Hillsborough Intern Receives NJMMA Internship Award for New Product

Austin Keeth Recognized for Creating Resident-Facing Property Tax Calculator

Hillsborough, NJ, Austin Keeth, a summer intern for Hillsborough Township, received the New Jersey Municipal Management Association (NJMMA) Internship Award for Innovation at the 2025 NJMMA Awards Luncheon this month. Keeth, a freshman at Stevens Institute of Technology, was recognized for creating a resident-facing property tax calculator.

Austin’s project was a resident-facing property tax calculator featured on the Tax Assessor's home page. This unique, custom-built tool allows residents to quickly estimate their potential 2026 property taxes.

“The municipality immediately adopted the calculator to address the high volume of resident inquiries proactively,” said Anthony Ferrera, Township Administrator, Former NJMMA President, and Stevens Institute of Technology alumnus. “The tool further enhances staff efficiency by providing residents with an educational resource and demonstrates Austin’s technical skill, innovation, and practical problem-solving,” he added.

This functional tool delivers immediate value to both residents and the municipal team, laying the groundwork for improved, streamlined property tracking in Hillsborough Township.

“Austin was a tremendous asset to the IT department during his internship with the township, and I have no doubt that he will succeed in achieving his educational and career goals, said Richard Granitir, IT Director and Austin’s mentor.

“Austin’s property tax estimating tool is an excellent example of the collaborative and innovative solutions we prioritize to enhance resident services,” said Mayor John Ciccarelli. “This new resource saves time for both our staff and our community members by putting clear, practical information right at their fingertips.”