Hillsborough To Vote On $35.4M School Referendum Dec. 10

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — Hillsborough residents will be asked to vote on a $35.4 million referendum on Dec. 10 for "much needed" improvements across the nine schools in the district.

The HBOE members set the date of the referendum vote at the Monday night meeting.

The $35.4 million referendum is "looking to address critical capital expenditures across the nine school buildings which are not possible to fund through the operating budget," according Michael Callahan, spokesman for the Hillsborough School District.

Passing the referendum would mean taxes will decrease by $42 for the average Hillsborough homeowner with a property value of $350,000, Callahan said.

This reduction is due to the district retiring debt from a previous referenda in 2021-2022. Additionally, if passed the state will pay 40 percent (or about $14 million) towards the total project cost. This funding will not be available if the referendum does not pass, Callahan said.

"The finances on this make sense. It would be fiscally irresponsible not to take advantage of the state contributions that are above our normal share," said Administrator Aiman Mahmoud.

The money from the referendum would be used to pay for "critical infrastructure and capital improvements" such as roofing, air quality (HVAC), power and lighting upgrades, exterior repairs, and security.

To see what work will specifically be done at each school visit htps.us/repair_replace_revive.

Unlike a previous referendum which failed this past March, full-day Kindergarten is not linked to this referendum neither is the consideration of building of any new schools.

The district had previously considered building a second high school in the district.

"The quality of life for our students, staff, and the community is key and never before has
it been more opportune to invest in that quality of life. The retired debt, state contribution, and
low interest rates create a unique opportunity to revive a failing infrastructure," Acting Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Lisa M. Antunes School Business stated.

The district will host various upcoming informative events such as facility tours and a full presentation to the community at the Nov. 11 Board of Education Meeting.

"I hope the community will educate itself about the facility needs of the district and reach out with additional questions," said Board President Judy Haas. "There are multiple opportunities to attend community meetings scheduled both during the day and the evening over the next 60 days."

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

Get Patch breaking news alerts sent right to your phone with our new app. Download here.