Virtually all developers in larger projects provide amenities at one level or another as partof their marketing package. Many times , as in The Villages, this includes the contribution of capital assets such as buildings and playing fields and their equipment. As the development matures it is usually the case that the developer turns these activities over to the residents who determine at what level they will operate and how much they will volunteer to contribute. IMHO The Villages has provided us with a superior array of amenities and services and their withdrawal over time was entirely predictable. As residents we need to now evaluate the things we want to perpetuate and begin to step up as the developer steps out. We have 1800 +/- clubs. If they want a parade then organize and raise the funds needed to put on a parade. We probably have a few more years where the developer is still making significant marketing efforts. We need to begin preparing now for their total withdrawal from these activities.
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