Resident gate rain policy

[Bobcuse]

This is not a big deal but it can be annoying when it's raining (especially a downpour) and I have to lower my window to scan my gate card. Then, as the contents of my door pocket get soaked, the attendant opens the visitor side and waves at the car passing through . The Morse gate attendants almost always open it for you as you approach but the Sunset Pointe gate attendants almost never do (at least during the afternoon hours). Before I call to request a courtesy policy of raising the gates during a rain for each car after we first stop at the gate, does anyone know if there is any such policy in place?

[Ecuadog]

Without trying to sound like a wise guy, I would, and do, use the visitors gate.

[Villager Joyce]

I don't know about policies. Most of the time the gate attendants in Hillsborough open the gates when it is raining. Although I find this a courteous act and very much appreciate the attendant going out of his/her way, someone on TOTV will complain the attendants don't do enough or shouldn't do it for security reasons. Pretty much can't win for losing.

[billethkid]

this would be on page 36 of the list of improvements needed in TV.

[OldManTime]

Its on page 58

[Walter123]

Without trying to sound like a wise guy, I would, and do, use the visitors gate.

There is no reason to not use the visitor gate. If fact, when traffic builds up in the residents lane and it's not raining it's still OK to use the visitors lane. Just be careful when pulling through the gate. If the other gate is also open pay attention to the car in that lane and the golf carts too. It's not a race.

[CFrance]

Some, not all, of the gates will read your card from inside the car. I know the one at Belevedere does. The one at St. James doesn't.

[graciegirl]

Some, not all, of the gates will read your card from inside the car. I know the one at Belevedere does. The one at St. James doesn't.


What she says. But ya hafta snuggle up.

[cattywampus]

Without trying to sound like a wise guy, I would, and do, use the visitors gate.

I am with You on this.

Lived in Villages dang near six years and ALWAYS use the Visitor Gate,
EVERY time I go thru a manned gate. ( Yes, I have a Gate Card )

Do not like opening my window and then having to merge back
into the main lane to use the Resident Gates.

HOWEVER, coming from Colony North on Morse,
when going into the First ODell gate, the Dark haired
male (from noon to 6 PM) will MAKE the VISITOR lane
WAIT until ALL of RESIDENT line up is thru and even make
Visitor wait IF a Resident is just coming around the corner from Morse.

He must think Residents have special privileges on these PUBLIC ROADS.

[Bonanza]

You would think -- at the very least -- we would have a decal for our window,
that scans and opens the gate automatically,
so we could get rid of that stupid card!

[kb8tpw]

I agree with Bonanza. You would think that The Villages would at least be state of the art on something like this. They cut corners on quality and a myriad of other things, but this would be a quality of life item they could brag about, which is something they savor.

[graciegirl]

I agree with Bonanza. You would think that The Villages would at least be state of the art on something like this. They cut corners on quality and a myriad of other things, but this would be a quality of life item they could brag about, which is something they savor.


??????Boy Howdy!!!

Please list all of the things that they cut corners on in quality.


Maybe we can meet at the Eisenhower center and you can point some things out.

Plus, when have you ever heard THEM bragging about anything?? A SALES PRESENTATION isn't supposed to be negative and that's just business.

[Gordon82]

They gave me a 3 button remote at closing. The middle one opens by big garage door, and the one on the right opens my smaller garage door. It would be cool if the one on the left opened the gate to my village. But that's a first world problem so I won't worry about it.

[Pointer]

:loco:The other day I mistakenly thought I was at one of the gates that you didn't have to wave your magic card at and went past the magic card box. When I tried to go back there were a few cars behind me. Sooo not wanting to hold up traffic further to get out of my car and walk back to the box, I waved my magic card to the attendant in the Magic castle and thought she'd see it and open the gate. She didn't, so in a sweet apologizing tone I asked "can you open the gate", but the Magic Card Kingdom Queen held up not only my lane but the other one, which is now backing up as well. With her stop sign in one hand and her other hand on the button. She decided to take the time to tell me that I needed to use my card at the magic box. Yes, I said, can you open the gate? "You need to know what you did wrong" shouts the all powerful Queen. Seeing where this was going and the traffic back up is getting dangerously close to the roundabout, Smiling I looked at her and said in a sweet tone "can you open the gate"? Finally the gate opened and I was allowed enter the kingdom and advance to the next level of roundabouts and gates and continue my adventure. I can't wait to see what happens here when the percentage of us who are destined to lose our wit reach that stage. Why wait, I'm going to start practicing now.:D

[JoelJohnson]

I found that by just lowering the window enough to stick the card out the window seems to work.

[sunnyatlast]

:loco:The other day I mistakenly thought I was at one of the gates that you didn't have to wave your magic card at and went past the magic card box. When I tried to go back there were a few cars behind me. Sooo not wanting to hold up traffic further to get out of my car and walk back to the box, I waved my magic card to the attendant in the Magic castle and thought she'd see it and open the gate. She didn't, so in a sweet apologizing tone I asked "can you open the gate", but the Magic Card Kingdom Queen held up not only my lane but the other one, which is now backing up as well. With her stop sign in one hand and her other hand on the button. She decided to take the time to tell me that I needed to use my card at the magic box. Yes, I said, can you open the gate? "You need to know what you did wrong" shouts the all powerful Queen. Seeing where this was going and the traffic back up is getting dangerously close to the roundabout, Smiling I looked at her and said in a sweet tone "can you open the gate"? Finally the gate opened and I was allowed enter the kingdom and advance to the next level of roundabouts and gates and continue my adventure. I can't wait to see what happens here when the percentage of us who are destined to lose our wit reach that stage. Why wait, I'm going to start practicing now.:D

There's one of those nasty women at the Morse northbound gate at 466. Thick northeastern accent and nasty!!! Not a typical Villager working at the gates. Most are nice.

[njbchbum]

:loco:The other day I mistakenly thought I was at one of the gates that you didn't have to wave your magic card at and went past the magic card box. When I tried to go back there were a few cars behind me. Sooo not wanting to hold up traffic further to get out of my car and walk back to the box, I waved my magic card to the attendant in the Magic castle and thought she'd see it and open the gate. She didn't, so in a sweet apologizing tone I asked "can you open the gate", but the Magic Card Kingdom Queen held up not only my lane but the other one, which is now backing up as well. With her stop sign in one hand and her other hand on the button. She decided to take the time to tell me that I needed to use my card at the magic box. Yes, I said, can you open the gate? "You need to know what you did wrong" shouts the all powerful Queen. Seeing where this was going and the traffic back up is getting dangerously close to the roundabout, Smiling I looked at her and said in a sweet tone "can you open the gate"? Finally the gate opened and I was allowed enter the kingdom and advance to the next level of roundabouts and gates and continue my adventure. I can't wait to see what happens here when the percentage of us who are destined to lose our wit reach that stage. Why wait, I'm going to start practicing now.:D

I read you post all the way through and it appears that you forgot the magic word - "please"!

[graciegirl]

[quote=Pointer;934379]:loco:The other day I mistakenly thought I was at one of the gates that you didn't have to wave your magic card at and went past the magic card box. When I tried to go back there were a few cars behind me. Sooo not wanting to hold up traffic further to get out of my car and walk back to the box, I waved my magic card to the attendant in the Magic castle and thought she'd see it and open the gate. She didn't, so in a sweet apologizing tone I asked "can you open the gate", but the Magic Card Kingdom Queen held up not only my lane but the other one, which is now backing up as well. With her stop sign in one hand and her other hand on the button. She decided to take the time to tell me that I needed to use my card at the magic box. Yes, I said, can you open the gate? "You need to know what you did wrong" shouts the all powerful Queen. Seeing where this was going and the traffic back up is getting dangerously close to the roundabout, Smiling I looked at her and said in a sweet tone "can you open the gate"? Finally the gate opened and I was allowed enter the kingdom and advance to the next level of roundabouts and gates and continue my adventure. I can't wait to see what happens here when the percentage of us who are destined to lose our wit reach that stage. Why wait, I'm going to start practicing now.:D[


We have all done this. All of us. It would have been faster to put the car in park, get out scan the card and continue on.

[Pointer]

"Open the Pod Bay Door Hal". I'm sorry Dave that would jepordize the mission and I'm afraid I can't let that happen.

[Bosoxfan]

This is not a big deal but it can be annoying when it's raining (especially a downpour) and I have to lower my window to scan my gate card. Then, as the contents of my door pocket get soaked, the attendant opens the visitor side and waves at the car passing through . The Morse gate attendants almost always open it for you as you approach but the Sunset Pointe gate attendants almost never do (at least during the afternoon hours). Before I call to request a courtesy policy of raising the gates during a rain for each car after we first stop at the gate, does anyone know if there is any such policy in place?

I'm sorry for your inconvenience but I have another concern. My concern is when the gates are left up during rainstorms us folks that are in our golf carts are at risk.You see the primary reason for these gates is for golf carts & cars to coexist in this community with the decreased chance for an accident.I know cars have the advantage and carts should always yield but when the gates are left up especially in the rain visibility decreases & the probability of a tragic accident increases.

[NYGUY]

You would think -- at the very least -- we would have a decal for our window,
that scans and opens the gate automatically,
so we could get rid of that stupid card!

I absolutely agree Bonanza!!!

[NYGUY]

:loco:The other day I mistakenly thought I was at one of the gates that you didn't have to wave your magic card at and went past the magic card box. When I tried to go back there were a few cars behind me. Sooo not wanting to hold up traffic further to get out of my car and walk back to the box, I waved my magic card to the attendant in the Magic castle and thought she'd see it and open the gate. She didn't, so in a sweet apologizing tone I asked "can you open the gate", but the Magic Card Kingdom Queen held up not only my lane but the other one, which is now backing up as well. With her stop sign in one hand and her other hand on the button. She decided to take the time to tell me that I needed to use my card at the magic box. Yes, I said, can you open the gate? "You need to know what you did wrong" shouts the all powerful Queen. Seeing where this was going and the traffic back up is getting dangerously close to the roundabout, Smiling I looked at her and said in a sweet tone "can you open the gate"? Finally the gate opened and I was allowed enter the kingdom and advance to the next level of roundabouts and gates and continue my adventure. I can't wait to see what happens here when the percentage of us who are destined to lose our wit reach that stage. Why wait, I'm going to start practicing now.:D

:mademyday:....love it!!!

[jimbo2012]

In my Miata I go under it:loco:

[cmj1210]

I'm sorry for your inconvenience but I have another concern. My concern is when the gates are left up during rainstorms us folks that are in our golf carts are at risk.You see the primary reason for these gates is for golf carts & cars to coexist in this community with the decreased chance for an accident.I know cars have the advantage and carts should always yield but when the gates are left up especially in the rain visibility decreases & the probability of a tragic accident increases.

Excellent point. I say keep the gates closed. My sister has a transducer that she puts on her visor and when she approaches the gate the gates open. That would be the smart way to avoid having to open your window every time you need to get through a resident gate.

[billethkid]

how much more per month are residents willing to pay to not have to lower the window........while non residents just push the button and go for free?

My vote....none! In fact I would be looking to automate as much of the system as possible to reduce current operations and maintenance.

This will become a more real decision as TV builds out and expenses continue to mount and amenity fees will have to be raised.....because the developer will no longer be in the equation to subsidize operations as they do today.

Wattayawant....it's only money!!

[cquick]

I found this thread interesting.....I have been here in The Villages for 3 years, and have never thought too much about using my gate card in the rain. After all, there are MANY gates without a person at the gatehouse, so you have to use your cart for entry (or push the red button to speak to an attendant).

So what if our arm gets wet? It's rain! It's ok! You will dry off sooner or later!
:wave:

[njbchbum]

I found this thread interesting.....I have been here in The Villages for 3 years, and have never thought too much about using my gate card in the rain. After all, there are MANY gates without a person at the gatehouse, so you have to use your cart for entry (or push the red button to speak to an attendant).

So what if our arm gets wet? It's rain! It's ok! You will dry off sooner or later!
:wave:

Amen, cquick! Years ago invested in a set of rain guards on all car windows - best investment ever - have put them on all cars since the first one! Keeps me and the car interior dry when it's raining and I can still enjoy fresh air with the window open someshat.

[dbussone]

I absolutely agree Bonanza!!!

It would be nice if SunPass ran the gates - without the fee.

[Halibut]

Some, not all, of the gates will read your card from inside the car.

Does window tinting make a difference? I could* sit there like a nitwit waving my card from behind the window and getting bupkas, but the same gate works for my brother-in-law in his car.

* And have!

[Bigben007]

OMG! Please, really?

[JoMar]

I thought that was why they have a resident gate and visitor gate.....those in the visitor lane should wait for the resident line considering those public roads go through the dome which is where we choose to live and pay. There should be some consideration for residents, even if it is this small. I also agree we could get rid of the stupid card....the technology for a bar code reader has been around a long time and most communities with gates have them.

[CFrance]

Does window tinting make a difference? I could* sit there like a nitwit waving my card from behind the window and getting bupkas, but the same gate works for my brother-in-law in his car.

* And have!
Funny, Halibut. I've never thought of that. Our cars are from up north, and they don't allow tinting of front door windows in MI.

[Loudoll]

:loco:The other day I mistakenly thought I was at one of the gates that you didn't have to wave your magic card at and went past the magic card box. When I tried to go back there were a few cars behind me. Sooo not wanting to hold up traffic further to get out of my car and walk back to the box, I waved my magic card to the attendant in the Magic castle and thought she'd see it and open the gate. She didn't, so in a sweet apologizing tone I asked "can you open the gate", but the Magic Card Kingdom Queen held up not only my lane but the other one, which is now backing up as well. With her stop sign in one hand and her other hand on the button. She decided to take the time to tell me that I needed to use my card at the magic box. Yes, I said, can you open the gate? "You need to know what you did wrong" shouts the all powerful Queen. Seeing where this was going and the traffic back up is getting dangerously close to the roundabout, Smiling I looked at her and said in a sweet tone "can you open the gate"? Finally the gate opened and I was allowed enter the kingdom and advance to the next level of roundabouts and gates and continue my adventure. I can't wait to see what happens here when the percentage of us who are destined to lose our wit reach that stage. Why wait, I'm going to start practicing now.:D
Another person who can't handle a little power, being a gate guard. Sorry that happened to you.:police:

[graciegirl]

Why do I not run into nasty people like this gate keeper?

Hmmmm

Pointer waved his card, no result, He yelled Can you open the gate...more time. He waited , she yelled at him, more time the gate was opened. If he got out and scanned it himself it would have been faster.

[Pointer]

I am very skeptical that she shouted "You need to know what you did wrong".

I have a witness who will verify what she shouted and that she was annoyed.

The point is Gracie that I obviously already knew that I blew it, was embarrassed, showed her my card and asked nicely, not once but three times before the gate was opened. I didn't need to be chastised and the other cars didn't need to be held up while she made her point to further humiliate me.

"Just open the pod bay doors Hal" My goodness can't one make a mistake without being publicly chastised. You'll note that I didn't say which gate it was or what time. I wouldn't do that to her.

[NYGUY]

I thought that was why they have a resident gate and visitor gate.....those in the visitor lane should wait for the resident line considering those public roads go through the dome which is where we choose to live and pay. There should be some consideration for residents, even if it is this small. I also agree we could get rid of the stupid card....the technology for a bar code reader has been around a long time and most communities with gates have them.

You are right JoMar!!....this is the answer to this entire thread....at least IMHO!!!

[Bonanza]

In my Miata I go under it:loco:

I would buy a Miata for that reason and no other reason.
It would be worth it!!!

[Pointer]

Why do I not run into nasty people like this gate keeper?

Hmmmm

Pointer waved his card, no result, He yelled Can you open the gate...more time. He waited , she yelled at him, more time the gate was opened. If he got out and scanned it himself it would have been faster.

Gracie what is your problem? You weren't there and you are reading an awful lot into it. She had her finger on the button, it was an exchange of words who is to say which would have taken longer, I had no idea there would be a problem pushing a button, and rather then accepting what I thought was a funny posting you have decided to make me feel like I need to defend myself for it. Really has no one ever had a cranky day with you? I wasn't being cranky, or unpleasant, found the humor in it and posted to join in the conversation. So lighten up. PLEASE? :loco:

[Bonanza]

I found this thread interesting.....I have been here in The Villages for 3 years, and have never thought too much about using my gate card in the rain. After all, there are MANY gates without a person at the gatehouse, so you have to use your cart for entry (or push the red button to speak to an attendant).

So what if our arm gets wet? It's rain! It's ok! You will dry off sooner or later!
:wave:

You seem to be the only one who doesn't care about getting wet. It really comes down to how hard it's raining and which way the wind is blowing.

I have been in many "gated" communities during my 30+ years in real estate. I'm not saying that there aren't some of them where you have to use a card at an unmanned gate, but I will tell you that they are very few and far between.

Unmanned gates usually have a decal for residents, which is scanned upon entry without the use of a card. There is a phone to call residents for entry at the gate for the use of service people and non-residents.

That is how it's done in a "true" gated community. All of our streets are public. Our method for entry is old hat and well behind the times.

[Bonanza]

I have a witness who will verify what she shouted and that she was annoyed.

The point is Gracie that I obviously already knew that I blew it, was embarrassed, showed her my card and asked nicely, not once but three times before the gate was opened. I didn't need to be chastised and the other cars didn't need to be held up while she made her point to further humiliate me.

"Just open the pod bay doors Hal" My goodness can't one make a mistake without being publicly chastised. You'll note that I didn't say which gate it was or what time. I wouldn't do that to her.

When I read your original post, my heart went out to you because there was no reason for that guard to do what she did. I would have taken her name down (it's always posted at the gate) and reported her. Yes -- totally uncalled for!

Frankly, I would have been so incensed that I probably would have just sat at the gate, after those few times when you tried to make sense with that guard. I guess she has a "control" issue!

Unfortunately, Gracie will never find fault with anything in the Villges, and only with those who may make a comment or share an opinion regarding something that could be better, perhaps. It may be nicer to be that way, but not realistic. What happened with you was a honest mistake that could have been done by anyone.

[graciegirl]

When I read your original post, my heart went out to you because there was no reason for that guard to do what she did. I would have taken her name down (it's always posted at the gate) and reported her. Yes -- totally uncalled for!

Frankly, I would have been so incensed that I probably would have just sat at the gate, after those few times when you tried to make sense with that guard. I guess she has a "control" issue!

Unfortunately, Gracie will never find fault with anything in the Villges, and only with those who may make a comment or share an opinion regarding something that could be better, perhaps. It may be nicer to be that way, but not realistic. What happened with you was a honest mistake that could have been done by anyone.


Lot of things Bonny. You can't change people's attitude or how they were raised to look at things

It is regional ethics and practices and manners and behavior and culture that we are really talking about.... Some Easterners think some Midwesterners sound mealy mouthed. Some Midwesterners think some Easterners talk too much and argue too much and have an attitude.

AND I made the point you made on this thread a few posts back. WE ALL HAVE DONE THAT; pulled through and didn't scan. ALL of us.
http://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=minnesota+nice%2c+you+tube&FORM=VIRE11#view=detail&mid=FF09EE9352A5C7C9E039FF09EE9352A5C7C9E039

[Bogie Shooter]

Excellent point. I say keep the gates closed. My sister has a transducer that she puts on her visor and when she approaches the gate the gates open. That would be the smart way to avoid having to open your window every time you need to get through a resident gate.

Which gate does your sister use the transducer on?????

[cmj1210]

Bogie, my sister does not live in The Villages.

[Bogie Shooter]

That's good information....................................... .

[cmj1210]

LOL. She lives in NY on Long Island

[Bogie Shooter]

LOL..................how were we to know?

[DougB]

LOL..................how were we to know?

You couldn't tell by the accent?

[cmj1210]

You couldn't tell by the accent?

OK Doug, not don't let me get NY on your a--. LOL :a20:

[Bonanza]

[QUOTE=graciegirl;934767]Lot of things Bonny. You can't change people's attitude or how they were raised to look at things

It is regional ethics and practices and manners and behavior and culture that we are really talking about.... Some Easterners think some Midwesterners sound mealy mouthed. Some Midwesterners think some Easterners talk too much and argue too much and have an attitude.

AND I made the point you made on this thread a few posts back. WE ALL HAVE DONE THAT; pulled through and didn't scan. ALL of us.

*************

No, you can't change peoples' attitudes or the values with which they were raised, and many other things that had to do with their growing up.

I've never heard that Midwesterners sounded "mealy mouthed." If anything, Midwesterners are known for positive things and by-and-large are nicer, more cordial and laid back. I think that overall, some of the larger cities turn out what you have described. From personal experience, Easterners from certain areas, are exactly what you say.

[dirtbanker]

I have a witness who will verify what she shouted and that she was annoyed.

The point is Gracie that I obviously already knew that I blew it, was embarrassed, showed her my card and asked nicely, not once but three times before the gate was opened. I didn't need to be chastised and the other cars didn't need to be held up while she made her point to further humiliate me.


Not to justify, but more towards an explanation of human behavior; Can you imagine if you were gate tender how repetitive the things that happen at the gate would become (visitors getting into the residents lane, residents forgot their card or forget to swipe it, half the people giving you the death stare while trying to roll thru your little hand held stop sign, etc)...Possibly she was raising her voice because she though you were hard of hearing, after all you did not heed her direction .

In the future when you make a mistake (and we all do, so don't take this as an attack) you might consider just swiping your card and going on with life, instead of yelling across the other lane to the guard (adding to the embarrassment and drawing more attention to your mistake) and holding up the lane just so you can teach her who is boss.

[dirtbanker]

I am in favor of the cards being replaced with stickers that can be auto scanned. I am also in favor of optics being installed directly below the gate arms to reduce (probably end) the gate damage (think automated entrances at retail stores, the doors won't close on you if you walk into the opening).

[travelguy]

my card can be read through the car window and also through the clear sides of of my golf carts. i am more annoyed when the gatekeepers automatically raise the gates or leave them in an open position. and what is the big deal about opening a window in the rain.

[billethkid]

I am in favor of the cards being replaced with stickers that can be auto scanned. I am also in favor of optics being installed directly below the gate arms to reduce (probably end) the gate damage (think automated entrances at retail stores, the doors won't close on you if you walk into the opening).

How much more are you prepared to pay in amenity fees to have this convenience???

[dirtbanker]

How much more are you prepared to pay in amenity fees to have this convenience???

Not sure what to expect with regard to overall cost, guessing it might be cheaper than replacing gate arms every week for eternity...

[Pointer]

I don't know what all the fuss is about. It happened, I didn't freak out but saw the humor in it. I'm very aware of what it's like to deal with the public, which is why I didn't freak out. I certainly didn't think she was going to take the time to make an issue of it. Holding up your magic key should be enough to get one through, it is a public road. It would have taken more time for me undo my seat belt, put the car in park, walk back to the box, push the button, walk back to my car, put my seat belt back on, release the emergency break and put it in drive. She had her hand on the button so it seemed like an easy enough thing to do. It's not her job to chastise me. It's her job to keep traffic flowing in a safe manner and to give the impression that we are a gated community to act as a deterrent to crime.

[Bonanza]

How much more are you prepared to pay in amenity fees to have this convenience???

Not sure what to expect with regard to overall cost, guessing it might be cheaper than replacing gate arms every week for eternity...

And if we got rid of the guards in addition to the gates,
we'd be saving well over a million dollars a year.
That isn't exactly chump change!

Ohhhhhh . . . am I gonna get comments about this!!?!
:boxing2:

[jdsl1998]

I can assure you at less than $8.00 an hour, we will not save a million in a years time.

[jdsl1998]

When I visited our home for the 5 years we were not full time...I would come in late. I aways felt "welcome home" when I reached the gate after the long solo drive. I love having gate greeters. Most of them love greeting.
Bad apples and bad days happen to all of us. Not understanding another person happens to all of us. I am dyslexic and have to look up the simplest of words. Some slip by and some on TOTV put me down, and have for going on 6 years now, and it hurts... I have never said anything about this. Think of others. Use care out there.

[Walter123]

And if we got rid of the guards in addition to the gates,
we'd be saving well over a million dollars a year.
That isn't exactly chump change!

Ohhhhhh . . . am I gonna get comments about this!!?!
:boxing2:

I agree. Why do we have greeters at some gates, a button that you push and the gate instantly opens at some gates and at other gates you push the button, a voice says "Welcome to the villages" and then the gate opens. We need gates but we don't really need gate greeters.

[slipcovers]

The only gate guard I know well enough to comment on is Liberty Park. This is a cross over cart tunnel from one side of BV to the other and the entrance to 6 villages, Liberty, Sunset Point, Pennycamp, Buttonwood, St Charles, Pointciana. Always a line of golf carts and cars...without a guard can't imagine how many accidents there would be. I think they earn every penny of their $8 an hour. Just saying.

[CFrance]

And if we got rid of the guards in addition to the gates,
we'd be saving well over a million dollars a year.
That isn't exactly chump change!

Ohhhhhh . . . am I gonna get comments about this!!?!
:boxing2:
Most likely! But I think we could solve a lot of problems by taking the gates down and installing serious speed bumps. It would save money on broken gate arms, greeter salaries, and still slow traffic down enough for golf carts to have their turn. The only thing missing would be someone there to give lost motorists directions. But there are few, if any, gate people in the southern regions of TV anyway.

The recent article touting the new high-def cameras and signs saying you are being filmed... well, that may make it possible to track down a motorist breaking the gates, but it's not going to help with the golf cart drivers since there's no ID on the golf carts.

[Bubble Gum]

Most likely! But I think we could solve a lot of problems by taking the gates down and installing serious speed bumps. It would save money on broken gate arms, greeter salaries, and still slow traffic down enough for golf carts to have their turn. The only thing missing would be someone there to give lost motorists directions. But there are few, if any, gate people in the southern regions of TV anyway.

The recent article touting the new high-def cameras and signs saying you are being filmed... well, that may make it possible to track down a motorist breaking the gates, but it's not going to help with the golf cart drivers since there's no ID on the golf carts.

I don't disagree with you about speed bumps. They definitely would slow everyone down. However, the real truth is that speed bumps kill your car. They do pretty bad damage to your axles, wheel balancing, etc., and to have to constantly drive over them, albeit slowly, would not circumvent the damage they do.

[Walter123]

[QUOTE=CFrance;936555]Most likely! But I think we could solve a lot of problems by taking the gates down and installing serious speed bumps.

No speed bumps.

[Pointer]

When I visited our home for the 5 years we were not full time...I would come in late. I aways felt "welcome home" when I reached the gate after the long solo drive. I love having gate greeters. Most of them love greeting.
Bad apples and bad days happen to all of us. Not understanding another person happens to all of us. I am dyslexic and have to look up the simplest of words. Some slip by and some on TOTV put me down, and have for going on 6 years now, and it hurts... I have never said anything about this. Think of others. Use care out there.

I can empathize with you as I'm Dyslexic too. It takes a lot of courage to enter the public world of those who can spell everything. When my kids were little I worked on the school newsletter. One year we sold school "tee ****s" and no body noticed, thus the April fools issue contest was born. We'd leave in the mistakes and see how many kids could find them all. They often found ones we hadn't known about. Then a great presentation was made of interrupting class time and presenting the winners with a candy bar and a coupon for an ice cream at the only store in town. My kids who could spell better then me, saw a good example of being ok not being perfect.

[Pointer]

I like having the guards and the gates because they offer a sense of belonging to someplace special, and, in spite of the few break ins, I believe help keep us safe. It's personal and provides some income for a lot of people who need it.

[JoMar]

And if we got rid of the guards in addition to the gates,
we'd be saving well over a million dollars a year.
That isn't exactly chump change!

Ohhhhhh . . . am I gonna get comments about this!!?!
:boxing2:

Oh yeah, assume you don't own a golf cart.....take away the gates and you have a great game of dodge'em going between the carts and cars. The gates are for traffic control so both carts and cars can co-exist.

[coffeebean]

Right around the time of the last TV survey, I took someone's advise and entered my request for auto gate access with some sort of scanner on the survey. If they hear from enough of the residents year after year on the survey, maybe they will head our requests.

[redwitch]

The gate greeters do more than just open gates. More than on e I've gotten directions to certain streets in their village. Don't know what I would do without them and their little scraps telling me exactly how to get to X street. I love their smiles and waves. Most of them are truly nice folks. I always assume that if someone gets a greeter like the OP did, that the greeter is having a bad day and wish them well.

As to getting out of the car to go back and wave my card, I think this is a really bad idea. Takes too much time and holds up traffic even more -- remove seatbelt, put car in park, turn off engine, remove key, open door, get out, walk back, wave pass at eye, get back in car, put on seatbelt, start car, start to move car and watch the gate close again before you've moved an inch! Now,why in heck didn't the car closest to the gate simply wave their card for the OP? Quick, efficient, save a lot of grief and make that driver feel good for doing something nice for someone else.

[CFrance]

The gate greeters do more than just open gates. More than on e I've gotten directions to certain streets in their village. Don't know what I would do without them and their little scraps telling me exactly how to get to X street. I love their smiles and waves. Most of them are truly nice folks. I always assume that if someone gets a greeter like the OP did, that the greeter is having a bad day and wish them well.

As to getting out of the car to go back and wave my card, I think this is a really bad idea. Takes too much time and holds up traffic even more -- remove seatbelt, put car in park, turn off engine, remove key, open door, get out, walk back, wave pass at eye, get back in car, put on seatbelt, start car, start to move car and watch the gate close again before you've moved an inch! Now,why in heck didn't the car closest to the gate simply wave their card for the OP? Quick, efficient, save a lot of grief and make that driver feel good for doing something nice for someone else.

Excellent solution, Red. Sometimes people are just oblivious.

[jdsl1998]

The gate greeters do more than just open gates. More than on e I've gotten directions to certain streets in their village. Don't know what I would do without them and their little scraps telling me exactly how to get to X street. I love their smiles and waves. Most of them are truly nice folks. I always assume that if someone gets a greeter like the OP did, that the greeter is having a bad day and wish them well.

As to getting out of the car to go back and wave my card, I think this is a really bad idea. Takes too much time and holds up traffic even more -- remove seatbelt, put car in park, turn off engine, remove key, open door, get out, walk back, wave pass at eye, get back in car, put on seatbelt, start car, start to move car and watch the gate close again before you've moved an inch! Now,why in heck didn't the car closest to the gate simply wave their card for the OP? Quick, efficient, save a lot of grief and make that driver feel good for doing something nice for someone else.

GREAT idea....I wish I would have thought of that!! I usually don't think that fast!! Now that you've said it, I will remember for future reference! Thanks Red.

[Bonanza]

I can assure you at less than $8.00 an hour, we will not save a million in a years time.

huh ?

[Bonanza]

Oh yeah, assume you don't own a golf cart.....take away the gates and you have a great game of dodge'em going between the carts and cars. The gates are for traffic control so both carts and cars can co-exist.

They who "assume" things are usually wrong.

The gates may be for traffic control but the guards don't look at the golf carts;
they are concerned with the cars in the resident lane vs. the visitor lane so they both don't enter a Village simultaneously.

Don't lose sight of the fact that cars have priority on the streets.
Think of it as the golf carts being guests.
The way many drive the golf carts, it is them who are playing dodgem with the autos.

[gamby]

I've worked outside for 30 + years ,Rain, Snow etc. and never gave wet a second thought

Suck it up NANCY, A few drops will never hurt you.

[Annie01]

this is not a big deal but it can be annoying when it's raining (especially a downpour) and i have to lower my window to scan my gate card. Then, as the contents of my door pocket get soaked, the attendant opens the visitor side and waves at the car passing through . The morse gate attendants almost always open it for you as you approach but the sunset pointe gate attendants almost never do (at least during the afternoon hours). Before i call to request a courtesy policy of raising the gates during a rain for each car after we first stop at the gate, does anyone know if there is any such policy in place?

caroline does open the gate for you...they re the best in the villages...kudos to you guys !!!!

[Laurie2]

Well, I like our gate people. I smile and wave and so do they. More importantly, the gates and gatekeepers keep those golf carts safer. That’s enough of a return-on-investment for me.

But here we are, page after page, post after post, some just asking a question, some getting all riled up. A little sniper fire even. And others just smiling and waving.

So. . .I thought maybe we could all get together and sing this song. I know you know the tune. . .

:sing: :sing: :sing: :sing: :sing:

Someone left the gate down in the rain,
I don’t think that I can take it,
‘Cause I know I’m gonna break it,
And I’ll never have that plastic card again. . .
Oh nooooooooo.

(short instrumental interlude here)

What the heck. Smile and wave. What do you think this is? Watergate?

[kcrazorbackfan]

Ahh, one of the minor conveniences for the security of living behind a gate in
"Paradise".

[NYGUY]

Ahh, one of the minor conveniences for the security of living behind a gate in
"Paradise".

With the exception that anyone can go through the gate!!

[Buffalo Jim]

Anyone take note that the level of complaining over very petty issues increase tremendously during a certain time of year and drops off rapidly after a certain time of year ?

Good Grief Lighten Up !

[Challenger]

Don't take our gates. They serve several useful purposes and create the impression that people are watching and care about their neighborhoods. IMHO , even if the do cost $1million per year, they are worth it.

[kittygilchrist]

Whenever it is more convenient, I use the visitor gate, and as I pass on ahead of them, wonder what the line of three residents waiting in line Like sheep are thinking.

[dave harris]

As a "snowbird" I think the visitors button is to low, I have to stretch and stretch to push it. LOL

[graciegirl]

Anyone take note that the level of complaining over very petty issues increase tremendously during a certain time of year and drops off rapidly after a certain time of year ?

Good Grief Lighten Up !

Jim. Your mom didn't have any dumb kids.

[perrjojo]

As a "snowbird" I think the visitors button is to low, I have to stretch and stretch to push it. LOL

You must drive a SUV. We have a convertible and it's just right for me. 😄

[Ooper]

I very seldom lower my window to pass through a gate. Most gates I use, the sensor is window height and I just hold my card up to the widow.

[CFrance]

I very seldom lower my window to pass through a gate. Most gates I use, the sensor is window height and I just hold my card up to the widow.

As noted earlier, there are a lot of gates where this won't work. It almost seems the farther south you go, the fewer there are that work when you do that.

[Buffalo Jim]

Jim. Your mom didn't have any dumb kids.

Just one Ms. Gracie ; just one ! :loco::loco:

[tomwed]

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51SHgiteZ%2BL._SL1001_.jpg
And it uses no electricity.

[Bogie Shooter]

As a "snowbird" I think the visitors button is to low, I have to stretch and stretch to push it. LOL

Stretching is good exercise.

[tomwed]

http://child-1st.typepad.com/.a/6a00e5529de4af8834014e86ce1e81970d-320wi

This might work.