HTA May 2022 Newsletter

As you’ve probably seen in the news or online, NJ beaches including Holgate were hit hard by the last nor’easter. The Township is doing its best to plow sand back up at low tide and has been meeting with Congressional Representative Van Drew to push for replenishment funding. Fingers crossed for Memorial Day Weekend access.

Please mark your calendars for our rescheduled May 21 clean-up. Weekend weather looks good for a change and there seems to be a fair amount of garbage out there waiting for us.

May Highlights

1. Spring Clean-up
2. Spring Membership Meeting
3. New Member Meet and Greet
4. Resilient LBI
5. Bond’s Park Basketball Court
6. Dogs on the Beach
7. Relevant Ordinance Moved on First Reading
8. Speed Limits, Traffic Lights and Increased Police Enforcement
9. Plastic Bag Ban In Effect
10. App for Water Usage – Update
11. Special Offer from Friends of the Island Library
12. Ocean County Fire Marshall Inspection
13. Other Save-the-Dates

Updates

1. Spring Clean-up

• On Saturday, May 21th from 9-11am, we will kick off an Island-wide clean-up, sponsored by the Joint Council of Taxpayers Associations in partnership with Alliance for a Living Ocean. Holgate will be going first as each association is juggling reschedule dates. We would like to have a great volunteer turnout; you can collect a lot of trash in a short time. We’ll meet at 9am at the Tebco Terrace beach entrance (roughly the halfway point for north/south). The HTA will provide water, a snack, safety vests, and some handy pickers for items you don’t want to touch or for the kids to use. Please bring your own gloves, sunscreen, and a bucket (if possible, to avoid using plastic bags).

2. Spring Membership Meeting

• All members are invited and encouraged to attend this annual meeting. We are looking forward to an in-person meeting on Saturday, June 11 at 10am at the new Marine Field Station on Osborn Avenue on the north end of Holgate. For those who would normally walk to the meeting, we are trying to arrange an extra shuttle bus that morning for people on the south end. There is some seating but you may want to bring a folding chair too. Coffee and crumbcake will be served and if the weather turns bad, we can simply move the meeting indoors.

3. New Member Meet and Greet

• Members who are new to the HTA in 2022 are invited to join the HTA trustees for a sunset reception at the new Marine Field Station on Osborn on June 18 from 5-7pm. All are welcome but please be sure to RSVP to the coming Evite (separate email) so we have an accurate count to plan for refreshments.

4. Resilient LBI

• Resilient LBI is a State-funded group to study and recommend solutions to preserve the Island in the face of tremendous climate challenges. They have been working for a few years on this project and have offered several opportunities for public involvement. Like most projects of this type, people tend to only participate after the final recommendations are in. We strongly urge everyone to become more familiar with what they are trying to accomplish.
  You can watch the on-demand version of the recent workshop by clicking here. You can also find the slide presentation to follow along here.
  You can also follow the project and find the latest updates by clicking here.

5. Bond’s Park Basketball Court

• We’ve seen a number of questions about the status of the court. The contract for the reconstruction was approved and it includes repair work on other Township tennis courts (not Holgate) and new pickleball court construction at the old M&M Steam Bar site. The work is expected to be completed “by Summer” so we will seek an update at the next Commissioners Meeting in June.

6. Dogs on the Beach

• A reminder: No dogs on the beach from May 15 – October 1.

7. Relevant Ordinance Moved on First Reading

• Speed limits on Ocean Blvd, Beach Ave and Atlantic Ave will be reduced to 15mph between May 15 and October 15.

8. Speed Limits, Traffic Lights and Increased Police Enforcement

• Speed limits have already been reduced and traffic lights should be back on or around May 23. School is still in session so please be patient if you are behind a school bus in the morning or afternoon. The Township Police will begin to issue summonses without warning for dogs that are on the beach, illegal parking, and drivers not allowing safe distance when passing bicyclists per the recently passed NJ law. The HTA has also asked that this enforcement also apply to bicyclists who don’t obey the traffic laws and create dangerous situations for everyone on the road.

9. Plastic Bag Ban In Effect

• As of May 4. Please bring your own shopping bags as NJ is also not allowing paper bags to be used in grocery stores. Also, remember to tell your tenants if you rent.

10. App for Water Usage – Update

• The Township will offer a free app available to allow you to track your water usage in real time. Due date has been pushed back to June.

11. Special Offer from Friends of the Island Library

• The Friends of the Island Library is sponsoring a bus trip to the Philadelphia Flower Show at FDR Park on Tuesday June 14. The bus departs from the Long Beach Island Library on Central Avenue in Surf City at 9 am and leaves Philadelphia at 4 pm to come back to the library. The cost is $89 per person, which includes round trip bus transportation and one ticket to the show, which is regularly $50 at the door. Sign up by coming to the library or email questions or your request for tickets to lbif@theoceancountylibrary.org. Tickets are available for sale through May 26.

12. Ocean County Fire Marshall Inspection

• For those who rent your homes, please remember to schedule your Ocean County Fire Marshall Inspection. Schedule Inspection

13. Other Save the Dates

• Town-wide Yard Sale: Saturday, May 28 (rain date Sunday, May 29); Township permit required

Fingers crossed as we get nearer to Spring as the beaches have held up well this Winter. Also, please pay special attention to the sections below on Ordinance Passed on Second Reading and Increased Police Enforcement.

March Highlights

1. Membership Renewals for 2022
2. Call for New Trustees
3. Beach Conditions
4. Offshore Wind Updates
5. Pickleball at Old M&M Steambar location
6. Ordinance Passed on Second Reading
7. Ordinances in Process after First Reading
8. Increased Police Enforcement
9. Save the Dates
10. Helpful Links

Updates

1. Membership Renewals: If you’ve already submitted for 2022, thank you! If not, please consider sending your dues in soon – and ask your neighbor if they are a member, especially if they are a new homeowner. Members offer the very best outreach. “https://bit.ly/HTAMembership
2. Call for New Trustees: Please respond to this email if you would like more information about joining our Board. Help is needed. We have spoken with 3 potential candidates for the 3 open positions but we haven’t received any nominating positions yet (it’s early in the process). Any member who has lived here for at least 2 years is eligible.
3. Beach Conditions: The Township is hoping to move forward with the extension of the current steel jetty and adding at least two smaller steel jetties. This is subject to agreement by the Department of Fish and Wildlife which runs the Refuge. The HTA has reached out to DFW to request their support. Also, we spoke with the Township about getting dune fencing where needed at the bottom of the dunes. This will be done by early June although it may not be feasible on the narrowest beaches.
4. Offshore Wind Updates: The Joint Council of Taxpayers Associations is working on updates to their previous FAQ document (posted on HTA home page) and we will share when it is available.
5. Pickleball at Former M&M Steambar Site: If you have driven by this property recently, you will have noticed it has been largely cleared and the Township is hoping to have pickleball courts ready for play in June. Planned hours will be 8:30am – 5:00pm. The adjoining parking lot will be open until 11:15pm to serve nearby restaurants.
6. Ordinance Passed Into Law on Second Reading:
   22-06C was passed into law and prohibits any structure on a rooftop deck that extends beyond the permissible height of the house (based on the true roofline, not rooftop railings). This includes but is not limited to pergolas, kitchens, pools, cabanas, hot tubs, etc. When the HTA asked if this was retroactive and would require homeowners to remove these objects, the answer was yes as far as it applies to hot tubs. The Township is still considering if other previously installed structures would be included.
7. Ordinances Moved on First Reading:
   An ordinance was moved which would allow open containers of alcoholic beverages at Township-sponsored events.
   An ordinance was moved to allow the Township to charge for OPRA-related requests for police videos since these require an outside service to edit them.
8. Increased Police Enforcement: The Township Police will begin to issue summonses without warning for dogs that are on the beach without leashes, illegal parking, and drivers not allowing safe distance when passing bicyclists per the recently passed NJ law.
9. Save the Dates:
   • Spring Clean-up as part of an Island-wide effort: Saturday, May 7, 9am-noon
   • Spring Dune Planting: Saturday, May 21 (morning)
   • Yard Sale: Saturday, May 28 (rain date Sunday, May 29); Township permit required
   • HTA Spring All-Membership Meeting (Saturday, June 18; time/location TBD)
10. Helpful Links:
    • Hazardous waste disposal
    • Ocean County shredding dates

As usual, there is a lot going on even during the “quiet” winter months. Film lovers should be sure to see the special Lighthouse International Film Festival offer to HTA members listed below.

February Highlights

1. Membership Renewals for 2022
2. Call for New Trustees
3. Beach Conditions
4. Offshore Wind Updates
5. LIFF Film Festival Discount Offer to HTA Members
6. Ordinances Passed on Second Reading
7. Ordinances in Process after First Reading
8. Coyotes
9. Q1 Water and Sewer Bills
10. Upcoming Events

Updates

1. Membership Renewals: We’re off to a great start with a goal of 500 members this year (out of 800 households). If you’ve already submitted for 2022, thank you. If not, please consider sending your dues in soon. https://bit.ly/HTAMembership
2. Call for New Trustees: We are very thankful to have had 6 members express interest in becoming a trustee, with 3 so far deciding to move forward and begin the nominating petition process. Remember, this requires a limited time commitment and you do not have to be retired or a full-time resident (most of us aren’t). Please respond to this email if you would like more information.
3. Beach Conditions: Beaches continue to hold up better than expected for this time of year although there will be more storms. We are hopeful of approvals this Spring to extend the steel jetty and add 2-3 more jetties to the north. Construction would likely begin next Winter. Less positive news regarding future beach replenishment is LBI does not appear to be getting any Federal funding despite being scheduled for the work. The HTA is working with the JCTA (Joint Council of Taxpayers Associations) on a plan to convince Congress to fund this project.
4. Offshore Wind Updates:

The Federal government continues to move forward with plans to create wind turbine fields along the East Coast. Next up is the auction for the NY Bight field which sits between New Jersey and New York. Also a second lawsuit seeking a delay in the construction of the field off LBI was filed by a group representing local fishing concerns. The final link is a Sandpaper report of local government opposition to the project.

• https://bit.ly/BOEMNYBightAuction
• https://bit.ly/RODALawsuit
• https://bit.ly/WindCoalitionSuit
5. LIFF Offer: Please see the special offer to HTA members at the end of this email. In summary, you can purchase a $150 All Access pass to the Lighthouse International Film Festival on June 1-5 Film for $120 and LIFF will also make a $10 donation to the HTA for each purchase. Deadline: March 10. A win-win for film lovers!
6. Ordinances Passed Into Law on Second Reading: 22-02C authorizing microbreweries and craft distilleries was approved and the bulkhead ordinance was rescinded.
7. Ordinances Moved on First Reading:
   • An ordinance was moved which would prohibit hot tubs, cabanas, kitchens, etc. on rooftop decks that are already at the maximum allowed height.
   • Bond ordinances were moved to Second Reading for construction of: handicapped bathrooms behind Town Hall; a small building to store gators and shuttles near the Acme; and basketball and pickleball courts at the site of the old M&M Steambar.
8. Coyotes: They have been sighted again in several areas on LBI despite what had been an active trapping program in the last year. This suggests they may be here to stay and you should not attract them by putting out any food for other animals. And you should keep a close eye on small pets outside.
9. Q1 Water and Sewer Bills: These were sent out 10 days ago so you should have received them in the mail.
10. Upcoming Events:
    • Spring Clean-up as part of an Island-wide effort, Saturday, May 7, 9am-noon
    • Spring Dune Planting: May (specific date TBD)
    • Yard Sale: Saturday May 28 (rain date Sunday, May 29); permit required

Reminders

Covid Testing (from LBI Health Dept.): Go to https://lbihealth.com/covid-19-testing-resources/ to schedule an appointment for the vaccine or booster dose. First vaccine doses are offered for walk-in on Wednesdays from 9-12pm. Local resources are available for Long Beach Island residents who are homebound or with lack of internet access or computer literacy. Those who need assistance should call (609) 492-1212.

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LIGHTHOUSE FILM FESTIVAL OFFER

The Lighthouse International Film Festival brings an outstanding 4-day cinematic experience to LBI! This year we are supporting LIFF’s “Friends of the Lighthouse International Film Festival Program (“Friends of LIFF”). As part of this program, the Holgate Taxpayers Association is offering to our members an opportunity to purchase a LIFF 2022 ALL ACCESS PASS, at the reduced price of $120.

Additionally, for each discounted 2022 ALL ACCESS PASS purchased by our members, LIFF will donate $10 dollars to the HTA. This is a great opportunity to enjoy a world-class film festival and support the Holgate Taxpayers Association.

An LIFF ALL ACCESS PASS is your ticket to a 4-day cinematic experience on LBI. The 14th annual Lighthouse International Film Festival includes award-winning, independent films from around the world, 2 “Breakfast with the Filmmakers” events, master classes, panel discussions, and evening parties. ALL ACCESS PASS patrons also get priority entrance to films. This special discount expires on March 10, 2022, so make your purchase today and join the LIFF for amazing films, stimulating discussions, and fun on LBI.

It’s very simple to take advantage of this special offer. Just 6 easy steps to purchase your 2022 ALL ACCESS PASS:

• Click here to purchase tickets Or copy and paste https://www.goelevent.com/LIFF/Pass/Sale/ALLACCESSPASS2022
• Register/Sign In
• Select number of passes and click “Add to Cart”
• Click “Checkout”
• On the Checkout page, you will be asked for your Discount Code. Type in “hta” (no capitals) and then click “Apply.” Your discount will appear in the Order Summary.
• Type in your payment information and click “Complete Purchase.” If you have any questions or concerns please email – liffinfo@gmail.com

HTA January 2022 Newsletter

New Trustee Update: We are very thankful to have had 5 members express interest in becoming a trustee, with 2 so far deciding to move forward and begin the nominating petition process. That said, we are hoping to attract at least 3 in total to help us help our community. Remember, you do not have to be retired or a full-time resident (most of us aren’t); a very limited time commitment can do a lot of good for Holgate. Plus, you get to pick the causes/projects you care the most about.

If interested in learning more please let me know by responding to this email and I’ll contact you to set up a short phone call or Zoom.

Rand

January Highlights

1. Membership Renewals for 2022
2. Bulkhead Ordinance Rescinded
3. Flooding, Resilient LBI and Back Bay Study
4. Offshore Wind Updates
5. Recycling
6. Yard Sale Dates
7. New Ordinance: Microbreweries and Craft Distilleries
8. New Policy for Commissioners Meetings
9. Covid Testing

Updates

1. Membership Renewals: Everyone should have received their tax letters for 2021 and we’re off to a great start for 2022. We welcome back past members and ask everyone to reach out to new neighbors to let them know about the HTA with the hope of convincing them to join too. Join Now!
2. New Bulkhead Ordinance Rescinded: An ordinance passed in October which called for raising bulkheads due to water coming over the existing bulkheads. The ordinance allowed for a phasing in of the new height requirements (LBT noted other towns are mandating 100% compliance within 2 years). This meant there would have been no deadline if you were not selling or planning a major renovation. After significant public opposition, the ordinance will be rescinded.
3. Flooding, Resilient LBI and Back Bay Study: Resilient LBI’s next meeting is January 24 and an HTA representative will attend. Questions have been raised about scenarios and impacts on the southern half of LBI, and we will ask about this on Monday.

Additional information regarding Back Bay plans will be covered in an LBIF presentation on January 29. Dr. Stan Hales, Director of the Barnegat Bay Partnership, will discuss the US Army Corps of Engineers Back Bay study plan. The $18.5 billion project will potentially impact our environment, our coastal economy, and our way of life. Dr. Hales will give a brief overview of the currently proposed Barnegat Bay component of the project. $5 registration free required. LINK

4. Offshore Wind Updates: The amount of information and conjecture on offshore wind continues to increase. Recent news highlighted the auctions of more fields off the New York/New Jersey coast while one local group is suing the government to at least temporarily halt the development off LBI.
   OFFSHORE AUCTION INFO
   OFFSHORE LEGAL ISSUES

5. Recycling: 2022 LBT Recycling & Trash Calendar. The mailing of this calendar to LBT taxpayers began January 10. Please be sure to read the new recycling section because Ocean County has expanded the list of recyclable items. Proper compliance (including from seasonal renters) is good for the environment and save money.
6. Yard Sale Dates: Two Township-wide yard sales have been scheduled. Mark your calendars: Saturday May 28 (rain date Sunday, May 29) and Saturday July 2 (rain date Sunday, July 3). You need to register in advance by completing and returning a form with a $10 fee to the Municipal Clerk’s office. A few days before the sale date, the list of addresses of those participating will be posted on the LBT website so people do not have to randomly drive around looking for sales. Later this year, the list of Upcoming Events will be updated on the website’s Home page to include the 2022 Township-wide yard sale. When that happens, click on that event from that list and you will see the link to the form that you will need to complete.
7. New LBT Ordinance: 22-02C authorizes microbreweries and craft distilleries to exist within a general commercial zone, provided specific standards and conditions are complied with and a conditional use permit is applied for and obtained from the LBT Land Use Board. Such establishments would need to offer a specific, designated sampling area, provide only snack-type food and submit a full set of plans to receive a permit.
8. New Policy for Commissioners Meeting: The six LBT taxpayer associations have requested greater transparency around the public meetings. Specifically, that more information be accessible to the public. In response, Township officials recently announced that effective immediately, you can find advance copies of the agenda for the upcoming monthly public meeting and drafts of proposed ordinances after they have been passed on first reading. They can be found here: https://bit.ly/LBTPublicMeetingInfo. Note: Last minute changes could result in the agenda distributed at the meeting differing from the one that was posted. Postings of new ordinances passed on first reading will happen within a week following the Public Meeting.
9. Covid Testing (from LBI Health Dept.): Go to https://lbihealth.com/covid-19-testing-resources/ to schedule an appointment for the vaccine or booster dose. First vaccine doses are offered for walk-in on Wednesdays from 9-12pm. Local resources are available for Long Beach Island residents who are homebound or with lack of internet access or computer literacy. Those need assistance with scheduling an appointment should call (609) 492-1212. New Jersey resources: To find additional access to Covid-19 vaccines, you can search by your zip code and distance from home https://covid19.nj.gov/pages/finder

HTA November 2021 Newsletter

As we leave Thanksgiving and enter the holiday season, the HTA is very grateful for all of your support in 2021.  With a record number of members, we have become even more visible and active within the community and Long Beach Township.

That said, we are in serious need of 3 new trustees who can help us help our community.  For those of you who are interested in learning more, please contact me for a short phone or Zoom call to discuss.  You do not have to be retired or a full-time resident (most of us aren’t) and it is not an overwhelming time commitment required to do a lot of good for Holgate.  Plus, you get to pick the causes/projects about which you are most passionate.  Please let me know by responding to this email and I’ll contact you to set up a short call.

Rand

November Highlights

1. 2022 Water/Sewer Rates
2. Bond’s Park
3. Bulkhead Ordinance
4. Flooding and Resilient LBI
5. Offshore Wind Development
6. HTA Officer Elections
7. Gator Program
8. Holiday Lights Are Back!

Updates

1. 2022 Water/Sewer Rates:  It is heartening to know the Township responded to the concerns of the LBT taxpayer associations and the community that attended the last Commissioners meeting.  The ordinance has been revised and the new rates (subject to formal approval) can be seen here:  https://bit.ly/LBTProposedWaterSewerFees

2. Bond’s Park:  Based on recent HTA discussions with Town Hall regarding Bond’s Park:

• Despite the efforts of the community, the HTA and the neighboring property owners, the Township asserted its legal right to use an easement to create a driveway to connect the residential property to Bay Terrace/Joan Road.  The work has been completed.
• While a significant amount of mature vegetation was destroyed (the HTA looked at it in advance and determined it could not be transplanted), the HTA will follow up with the Township to see if new vegetation can be planted around the driveway and walkway in the Spring.

3. New Bulkhead Ordinance:  An ordinance passed in October (see at the bottom of this newsletter) which calls for raising bulkheads due to water coming over the existing bulkheads.  LBT continues to add one-way caps to storm drains and pumps but this may not be enough – or happen soon enough – to halt flooding.  The ordinance allowed for a phasing in of the new height requirements (LBT noted other towns are mandating 100% compliance within 2 years).  But this means there is no deadline for those who are not in construction.  If you are concerned or have questions about this ordinance, you may want to join other people from throughout LBT in attending the Commissioners meeting on Monday, December 6 for further discussion:

• This applies just to Long Beach Township but would probably be much more effective as an Island-wide initiative
• If your neighbor rebuilds and installs the higher bulkhead, your property may see a great deal more water.
• Homes sold after Feb 1, 2022 must have a raised bulkhead to get a CO after the sale.  An estimate must be part of the deal and 110% of the estimate will have to be posted for 12 months
• This ordinance will apply to new construction, new sale, substantial property improvement (+50%)
• Boat ramps will probably need to be gated but this was unclear as of the last meeting

4. Flooding and Resilient LBI:  Surf City recently held an informative forum on flooding.  Rick Bushnell of ReClam the Bay was the featured speaker.  You can view the presentation here:  https://bit.ly/LBIFloodingMtg2021

5. Offshore Wind:  Atlantic Shores has received approval to begin construction of a field south of LBI, off Atlantic City.  This provides an advance look at how the project east of LBI might proceed.  The link below is to the visibility report for the Atlantic City field.  It is a large document, more than 300 pages, but information about the views from Beach Haven and the Forsythe Refuge are particularly interesting.  Be sure to read the comments in addition to looking at the pictures (which were not all that helpful on my computer):   https://bit.ly/BOEMACVisibility

6. HTA Officer Election:  The Board re-elected Bill Cannon as Treasurer and Yanni Kaloudis as Corresponding Secretary at its November meeting.

• The trustee terms of the current President, Vice President and Recording Secretary are up in 2022 and the officers will be voted on by the Board following the trustee election in August/September.

7. Gator Program:  Commissioner Lattanzi reports there will be no change in the gator program for 2022.  There had been consideration of implementing a fee but that will not happen next year.

8. Holiday Business List:  Shop local and attend great winter events in December:  https://bit.ly/LBIHolidayBusinessList

9. Support Your Local First Responders:  Holgate’s closest first aid and fire responders are based in Beach Haven.  Large-scale emergencies often may involve first responders from further north.  To preserve and strengthen this important volunteer service, we ask you to consider an end-of-year donation to these vital organizations.  And please also consider volunteering some of your time to support them (there are roles for people who do not/cannot be on the front line).

• http://www.bhfas.com
• https://beachhavenfire.com

10. Holiday Lights Are Back!:  Thanks again to Dan Macone for the return of Holgate’s Holiday Lights, plus two new additions, to brighten the December holidays.  Our appreciation also goes to Long Beach Township for getting them installed in November!

The proposed water and sewer charges have created a great deal of controversy. For most homeowners, costs will increase significantly and this raises a lot of questions. To obtain as many answers as possible, representatives from the six taxpayer associations in Long Beach Township met with Commissioner Ralph Bayard and Administrator Kyle Ominski last Friday.

Please carefully review our Question & Answer document on the HTA website at this link:

Keep in mind a few things as you read the document:

• New Jersey is behind the move to meters with the goal of forcing everyone to economize on their water usage. This was not an LBT initiative.
• Water and Sewer fees have not been raised since 2013. Had the Township increased the charges by 3-5% each year, the cost increase from 2021 to 2022 would not have been so large.
• Costs to the Township for the Water and Sewer services have greatly increased
• Significant investments have been made to update most of LBT’s water/sewer infrastructure. Much of this was deemed necessary after Superstorm Sandy and the rapid growth of new construction. It is considered by the Township to be a strategic decision to avoid main breaks and shutdowns due to aging pipes.
• The Water/Sewer budget must be separate from the Municipal taxes and self-sustaining; rising tax revenues from new and higher value homes cannot offset increased Water/Sewer expenses.
• Budgeting for 2022 revenue was determined to be based on fixed charges and could not take into account anticipated revenues based on water use above the quarterly allotments; upon being clearly established, the variable charges due to usage and the resulting surpluses can be used in the future to lower the fixed charges. Any surplus cannot be used for anything outside of the Water and Sewer budget.

Bond’s Park

The Township has confirmed their intention to extend the Bay Terrace paper street to allow creation of a new driveway for the home known as the old Coast Guard Station. This will result in the likely removal of all of the vegetation between 24 Joan Road and the new nearly-completed walkway. The work is scheduled to begin within the next 1-2 weeks.

The HTA looked into the transplanting of the existing foliage but because they are mature plants, our experience is there is little likelihood of doing so successfully. We have asked the Township to replace as much of the foliage as possible, putting plants around the walkway and recreating a foliage barrier on the border of 24 Joan Road and the new driveway. It is unclear what, if anything, they will do.

The Township did meet with the owners of the Coast Guard Station home last week to review the changes about to be made.

The HTA proposed alternatives to the Township to avoid this change. We also clearly advised them of the tremendous dissatisfaction this would cause with the Joan Road and Bay Terrace neighbors. In the end, the Township asserted its legal right to determine the best use of the property it owns.

Lastly, the Township has acknowledged the results of the HTA survey which called for no new recreational facilities to be added. There is no indication they have any plan for any of the property they own other than creating the easement/driveway to Bay Terrace/Joan Road, although the existing basketball court is expected to shift slightly to the south to allow for the new driveway entrance.

We hope you all have had a great summer so far!

Highlights

• Fall Membership BBQ
• Trustee Election
• Membership Record Smashed
• Bond’s Park Recreation Survey Update
• New Recycling Rules In Effect
• Fall Refuge Clean-up and Dune Planting Dates Set
• Public Hearings Scheduled On Federal Back Bay Study
• Offshore Wind Development and Virtual Open House Updates

August Updates

Fall Membership BBQ: We really missed this event in 2020. Bring your family and come join us for great food and conversation at Bond’s Park on Saturday, September 11 from 5-8pm. The HTA will supply all the food and drinks. Spend quality time with your neighbors and meet our newest members. Bring a chair and some sunscreen. Please RSVP so we can estimate food quantities needed. LINK HERE

Free Safety Wristbands for HTA Members: In partnership with the LBI Chamber of Commerce, the LBT Police Department and other local taxpayer associations, the HTA has obtained illuminated wristbands for safer biking and walking when it gets dark. These will be offered free of charge to our members at the Fall BBQ. A limited quantity is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Trustee Election: Six trustees are running unopposed for re-election for two-year terms 2021 – 2023: Trustees Frank Benintendo, Denise Brand, Bill Hutson and Ted Stiles; Officers Bill Cannon (Treasurer) and Yanni Kaloudis (Communications Director). You will receive a separate link to an online ballot to approve this slate. Three additional trustee positions are open and should be filled in the 2022 election.

Membership at All-Time High: Just a few short years ago, we had less than 300 members. Today we are at 458 and counting. Ask your neighbors who are not already members to join you: LINK HERE

Bond’s Park Recreation Area: Be on the lookout for a separate email with a link to a survey about recreational activities in Holgate. This should be out in the next 7-10 days and was requested by the Township before they begin any planning at this site.

New Recycling Rules: Nothing like a mid-summer change in direction. Ocean County has expanded the list of what can be recycled. Please see: LINK HERE

Beaches: As share concerns about the damage being caused in the Gulf by Hurricane Ida, we are thankful most of our beaches fared better than expected this summer. Keeping our fingers crossed that we get through the hurricane season unscathed.

Fall Refuge Clean-up: The HTA is partnering with the US Department of Fish & Wildlife and Alliance for a Living Ocean to clean the Holgate Refuge on September 18 beginning at 8:30am. We will provide water and Bowker’s coffee and crumb cake for volunteers. Please join us. NOTE: We need 4×4 vehicles to take people farther out and help transport the trash back to the dumpster. Respond directly to this email if you can provide one.

Fall Dune Planting: With the uncertainty about home water charges due to the new meters, this Fall may be our last big effort to plant. Please come out and join us on September 25 at 8:30am as we try to put in a record number of plants.

Marine Field Station: This new educational facility in Holgate has received many positive reviews. Please follow this link for schedule updates: LINK HERE

Offshore Wind Farms: The initial field to be developed is due east of Atlantic City and will not be off the coast of LBI. However, LBI is expected to be in the next phase of development. You can see updated information, including some visualizations, from their July virtual open house here: LINK HERE

Federal Back Bay Study: The Army Corps of Engineers (“USACE”), announced the New Jersey Back Bays (NJBB) Draft Integrated Feasibility Report (“Study” or “Report”) and Tier 1 Environmental Impact Statement (DIFR-EIS). The Report outlines a tentative plan framework, which includes three storm surge barriers, two cross-bay barriers, and the elevation of more than 18,000 structures to reduce the risk of flood damages associated with storm surge. Analyses indicate the study area could experience $1.8 billion in average annual flood damages if no action is taken. USACE will host two virtual public meetings to answer questions on September 20 from 6 – 7 pm and on September 21 from 1 – 2 pm. LINK HERE

SAVE THE DATES

• Fall Membership Meeting and BBQ: September 11, 5:00-8:00pm
• Fall Refuge Cleanup: September 18, 8:30am – 12:30pm
• Fall Dune Planting: September 25, 8:30am – 12:30pm

REMINDERS
Trash: The Township is strictly enforcing garbage regulations and giving out tickets – no warnings; be sure all garbage cans are sealed shut. If you rent, advise your tenants.
Coyotes: Please continue to report any sightings.
Compassion Café: Please support this new service which is staffed by people with intellectual and developmental challenges at Barry’s Do Me a Flavor in Beach Haven. Hours are Mondays-Thursdays from 7:00am -11:00am. LINK HERE
Water Meters: A few LBT residents have still not activated their new water meters. Please be sure to do this to avoid a fine

Trustee Election Scheduled for September

The following Trustees and Trustee Officers have confirmed they will run for another two-year term 2021 – 2023: Trustees Frank Benintendo, Denise Brand, Bill Hutson and Ted Stiles; Officers Bill Cannon (Treasurer) and Yanni Kaloudis (Communications Director). Three additional trustee positions are open.

Any HTA member can be a candidate for Trustee if they have been a property owner or a year-round renter for the last two years. The member must submit a written statement on why they would like to be considered as a candidate, include a brief bio referencing any type of community work, and provide a nominating petition with 10 HTA member signatures (which may include the signature of the nominee).

All documents to become a candidate for Trustee must be received 30 days prior to the election and sent to the current President. The deadline is August 11.

Online voting for the slate of Trustee candidates will be completed by the September 11 General Membership meeting with results announced during the following week.

The top six (6) voted candidates are elected for a two (2) year term. If there are more than six (6) candidates, a maximum of three (3) candidates to receive the next highest vote totals are only elected to a one (1) year term as we look to fill nine (9) Trustee positions. This will allow us to return to more balanced elections in the future.

Members who are interested in becoming a Trustee are also encouraged to join one of the HTA committees to learn more about the organization.
Trustees will vote on the Officers slate at the November 7, Trustee’s meeting.

SAVE THE DATES

• Fall Membership Meeting and BBQ: September 11
• Fall Refuge Cleanup: September 18
• Fall Dune Planting: September 25

JULY UPDATES

Beaches: Some of the beaches are not great but are possibly better than expected. Unfortunately, there is no prospect for the extension of the steel jetty this Winter. While we await the scheduled 2023 LBI replenishment, we are very concerned about an unconfirmed report of a lack of funding for Army Corps replenishment in Delaware. Click here

Dune Abuse: It’s only mid-July and we have already seen vehicles drive up the beach entrances and destroy our dune plantings while endangering beachgoers. And then there are the people who feel they have a right to play or sit on the dunes. The Mayor is as horrified as we are; he suggested taking a photo of the offenders (especially if you can get a license plate) and consider calling the police.

Parking: Similarly, we have people parking illegally and blocking driveways. This also creates a safety situation for cyclists and pedestrians if there are too many cars parked illegally. And it impedes street cleaning and garbage collection. Call the police if this is a problem on your street.

New HTA Safety Program for Members: In partnership with the LBI Chamber of Commerce, the LBT Police Department and other local taxpayer associations, the HTA has obtained some illuminated wristbands for safer biking and walking when it gets dark. These are offered free of charge to our members who have volunteered for our clean-ups and dune planting programs in the last 12 months. If you have been a volunteer and would like a wristband, please contact Dan Macone at dkmacone74@gmail.com. A limited quantity is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Spring Clean-up: Due to date changes, a lower than expected number of volunteers turned out for this year’s clean-up. Special thanks to: Trustees Dan Macone (project organizer), Yanni Kaloudis (area captain), Frank Benintendo (area captain) and Frank Lowry; and volunteers – Kathy Macone (area captain), Pam Lowry, Bill Kehr, Ellen Kehr, Hank Henninger, Ms. Patricia, Susan Kakstys, Michael Widico, Karen Widico, James Timony, Kevin Kelly and Bob Waldron.

Marine Field Station: The new educational facility at 127 W. Osborn is holding a number of programs in July. July Program Schedule

Offshore Wind Farms: Updated fact sheet as produced by the Joint Council of Taxpayers Association is on the HTA website. This was compiled the NJ BPU formally agreed to purchase electricity from Atlantic Shores which is a significant step forward in this project. Wind Fact Sheet – June 2021 Also please note Atlantic Shores is hosting an online Open House to share information about their joint venture and the field of offshore wind. You will hear from their subject matter experts about project timelines, designs, job creation, environmental considerations, and more. There are three date options for you to select from:

• Tues, July 20 (10:00 am – 12:00 pm)
• Wed, July 21 (12:00 pm – 2:00 pm)
• Thur, July 22 (6:30 pm – 08:30 pm)

Participants will have time to explore project facts and videos in a virtual room prior to joining presentations and Q&A sessions with subject matter experts in breakout rooms.
Register to attend: Atlantic Shores Registration

Bond’s Park Recreation Area: The HTA is finalizing a survey to better determine what everyone would like to see for this area. The results will be shared with our members and the Township.

July Commissioner’s Meeting: New limits on rooftop hot tubs (cannot extend higher than permissible deck railing height) and pools (no longer allowed on roofs) were announced.
By-Laws Approval: The proposed By-Laws changes were approved with 59 members in favor out of a total of 60 votes cast.

REMINDERS
Trash: The Township is strictly enforcing garbage regulations and giving out tickets – no warnings; be sure all garbage cans are sealed shut. If you rent, advise your tenants.
Coyotes: We are not aware of any recent coyote presence in Holgate although they have been reported in Loveladies. Please continue to report any sightings.
Compassion Café: Please support this new service which is staffed by people with intellectual and developmental challenges at Barry’s Do Me a Flavor in Beach Haven. Hours are Mondays-Thursdays from 7:00am -11:00am. http://bit.ly/CompassionCafeBarrys
Water Meters: Some LBT residents have still not activated their new water meters. Please be sure to do this to avoid a fine

The summer season seems to have started off even busier than in 2020. Please stay patient and take your time. We are all very fortunate to be here.

Holgate Clean-up Saturday, June 12, 2021

Help Keep Holgate Beautiful – Please Volunteer to Help

Volunteers for Areas 3 and 4 will meet in the south parking lot by the bathhouse at 8:15 AM.
Volunteers for Areas 1 and 2 will meet at 3001 S. Long Beach Blvd. at 8:45 AM.

Area 1 – Osborn to Abbott (Paper Street) Beach Accesses and Clam Cove

Area 4 – Wildlife Refuge to Roosevelt Beach Access

At those times, volunteers will be provided with gloves (if you are not able to bring your own), a pail or a bag for debris and trash collection and a bottle of water. Meet your area captain who will direct you to your assigned area and assist you during the clean-up. Arrangements have been made with the Township to pick up the collected debris at the specific points designated on the volunteer sheets. It is strongly recommended that long sleeves and long pants be worn, and that clothing be washed as soon as possible after the clean-up to protect against poison ivy.

Please e-mail Dan Macone at dkmacone74@gmail.com at your earliest convenience with your preferred work area.

Save the Date: Spring Membership Meeting, Saturday, June 5, 10am, Bond’s Park (Bay Tennis Court); Commissioner Ralph Bayard will attend and take questions; Coffee and snack will be served.

For those of us happy to have 2020 in the rearview mirror, 2021 shapes up to be just as challenging albeit in different ways. To meet these challenges head-on, we would like to get all new and renewed memberships in early this year. This will save us time/money on follow-ups while allowing more resources to be devoted to the following impending issues. Thank you, as always, for your continued support.

Membership Form Link: Sign up!

Beaches: Beaches 3 and 4 have been hit very hard. From the pictures sent to me, at least half of the replenished dune is gone. While this means the dunes are doing their job to protect our homes, this protection is eroding. The Township has been great about plowing sand back up to the dune but the entrances are unusable due to the cliffs. Unfortunately, the Army Corps has rejected a request for emergency replenishment so we are on our own for now and will hope for a natural replenishment in the Spring.

Windmills: The HTA is working with the Joint Council of Taxpayers Association of LBI on this important development. There is a lack of information and some of it is incorrect. The JCTA has compiled a lengthy Q&A with Atlantic Shores, the company that holds the lease to build the wind farms. Key issues are visibility, impact on local fishing and cost (higher electric rates). Please at least skim through the Q&A: Windmills Q&A and the Latest Sandpaper Article

Coyotes: There are news reports that Barnegat Light has begun a trapping program. While some believe this is just a matter of sharing the island with these animals, others are concerned about the risks posed by what is considered to be an invasive species. Since they have been heard in Holgate too, be sure to seal your garbage, don’t put out food for cats, keep dogs on a leash and most important be very aware when outside with small children. While coyotes are generally thought to be afraid of humans, it is important to take every precaution.

Trash Ordinance: Speaking of garbage, the Township has approved the first reading of an ordinance (21-07C) that will affect how we put out trash and recyclables. We share their frustration with people who leave the lids off their cans or who put out bags next to the cans. But if passed on March 1, the new ordinance will require you to put trash out no earlier than 6:30pm the night before pickup. This means storing more trash in your home, garage or behind your house. We believe this not only increases unsanitary conditions in the home (think of garbage in the garage when we get to 90 degree weeks) but will also attract animals (coyotes, raccoons, mice, etc.) where our children go in and out of the house. We would rather see more enforcement of existing fines for improper trash handling. Please email your viewpoints before February 26 to:

Kyle Ominski, Township Administrator: ominski@longbeachtownship.com
Danielle La Valle, Township Clerk: dlavalle@longbeachtownship.com

Sign Ordinance: Also approved on first reading is a new ordinance (21-04C) that will eliminate the various “For Rent” signs placed in front of homes. The rationale is these have proliferated and are largely unnecessary with the shift to online listings. These signs can still be placed in windows.

Trustee Resignation: Eileen Bowker notified me that she has resigned as trustee in the HTA. I asked if she wanted a few days to reconsider and she subsequently confirmed her decision due to having many projects on her plate, such as Bowkers Deli, the purchase of the Holiday Snack Bar, her position on the local school board, and volunteer activities including those with St. Francis Church. As a result, the HTA Board has accepted her resignation with regret and is thankful for her many contributions to Holgate as a long-time trustee.

Dune Plantings: 2021 will be a huge push for the largest dune planting in our history. This is because of the continued erosion of the dunes and the added cost of water when the meters go into effect in 2022. We ask everyone to consider volunteering to plant this Spring.

Support the Food Pantry and Local Restaurants: We expect the demand for food will continue among local families who have lost jobs due to the pandemic. Please continue to donate to the Food Pantry at St. Francis while also supporting our local restaurants which are likely LBI’s largest source of employment. Food Pantry Link

On behalf of the HTA trustees, we are looking forward to seeing everyone this Spring after we’ve all hopefully received our vaccinations.