The HTA was formed back in 1959, when Holgate was known as Beach Haven Inlet. In fact, the name of the organization was the Beach Haven Inlet Taxpayers’ Association. While the group began as a small number of neighbors at the southern tip of the island, it has grown tremendously over time, with membership in 2025 reaching 565 homeowners – nearly 70% of all eligible houses in Holgate.
Through the years, the Holgate Taxpayers Association helped lead efforts that contributed to many improvements, including wetlands protection, new playgrounds, and cleanup events. The HTA also worked to give Holgate greater representation in local government.
Yet the event that truly brought the HTA into prominence was the aftermath of SuperStorm Sandy in October of 2012. For all the destruction the storm wreaked on the homes in the area, it also created a powerful sense of community among those who endured the storm and set their sights on rebuilding.
As a central source for gathering neighbors together and keeping them informed,the HTA became a voice for those who make Holgate their home, whether it’s year-round, as a place to relax and enjoy during the sunny seasons, or as an investment property.
Everyone who comes to Holgate loves this very special place. And if you love it enough to have a home here that you call your own, we welcome you to join your neighbors in becoming a member of the Holgate Taxpayers Association.
History Links
History of Tuckers Island and the birth of Beach Haven Inlet
A Holgate family’s history – 1944 to 2009 by Jim Mahoney
Eighteen Miles of History on Long Beach Island by John Lloyd
Surviving Sandy: Long Beach Island and the Greatest Storm of the Jersey Shore by Scott Mazella
Superstorm Sandy “Thank You” Video
Other Articles of Interest
Dune Projects Face Objection From Property Owners (NJ Today, February 18, 2013)
How Sand Dunes Protected a Jersey Shore Town – Metrofocus, December 19, 2012 – Bradley Beach Operating Supervisor credits sand dunes constructed in 1996 with saving the community from damage. Map shows that the nourishment project for Holgate has been authorized but not build.