Hillsborough Board of Education - April 30, 2026

The Hillsborough Board of Education held a meeting on April 30, 2026, primarily focused on finalizing the 2026-27 school budget. The board discussed the proposed budget increase of approximately 5.8 million dollars, reflecting a 2% tax levy increase, with detailed explanations of revenue sources, including state aid reductions and withdrawals from capital and maintenance reserves. Significant debate centered on balancing fiscal responsibility with educational needs, including potential cuts to staff positions and capital projects such as a new transportation and maintenance facility. The board considered motions to reduce the budget to a 1% tax levy by eliminating specific line items, including teacher positions and architectural costs, but these motions failed. Ultimately, a compromise budget with a 1.3% tax levy increase was approved, which included funding for architectural costs related to the transportation facility. The meeting also included approval of various operational and educational items, such as curriculum updates and personnel appointments, and welcomed the new director of school counseling. Public comments reflected concerns about tax increases and the impact on residents, especially those on fixed incomes.