The state calculated that Hillsborough’s prospective need for affordable housing units was 565. However, the township, through consultation with an affordable housing expert and other professionals, determined that this number should be adjusted to 270 units. The council recognized the pressure of mandated housing developments and emphasized the importance of sensible solutions that consider the strain on local resources like schools and roads.

A lively segment of the meeting involved public comments on the opioid settlement funds, specifically regarding the financial oversight of these funds by the opioid settlement committee for 2025. Residents inquired about the financial allocations from the settlement, which began in 2022, and were curious about the roles of the appointed coordinators, Melinda Maio and Rebecca Grman. The coordinators, while not township employees, are responsible for the financial oversight of these funds, continuing their oversight roles that include purchasing Narcan kits for the community.

The council also addressed several proclamations, including one recognizing January 2025 as Muslim Heritage Month. This proclamation celebrated the contributions of the Muslim community to Hillsborough, emphasizing their role in promoting peace and understanding. A community representative expressed gratitude, calling it a celebration of unity and mutual respect. Another celebratory moment came when the council honored the Hillsborough Youth Sports Raiders eighth-grade football team for their victory in the 2024 Suburban Super Bowl. The team’s impressive 8-2 season and perseverance through a challenging five-overtime game were commended, with acknowledgments going to the players, coaches, and supportive parents.

The meeting also featured the council’s approval of a resolution designating the Sourland Mountains as an area of critical state concern. This resolution aims to bring attention to the environmental significance of the Sourland Mountains, addressing issues such as tree loss due to pests and revitalizing the Sourland Alliance.

Questions arose about expenditures related to police vehicles and a substantial payment to the Hillsborough Municipal Utilities Authority, with discussions pointing to potential funding through the American Rescue Plan for projects like the Fox Chase project or those along Piedmont Path.

Residents also expressed concern about the lack of transparency in the planning board attorney appointment process. Questions were raised about the absence of competitive bids for the roles of planning board attorney and township attorney, both held by longstanding appointees. The council noted that appointments are based on performance and pricing, emphasizing the benefits of continuity in representation.