a dialogue. Please address all remarks directly to the mayor. We thank you in advance for your cooperation and for treating your neighbors, township employees, and this
committee with courtesy. >> Comments from the floor. Do you have a comment, ma'am? Are you leaving? She's leaving. Okay. Not trying to call anybody out. It's not like a bad comedy club routine. We're just trying to get it all straightened out. I know. Please don't heckle. She's
losing her voice again. May I have a motion in a second to adjurnn? >> So moved. Second. >> Oh, you have a question. Come >> take your time. Come on. I must say these seniors are hanging harder than I am right now and I'm very impressed with that.
>> I build on Diego 12 Google Court. I just wasn't sure if this was the time. >> This is the time we got you. >> So um last Tuesday I attended the sustainable Hillsboro steering committee meeting >> and uh my purpose for the attending that
meeting was to let everyone aware that there is a very large grant uh worth close to $50,000 that's available to Hillsboro uh sustainable steering committee. >> Yes. >> Um but it just needs someone from either
the township who might be a liaison >> uh to the committee or someone who would be in charge of representing the committee to get in touch with Liam McGovern. >> Um >> are you referring to the JCPNL grant? Yes, correct. >> Okay, so I do have information for you
on that. You emailed, correct? >> Um, I didn't email. I'm someone to email, but >> you have elves. They're helping you. >> Excuse me. >> I said you have elves. They're helping you. >> Okay. >> So, the sustainability I have a comment if you don't mind.
>> Well, I Okay. I think I know what you're gonna say, but it's Go ahead first. >> Okay. Uh the sustainability department did look into the program and Hillsboro is not eligible to participate because we are not 100% serviced by PSEG.
We received parcel service from G. Okay. >> Sorry, that's not true. >> So you're not happy with that response. Okay. >> Absolutely not. >> Okay. So go on. >> Okay. So again, the purpose of me going to the meeting was just to ask for to be put on the agenda for the June meeting.
I wasn't there to represent either PS or J or uh Sustainable New Jersey. It was just to get on the agenda so someone with some background and technical information could help the committee decide whether the benefits and the responsibilities was something that
was worth listening to. Right. >> At that meeting I served on Sustainable New Jersey for six years. I was chairman my my last year. I know the process. I know how it goes. I sat there and listened to the same thing there was hardworking people did for nothing like
everybody is doing now taking a salary but we on the boards and commissions you know we we just put our time anyway they were there for that I think the information that I was to give them for the after the meeting was over for that
10 minutes or so uh was received pretty well by most of the committee members. >> Okay. Um, however, I was told at that point that might be a heavy lift and uh, we don't have any time this year. Maybe if we have time, uh, we could take it up
in the fall. There is no July and August meeting. So, this was timing is everything with this. >> Sure. >> And I, uh, what I wanted to do is just have them at least listen so they could decide are the benefits
worthy with the responsibilities. Um, And what I got was uh somebody who passed on that information. Um but all the the truth is all they want to do is
speak to someone either uh from the committee from the township and to say they they want to move forward because 94% of the township does have PSEG in it and have PSEG for their utility
companies and it doesn't make a difference according to Leanne McGovern >> okay >> who is running this and all they want to do is listen now Having said that, assuming that what I'm saying right now is right is that just if somebody could just get in touch with them, there's
there's about $50,000 worth of of grants that are available. And what it's going to do is bring to the the the homeowners of Hillsboro uh close to $32,000 worth
of 0% financing and rebates for every home. If we've got 15,000 homes in Hillsboro, even if 10% of the people responded to this, you do the math. 32,000 times 10% of
>> Do you have a email contact for this person >> for Leanne McGovern? >> Yes. >> I I can certainly pass that on. >> Can you email me please at mayor.hillsboro? >> Absolutely. >> NJ.gov. >> Absolutely. >> Please. >> Well, I I just got to say to me
listening to everybody else and what they're going through with the budget. This is a lottery ticket. This this is something that everybody in this town should say, "Hey, I don't have this, but you know what? This isn't so bad. $7,500
in cash rebates, $25,000 in 0% financing. If you need a hot water heater, if you need a furnace, air conditioner, if your home is run down, and this is this is a real it would be a shame
too heavy lift. Seven months is all you need to do is fill out the application. >> Okay. >> Somebody from this town needs to say to Leanne, >> Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. I I think we're we're in >> Thank you. Appreciate you.
>> Any other comments from the floor? >> Okay. Motion and a second to adjourn. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Thank you everybody. Roll >> call. Committee members.