Political Divisiveness Erupts In Hillsborough Over $5.3M Temporary Budget Increase

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — Democrats and Republicans clashed over a $5.3 million increase in the Township's Temporary budget on Tuesday night.

Committeewomen Samantha Hand and Jill Gomez, both Democrats, voted against a resolution authorizing emergency temporary appropriations before the adoption of the 2026 Budget.

Mayor Catherine Payne and Committeemen Bob Britting and Shawn Lipani, all Republicans, voted in favor of the resolution. However, the resolution required a two-thirds vote to pass, according to Township Attorney William Willard.

"So you're going to have to notify the CFO. He's not going to be able to pay certain bills," said Willard on Tuesday.

Township Administrator Anthony Ferrera added, "Just so the Committee knows that that could be an issue with having things shut off. Most of our bills that keep the Township running."

Currently, day-to-day operations are not impacted, said Township Clerk Sarah Brake to Patch.

However, Brake added that "some bills cannot be paid until the emergency temporary appropriation resolution is passed", including some vendor payments, a legal settlement authorized at Tuesday's meeting, and a Joint Insurance Fund payment.

The largest bill that needed to be postponed is for the software that runs the Township's website, permitting system, OPRA requests, complaints, and other online applications.

While payment is postponed, Brake said the Township has a very strong relationship with the vendor and is working closely with them to ensure there is no disruption.

"Ultimately, while the 'no' vote has made our logistics more difficult and risks accruing interest on late payments, our day-to-day operations remain stable," said Brake. "We are fortunate to have a dedicated staff that works tirelessly to keep the town running smoothly. We remain committed to ensuring our residents are not affected by these legislative delays."

Hand clarified her decision to vote against the appropriations. She noted that the Township already approved a $13 million temporary budget and adding the emergency appropriations would bring the total to $18.3 million.

"We take our responsibility to taxpayers very seriously," said Hand in a statement. "When significant increases are proposed so soon after adopting a temporary budget, we believe it is appropriate to pause, ask questions, and ensure residents clearly understand the rationale."

Lipani said the emergency appropriations were necessary since the Township was still waiting to get the final number on some bills, such as pension payments. He also noted an increase in snow removal expenses due to additional storms.

"Our payroll has gone up significantly because each snowstorm for the edification of the public costs us about $80,000," said Lipani. "We buy salt, and I don't think anyone's complaining when we plow the roads."

Lipani went on to call the actions of Hand and Gomez "a complete political ploy."

Following the meeting, Payne sent out a video to residents providing "a comprehensive explanation of the municipal budget process and the purpose of Temporary Emergency Appropriations." (See the video below)

"Some of my colleagues created a politically motivated fear last night, and I'm sorry that they did that to you all," said Payne in the video. "It's a temporary authorization to spend money on essential services before the final budget is finished."

"Based on last night's meeting, where we tried to approve and allocate about 45 percent of our budget and couldn't, means our town can no longer pay its bills from the no votes of Committeewomen Hand and Gomez," said Payne.

Hand and Gomez also issued a release regarding their votes, stating it "reflects a commitment to fiscal responsibility, transparency, and ensuring that residents are fully informed as the Township moves toward adoption of its final municipal budget."

"Families across Hillsborough carefully plan their household finances, especially in a time of rising costs," stated Gomez. "Our goal is to ensure Township budgeting reflects the same thoughtful planning and openness."

See Payne's video message to residents below:

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