Hillsborough Schools Look At Raising Taxes To Recoup State Aid Losses

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — The Hillsborough Township School district is toying with the idea of raising taxes to recoup previous state aid losses.

"As we plan for the upcoming school year, due to recent legislation from the state, the Board of Education will be provided a one-time return of 45 percent of this year's $2.7 million state aid cut, $1.2 million.

Governor Phil Murphy signed the legislation last week which would return 45 percent of the $2.7 million the Hillsborough School District was slated to lose in state funding for the 2025 fiscal year.

"Since that 45 percent return is a one-year grant only, 140 local Boards of Education in the state are now permitted a one-time adjustment to the 2 percent cap to recoup previous state aid losses," said Volpe in a letter to residents.

Since the S2 state school funding formula began the Hillsborough School District has lost a cumulative $7 million since the 2018-19 school year.

If the Hillsborough Board of Education were to move forward with increasing the 2 percent cap option, the district is asking residents for input "to ensure these resources are allocated effectively."

"We value your input as to where they would have the greatest impact on our students' success," said Volpe.

Residents are asked to fill out a survey linked here to provide the district with their input.

"Your involvement is crucial in shaping the future of our schools. We look forward to hearing from you!" said Volpe.

• See Related: Staff, Middle School Sports May Be Saved In Hillsborough Under New Law

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