Quote:
Originally Posted by gadaboutgal
I would like to see the gates removed. We should all realize by now that gates are obviously not a deterrent to burglars. The false concept of The Villages as "a gated community" only lulls the residents into thinking that they live in some type of private secure enclave. These are public roads in Sumter and Lake county and are open to anyone who can push a button on a post. Having to stick a hand out in the rain-either for holding out a resident gate card or to push a button, or sit behind someone who does not know how to get through the gate or doesn't have their gate pass handy--is absolutely ridiculous, and I for one would like to see the gates go away. JMHO
|
GadAboutGal -- thank you for speaking your mind about our absolutely useless gates! I, too, would like to see these gates go by the way of the wind, but it will never happen. From those I have spoken to believe the gates are good but in reality, they have given residents a false sense of security. In plain words -- they are not a deterrent to anything. All our streets are public and no one can be stopped insofar as gaining entry. Everyone screams cameras. What good are they when there are hundreds of cars and trucks in and out every day? BTW -- does anyone know to where these cameras transfer the information? I'll bet you dollars to donuts no one looks at that stuff. If in fact these cameras really work, there is no way they could pinpoint a burglar.
In most communities that have gates, decals are given to residents so they don't have to open and reach out and get soaking wet when it's raining. If it's a question of traffic control, stop signs work wonders. The roundabouts are a disaster, also. Most drivers don't know how to navigate them.
Besides getting soaking wet when it's raining, the thing that probably burns my hide the most is the cost. OMG, these gates cost us a fortune between maintenance, salaries, cameras, utilities, etc. Does anyone know how much we pay annually???
It seems that you and I are the only ones who realize the real truth about these gates. Too bad . . .