Hillsborough Mayor and Committee Reflect on 2024 Achievements and 2025 Goals

The Hillsborough Township Committee held its Reorganization Meeting on January 2, 2025, marking the beginning of a new year of governance and community engagement. The meeting featured reflections on the past year and outlined priorities for the upcoming year, emphasizing a commitment to community service, fiscal responsibility, and public safety.

Mayor Ciccarelli opened the meeting by expressing gratitude for the trust placed in him and his fellow committee members. He highlighted the accomplishments of 2024, noting a focus on maintaining Hillsborough as a desirable place to live. Ciccarelli emphasized the importance of a "no nonsense, common sense" approach to governance, aiming to tackle challenges while ensuring that the process remains enjoyable and fulfilling for all involved.

Deputy Mayor Payne followed with remarks about her work with the veterans' community, which had faced challenges in recent years. She expressed pride in revitalizing the Veterans Commission and pledged to continue addressing local issues, including a water hazard on a county road that remains unresolved. Payne also took a moment to thank her family for their support throughout her public service.

Committeeman Breeding acknowledged the importance of family and community support in his role. He praised the leadership of Committeeman Lipani, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, and expressed excitement about working with the new leadership team. Breeding highlighted the township's achievements in 2024, including awards and progress on various projects, and committed to maintaining transparency and communication with residents.

The meeting also featured comments from Committee Woman Hand, who emphasized her commitment to advocating for affordability and fiscal accountability. She raised concerns about the potential financial burden on residents and stressed the importance of preserving the character of Hillsborough through open space protection and road safety initiatives.

Overall, the Reorganization Meeting set a collaborative tone for 2025, with committee members expressing a shared commitment to addressing community needs and enhancing the quality of life in Hillsborough. As the township moves forward, the focus will remain on effective governance, community engagement, and the preservation of Hillsborough's unique character.