Hillsborough Municipal Court Hosts State Award Won By Somerset County Courts

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — Hillsborough Township announced that Somerset County Municipal Courts earned first place in the 2026 Glenn A. Grant Cup for Backlog Reduction, a statewide competition hosted by the New Jersey Judiciary.

The championship trophy and commemorative plaque are on display in the Hillsborough Municipal Court Office for October.

The Glenn A. Grant Challenge Cup was launched earlier this year by New Jersey Judiciary Administrative Director Judge Michael Blee.

The competition tracked backlog reduction efforts across all vicinages in the state. Vicinage 13, which is Somerset County, won in the Municipal Court Division for the 2025–26 court year.

Hillsborough Municipal Court Judge Francesco Taddeo received special recognition in a formal letter issued on behalf of Vicinage 13 Assignment Judge Michael V. Cresitello Jr., according to the announcement.

Alongside Judge Katherine Howes, Judge Taddeo handled the "lion's share" of Somerset County's municipal court cases during the competition period, helping drive the county's top-ranking finish.

"This award highlights the extraordinary dedication and professionalism of our municipal court system," said Hillsborough Deputy Mayor Shawn Lipani. "We are extremely proud of Judge Taddeo, our Court Administrator, and the entire municipal court team. Their hard work behind the scenes ensures our local justice system operates efficiently, fairly, and with the highest degree of service for our community."

The trophy and plaque were formally presented on the morning of Oct. 5, when Municipal Division Manager Ellen Modjeski, Assistant Municipal Division Manager Colleen Brady and Presiding Judge Gerard Shamey visited the Hillsborough Municipal Court, according to the township.

They presented the award to Judge Taddeo and the local court staff.

"Winning the statewide backlog reduction competition reflects the effort and teamwork of our entire municipal court team," Hillsborough Township Administrator Anthony Ferrera said. "We are thrilled to display the trophy in Hillsborough during October to celebrate their hard work and commitment to our residents."

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.