Grinch Returns Hillsborough Christmas Tree

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — Christmas has been restored to Hillsborough after the Grinch grew a heart and after stealing the township holiday tree in July.

During the week of Nov. 13, the Grinch pulled up to the Municipal Complex in a landscaping truck and lowered a new tree into the spot where the original once stood.

The township said the Grinch's heart grew three sizes larger than normal.

"With my new heart came a new conscience," the Grinch told Hillsborough Mayor Shawn Lipani. "I understand now that stealing is bad and I’m sorry I disappointed all the nice people of Hillsborough. I hope that with this new tree, all is forgiven."

The Township previously held a contest to find a replacement tree in July.

However, the Township was unable to find a tree that met all the qualifications.

"Thank you to everyone who reached out with a potential Christmas tree to share with the community," said Lipani at the Nov. 28 Township Committee meeting. "We’re touched by the continued generosity of our community. And a special thank you to the Grinch for restoring our tree and our faith in humanity."

The new tree, a Norway Spruce, is being decorated this week as Hillsborough Township prepares for its annual tree lighting. Residents are invited to stop by the Municipal Complex to see the tree, and attend the annual tree lighting on Dec. 1.