DUI Lawyers in Hillsborough, NJ
New Jersey has some of the toughest laws in the country regarding drunk driving, specifically driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving under the influence (DUI). Notably, there's a strict prohibition against plea bargaining to reduce DWI charges. A first-time conviction for drunk driving can result in hefty fines, a possible jail sentence of up to 30 days, and a 90-day suspension of your driving privileges, not to mention additional financial repercussions that can linger.
If you find yourself arrested for driving under the influence, prepare for mandatory license suspension, the potential for jail time, and a staggering minimum of $6,575 in fines and surcharges if convicted. If your insurance company catches wind of the conviction, you may have to pay significant premium increases over the next three years
The truth is that New Jersey's courts are notoriously harsh on people arrested for DUI and DWI. The penalties are substantial and can have a lasting impact on your freedom, work, and life as a whole. Fortunately, working with a quality DUI lawyer - like Edward G. Appel - can help prevent serious charges from going on your permanent record.

- Get Your DUI Case Dismissed with Help from Attorney Edward G. Appel
- The DUI Lawyers in Hillsborough, NJ, You Can Trust
- What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
- How Do DUI Lawyers in Hillsborough, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
- Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
- DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Hillsborough, NJ
Edward G. Appel, Esq.
Since 1988 Edward honed his litigation expertise serving as a defense attorney in Criminal Cases, DUI/DWI and traffic matters.
His distinguished courtroom seasoning will benefit his clients as Edward focuses on criminal defense litigation. He has handled thousands of cases and is well versed in motion practice with years of trial experience. His philosophy of being well prepared has served him well over the years and is a testament to his work ethic and diligence. Email: eappel@southjerseydui.com

The DUI Lawyers in Hillsborough, NJ, You Can Trust
Did you know that getting a DUI conviction in New Jersey means that you'll have that charge on your record for everyone to see? We're not just talking about friends and family. We mean loan officers, college officials, and prospective employers - people and entities that can help set you on a pathway to success in life. For that reason alone, it's absolutely essential to have a seasoned DUI attorney by your side who can fight for your rights when it's time to go to court. That's where DUI attorney Edward G. Appel comes in.
Many law firms in New Jersey view DWI cases as just another item on their agenda. At our firm, however, it's a primary focus. Unlike those where DWI matters are handled by generalists, we have built a dedicated department solely for DWI cases, staffed with highly trained attorneys who are passionate about this area of law.
This level of specialization isn't just a talking point. It reflects our commitment to providing clients with the strongest defense possible. By leveraging advanced training and a thorough understanding of New Jersey DUI laws, our team is ready to fight your DUI charges and pursue the best possible outcomes for your case.
At the end of the day, our goal isn't to lecture you or judge your actions. Our goal is to defend you and your rights with reliable, aggressive advocacy so you have a real shot at reclaiming your life. Some of the most common situations we help clients overcome include:


DUI Defense in New Jersey
There are several methods to challenge a DWI charge, so facing this accusation does not necessarily lead to a conviction. Attorney Edward G. Appel will examine the specifics of your case to identify the best approach to defend your rights and safeguard your freedom.
DUI Penalties in New Jersey
Receiving a DUI conviction can lead to significant repercussions, irrespective of whether it's your first offense or a subsequent one. The best way to mitigate the risks of jail time, fines, license revocation, and other penalties is to contest your charge with the assistance of a skilled DUI attorney in Hillsborough, NJ.


DUI Charges Involving Drugs in New Jersey
Being charged with DUI can happen if you're impaired by illegal substances, prescription medications, or even over-the-counter drugs. These situations tend to be complex, so having a skilled attorney is essential to effectively contest the charges.
DUI Penalties in New Jersey
A DUI conviction can lead to significant repercussions, whether it's your first offense or if you've been charged before. The best way to avoid penalties such as jail time, fines, and license suspension is to contest your DWI charge with the assistance of a skilled attorney.


DUI Field Sobriety and BAC Tests in New Jersey
Authorities use several types of tests to ascertain whether a driver is under the influence. These tests consist of field sobriety tests, breath analysis, and blood examinations. However, the outcomes of these evaluations can sometimes be misleading. Edward G. Appel has the expertise to recognize and demonstrate the inaccuracies in these results to protect your freedom.
What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
Most people feel anxious and frightened after getting arrested for DWI because they are uncertain about what comes next. That's why it's so important to understand what to anticipate following a DUI arrest - so you can prepare yourself. The initial step in the legal process is the arraignment, which is a court session that occurs soon after your DUI arrest. At this session, the judge will outline the charges that have been brought against you and give you a summary of the penalties you might face. A significant number of traffic cases are settled with plea agreements, but prosecutors are prohibited from providing these arrangements in DUI cases.
That means you have two options: You can plead guilty and face the full penalties of a DUI conviction, or you can plead not guilty and continue to fight for your rights. There is a chance that your charges could be dropped before the trial, but this usually occurs only if there are significant weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence. The judge in your case will decide the outcome after both parties have presented their evidence. Instead of going through this complicated legal process by yourself, call a New Jersey DUI lawyer like Edward G. Appel. It could mean the difference between years of hardship and a clean record.

Understanding DUI Charges in New Jersey: Criminal vs. Traffic Offenses
In New Jersey, driving under the influence (DUI) is categorized as a traffic violation, though the consequences of DUI charges are severe. However, a license suspension is not mandatory for all offenders. First-time offenders arrested with a blood alcohol content (BAC) level under 0.15% may avoid suspension if they quickly install an ignition interlock device (IID) in their personal vehicle. Other potential penalties associated with a DUI conviction can include community service, fines, and, in certain situations, imprisonment. Depending on the circumstances of your case, working with experienced DUI attorneys in Hillsborough, NJ, can help you avoid some or all of these punishments.
You may also be charged with DUI if you operate a vehicle while under the influence of any intoxicating substances, regardless of whether they are illegal, prescribed, or available over the counter. The specific type of drug is irrelevant; what matters is your impairment and inability to drive safely.
If convicted of a drug-related DUI, you could face:
- A license suspension of 7 to 12 months
- Up to 30 days of incarceration
- Fines and surcharges exceeding $3,500
A second conviction may result in a jail sentence ranging from 2 to 90 days and a 2-year suspension of your driver's license, along with increased fines and surcharges.

Here's What to Expect After Your 1st DUI Charge in New Jersey
Many individuals charged with DUI believe that they will receive leniency if it's their first offense, but this is not always true. First-time offenders may incur significant fines, up to 30 days of incarceration, and the compulsory installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicle. Penalties increase for first-time offenders with a BAC of 0.10% or more at the time of arrest.
As mentioned above, these individuals face a longer mandatory IID installation period, larger fines, and the potential for jail time. First-time offenders will also experience a rise in their auto insurance premiums after their arrest. The State of New Jersey takes DUI offenses seriously, even for those encountering it for the first time.

Here's What to Expect After Your 2nd DUI Charge in New Jersey
Defendants who are charged again within 10 years of a prior conviction face increased penalties for a second DUI offense. They may be fined up to $1,000 and must serve at least 48 hours in jail, with a maximum of 90 days. Additionally, a second conviction can lead to 30 days of community service, a one-to-two-year license suspension, and two to four years of mandatory ignition interlock device (IID) use. These consequences, along with higher insurance rates, can significantly affect a repeat offender's life.

Here's What to Expect After Your 3rd DUI Charge in New Jersey
The court has the authority to impose stringent penalties on individuals with two or more DUI convictions within the past decade. If a person is found guilty of DUI for the third time in a 10- year span, the court may sentence them to 180 days in jail along with a $1,000 fine. Those convicted for the third time will lose their driving licenses for a duration of 8 years.
The court may also require these offenders to install an ignition interlock device for a period of two to four years after their driving rights are reinstated. Because third-time offenders are categorized as high-risk drivers, they will likely face significantly increased auto insurance rates. These individuals should anticipate an extra $1,500 surcharge on their auto insurance each year for three consecutive years. Given that these penalties can have a serious impact on both personal and professional aspects of life, it is crucial to contest the charges with help from a skilled DUI attorney like Edward G. Appel.
How Do DUI Lawyers in Hillsborough, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
Hiring a well-respected DUI lawyer often has a major impact on your case's outcome. Great attorneys will get started immediately by taking a deep dive into the particulars of your case. They'll look for issues with the prosecution's evidence, such as:
- Did on-scene officers follow protocol when storing samples and administering chemical tests?
- Did officers have a valid reason for pulling you over to begin with?
- Are the results from your chemical tests reliable?
If not, a lawyer can expose these concerns, potentially resulting in the dismissal of the charges. These are just a few examples of how an attorney can challenge DUI charges for you.
At the law firm of Edward G. Appel, we thoroughly investigate every detail when defending our clients. In fact, our clients benefit from personalized attention, support, and a meticulously crafted defense that aligns with the specific details of their arrest. We're not satisfied until our lawyers have explored every potential defense strategy for your case. Through comprehensive investigation, negotiation, and, when required, litigation, we strive to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients.
Clients choose us not to simply enter a guilty plea but to robustly contest the charges against them. While no attorney can promise specific outcomes, we assure you that we will continue to advocate for you until you decide otherwise. We examine every detail of your case to ensure all necessary evidence is gathered and the right motions are submitted. There are motions available to suppress evidence if your constitutional rights were infringed upon during the stop, as well as motions to limit or dismiss evidence under particular conditions. Contact us today to evaluate your case. We are eager to help you, even if it's just to provide an initial consultation.

Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
The steps you take following a DUI arrest can significantly influence your chances of successfully contesting the charges. Unfortunately, many individuals fall into common traps that can worsen their situation and negatively impact the outcome of their case. Here's a list of the three most common mistakes that people tend to make after being arrested for DUI.


1. Failing to Hire Reputable DUI Attorneys in Hillsborough, NJ
When selecting a lawyer for a DUI case, you can consult your family lawyer, seek a recommendation from a friend, or find a local attorney. The biggest thing to remember is that you should hire an attorney who understands DUI law and has a solid reputation in DUI defense. Legal issues can be complicated in New Jersey, which is why competent support is paramount. Presenting the right defenses at the right time is crucial; otherwise, you may lose those opportunities. Evidence can disappear, memories can fade, and witnesses may become unavailable. A case that seems winnable can quickly turn into a lost cause. Remember that failing to act is also a choice.


2. Downplaying DUI Consequences
Understanding the implications of a conviction is a key part of strategizing your defense and can influence your defense approach. Factors such as how your home state handles convictions, the impact of any previous offenses, whether you are a commercial driver or the potential effects on your employment should be explored with a DUI lawyer who is familiar with the possible repercussions of your unique situation.


3. Giving Up and Pleading Guilty
Anyone can choose to plead guilty. However, if you decide to challenge your DUI charge, you have a chance of winning. By pleading guilty, you forfeit that opportunity. There are many scientific and constitutional challenges that can lead to the dismissal of your DUI case. When you plead guilty, you give up your right to contest these issues and force the State to prove its case against you. It's important to check that your lawyer is well-equipped to spot the issues that could lead to a successful defense in your case
Get Help Now!
Get in touch with us now! or Call us today to get a free quote!


DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Hillsborough, NJ
Since 1988, Edward G. Appel, Esq. and his team of criminal defense attorneys have fought hard for the rights of clients just like you - men and women who have been charged with a DUI in New Jersey. Because the truth is that a DUI conviction can change your life in an instant.
Opportunities that you once had may be lost, sometimes forever. Having an experienced and dedicated defense attorney by your side can mean the difference between incarceration and dismissed charges or a diminished sentence. It's critical that you exercise your right to hire an attorney who can protect your freedom and defend you in court. Call the offices of Edward G. Appel to learn more about DUI law in New Jersey and to schedule your initial consultation today.
Hear What Our Clients Have to Say
Send a Message
Latest News in Hillsborough, NJ
Flash Flood Warning, Road Closures In Somerset County
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/hillsborough/flooding-closes-roads-somerset-county
Showers are expected to continue for the rest of the day on Wednesday and continue into Saturday.Alexis Tarrazi, Patch StaffPosted Wed, May 14, 2025 at 3:20 pm ET|SOMERSET COUNTY, NJ — A Flash Flood Warning has been issued in Somerset County by the National Weather Service(NWS) on Wednesday until 7:30 p.m.Flooding is possible in small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets, and underpasses ...
Showers are expected to continue for the rest of the day on Wednesday and continue into Saturday.
Alexis Tarrazi, Patch Staff
Posted Wed, May 14, 2025 at 3:20 pm ET|
SOMERSET COUNTY, NJ — A Flash Flood Warning has been issued in Somerset County by the National Weather Service(NWS) on Wednesday until 7:30 p.m.
Flooding is possible in small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets, and underpasses as well as other drainage and low-lying areas.
"Turn around...don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles," said the NWS.
Additionally, flooding on Wednesday has caused multiple roads to close in Somerset County.
Flooded roads, as of 3 p.m., include:
Find out what's happening in Hillsboroughfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Drivers are asked to plan an alternate route.
Showers are expected to continue for the rest of the day on Wednesday and continue into Saturday.
Here is a look at the upcoming forecast:
Wednesday Afternoon: Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Some of the storms could produce heavy rainfall. High near 63. East wind around 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90 percent. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Wednesday Night: Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 7 p.m., then a chance of showers. Areas of fog. Otherwise, cloudy, with a low around 58. East wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Thursday: A chance of showers, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 2 p.m. Areas of fog before 9 a.m. Otherwise, cloudy, with a high near 74. East wind around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Thursday Night: A chance of showers, mainly before 7 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 60. Calm wind. Chance of precipitation is 30 percent. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.
Friday: A chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 2 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 80. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Friday Night: Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 8 p.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m., then a slight chance of showers after 2 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 63. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Saturday: A chance of showers before 11 a.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., then showers after 2 p.m. High near 81. Chance of precipitation is 80 percent.
Saturday Night: Showers before 8 p.m. Low around 59. Chance of precipitation is 80 percent.
Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
Mother’s Day In Hillsborough: Local Eateries Taking Reservations Now
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/hillsborough/5-brunch-spots-hillsborough-mom-will-love
HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — Mother's Day is almost here, and it's time to show the mom in your life how much you care by making special plans ahead of schedule. Whether you call a restaurant directly or make a reservation online, sooner is better than later for the busiest brunch day of the year.Smaller, more intimate restaurants' brunch reservations fill up quickly, and multiple chain options offer delicious food and excellent service. Many have reservations currently available on OpenTable.Whether you indulge in gourmet dining o...
HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — Mother's Day is almost here, and it's time to show the mom in your life how much you care by making special plans ahead of schedule. Whether you call a restaurant directly or make a reservation online, sooner is better than later for the busiest brunch day of the year.
Smaller, more intimate restaurants' brunch reservations fill up quickly, and multiple chain options offer delicious food and excellent service. Many have reservations currently available on OpenTable.
Whether you indulge in gourmet dining on Mother's Day, send mom to relax at a spa, or plan a family outing to a creative workshop or a scenic outdoor adventure, plan ahead to ensure a fun and relaxing day for everyone.
Here are a few options for brunch, lunch and dinner around Hillsborough for Mother’s Day, which falls on May 11 this year:
Additionally, there is no shortage of casual restaurants, such as Applebee's, BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse, The Cheesecake Factory, Chili's, Lazy Dog, Lucille's Smokehouse BBQ, P.F. Chang's, and Texas Roadhouse, many of which offer brunch reservations on Mother's Day.
Many are taking call-ahead reservations, and some are offering specials.
New Assistant Superintendent For Instructional Technology Hired For Hillsborough Schools
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/hillsborough/new-assistant-superintendent-hired-hillsborough-schools-0
Joel Handler was promoted to the newly created position of Assistant Superintendent for Instructional Technology.Alexis Tarrazi, Patch StaffHILLSBOROUGH, NJ — Joel Handler was promoted to serve as the newly created position of Assistant Superintendent for Instructional Technology for the Hillsborough Township Public School District."I am deeply honored and incredibly excited for this new opportunity serving...
Joel Handler was promoted to the newly created position of Assistant Superintendent for Instructional Technology.
Alexis Tarrazi, Patch Staff
HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — Joel Handler was promoted to serve as the newly created position of Assistant Superintendent for Instructional Technology for the Hillsborough Township Public School District.
"I am deeply honored and incredibly excited for this new opportunity serving as the Assistant Superintendent for Instructional Technology," said Handler to Patch. "I am looking forward to continuing to advance technology's vital role in assisting and enhancing our students' educational journeys."
The Board of Education unanimously approved his contract at the Monday night meeting. Handler's contract will begin on July 1 through June 30, 2026, with an annual salary of $204,101.
"When Joel first started her,e he was truly the director of technology. He was running wires and making sure things were set up hardware-wise. And over the decades, he has transformed this district and that’s why he is being promoted by the Board tonight," said Superintendent Michael Volpe at the meeting. "A well-deserved promotion for Mr. Handler and I look forward to working with you in your new role."
Handler has served as the Director of Technology for Hillsborough Township Public Schools for more than 20 years.
Find out what's happening in Hillsboroughfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Over the years, Handler has spearheaded a remarkable transformation in how technology is utilized within the district.
He was instrumental in the successful implementation of the district’s 1:1 program, providing thousands of Chromebooks and tablets to students across all grade levels. This initiative fundamentally shifted the learning landscape, fostering personalized learning opportunities and enhancing student engagement. His foresight and strategic planning ensured a smooth transition to digital learning environments, a preparedness that proved invaluable in navigating recent educational shifts, according to the school release.
Beyond device deployment, Handler has championed the integration of technology into curriculum and instruction. He has consistently sought innovative solutions to enhance teaching methodologies, promote digital literacy, and equip students with the skills necessary to thrive in the 21st century. His expertise extends to leveraging emerging technologies, as demonstrated by the district's recent adoption of AI-enabled Chromebook Plus devices to further personalize learning and streamline IT support, according to the school district.
Handler holds two master's degrees from Rutgers University in Computer Science and Educational Administration.
In his new role as Assistant Superintendent for Instructional Technology, Handler will continue to provide strategic leadership for the district's technology vision. His responsibilities will expand to encompass a greater focus on the pedagogical integration of technology, ensuring that it serves as a powerful tool to enhance instructional practices and improve student outcomes. He will work closely with curriculum leaders, principals, and teachers to foster innovation and create dynamic learning environments.
"Joel's dedication and expertise have been pivotal in positioning Hillsborough as a leader in technology integration," said Volpe. "This promotion, effective July 1st, reflects his expanded responsibilities and the critical importance of instructional technology in our commitment to providing a future-ready education for all students. We are thrilled to have him step into this new role."
Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
Eight most expensive homes sold in Hillsborough, April 28 - May 4
Real Estate Newswirehttps://www.nj.com/realestate-news/2025/05/eight-most-expensive-homes-sold-in-hillsborough-april-28-may-4.html
A house that sold for $1.5 million tops the list of the most expensive residential real estate sales in Hillsborough in the past week.In total, nine residential real estate sales were recorded in the area during the past week, with an average price of $692,211, or $234 per square foot.The prices in the list below concern real estate sales where the title was recorded during the week of April 28 even if the property may have been sold earlier.8. $249K, condominium at 24 Deanna DriveA 873 square-foot condominium a...
A house that sold for $1.5 million tops the list of the most expensive residential real estate sales in Hillsborough in the past week.
In total, nine residential real estate sales were recorded in the area during the past week, with an average price of $692,211, or $234 per square foot.
The prices in the list below concern real estate sales where the title was recorded during the week of April 28 even if the property may have been sold earlier.
8. $249K, condominium at 24 Deanna Drive
A 873 square-foot condominium at 24 Deanna Drive, Hillsborough, has been sold. The transfer of ownership was settled in April and the total purchase price was $249,000, $285 per square foot. The condominium was built in 1985. The deal was finalized on April 15.
7. $300K, single-family home at 1516 Millstone River Road
The property at 1516 Millstone River Road in Hillsborough has new owners. The price was $300,000. The house was built in 1830 and has a living area of 1,848 square feet. The price per square foot is $162. The deal was finalized on April 21.
6. $445K, townhouse at 37 Whitehall Court
The property at 37 Whitehall Court in Hillsborough has new owners. The price was $445,000. The house was built in 1987 and has a living area of 1,268 square feet. The price per square foot is $351. The deal was finalized on April 15.
5. $620K, single-family house at 560 Township Line Road
The 2,232 square-foot detached house at 560 Township Line Road in Hillsborough has been sold. The transfer of ownership was settled in April and the total purchase price was $620,000, $278 per square foot. The house was built in 1830. The deal was finalized on April 16.
4. $730K, single-family house on Main Street
The property on Main Street in Hillsborough has new owners. The price was $730,000. The single family residence was built in 1920. The deal was finalized on April 17.
3. $751K, townhouse at 57 Flemming Drive
The 2,588 square-foot townhouse at 57 Flemming Drive, Hillsborough, has been sold. The transfer of ownership was settled in April and the total purchase price was $751,000, $290 per square foot. The house was built in 1995. The deal was finalized on April 21.
2. $909K, single-family house at 60 Walker Drive
The property at 60 Walker Drive in Hillsborough has new owners. The price was $909,000. The house was built in 1993 and has a living area of 2,894 square feet. The price per square foot is $314. The deal was finalized on April 15.
1. $1.5 million, single-family home at 884 Us Highway 206
The 9,339 square-foot single-family house at 884 Us Highway 206 in Hillsborough has been sold. The transfer of ownership was settled in April and the total purchase price was $1,450,000, $155 per square foot. The commercial was built in 1916. The deal was finalized on April 21.
Real Estate Newswire is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to generate analysis of data from Propmix, an aggregator of national real-estate data.
Hillsborough school taxes going up but two dozen jobs saved
Mike Deakhttps://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/news/education/2025/05/01/hillsborough-school-taxes-going-up-but-two-dozen-jobs-saved/83365626007/
HILLSBOROUGH – By a narrow 5-4 margin, the township Board of Education has adopted a budget that will raise the school property tax rate by 5.19% but would take advantage of a new state program that could result in $1 million in state aid.The $176 million budget for the 2025-26 school year will raise the school property tax rate for Hillsborough residents to $1.45 per $100 of assessed valuation. That translates to an annual school property tax bill of $8,645 for the average Hillsborough home assessed at $594,890.In Millst...
HILLSBOROUGH – By a narrow 5-4 margin, the township Board of Education has adopted a budget that will raise the school property tax rate by 5.19% but would take advantage of a new state program that could result in $1 million in state aid.
The $176 million budget for the 2025-26 school year will raise the school property tax rate for Hillsborough residents to $1.45 per $100 of assessed valuation. That translates to an annual school property tax bill of $8,645 for the average Hillsborough home assessed at $594,890.
In Millstone, the school property rate would rise to $1.21 per $100 of assessed value, a 37% increase. That means the school property tax bill on the average Millstone home assessed at $409,598 would be $4,969.
Superintendent of Schools Michael Volpe explained that the rise in the Millstone tax rate can be attributed to an "accounting error" in the number of students from Millstone that has been fixed.
The adopted budget restores $4.6 million in cuts included in the tentative budget adopted in March.
Those cuts included 24 positions, courtesy bussing, middle school sports and the "Pay-to-Play" extracurricular program.
The new budget would also allow the district to hire a building monitor for evening activities and a supervisor for the health, physical education and nursing programs.
The budget would also permit the district to spend $15 million on various projects, including replacing the trailers at Triangle School, building a new bus garage, preparing classrooms for full-day kindergarten and going paperless for archived documents.
The district will also be able to perform software updates and continue online mental health services.
The tentative budget adopted in March would have decreased the Hillsborough school property tax rate to $1.33 per $100 of assessed value, or $7,933 on the average house.
The district is taking advantage of a proposed statewide Tax Levy Incentive Aid program which provides an opportunity for school districts to raise their tax levies beyond the 2% cap to address budget shortfalls. The program will also increase state aid by 5% for school districts that rise above the 2% cap.
However, Volpe said, that school aid is contingent on the state Legislature passing Gov. Phil Murphy's proposed budget. The district must also receive approval from the state Department of Education to participate in the program.
The tax increase, Volpe explained, is aimed "at moving Hillsborough closer to our fair share of state funding and adequate spending levels."
Hillsborough was targeted to lose 2.99% in state aid for the new school year even after district officials have said that the district has been chronically underfunded.
"This decision wasn't taken lightly," Volpe said. "The Board believes this is a crucial step towards securing a more stable financial future for our schools and ultimately, for our entire community."
Volpe called the budget a "responsible and strategic plan" and pledged to keep residents informed on updates to the budget.
The superintendent said he didn't want the district to be like the New York Jets, with a mediocre record year after year.
"We either break it down and rebuild or we move in the right direction," he said.
Assemblyman Roy Freiman, a Hillsborough resident, told the Board at Monday's meeting that the school district has been hurt by an "antiquated" school funding formula that "has failed you."
"I am a taxpayer like you all are and I don't want to pay more taxes," he said, adding that the district is faced with difficult choices but "supporting our schools to me every single time is an easy one."
Board member Joel Davis said he was "just reluctant to impose a tax increase of this magnitude on the entire town without the town having had the opportunity to participate," adding there should be a resident vote on the budget "like in the old days."
Davis said he was also "intuitively suspicious” of the state giving the board the power to impose an "outrageous" tax increase without a referendum.
"I just have hesitancy," he said. "I've got a yellow flag that says there's something going on here that's not right."
Voting for the budget were Cassanda Craig, Allison Laning-Beder, Danny Lee, Cynthia Nurse and Paul Marini. Voting against the budget were Davis, Elaine Jackson, Jane Staats and Jean Trujillo.
Email: mdeak@MyCentralJersey.com
Disclaimer:

Service Areas
