[graciegirl]

Originally Posted by OldGator

I work with one of the "Banned Bus Companies" and would like to address a few facts. 1) We DO still pick up in The Villages. We have been asked to avoid Rec Centers, Downtown areas, and the Depots. No Problem. That still leaves many options, and no additional cost is added. 2) The Villages (Transportation) is receiving protection from outside companies operating in TV, and that is primarily what is driving the whole issue, IMO. They are opening up a "Day Trip Dept" to compete with AAA, Senior Adventures, Etc and have taken steps to take over those options The Villagers currently have. They have already gone out and bought a number of additional used Tour Buses to do what we are told we cannot do- load at the depots. Where do you think THEY will park? 3) As far as I am aware, when WE pick up anywhere in The Villages, it is for groups/clubs of Village residents. We have NEVER suggested to outside groups to come to The Villages and use depots, parking, or other loading areas within The Villages. When Stonecrest, Del Webb, Spruce Creek, etc want to load a bus, they always have us come to THEIR Rec Centers/Clubhouses for loading. 4) It has been suggested that we rent space in TV, to solve the problem, wrong. We are not allowed to rent space in The Villages, (Protection for Villages Transportation), and companies that DO rent spaces, are not allowed to use THEIR OWN parking spaces for parking if they are getting on an outside bus. Please spread the word- you still have a choice for now- If Parking alone were the issue, how does banning outside companies (your ability to shop for price and quality) and then adding MORE buses to TV fleet, solve the parking issue? Are you starting to see the REAL issue yet?

So your competition has a brick and mortar store front and rent it from the developer....for MONEY. Your company isn't allowed to rent a brick and mortar store front, because of competition clauses....but...your company can still pick up and have their clients park and pick them up, without the overhead cost of rent...so you can charge less?

Sounds like you are getting an advantage. If I was paying rent...I'd be complaining.