The council debated the merits of pursuing the bond, with some members expressing concerns that previous pay-as-you-go strategies over the past two decades may have left community needs unaddressed. The council noted the poor condition of various public assets, such as a 40-year-old, leaking public works building and necessary repairs for the library. A council member characterized the bond decision as stemming from an “air of desperation” to address these longstanding issues.

In response, another member countered this viewpoint, asserting that the projects included in the bond have been under discussion for years and that it was time to proceed with necessary repairs and improvements. The Mayor defended the bond as a fiscally responsible approach, emphasizing the benefits of spreading costs over time rather than placing the entire burden on a single tax year, which allows future users to contribute to funding.

Public safety concerns were also underscored during the meeting, with an emergency bridge repair costing $300,000 cited as a necessary action. Other projects include the replacement of a boiler and improvements to the police department’s locker room, which is needed to accommodate a growing female workforce. Clarification was sought on the nature of the bond, with a council member indicating it is akin to a line of credit rather than direct debt, emphasizing the importance of understanding these financial distinctions.

Public comments reflected mixed opinions on the bond ordinance. One resident supported the bond as a means to finally address infrastructure issues that have long been discussed, while another resident raised concerns about the significant sum associated with public works building improvements.

Another topic was the township’s financial health, with discussions on bond ratings and their implications for future projects. The township holds an SP1 rating, the highest for short-term debt, and a double A+ bond rating from S&P, the second highest. These ratings are favorable for the township’s long-term financial strategy, enabling necessary investments without increasing debt levels.

The introduction of Ordinance 20259, seeking a special emergency appropriation of $350,000 for severance liabilities due to retirements or terminations, was also discussed. Questions arose about the number of employees affected and the lack of backup information provided to support the appropriation. A public hearing on this ordinance is scheduled for August 12, 2025.

The council addressed personnel matters, including promotions within the Hillsborough Township Police Department. Sergeant Henry Olshik was promoted to Lieutenant, and Corporals Michael Laboy and Brian Gorka were promoted to Sergeant. Additionally, the hiring of three new police officers was announced, with discussions around their salaries based on tenure and experience.

Another point of discussion was the community outreach initiative by the Somerset County Board of Commissioners. This program will involve local canvassers engaging with individuals and families door-to-door to connect them with resources such as behavioral health services and food insecurity support. The initiative targets residents who may not be aware of available services or how to access them.

The council also celebrated local achievements, including the Hillsboro High School varsity baseball team winning the NJSIA Central Jersey Group Four State Sectional Championship. This marked the team’s third sectional title in 54 years and their first winning season since 2019. Coach Matt Moscow was recognized as Courier News 2025 Baseball Coach of the Year.