Building a Better Hillside...Step by Step

Mayor Dahlia O. Vertreese delivered the annual State of the Township address on Wednesday, April 9, 2025.

The mayor reflected on Hillside’s progress and outlined future goals, expressed gratitude to the residents, business owners, elected officials, and township employees for their contributions.

Special thanks were given to Kean University for sponsoring the event.

Community growth is a shared responsibility, the mayor encouraged residents to take pride in shaping the township’s future, recognizing Community Champions who have consistently supported Hillside during challenging times.

BUILDING CONNECTIONS FOR OUR FUTURE TOGETHER

Since taking office, Mayor Vertreese focused on rebuilding Hillside’s relationships with

the Federal Government, the State of New Jersey, and Union County. By restoring the township’s reputation and financial standing, Hillside gained access to grants and achieved an A1 bond rating, which enabled improvements to infrastructure, the purchase of energy-efficient equipment, and enhanced programming. Despite challenges like inflation and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the mayor praised the efforts of the management team for their innovative ideas that will transform the community. Special thanks were given to the Directors and Administrative Staff for their dedication in turning the vision of a better Hillside into reality.

Mayor Vertreese acknowledges the challenges of being an accessible and responsive leader but expressed gratitude for the lessons learned from the community over the past 8 years. Reflecting on the importance of experience and institutional knowledge, the Mayor emphasized the value of making informed, ethical decisions for the future of Hillside.

Special recognition was given to township employees and volunteers for their dedication beyond their roles, helping to enhance services and professionalism in key areas. The Mayor also touched on the importance of change in governance, urging that progress takes time and is built on a solid foundation, despite the criticism that often accompanies efforts for improvement.

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS (DPW) AND INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS

The Township of Hillside has made significant investments in critical infrastructure,

addressing issues caused by climate change and decades of neglect. The DPW has

played a central role in maintaining the cleanliness and safety of the community. Key

achievements include:

• Maintenance and replacement of over 256 catch basins, installation of 64 new street signs, and the upkeep of dog waste stations across town.

• Installation of crosswalks and differently abled ramps, as well as safety

  improvements such as four-way stop signs on key intersections.

• Replacement of 68 potholes and management of 54 sewer lines to prevent backups.

• Upgrades to town hall infrastructure, including the replacement of outdated boilers and transformers, ensuring energy efficiency.

• Efforts to promote environmental sustainability, including energy efficiency

• upgrades, recycling programs, and green space expansion.

• The township received an $850,000 NJDEP grant to address tree inventory and replacement of dying trees with more manageable species.

• Over 56 volunteers, including local students, participated in town-wide clean-ups, supported by grants for materials.
  

The DPW also participates in the adopt-a-highway initiative, improving highway

corridors with flowers and shrubs to reduce litter.

Mayor [Name] emphasized the importance of community involvement in keeping the

township clean, encouraging residents to properly dispose of waste, keep trash cans

covered, and follow pickup schedules to help manage the costs of waste disposal.

2024 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS

Hillside is actively investing in major infrastructure improvements across the township

with the help of various departments. Key projects include:

Margaret Roche Pool Demolition & Spray Park: The demolition of the old pool,

including an unexpected second pool, is underway to make space for a new

Spray Park and Pool. A $1.7 million Green Acres Grant has been applied for to

fund Phase II.

Park Improvements: $1 million in upgrades at Sandford and Central Avenue

Parks, including new playground equipment and adult workout stations, with

Phase II focusing on resurfacing basketball and tennis courts.

Community Center Renovations: Major improvements, including roof repairs,

new flooring, upgraded electrical systems, and more space for summer camp

activities.

Street Resurfacing: Woodruff Avenue, Miriam Place, and Virginia Street have

been resurfaced, with Wilder Street’s reconstruction starting soon. This project

also includes ADA-compliant ramps and alignment of driveway aprons.

Sinkhole Repair: Emergency repairs at Ramsey and Burnett Streets, caused by

erosion and climate change, have been funded by state and federal grants,

addressing major damage to the infrastructure.

These projects reflect the township’s commitment to enhancing safety, accessibility, and

recreation for residents while addressing the impact of climate change.

PUBLIC SAFETY IN HILLSIDE

Hillside’s Police and Fire Departments continue to show exceptional dedication to

keeping the community safe. The township has introduced new community policing

initiatives, strengthened emergency preparedness, and provided first responders with the necessary training and resources to perform their duties with professionalism and

compassion.

The Mayor highlighted the importance of community service, recalling lessons learned

from personal experience with law enforcement. Hillside’s police and fire departments

work closely together and are deeply committed to serving residents, even during

challenging situations. The community has expressed overwhelming support, with both

departments receiving the highest number of compliments.

On March 4th, 2025, the township held a promotional ceremony at Kean University to honor the hard work and dedication of its public safety officers.

The ceremony acknowledged the officers commitment, not just to their titles, but to the families and communities they serve. PROMOTIONS RECOGNIZED:

Police Department: Det. Lt. Cosmo Tripoli, Lt. Anthony D’Amore, Lt. Thomas Wingate, Lt. Daniel Wanat, Sgt. Carlos Nascimento, Sgt. Gregorio Menza, Sgt. Jose Aguiar.

Fire Department: Deputy Chief Douglas Ferrigno Jr., Captains Nick Crosta and Paul Antunes.

HILLSIDE POLICE DEPARTMENT INITIATIVES AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

The Hillside Police Department (HPD) continues to enhance safety and community

relations through various initiatives. In 2025, HPD was awarded a $1.25 million hiring

grant from the U.S. Department of Justice, which will allow the department to hire 8 new

officers. Additionally, a $30,000 grant will be used to purchase bulletproof vests for officers.

HPD remains deeply committed to community engagement, with annual participation in

National Night Out (NNO), an event that fosters strong police-community relationships.

In 2023, Senator Andy Kim and Assemblywoman Cleopatra Tucker joined residents for

NNO, which includes demonstrations from Union County SWAT and HPD on crime

prevention equipment. This year’s NNO will be held on August 5th.

Other community programs include:

• Job fairs and recruitment efforts for future public safety officers.

• Autism Acceptance, Santa Express, Countywide Gun Surrender, Hillside Career Day, and the Ladies to Women Mentoring Program.

• The Kid’s Mock Trial, hosted by HPD, the Union County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Recreation Department, helps young people engage with law and justice.

  
  

In terms of public safety, Hillside remains a safe community, with domestic violence,

simple assault, motor vehicle theft, and property damage as the main concerns. Of the

39,566 calls for service in 2024, only 18 involved the use of force. HPD places a strong

emphasis on de-escalation techniques to ensure residents feel safe and respected

during interactions with law enforcement.

COMMITMENT TO TOLERANCE AND EQUALITY IN HILLSIDE

Mayor Vertreese expressed a firm stance against intolerance and hate crimes in Hillside,

emphasizing the strength and unity of the diverse community. With residents of all faiths

and ethnicities, Hillside is committed to confronting ignorance and discrimination head-

on. The Mayor proudly acknowledged the township’s progress in moving beyond its

challenging history, despite the difficulties faced.

In 2025, Hillside Police will hire eight new officers, establish a dedicated community

affairs unit, and introduce a new bicycle patrol unit. These efforts aim to enhance

community engagement, safety, and social support, including the addition of a social

worker to assist residents in need.

HILLSIDE FIRE DEPARTMENT

The Hillside Fire Department, consisting of 31 dedicated firefighters, logged a total of

5,866 calls in 2024. Under the leadership of Chief Rashawn Carey, the department

continues to adapt and serve the community with excellence.

Notable achievements in 2024 include:

• CPR Saves: Firefighters B. Suarez and W. Genao-Estevez performed a life-

saving CPR rescue on March 11, 2024, and also rescued a man pinned under a

car.

• Pediatric Certification: Hillside Fire Department became one of the first in the

nation to receive certification for the “Always Ready for Pediatric” program,

ensuring all firefighters are trained to provide pediatric care.

The Fire Prevention Bureau focuses on community education, providing fire safety materials to local schools and daycare centers. Residents are reminded of the importance of smoke detectors and having an escape route. As Mayor, I always ensure my family sleeps with the doors closed as a fire safety measure.

Significant upgrades to equipment include:

• New ambulances: Two new ambulances replacing 30-year-old vehicles.

• Updated safety equipment: New gas meters to detect carbon monoxide and 48 new portable batteries for time-sensitive use.

• Rescue gear: Two new life safety harnesses for confined space and high-angle rescues.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN HILLSIDE

Hillside is experiencing exciting economic growth, with thriving local businesses and new companies looking to establish themselves in the township. Hillside's favorable location in Union County and proximity to New York City have contributed to this success.

As highlighted in Moody’s credit opinion, the township benefits from a growing tax base and a strong financial position, with specific areas designated as opportunity zones, making it a hub for innovation and investment.

Key initiatives include:

• 1350 Liberty Avenue (Bristol Myers Building): A new market-value housing

project that will help revitalize downtown Hillside and stabilize taxes for residents.

• North Broad Street Project: The development of a new multi-unit building with

predominantly 1-bedroom market-rate housing on a vacant property that has

been unused for over 20 years.

• Redevelopment of the Ambulance Squad: Transforming this space into

additional resources for organizations, group meetings, computer labs, and

training areas for building trades and apprenticeships.

Ongoing efforts are also focused on:

• Supporting the Annual Winter Wonderland celebration through UEZ funds.

• Revitalizing Liberty Avenue with new businesses, including fitness options, fine dining, and medical services, alongside a parking authority to generate additional revenue.

Hillside is poised for growth, with investments in both residential and commercial sectors to enhance the community's quality of life.

FINANCE

“When you want to help people, you tell them the truth. When you want to help yourself, you tell them what they want to hear.” - Thomas Sowell -

Over the last decade, the municipality has only raised taxes by a mere 0.9%, a seemingly small increase that might sound like a relief at first glance. But beneath the surface, a much darker truth lurks. While residents grapple with the crushing weight of a 27% surge in the cost of living, this modest tax hike has done nothing to keep pace.

Services are slipping through the cracks, infrastructure is crumbling, and public resources are dwindling. The gap between what you pay and what you get is widening dangerously, and with each passing year, the town's financial stability erodes a little more. What happens when the system finally breaks? How long before the bottom falls out, leaving you to pay the price for a decade of neglect? The slow burn of this financial freeze is leading to a reckoning—one that may not be so easy to avoid.

Hillside Mayor Dahlia Vertreese