District to Pay for Unauthorized Tree Cutting

[Madelaine Amee]

The Villages Daily Sun, page 1 of Section C Local News, has an extensive article of illegal clear cutting of trees on Lake Miona. The cost to put the damage right is estimated to be upwards of $30,000 and will be paid by "The District".

My question is does anyone know who is "The District" and what monies do they use to pay for this illegal cutting.

[Mikeod]

The District is likely Lake Sumter CDD.

[Cedwards38]

An even bigger question for me is "Who done it"? I hope the Sheriff's offices finds the culprits and makes them pay the costs back to the District.

[Madelaine Amee]

The District is likely Lake Sumter CDD.

If it is Sumter Landing CDD, does this mean it comes from our amenity fund, or is there some other way of handling this?

[Madelaine Amee]

An even bigger question for me is "Who done it"? I hope the Sheriff's offices finds the culprits and makes them pay the costs back to the District.

Someone knows for sure and is just not giving out the information. I was at a meeting last week when this was mentioned. At that time we were told that you do not ever mess with South West Florida Water Management District, the speaker said "they are the law in Florida", and the clean up of the clear cutting in the preserve area could cost whatever they wanted to charge!

[rp001]

And of course the "approved answer", is the same as the blocked gate in the night,"I know nothing, I see nothing". Sounds like sergeant Schultz is the answer man for the villages!

[janmcn]

An even bigger question for me is "Who done it"? I hope the Sheriff's offices finds the culprits and makes them pay the costs back to the District.


"Who done it and why did they do it" would be a good question for the sheriff's office.

[Radioman41]

This could get very interesting. Where the trees were cut should show who would benefit.

[rubicon]

Someone knows for sure and is just not giving out the information. I was at a meeting last week when this was mentioned. At that time we were told that you do not ever mess with South West Florida Water Management District, the speaker said "they are the law in Florida", and the clean up of the clear cutting in the preserve area could cost whatever they wanted to charge!

As I speak I am trying to recall the ex president of the VHA around 2005-2006 who was appointed to the Board of SWFWMD? I can see his face clearly but his names escapes me

[Villageswimmer]

I found this article mystifying. The "investigation" seems to be moving at a snail's pace. And what's with the two of the four homes "believed to be for sale." Either they are or they are not. Just the noise inherent in cutting these mature trees would certainly lead to neighbors asking questions. Something sounds fishy, and I hope folks living in that CDD don't end up paying.

[billethkid]

I really cannot in my best day imagine that someone/anyone could go into an area like the one off Lake Miona Drive and begin taking down trees without the immediate neighbors as well as many others that certainly did witness what was going on......raising hell about it.

How was it possible for a task of that magnitude to go unchallenged.....behind ones home?....on one's block?

[bimmertl]

I really cannot in my best day imagine that someone/anyone could go into an area like the one off Lake Miona Drive and begin taking down trees without the immediate neighbors as well as many others that certainly did witness what was going on......raising hell about it.

How was it possible for a task of that magnitude to go unchallenged.....behind ones home?....on one's block?

Exactly! According to the Sun, some of the residents were "traveling" when the incident happened. The sheriff states it's "incredulous" that none of the residents questioned by them knew anything about it. It would have taken hours to accomplish the job.

No doubt whoever did this was paid by somebody or some group.

[Madelaine Amee]

It's my personal feeling that now that this has been printed in the paper for all to see, someone will come forward with more information. What blows my mind is the people, or company, who actually did the clear cutting. They have to be local and they have to know you absolutely cannot work in a preserve, and they have to have been paid HUGE money to take this chance. On second thoughts, if you have sufficient money and you wanted to get rid of the trees that badly, you could bring in a company from Georgia to do the deed.

[gomoho]

It's my personal feeling that now that this has been printed in the paper for all to see, someone will come forward with more information. What blows my mind is the people, or company, who actually did the clear cutting. They have to be local and they have to know you absolutely cannot work in a preserve, and they have to have been paid HUGE money to take this chance. On second thoughts, if you have sufficient money and you wanted to get rid of the trees that badly, you could bring in a company from Georgia to do the deed.

So who now has a spectacular view!?!?!?!

[joldnol]

So who now has a spectacular view!?!?!?!


Exactly, sounds like Lake Miona has adopted the Ghetto Don't Snitch mentality. District should plant twice as many mature oaks where the old ones stood. It would not be to hard to find some poor local bubbas to do the cutting.

[Carla B]

Early last March we watched in dismay as a contractor cut down 25 healthy oaks, ranging in diameter from 9" to 19" in a large oak grove on the championship course behind our house.

While the cutting was going on, we called The Villages to report it. The rep sent out by Community Standards sympathized but said The Villages had nothing to do with this; it was under Golf Management's jurisdiction. So I called head of Golf Management, Todd Basso. He told me he ordered the trees cut so that "the remaining trees would flourish." When I asked if he had consulted an arborist on which and how many trees needed to go, he replied "no," he himself decided which trees to remove.

So there may be rules for us homeowners re cutting down trees, but they obviously don't concern or apply to Golf Management.

[Cedwards38]

Someone right her in The Villages knows who did this, and they are perfectly content to let the rest of us pay for it through the District. Thanks Neighbor!

[Doro22]

Oh that is terrible. I'm a tree hugger. I see so many people who are anti-tree. What's up with that? Those people who live there know who cut the trees.

[graciegirl]

So who now has a spectacular view!?!?!?!


I would guess that everyone who lives there feels they know who did it. I hope the persons at fault get the bill and I hope they learn a lesson. You can't break laws to get what you want. Period and AMEN.

And I am not a tree hugger. Well maybe a little. I love those big oaks near the intersection of Buena Vista and Stillwater. I always imagine that is what Heaven looks like.

[rp001]

Actually, they may very well face criminal charges. I'm thinking obstruction of justice, maybe a felony based on the amount of monetary damage and any impeding of the investigation that may have transpired. I hope the person that ordered this spends some serious JAIL time and learns that money doesn't buy anything they want. I see a very spoiled person that just doesn't give a damn about anyone else!

[Madelaine Amee]

The loss of the trees At Miona is criminal, but the real reason the SWFTMUD is on our backs is for the obliteration of the preserve area. When whoever did this they took both the trees and clearcut the preserve to the ground and that is considered a criminal act by the SWFTMUD.

It's heavy reading, but if anyone is interested this is a State report on both Miona and Black Lakes which are in some way interconnected. https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/projects/mfl/reports/lakes/miona_lake_proposed_mfls_report_sep2006.pdf

Buried within this article is the information on the preserve.

[graciegirl]

I think that it will be very hard to prove. I think that those folks got together and found someone who would do it for cash. No paper trail, certainly no marked trucks. But those of us who read the paper know who did it or are pretty sure.

And to the folks who are pickin' on the Bridgeport folks in general, that isn't nice or fair or even true. There are folks who live in all the other kinds of homes that do bad things too. Square footage is not a factor..

If you lived down at the other end of that village, you wouldn't have been aware. I would think that the immediate neighbors would know, unless the folks used hand saws.

And quit blamin' the developers. Why do some folks always blame the developers. The developers had NOTHING to gain.

No I don't work for them and I am grouchy.

[Challenger]

Is the sheriff's office treating this as a criminal act? Wouldn't the state have a horse in this race. Who would benefit most from this act--it is probably obvious to the neighbors.

This smells real bad!!!!

[Villageswimmer]

If this is a criminal act, couldn't those folks be subpoenaed to testify? Maybe I'm naive, but would they perjure themselves under oath?

[graciegirl]

If this is a criminal act, couldn't those folks be subpoenaed to testify? Maybe I'm naive, but would they perjure themselves under oath?


If they were brazen enough to arrange it to happen, knowing it was wrong, I would guess they would lie under oath.

Sheriff's office has issued a thousand dollar reward for information etc.. That might be attractive to one of the tree sawer's friends and associates.

[Challenger]

If they were brazen enough to arrange it to happen, knowing it was wrong, I would guess they would lie under oath.

Sheriff's office has issued a thousand dollar reward for information etc.. That might be attractive to one of the tree sawer's friends and associates.

"Silence" is there a darker agenda affecting this issue in the neighborhood? Why is the District paying for this crime??? Have they been found to be responsible?

Obviously there is a whole lot more to this story

[MarkinMd]

I think this case will be be solved. It sounds like a lot of people were involved. The police/sheriff may apply some pressure to get people to cooperate. You can't make people testify (you can make them appear in court). If I were the Detective working this case I would interview everyone of the neighbors and then go to the States Attorney and ask about granting immunity to one person willing to testify. I would also let it be known for those who do not cooperate criminal and civil charges will be forthcoming.
With that many people involved someone will give the information. People love to talk and gossip and the word will get out.
If anyone ever decides to commit a crime my advice is to do it by yourself and not let anyone know, even your spouse. So many cases are solved by someone being mad at someone else and turning the other person in.

[virgind]

Maybe all the people of that village should be held responsible and let them pay.

[Challenger]

I think this case will be be solved. It sounds like a lot of people were involved. The police/sheriff may apply some pressure to get people to cooperate. You can't make people testify (you can make them appear in court). If I were the Detective working this case I would interview everyone of the neighbors and then go to the States Attorney and ask about granting immunity to one person willing to testify. I would also let it be known for those who do not cooperate criminal and civil charges will be forthcoming.
With that many people involved someone will give the information. People love to talk and gossip and the word will get out.
If anyone ever decides to commit a crime my advice is to do it by yourself and not let anyone know, even your spouse. So many cases are solved by someone being mad at someone else and turning the other person in.

Sounds right

Still would like to know why District is on the hook for pymt of the fines???
Dosen't pass the "smell" test

[virgind]

One other thing if this took several hours to do did the block watch guys see it they should know something.

[graciegirl]

"Silence" is there a darker agenda affecting this issue in the neighborhood? Why is the District paying for this crime??? Have they been found to be responsible?

Obviously there is a whole lot more to this story


You know that I am a great fan of yours Challenger, but I can't figure out what you are getting at. Do you think that someone from the district issued the orders for the tree removal?

I don't think so. They have carried new trees everywhere in the new areas to be planted. It would not benefit the district for a few homes already inhabited to have a clear view of the lake. I think the fault lies where the wood lay stacked.

[Madelaine Amee]

Sounds right

Still would like to know why District is on the hook for pymt of the fines???
Dosen't pass the "smell" test

Rightly or wrongly, I'm going to assume that the District is on the hook for this due to the fact that the damage is in their District. According to the information that was passed along in the meeting I attended, SOMEONE has to pay for the damage, and right now that someone is The Villages in one form or another. I am only assuming that if, and when, the perpetrator is found they will be prosecuted, and it will then be up to court to decide how painful the settlement will be.

This is much bigger than it seems on the surface ........... we will now have the State Environmental Dept. crawling all over TV, we will have SWFWMD as regular visitors and certainly more Florida Agencies breathing down the Developer's neck. I, personally, believe that the Developer has done everything by the book in building TV and this criminal act will make him a target.

[Challenger]

You know that I am a great fan of yours Challenger, but I can't figure out what you are getting at. Do you think that someone from the district issued the orders for the tree removal?

I don't think so. They have carried new trees everywhere in the new areas to be planted. It would not benefit the district for a few homes already inhabited to have a clear view of the lake. I think the fault lies where the wood lay stacked.

Gracie,

I am a great supporter of the Districts, the Developers , and am not shy about expressing my support for their actions and integrity.

That being said, we need some clear explanation why a District would be required to pay a fine for the criminal actions of others.

This may be all on the up and up, If so the speculation would be cleared up buy some "facts" There may be a good explamation.

[graciegirl]

One other thing if this took several hours to do did the block watch guys see it they should know something.

It is back in "the woods" between the houses and a desolate area of Lake Miona and if someone used handsaws , it could have been undetected, but not by the immediate neighbors. Those homes adjacent would be where somebody would notice something.... Someone knows.

Read the article and go to Sumterpa.com and type in Lake Miona (not drive), just Lake Miona, and see where this is. You will see the trees and see how out of sight this area would be to many.

[graciegirl]

Gracie,

I am a great supporter of the Districts, the Developers , and am not shy about expressing my support for their actions and integrity.

That being said, we need some clear explanation why a District would be required to pay a fine for the criminal actions of others.

This may be all on the up and up, If so the speculation would be cleared up buy some "facts" There may be a good explamation.


I have never known you to be wrong, sir. I admire you very much.

[Cedwards38]

"Silence" is there a darker agenda affecting this issue in the neighborhood? Why is the District paying for this crime??? Have they been found to be responsible?

Obviously there is a whole lot more to this story

I don't know the law or the details, but I'm guessing that these trees were located on land either belonging to the district or under the care of the district. If so, then the district is charged with protecting the land from this type of encroachment and destruction, and thus they are held responsible.

[Madelaine Amee]

I don't know the law or the details, but I'm guessing that these trees were located on land either belonging to the district or under the care of the district. If so, then the district is charged with protecting the land from this type of encroachment and destruction, and thus they are held responsible.

I think you are correct. This area is designated as wetlands and I'm under the impression that wetlands cannot be "owned" by anyone, but are managed by State, Federal and Local Agencies. There is actually a Home Owners Guide to Wetlands which gives 50+ pages of information on what you can and cannot do. In this case the land that was cut was not "owned" by the homeowner, there is a large buffer zone between wetlands and the homeowners property. So on top of everything else, they were trespassing and destroying on State/Federal land.

Someone has opened Pandora's box ......................

[Warren Kiefer]

Exactly! According to the Sun, some of the residents were "traveling" when the incident happened. The sheriff states it's "incredulous" that none of the residents questioned by them knew anything about it. It would have taken hours to accomplish the job.

No doubt whoever did this was paid by somebody or some group.

I smell a rat !!!! Maybe more than just one. My thought are that perhaps several neighbors joined together and hired someone to cut the trees. The act took considerable time and no one saw or heard anything ?? C'mon. Those who know something are not talking.

[Warren Kiefer]

You know that I am a great fan of yours Challenger, but I can't figure out what you are getting at. Do you think that someone from the district issued the orders for the tree removal?

I don't think so. They have carried new trees everywhere in the new areas to be planted. It would not benefit the district for a few homes already inhabited to have a clear view of the lake. I think the fault lies where the wood lay stacked.


Good point, it would not be the first time someone from the district made a mistake and tried to hide the damages. It concerns me that the district was awfully quick to assume they would pay to clean up the mess.

[bimmertl]

It is back in "the woods" between the houses and a desolate area of Lake Miona and if someone used handsaws , it could have been undetected, but not by the immediate neighbors. Those homes adjacent would be where somebody would notice something.... Someone knows.

Read the article and go to Sumterpa.com and type in Lake Miona (not drive), just Lake Miona, and see where this is. You will see the trees and see how out of sight this area would be to many.

If they used "hand saws" they would still be there. District manager Wartinbee states in the article "They were out there for hours with a chain saw." No doubt he inspected the cut down trees.

I have no doubt the developer had nothing at all to do with cutting down the trees. Most likely stuck with cost of rehab of area since it lies within district.

Rather convenient for some residences to be "traveling" while trees were cut. I would also want to be out of down when something like this took place.

[MarkinMd]

I still believe if the law enforcement authorities apply enough pressure someone will talk. It's not like the authorities are dealing with hardened criminals or anything of that sort. Once the person/s realize they could lose their homes/fines/imprisonment you will have more than enough information. It really depends how many people are "in the know". Just remember the police can cell phone records and look for patterns, times, etc.

[t fields]

why not check the gate cameras for around the time this was done !! check the plates and see who was coming and going, it just blows my mind that noone in the neighborhood heard and saw anything, and did not question anyone about this ??

[Villageswimmer]

I think this case will be be solved. It sounds like a lot of people were involved. The police/sheriff may apply some pressure to get people to cooperate. You can't make people testify (you can make them appear in court). If I were the Detective working this case I would interview everyone of the neighbors and then go to the States Attorney and ask about granting immunity to one person willing to testify. I would also let it be known for those who do not cooperate criminal and civil charges will be forthcoming.
With that many people involved someone will give the information. People love to talk and gossip and the word will get out.
If anyone ever decides to commit a crime my advice is to do it by yourself and not let anyone know, even your spouse. So many cases are solved by someone being mad at someone else and turning the other person in.


I agree wrt actions that should be taken by law enforcement, but don't you think this has already been done? If not, investigators aren't doing their jobs. The pool of people with a motive isn't large.

I don't agree that the case will be solved. Too much time has passed and it sounds like the CDD has accepted financial responsibility. Unbelievable.

[Villageswimmer]

why not check the gate cameras for around the time this was done !! check the plates and see who was coming and going, it just blows my mind that noone in the neighborhood heard and saw anything, and did not question anyone about this ??


Great idea.

[MarkinMd]

If this case is not solved something is very fishy.

[graciegirl]

If this case is not solved something is very fishy.


You have to have proof and if it was a cash transaction, well............Things don't happen like on TV. Plus it was a bloodless crime. And sort of a victimless crime. It was wrong, but very hard to prove.

I am not defending the wrong doer's but what can be done without proof. The wood could be stacked anywhere.

You say it would be fishy. Who do you think is covering up something other than the guilty parties?

Someone did something wrong. Now WE wlll pay because ultimately we are the district. Every one of us, just like we are the government. The tax payers pay for the transgressions of all.

[downeaster]

If they were brazen enough to arrange it to happen, knowing it was wrong, I would guess they would lie under oath.

Sheriff's office has issued a thousand dollar reward for information etc.. That might be attractive to one of the tree sawer's friends and associates.

And that is probably making some people a little nervous. I'll bet they are circling their wagons.

Unless it was the Developer's crew manning the chain saws it has nothing to do with the him. In fact, were I the Developer I would be concerned because everything negative that happens here seems to be blamed on him.

[MarkinMd]

I said it was fishy because this case has not been solved. The guilty parties are the only ones trying to cover this up for obvious reasons. The proof will come out when someone comes forward with information. The way you get this information is applying pressure to the suspects. Another way is when someone gets in trouble and wants to trade their information to get off (it's called flipping). I do understand it's not like tv shows, I'm basing my statements on 30 plus years of police and detective work. Another avenue of investigation is to find out who if anyone has applied to have those trees removed by legal means. I wouldn't suspect the developer in this because I see nothing he would gain and if he did I'm sure he has the resources to accomplish it.

[kcrazorbackfan]

Someone right her in The Villages knows who did this, and they are perfectly content to let the rest of us pay for it through the District. Thanks Neighbor!

Sort of reminds me of the people crashing through the gates - someone knows who's doing it, but won't snitch. WE PAY FOR THOSE ALSO, NEIGHBORS!

[kcrazorbackfan]

I smell a rat !!!! Maybe more than just one. My thought are that perhaps several neighbors joined together and hired someone to cut the trees. The act took considerable time and no one saw or heard anything ?? C'mon. Those who know something are not talking.

The Sheriff's Office should hire my wife to question the neighbors in that area, she can get a confession out of a "person of interest" quicker than anyone I've seen.

[capecoralbill]

Yeah, I had and EX wife like that, I hope yours only uses her skills for good, and not against you. LOL

[bagboy]

Special assess each resident in that Village an amount appropriate to cover the $30,000. It won't take long before we find out who the culprits are.

[graciegirl]

Special assess each resident in that Village an amount appropriate to cover the $30,000. It won't take long before we find out who the culprits are.


Some may know but many wouldn't. That doesn't seem fair. ANYWAY, things don't work like that here. Hoping they never are run by residents.

[Warren Kiefer]

You know that I am a great fan of yours Challenger, but I can't figure out what you are getting at. Do you think that someone from the district issued the orders for the tree removal?

I don't think so. They have carried new trees everywhere in the new areas to be planted. It would not benefit the district for a few homes already inhabited to have a clear view of the lake. I think the fault lies where the wood lay stacked.


Good point, it would not be the first time someone from the district made a mistake and tried to hide the damages. It concerns me that the district was awfully quick to assume they would pay to clean up the mess.

[villagetinker]

How about a reward for information leading to the arrest.......

[graciegirl]

Good point, it would not be the first time someone from the district made a mistake and tried to hide the damages. It concerns me that the district was awfully quick to assume they would pay to clean up the mess.


Oh Come on. WHY would the district fell trees behind some four someone's homes????? I cannot think of any plausible reason.

As Judge Judy says, If it doesn't make sense then it isn't the truth.

[villagetinker]

If I recall the original article, the trees were cut down, but not removed, and some of the branches, etc. were dragged into the wetlands causing additional damage. If this was done to get a better view, it should be relatively easy to determine who gets the better view and start asking questions. The only other reason might be if there was a lot of lawn clean up due to leaves, which should be obvious also. I cannot imagine any other reasons for cutting down these trees. I hope that the people who know or saw what was going on come forward, so the guilty can be brought to justice.

[pmbinnj]

So, who benefits from the tree removal? Maybe a home owner who is preparing to sell their house. Think of the steps "necessary" to take to get the house ready for selling at a maximum price....paint, clean up clutter, wash windows, and chop down the trees that block the water view. Just speculating...

[graciegirl]

So, who benefits from the tree removal? Maybe a home owner who is preparing to sell their house. Think of the steps "necessary" to take to get the house ready for selling at a maximum price....paint, clean up clutter, wash windows, and chop down the trees that block the water view. Just speculating...


Makes sense.

[Bogie Shooter]

How about a reward for information leading to the arrest.......

See post #25.......................

[tommy steam]

I find it amazing that no one heard or saw anything as chain saws were cutting these big old trees down. 🙈 🙉 🙊

[Sicknotto]

Question those who were "traveling" Do they have toll receipts, hotel receipts etc.?

[Challenger]

The Villages Daily Sun, page 1 of Section C Local News, has an extensive article of illegal clear cutting of trees on Lake Miona. The cost to put the damage right is estimated to be upwards of $30,000 and will be paid by "The District".

My question is does anyone know who is "The District" and what monies do they use to pay for this illegal cutting.

What was the final disposition of this issue??? Hmmmmmmmm:shrug:

[graciegirl]

What was the final disposition of this issue??? Hmmmmmmmm:shrug:


I don't know but the folks who hired this dastardly deed done should be made to pony up...and I wish we could identify the tree cutters who knew danged well what they were doing was illegal.

[champion6]

I don't know but the folks who hired this dastardly deed done are known now to one and all.<snip>What? They have been identified by law enforcement? Their identities are public knowledge?

[graciegirl]

What? They have been identified by law enforcement? Their identities are public knowledge?

NO.

[Villageswimmer]

What? They have been identified by law enforcement? Their identities are public knowledge?


Glad they were finally identified. Did anyone collect the $1k reward? Will those responsible pay restitution?

[Bogie Shooter]

See what you started, Gracie?

[joldnol]

I didn't say that, but it appears that the Sun has made it clear who they think did the deed. Very hard not to think those thoughts. What do you think, Champion?

not good at reading between the lines....who is responsible?

[janmcn]

not good at reading between the lines....who is responsible?


Good question, and why did they do it, and are they going to reimburse the district the $30,000?

[graciegirl]

,,,,

[graciegirl]

It is likely someone from a lumberjack school on a field trip who did it.

[Challenger]

What did it say in the Sun-- Who was responsible??

Since it was apparantly a crime, the info is (should be) available for public release.

[Warren Kiefer]

I find it amazing that no one heard or saw anything as chain saws were cutting these big old trees down. 🙈 🙉 🙊

This act was probably not done in a single day. Chain saws make a terrible loud noise. There had to be vehicles parked near the cutting sight. My conclusion is ; Several residents heard the chain saws, saw the workers, and saw the work vehicles and you can take it to the bank that there are several neighbors who played a part in having the trees cut.

[graciegirl]

...I don't know who did it.

[Villageswimmer]

Am I the only one who finds it odd that The Villages would roll over and pay for this--or rather let residents pay for it--rather than insist on a criminal investigation? If such investigation has been done, why aren't the results reported to us? This is ridiculous.

Come on. Law enforcement here has an excellent record for catching bad guys. This should be child's play. TV homeowners are deserving of full disclosure. Something is very fishy here.

[Challenger]

I'm not liking what is going on here. Can someone give us a citation for the SUN story

[tommy steam]

Maybe a nice big fat reward would help someone to come forward.

[Challenger]

Maybe a nice big fat reward would help someone to come forward.

There was one I believe-offeed by the Sheriffs dept. Now everything has gone quiet?

[blueash]

It is very likely that the trees were removed for the benefit of the homes where the view was improved. Now proving that is another issue entirely. Exactly which home(s). Unless they have examined bank records and the homeowners were careless enough to pay with a check or a credit card, there is no trail unless someone comes forward with evidence. That won't be the landscapers as they would be in trouble too and our neighbors in the hood are not gonna squeal on each other. After all when one of those homes sell for extra because of the better view, then all the neighboring homes just went up in value also.

[villagetinker]

Well the last laugh will be on whomever was involved. According to the news article, the trees will be replaced, and the damage to the wetlands repaired....so the view will go back to what it was.....and the reward will still be there. I wonder how long the person responsible will enjoy looking over there backs to see who is coming to get them.....The world runs on KARMA, need I say more.

[Goldwingnut]

The Article in the newspaper did decent job of reporting what has transpired on this. This issue was discussed in detail at the monthly District meetings and the PWAC meetings for the last two months. None of the district supervisors are happy about what happened or that district funds will need to be used to restore the preserve areas.
As to which district pays, the answer is simple, all districts south of 466 are paying for the restorations. There are inter local agreements in place to cover items of mutual benefit to all the districts, the wetlands are in that category.
Again, this was all discussed in detail at the district and PWAC meetings. Attend the meetings, get involved, and become an active part of the governing of this community we all live in.

As to the ongoing investigation, we do have laws in this country and we assume innocent until proven guilty, Sumter Sheriff office is doing all they can within the confines of the law. Stop watching so much TV, you can't "put pressure" on someone to get them to talk. Assume for just a minute that you actually do know nothing of the incident and that you live in one of the homes that may have benefited from the tree cutting, how would you like to be treated by law enforcement officers? How would you be feeling about this "friendly" community after reading the last 9 pages of posts? This thread is turning into an electronic mob justice.

[graciegirl]

The Article in the newspaper did decent job of reporting what has transpired on this. This issue was discussed in detail at the monthly District meetings and the PWAC meetings for the last two months. None of the district supervisors are happy about what happened or that district funds will need to be used to restore the preserve areas.
As to which district pays, the answer is simple, all districts south of 466 are paying for the restorations. There are inter local agreements in place to cover items of mutual benefit to all the districts, the wetlands are in that category.
Again, this was all discussed in detail at the district and PWAC meetings. Attend the meetings, get involved, and become an active part of the governing of this community we all live in.

As to the ongoing investigation, we do have laws in this country and we assume innocent until proven guilty, Sumter Sheriff office is doing all they can within the confines of the law. Stop watching so much TV, you can't "put pressure" on someone to get them to talk. Assume for just a minute that you actually do know nothing of the incident and that you live in one of the homes that may have benefited from the tree cutting, how would you like to be treated by law enforcement officers? How would you be feeling about this "friendly" community after reading the last 9 pages of posts? This thread is turning into an electronic mob justice.


Well said. I regretted what I posted and took it down. You are right on all counts. To all new residents and wannabees, don't cut down or order a tree cut down on your property until you clear it with ARC. (They aren't the ultimate authority, but they do know the rules)

[Advogado]

If this is a criminal act, couldn't those folks be subpoenaed to testify? Maybe I'm naive, but would they perjure themselves under oath?

They already have committed a crime if they made a false statement to the sheriff's investigators.

[TNLAKEPANDA]

Since the Villages makes up the majority of the population for Sumter County are there any Villagers on the Board? We should have a voice and presence in what goes on in Sumter County!

[Bogie Shooter]

Since the Villages makes up the majority of the population for Sumter County are there any Villagers on the Board? We should have a voice and presence in what goes on in Sumter County!

We have a voice. There are 5 commissioners and I think 3 of them live in TV.
http://sumtercountyfl.gov/296/County-Commissioners
BTW do you remember voting for county commissioner?

[Advogado]

The crime is probably solvable if the Sheriff's Department is able to devote the resources to thoroughly investigate it.

There are only about 4 suspects (the homeowners who got the improved view of the lake). The trees were huge, so it is unlikely that the guilty homeowner cut them himself. Thus, he had to contact and pay a professional tree cutter. He probably did not anticipate all the scrutiny and was not as careful as he should have been.

Thus, if I were doing the investigation, I would:

1. Ask the four homeowners to let me look at their phone and bank records for the relevant periods. (Anybody who refused would be the immediate suspect.)
2. Subpoena the phone records of those homeowners and check for calls to tree-cutters. I would also subpoena bank records of the homeowners and look for large cash withdrawals during the relevant period.
3. Have a heart-to-heart talk with the tree cutter, and get him to flip on the homeowner--probably offer him immunity.

I think that there is a pretty good chance that the homeowner responsible for the tree cutting is reading this column. If so, I say to you, You should be very, very worried. Think along these lines: How much extra should I slip the tree cutter to buy his silence? Where do I get the cash without leaving a paper trail? (This could get very expensive.) What about my wife? (I better better not get her mad at me, and a divorce is out of the question until the statute of limitations on tree cutting runs out.) What about the neighbors? Who did I tell about this? Who saw what was going on? Are they going to continue to keep their mouths shut? Hell, I've got a lot to worry about. This isn't as easy as I thought it would be.

[MarkinMd]

The Article in the newspaper did decent job of reporting what has transpired on this. This issue was discussed in detail at the monthly District meetings and the PWAC meetings for the last two months. None of the district supervisors are happy about what happened or that district funds will need to be used to restore the preserve areas.
As to which district pays, the answer is simple, all districts south of 466 are paying for the restorations. There are inter local agreements in place to cover items of mutual benefit to all the districts, the wetlands are in that category.
Again, this was all discussed in detail at the district and PWAC meetings. Attend the meetings, get involved, and become an active part of the governing of this community we all live in.

As to the ongoing investigation, we do have laws in this country and we assume innocent until proven guilty, Sumter Sheriff office is doing all they can within the confines of the law. Stop watching so much TV, you can't "put pressure" on someone to get them to talk. Assume for just a minute that you actually do know nothing of the incident and that you live in one of the homes that may have benefited from the tree cutting, how would you like to be treated by law enforcement officers? How would you be feeling about this "friendly" community after reading the last 9 pages of posts? This thread is turning into an electronic mob justice.

Don't be naive, local, state,and federal law enforcement put "pressure" on people all the time. Many times they will give the information because they don't want to be implicated in something big if they only knew about it or played a bit part in the scheme.

[graciegirl]

Don't be naive, local, state,and federal law enforcement put "pressure" on people all the time. Many times they will give the information because they don't want to be implicated in something big if they only knew about it or played a bit part in the scheme.


It is a big in some regards because it was done underhandedly...but it isn't big in the scheme of things. Wasn't it said that it could be repaired for thirty thousand dollars?

I would guess that the neighborhood is buzzing with talk.

[virgind]

If in fact the people involved are known by the police then why is the district paying for the repair unless of course the district is the guilty party and if they are the supervisors and the home owner should pay. Why is the other residents have to pay

[graciegirl]

If in fact the people involved are known by the police then why is the district paying for the repair unless of course the district is the guilty party and if they are the supervisors and the home owner should pay. Why is the other residents have to pay


BECAUSE THEY CAN'T PROVE IT.

Why would the district do something like that????? There would be absolutely no benefit to the district.

[MarkinMd]

It is a big in some regards because it was done underhandedly...but it isn't big in the scheme of things. Wasn't it said that it could be repaired for thirty thousand dollars?

I would guess that the neighborhood is buzzing with talk.

You are right, it's a big deal for some but not for others. No one was killed or injured. As you say you know people are are talking a lot about it in the neighborhood.
Just a hint for someone who wants to have a better chance of getting away with a crime: Do the crime by yourself, don't brag, don't take your cell phone or E-Z pass with you, don't make any unusual deposits, drive a non -flashy vehicle and obey traffic laws when leaving the scene.
Or to really rest easier: Don't commit the crime in the first place.

[graciegirl]

You are right, it's a big deal for some but not for others. No one was killed or injured. As you say you know people are are talking a lot about it in the neighborhood.
Just a hint for someone who wants to have a better chance of getting away with a crime: Do the crime by yourself, don't brag, don't take your cell phone or E-Z pass with you, don't make any unusual deposits, drive a non -flashy vehicle and obey traffic laws when leaving the scene.
Or to really rest easier: Don't commit the crime in the first place.

It sounded like I was trying to minimize it, but I wasn't. AND I very much respect your opinion. Sorry if I sounded critical of what you said. I didn't mean it that way.

[bagboy]

I tend to believe that the truth will come out and those responsible will be held accountable. The district most likely will foot the bill initially to make things right, with the intention of getting every penny back. I would be beyond shocked if it turned out to be the actions of the developer or the district that took those trees down. This issue will be resolved in time.

[Challenger]

The longer this runs on the more the conspiracy theories will grow. The District should make a public statement as to the reasons they are paying the fine. Failing factual info the rumblings will continue.

[graciegirl]

The longer this runs on the more the conspiracy theories will grow. The District should make a public statement as to the reasons they are paying the fine. Failing factual info the rumblings will continue.

I think they did. It was done to district property. The St. John's River authority got on them about it. It is ultimately the district's problem, because it is district's land even if a third party(s) had the cleared to increase their site lines to the lake. Someone came on to the district's property and illegally removed trees that are protected under law. Now the law can make the district pay to replace them.

http://www.sjrwmd.com/about/

[Chi-Town]

There was a similar situation in my old neighborhood where mature trees were leveled for two blocks without warning.. The utility company that did it replaced each tree with a sapling and called it even. So don't expect large replacement trees, unfortunately.

[Challenger]

I think they did. It was done to district property. The St. John's River authority got on them about it. It is ultimately the district's problem, because it is district's land even if a third party(s) had the cleared to increase their site lines to the lake. Someone came on to the district's property and illegally removed trees that are protected under law. Now the law can make the district pay to replace them.

About the District (http://www.sjrwmd.com/about/)

Thanks- Maybe that was covered in an earlier post, but if so I missed it. Totally logical, but apparantly many didn't see a District Response.

Was this info disclosed publicly?

[graciegirl]

Thanks- Maybe that was covered in an earlier post, but if so I missed it. Totally logical, but apparantly many didn't see a District Response.

Was this info disclosed publicly?

Challenger, I am beginning to doubt my memory. There were articles twice in the Daily Sun explaining the problem, but they don't archive, so I can't find the article.

It is possible that my memory of what I read is flawed. I am not trying to start trouble.

[renrod]

Apparently the reward is not high enough. If the District was not at fault but is willing to pay $30,000.00 then maybe a higher reward would help Say $20,000 reward upon conviction and the District could save $10,000 .

[Challenger]

Challenger, I am beginning to doubt my memory. There were articles twice in the Daily Sun explaining the problem, but they don't archive, so I can't find the article.

It is possible that my memory of what I read is flawed. I am not trying to start trouble.

I think that your memory is quite good. Now, who am I responding to?

My guess is that you did, in fact, see their response. Thanks for searching

[obxgal]

I think the district is paying for it so it is done in a timely fashion so the St. John's River authority doesn't charge more in the long run(possibly fines).

Once they fine out who did this, then they can go after them to be reimbursed.

[Happydaz]

Today's Daily Sun reports that CDD 5 got approval to restore the oak trees. It mentions that the cut oak tree debris is behind at least four residences. The houses are 1750, 1764, 1778, and 1792 Lake Miona Drive in The Village of Bridgeport at Lake Miona. There is a $1,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest or conviction.

I was kayaking recently on Lake Miona and I saw what I believe is the area where the oak trees were cut down. There is a big gap when you look at the back of the homes. I could be wrong so I only put this out as an FYI, but what I saw was astounding. there appears to be only two houses that have an improved view of the lake, both are light colored houses, either a light yellow or cream color. These houses are next to one another. One of these houses has construction tape wrapped around the lanai. It looks like they are having some work done on their lanai. It appeared that the screen had been removed. They have a greatly improved view if I am correct that this was the location where the trees were cut down. It is hard to see from the water side as the tall grasses etc., obscure some visibility. It would be interesting to see if they had sought ARC approval and got a building permit for the lanai work. It appears that construction has stopped as I was on the lake a few times and no progress has been made.

[janmcn]

Today's Daily Sun reports that CDD 5 got approval to restore the oak trees. It mentions that the cut oak tree debris is behind at least four residences. The houses are 1750, 1764, 1778, and 1792 Lake Miona Drive in The Village of Bridgeport at Lake Miona. There is a $1,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest or conviction.

I was kayaking recently on Lake Miona and I saw what I believe is the area where the oak trees were cut down. There is a big gap when you look at the back of the homes. I could be wrong so I only put this out as an FYI, but what I saw was astounding. there appears to be only two houses that have an improved view of the lake, both are light colored houses, either a light yellow or cream color. These houses are next to one another. One of these houses has construction tape wrapped around the lanai. It looks like they are having some work done on their lanai. It appeared that the screen had been removed. They have a greatly improved view if I am correct that this was the location where the trees were cut down. It is hard to see from the water side as the tall grasses etc., obscure some visibility. It would be interesting to see if they had sought ARC approval and got a building permit for the lanai work. It appears that construction has stopped as I was on the lake a few times and no progress has been made.

Good detective work Happydaz. Would it have been possible for the perpetrator to come in from the water side with his saw to do the dirty deed? The fact that they left the tree debris behind tells us they did not want to do a professional job of cutting down the trees and hauling them away. And now CDD5 gets to pay the $30,000 fine.

BTW: 1792 Lake Miona Drive is listed for sale on TV website for $1,100,000.

[Happydaz]

Good detective work Happydaz. Would it have been possible for the perpetrator to come in from the water side with his saw to do the dirty deed? The fact that they left the tree debris behind tells us they did not want to do a professional job of cutting down the trees and hauling them away. And now CDD5 gets to pay the $30,000 fine.

BTW: 1792 Lake Miona Drive is listed for sale on TV website for $1,100,000.

Very interesting theory! Yes it is possible for someone to have taken a boat to this area and then beach the boat in the grass and walk to the shore with saws and equipment. The fact that they left all the debris is also indicative of someone who came in, cut, and left quickly. One of the homeowners could have done it themselves, but in view of the size of these live oaks he would have had to been an experienced tree cutter.

[janmcn]

New article in today's on-line news about a meeting held this morning (Feb 20) stating how upset residents of CDD5 are about this tree removal. Ms Tutt reiterated that the matter is under investigation and the offender will be prosecuted when caught. Nobody can explain why this investigation is taking so long, since the incident occurred back in Nov or Dec.

[joldnol]

New article in today's on-line news about a meeting held this morning (Feb 20) stating how upset residents of CDD5 are about this tree removal. Ms Tutt reiterated that the matter is under investigation and the offender will be prosecuted when caught. Nobody can explain why this investigation is taking so long, since the incident occurred back in Nov or Dec.

It is taking so long because just like in the inner city no one is talking......the lake miona ghetto

[bagboy]

Someone in that village knows who cut the trees, or had them cut. In time, the truth will be known. It would be nice for that someone to come forward and "do the tight thing". Sorry, but I can't quite picture a person or persons arriving by boat and cutting down big oak trees. I CAN picture trucks parked in front of the homes with neighbors seeing them and the workers.

[Bogie Shooter]

It is taking so long because just like in the inner city no one is talking......the lake miona ghetto

Would you take offense if your village was referred to in this way??

[outlaw]

Would you take offense if your village was referred to in this way??

No.

[joldnol]

Would you take offense if your village was referred to in this way??

If my village was behaving in this manner, no I would not. Someone saw something and the only motivation for the act is to improve the view from houses along the lake. Environmental thugism, hence the title.

.

[graciegirl]

If my village was behaving in this manner, no I would not. Someone saw something and the only motivation for the act is to improve the view from houses along the lake. Environmental thugism, hence the title.

.


It isn't the WHOLE village who is at fault.

[Challenger]

It isn't the WHOLE village who is at fault.

You're right- but it is hard to believe that no one in the neighborhood knows " Who done it". My bet is that there are several neighbors who know the answers to most of -who,when, and how JMHO

[bagboy]

Maybe up the reward to $5,000, or offer immunity from prosecution to the actual cutters if they come forward and disclose who ordered and paid for the damage. Or offer both, just a thought..

[joldnol]

It isn't the WHOLE village who is at fault.

you're right the whole village is not at fault. Maybe everyone stays in their houses with blinds drawn. All I know is when we were out of town and CVS called to see if they could install the enclosure for our lanai we had ordered to which we said yes. We had two neighbors call us to see if we knew guys were around our house. Very thankful my neighbors noticed, I guess in some villages the neighbors are blind, deaf and mute.

[janmcn]

It isn't the WHOLE village who is at fault.

But it is the WHOLE CDD5 that is being asked to pay the $30,000 fine. These residents are outraged because someone felt entitled enough to break the law and now hides out somewhere. Come forward, pay the fine, apologize and move on. JMHO

[Paper1]

But it is the WHOLE CDD5 that is being asked to pay the $30,000 fine. These residents are outraged because someone felt entitled enough to break the law and now hides out somewhere. Come forward, pay the fine, apologize and move on. JMHO
Actually $30,000 is pretty cheap. If they wanted to be hard nosed they could have demanded larger trees be replaced instead of the small size I see called out in an earlier post.

[obxgal]

Well according to the on line newspaper ... "The good news for CDD 5 residents is that they won’t foot the cost of restoration alone.

The cost of restoration is estimated to run from $30,000 to $50,000 and will be shared by districts in the Project Wide Advisory Committee."

[Villageswimmer]

Someone in that village knows who cut the trees, or had them cut. In time, the truth will be known. It would be nice for that someone to come forward and "do the tight thing". Sorry, but I can't quite picture a person or persons arriving by boat and cutting down big oak trees. I CAN picture trucks parked in front of the homes with neighbors seeing them and the workers.

IMHO you are overly optimistic. Can't help but think there's more to this than the public has been made aware of. It's sad. :confused:

[janmcn]

At the PWAC meeting this morning, it was announced by Sam Wartinbee that the price for replacing these trees has risen to $45,000 to $50,000. This according to a new article in the on-line news.

It was also announced that no arrests have been made in this case, although the investigation continues.

Also, according to TV web site, a house that was for sale for $1,100,000 that benefits from the improved view, is no longer on the market. The plot thickens.

[gomoho]

Sold or taken off the market?

[Warren Kiefer]

It is back in "the woods" between the houses and a desolate area of Lake Miona and if someone used handsaws , it could have been undetected, but not by the immediate neighbors. Those homes adjacent would be where somebody would notice something.... Someone knows.

Read the article and go to Sumterpa.com and type in Lake Miona (not drive), just Lake Miona, and see where this is. You will see the trees and see how out of sight this area would be to many.

Have you given thought to how long it would have taken to saw the trees using a handsaw ??

[janmcn]

Sold or taken off the market?

Don't know, it just disappeared. It doesn't say it is pending. There was an open house there as recently as last Friday. Will just have to wait and see if the house changes hands or reappears with another real estate company.

[graciegirl]

Have you given thought to how long it would have taken to saw the trees using a handsaw ??


You are right. I can't understand how all this tree cutting happened without a lot of people being aware of it.

[bagboy]

At the PWAC meeting this morning, it was announced by Sam Wartinbee that the price for replacing these trees has risen to $45,000 to $50,000. This according to a new article in the on-line news.

It was also announced that no arrests have been made in this case, although the investigation continues.

Also, according to TV web site, a house that was for sale for $1,100,000 that benefits from the improved view, is no longer on the market. The plot thickens.

Yes it does. And now CDD's 5 through 10 are sharing the cost of nearly $50,000. Maybe I am being naive, but I still think the culprits will be caught. Eventually.

[Chi-Town]

I wonder what you get for 50,000 dollars. Just think what the cost was for the trees at Brownwood.

[rubicon]

I have in my younger days cut large diameter trees with a hand saw and believe you mean your hands will cramp up for a few days.

I do not believe the culprits will be caught.

I do believe that the simplest answer is the correct answer and one should look to whom gains advantage of a better view.

I wish the District had not paid for this crime because once paid all interest by district and police will disappear because our money solved their problem

I do wish the district reviewed the legal possibility of charging the costs to the residents of this village because I assure you suddenly one neighbor would have a miraculous recollection of suspicious events

In short the district did not serve us best in the use of our amenities .

[downeaster]

Have you given thought to how long it would have taken to saw the trees using a handsaw ??

Having grown up in the days prior to power saws and having used both two man and one man (boy) bucksaws I can say this would have taken a long time if done by hand saws.

It seems the object was simply to cut down the trees and provide a clear sight line. Without the necessity of removing the cuttings it could have been accomplished by a couple of people with a chain saw in a very short time. No trucks, no trailers, no other equipment needed. I believe the area could have been accessed by boat as previously mentioned.

[bargee]

Being from the North(north of 466 that is) I don't have a "dog in the fight"but I hope those of you that do keep this alive by complaining to anyone that will listen.Some entitled AH committed a crime and should pay the price.There is no reason that an entire community should be penalized for the actions of a criminal.That word(criminal)may offend some but lets call it what it is.

[pmbinnj]

I have in my younger days cut large diameter trees with a hand saw and believe you mean your hands will cramp up for a few days.

I do not believe the culprits will be caught.

I do believe that the simplest answer is the correct answer and one should look to whom gains advantage of a better view.

I wish the District had not paid for this crime because once paid all interest by district and police will disappear because our money solved their problem

I do wish the district reviewed the legal possibility of charging the costs to the residents of this village because I assure you suddenly one neighbor would have a miraculous recollection of suspicious events

In short the district did not serve us best in the use of our amenities .

It’s been 6 full weeks since this egregious act was first posted and it is just as disgraceful today as it was then. The most obvious motive has always been that one homeowner or a few homeowners desired a better water view at the expense of those beautiful old trees.

While the felled trees are truly awful, it is equally wrong to punish so many homeowners who will now foot the bill. I agree that if the $50,000 fee was charged only to the homeowners in this particular neighborhood someone’s memory would be jogged. After all, money is a powerful motive – it makes idiots cut down trees (so they can sell their house for more $$$) but it also makes a lost memory become an “Ah ha…now I remember” moment.

The reward has unfortunately not yet encouraged anyone to step forward but a hefty bill shared by a small neighborhood will produce reliable leads. It’s time for those who know something to step forward and do the right thing.

[obxgal]

It’s been 6 full weeks since this egregious act was first posted and it is just as disgraceful today as it was then. The most obvious motive has always been that one homeowner or a few homeowners desired a better water view at the expense of those beautiful old trees.

While the felled trees are truly awful, it is equally wrong to punish so many homeowners who will now foot the bill. I agree that if the $50,000 fee was charged only to the homeowners in this particular neighborhood someone’s memory would be jogged. After all, money is a powerful motive – it makes idiots cut down trees (so they can sell their house for more $$$) but it also makes a lost memory become an “Ah ha…now I remember” moment.

I agree completely with what you say.

[Bonanza]

Have you given thought to how long it would have taken to saw the trees using a handsaw ??

You are right. I can't understand how all this tree cutting happened without a lot of people being aware of it.


I would think that anyone seasoned in using saws would be able to tell if a tree was cut with a hand saw or a chain saw.
This is all very strange because a chain saw makes tons of noise.

It's a puzzlement!

[Bonanza]

Being from the North(north of 466 that is) I don't have a "dog in the fight"but I hope those of you that do keep this alive by complaining to anyone that will listen.Some entitled AH committed a crime and should pay the price.There is no reason that an entire community should be penalized for the actions of a criminal.That word(criminal)may offend some but lets call it what it is.

Pardon me, Bargee, but you do have a dog in the fight if you live here.

And pardon my ignorance, but isn't there such a thing called "insurance"
in some of these things such as vandalism, that we residents are charged for???

[Madelaine Amee]

The cost of repairing the damage done to this area of Lake Miona is only the start .............. I cannot be the only person who saw that in future SWFMD are going to be monitoring the area at a cost of between $3 - $5,000 per three months .................. and who do you think is going to foot that continual bill?

It would seem to me that the residents impacted should be contacting their representatives and making an awful lot of noise! You need a good community organizer to get behind this and get to the bottom of it.

[RedChariot]

I just don't understand why I must pay for this. CDD 5-10 to pay? Why? What about CDD 1-4? Why don't they have to share in the cost? It should only be the CDD that Lake Miona is in. I'm not the most politically active or knowledgeable person. Please make me understand how this can be fair.

[Madelaine Amee]

I just don't understand why I must pay for this. CDD 5-10 to pay? Why? What about CDD 1-4? Why don't they have to share in the cost? It should only be the CDD that Lake Miona is in. I'm not the most politically active or knowledgeable person. Please make me understand how this can be fair.

CDD 1 - 4 have a different form of Government.

[janmcn]

I just don't understand why I must pay for this. CDD 5-10 to pay? Why? What about CDD 1-4? Why don't they have to share in the cost? It should only be the CDD that Lake Miona is in. I'm not the most politically active or knowledgeable person. Please make me understand how this can be fair.

And this $50,000 expense is added to the $1.5 million residents of districts five through ten are going to be charged for shoring up the Morse Blvd bridge.

IMO Janet Tutt seems to be trying to sweep this event under the rug by just giving the same tired statement every time she is asked about it. Hopefully she will be asked what happens if the guilty party just sells their home and moves far, far away?

[RedChariot]

CDD 1 - 4 have a different form of Government.

Please explain the difference so I can better understand this issue. Thank You.

[RedChariot]

And this $50,000 expense is added to the $1.5 million residents of districts five through ten are going to be charged for shoring up the Morse Blvd bridge.

IMO Janet Tutt seems to be trying to sweep this event under the rug by just giving the same tired statement every time she is asked about it. Hopefully she will be asked what happens if the guilty party just sells their home and moves far, far away?

Considering the tree issue and the bridge restoration, how much money per household are we talking about? Will it be spread out over a span of time?

[janmcn]

Considering the tree issue and the bridge restoration, how much money per household are we talking about? Will it be spread out over a span of time?

That would be a good question for your elected representative in whatever district you live. Just guessing that these fees would come from some reserve fund and not be assessed to each household.

[graciegirl]

We haven't been accessed for anything in the eight years we have owned property here. Not ONE penny from the deal we made when we bought.

[twoplanekid]

All Districts have inter local agreements that cover who pays for what. These agreements are a matter of record so I am told. If what happens doesn’t suite you views, then express your frustration to your locally elected District representatives.

[Villageswimmer]

Did anyone see a mention of this crime in the VHA news included with today's Sun Times? Looked twice but maybe I missed it.

[graciegirl]

///

[rubicon]

There is another dimension to this issue. The District is setting precedent meaning that in future expect more of our amenity fees to be used for other than amenities like attorney fees for fighting the IRS, tree cutting culprits bridges.

And again let's not put the cart before the horse. In my view we do not have people making negative statements we have a negative situation that people are commenting on and they have a right to express their opinion.

[Bogie Shooter]

CDD 1 - 4 have a different form of Government.

What are the differences?

[Barefoot]

It’s been 6 full weeks since this egregious act was first posted and it is just as disgraceful today as it was then. The most obvious motive has always been that one homeowner or a few homeowners desired a better water view at the expense of those beautiful old trees.

While the felled trees are truly awful, it is equally wrong to punish so many homeowners who will now foot the bill. I agree that if the $50,000 fee was charged only to the homeowners in this particular neighborhood someone’s memory would be jogged. After all, money is a powerful motive – it makes idiots cut down trees (so they can sell their house for more $$$) but it also makes a lost memory become an “Ah ha…now I remember” moment.

The reward has unfortunately not yet encouraged anyone to step forward but a hefty bill shared by a small neighborhood will produce reliable leads. It’s time for those who know something to step forward and do the right thing.

I agree. I contacted my CDD representative. He said: "Of course people in the immediate neighborhood knew exactly what was going on".

[Bogie Shooter]

And this $50,000 expense is added to the $1.5 million residents of districts five through ten are going to be charged for shoring up the Morse Blvd bridge.

IMO Janet Tutt seems to be trying to sweep this event under the rug by just giving the same tired statement every time she is asked about it. Hopefully she will be asked what happens if the guilty party just sells their home and moves far, far away?

I have never seen where Jane Tutt "swept anything under the rug".

[Bogie Shooter]

I just don't understand why I must pay for this. CDD 5-10 to pay? Why? What about CDD 1-4? Why don't they have to share in the cost? It should only be the CDD that Lake Miona is in. I'm not the most politically active or knowledgeable person. Please make me understand how this can be fair.

Community Development District Orientation

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No sign-ups or fees are required for this presentation. Sessions are held every Thursday at 10:00 a.m. at the District Office, 984 Old Mill Run.

You may call 352-753-4508 for additional information.

[bagboy]

I have never seen where Jane Tutt "swept anything under the rug".

I agree 100%

[janmcn]

I have never seen where Jane Tutt "swept anything under the rug".


Has Ms Tutt ever addressed the issue of why the district is on the hook for paying the $50,000 and not waiting for the guilty party to be found and made to pay? If she has, I've not see it.

In the 15 years I've lived here, I don't ever remember an event like this where one or two residents break the law and all residents are being asked to pay the damages. Maybe others know of any such events.

[Indydealmaker]

Has Ms Tutt ever addressed the issue of why the district is on the hook for paying the $50,000 and not waiting for the guilty party to be found and made to pay? If she has, I've not see it.

In the 15 years I've lived here, I don't ever remember an event like this where one or two residents break the law and all residents are being asked to pay the damages. Maybe others know of any such events.

The district is on the hook because the district owns the property. It is not up to The Villages to decide when they pay. The district must mitigate the property damage when they are told.

Why is everything such a conspiracy?

[rubicon]

I have never seen where Jane Tutt "swept anything under the rug".

Hmmmmmmm "never" that's absolute? Requires being around Tutt 24/7

I too respect Ms. Tutt but leaders do occasionally bend under pressure.

[Villageswimmer]

The district is on the hook because the district owns the property. It is not up to The Villages to decide when they pay. The district must mitigate the property damage when they are told.

Why is everything such a conspiracy?


A previous poster asked whether TV has insurance against vandalism on its property. Sounds like a reasonable question to me. Thoughts?

[Warren Kiefer]

I agree 100%

It's Janet not Jane !!!

[graciegirl]

I hate it when people try to make this place look bad. I really do believe that everyone can see the same people bashing, bashing, bashing. AND I know why. THANK GOODNESS that the MAJORITY of people who live here don't agree with them.

Janet Tutt is an ethical person. If I had her job I would throw myself off the Morse Bridge.


Daily.

[Warren Kiefer]

Hmmmmmmm "never" that's absolute? Requires being around Tutt 24/7

I too respect Ms. Tutt but leaders do occasionally bend under pressure.

The problem here is that Janet Tutt is actually hired by the Developer. The developer is the only land owner in the VCCDD District which employs Ms Tutt. BUT, the developer does not pay her salary, the residents do. I would not accuse her of being biased, but it does have a possible conflict of interest connection.

[Warren Kiefer]

An even bigger question for me is "Who done it"? I hope the Sheriff's offices finds the culprits and makes them pay the costs back to the District.

I would like to see the Authorities ask those who most benefitted from the cutting of the trees to take a lie detector exam. There is no doubt in my mind that if anyone knows any details of the cutting, it would be quickly exposed.

[graciegirl]

I would like to see the Authorities ask those who most benefitted from the cutting of the trees to take a lie detector exam. There is no doubt in my mind that if anyone knows any details of the cutting, it would be quickly exposed.


THEY can't DO that. I am not defending the folks who did it.

But you just can't accuse someone without proof. And a lie detector test is worth the paper it's printed on. People with no conscience can pass them 24/7.

There is no conspiracy with The Villages government.. Someone did something wrong and there is no way to prove they did. Period and amen.

I am guessing that people who live closeby are pretty sure they know who did it, but they don't know Which who.

[janmcn]

THEY can't DO that. I am not defending the folks who did it.

But you just can't accuse someone without proof. And a lie detector test is worth the paper it's printed on. People with no conscience can pass them 24/7.

There is no conspiracy with The Villages government.. Someone did something wrong and there is no way to prove they did. Period and amen.

I am guessing that people who live closeby are pretty sure they know who did it, but they don't know Which who.


So they walk, we pay. The lesson learned here is do whatever you want, just don't leave a trail, and the other residents will cover your fines because we weren't given a choice.

[Barefoot]

A previous poster asked whether TV has insurance against vandalism on its property. Sounds like a reasonable question to me?

Good question.

[Bogie Shooter]

Good question.

Probably self insured.

[downeaster]

The problem here is that Janet Tutt is actually hired by the Developer. The developer is the only land owner in the VCCDD District which employs Ms Tutt. BUT, the developer does not pay her salary, the residents do. I would not accuse her of being biased, but it does have a possible conflict of interest connection.

I fail to see where there is a conflict of interest. We do not know who the perpetrator(s) is so how can we assume Janet Tutt has a conflict of interest. Are you assuming she knows the culprit and is protecting them?
It is now in the hands of the Sheriff's Department.
It is not Janet Tutt's decision to pay the fine. That decision was made when the agreement was established permitting expanding in that location.

[graciegirl]

So they walk, we pay. The lesson learned here is do whatever you want, just don't leave a trail, and the other residents will cover your fines because we weren't given a choice.

Jan...people do things like that every day that we pay for. All of the people who defraud welfare, we pay for.

It is ALWAYS wrong and not new.

[graciegirl]

I fail to see where there is a conflict of interest. We do not know who the perpetrator(s) is so how can we assume Janet Tutt has a conflict of interest. Are you assuming she knows the culprit and is protecting them?
It is now in the hands of the Sheriff's Department.
It is not Janet Tutt's decision to pay the fine. That decision was made when the agreement was established permitting expanding in that location.

So right.

[Bonanza]

We haven't been accessed for anything in the eight years we have owned property here. Not ONE penny from the deal we made when we bought.

Gracie, I haven't beem here nearly as long as you so I can't speak from any experience and I am sure you are right (you usually are!).

BUT . . . while there haven't been any assessments, residents have been paying and are paying for things not normally associated with, let's say, normal things.

We have been paying and will continue to pay for the IRS fiasco until maybe in the next century, it will be settled. :shrug:
We will have to pay for the soil erosion under the bridge. And now -- the damn tree situation!

It also makes me wonder if we are also paying for the widening of 466A (1.8 miles) in the Fruitland Park area where the developer is supposedly paying for the widening of that part of the road. Are "we" really paying for that???

Consequently, since there has not been any special assessment, it would seem that there is a lot of surplus money in the pot, no?
But the real question is why are we, the residents, paying for all these things?

[graciegirl]

Gracie, I haven't beem here nearly as long as you so I can't speak from any experience and I am sure you are right (you usually are!).

BUT . . . while there haven't been any assessments, residents have been paying and are paying for things not normally associated with, let's say, normal things.

We have been paying and will continue to pay for the IRS fiasco until maybe in the next century, it will be settled. :shrug:
We will have to pay for the soil erosion under the bridge. And now -- the damn tree situation!

It also makes me wonder if we are also paying for the widening of 466A (1.8 miles) in the Fruitland Park area where the developer is supposedly paying for the widening of that part of the road. Are "we" really paying for that???

Consequently, since there has not been any special assessment, it would seem that there is a lot of surplus money in the pot, no?
But the real question is why are we, the residents, paying for all these things?

There has been no assessment for anything in eight years and apparently EVER.

The IRS Fiasco...as you call it was not anything underhanded. We live in a CDD form of government that is only in Florida and we are not the only CDD. The municipal bonds are the issue. The fact that the interest on them was tax free. NOT the bonds on our property. They challenged how the CDD works. It was not some conspiracy to avoid income tax or a way to get away with something that is wrong. If it were it wouldn't have gone one for eight years and three IRS agents without resolution.


We are paying the lawyer because the lawyer is protecting us and the way things are run.

The developer has paid for so many things. He isn't our mom, but widening the road is to their interest in continuing the development in Fruitland Park.

Which keeps people working, which allows people like you and me to move here, which keeps the economy flowing here, which makes money for the developers kids who long ago made more money than they need for all of the things that anyone could want in four lifetimes,,,but still they keep working in very high stress jobs. I would have to guess that the motivation is that this is a history making place, and a good thing, and a matter of pride to them. They don't need any more money...and they must feel a responsibility to the teams they have employed who have stuck with them for years and years. They keep working. Things keep being wonderful and beautiful.

I don't think that in our lifetime, you or I will pay a penny for any assessments.

As Bogie Shooter says. The Morses are self insured.

Don't blame the tree fiasco on The Morses. They had nothing to do with it.

The soil erosion under anything is not their fault either.

They could have geologists stacked on top of engineers and things sink here occasionally.

[Bogie Shooter]

Gracie, I haven't beem here nearly as long as you so I can't speak from any experience and I am sure you are right (you usually are!).

BUT . . . while there haven't been any assessments, residents have been paying and are paying for things not normally associated with, let's say, normal things.

We have been paying and will continue to pay for the IRS fiasco until maybe in the next century, it will be settled. :shrug:
We will have to pay for the soil erosion under the bridge. And now -- the damn tree situation!

It also makes me wonder if we are also paying for the widening of 466A (1.8 miles) in the Fruitland Park area where the developer is supposedly paying for the widening of that part of the road. Are "we" really paying for that???

Consequently, since there has not been any special assessment, it would seem that there is a lot of surplus money in the pot, no?
But the real question is why are we, the residents, paying for all these things?

Maybe you should go to some of the budget meetings, they are all open to the public. You could find answers to the questions, that you just throw out to stir the pot!

[Bonanza]

Maybe you should go to some of the budget meetings, they are all open to the public. You could find answers to the questions, that you just throw out to stir the pot!

It's unfortunate that you think I am stirring the pot and I resent your implication.
I guess you can't tell the difference between real questions that affect all of us
versus simply overlooking things that take place here and then criticizing someone who brings these items up.

I mentioned these things and Gracie commented. That was fine.
Can you tell me with a straight face that you don't find it strange that (supposedly) all residents south of 466 will be responsible for paying for the soil erosion?
Why residents south of 466 when residents north of 466 use the bridge just as much?
Anyone can use the bridge; it is a public bridge.
So why just certain residents and why any residents at all, since it is a county road?
You don't find it strange that a public road and bridge is built on private property?

You don't think it's strange (again, supposedly) that the residents of Districts 5 through 9 (I think that's accurate) have to pay for the tree thing?

I could go on, but these things have nothing whatsoever to do with a budget.
If that is your way of telling me you know more than me, it hasn't worked.
It's unfortunate you couldn't offer anything constructive.
You didn't even follow the forum's rule to stay on topic!
You think that asking these kind of questions are stirring a pot?
If you really think so, you are very wrong.
You may not care about answers to these questions, but I do, as do many others.
This forum is a great place to ask questions because there are a lot of smart and informed people who know some of these answers.

[NYGUY]

Maybe you should go to some of the budget meetings, they are all open to the public. You could find answers to the questions, that you just throw out to stir the pot!

It's unfortunate that you think I am stirring the pot and I resent your implication.
I guess you can't tell the difference between real questions that affect all of us
versus simply overlooking things that take place here and then criticizing someone who brings these items up.

I mentioned these things and Gracie commented. That was fine.
Can you tell me with a straight face that you don't find it strange that (supposedly) all residents south of 466 will be responsible for paying for the soil erosion?
Why residents south of 466 when residents north of 466 use the bridge just as much?
Anyone can use the bridge; it is a public bridge.
So why just certain residents and why any residents at all, since it is a county road?
You don't find it strange that a public road and bridge is built on private property?

You don't think it's strange (again, supposedly) that the residents of Districts 5 through 9 (I think that's accurate) have to pay for the tree thing?

I could go on, but these things have nothing whatsoever to do with a budget.
If that is your way of telling me you know more than me, it hasn't worked.
It's unfortunate you couldn't offer anything constructive.
You didn't even follow the forum's rule to stay on topic!
You think that asking these kind of questions are stirring a pot?
If you really think so, you are very wrong.
You may not care about answers to these questions, but I do, as do many others.
This forum is a great place to ask questions because there are a lot of smart and informed people who know some of these answers.

:popcorn::popcorn:

[Bogie Shooter]

It's unfortunate that you think I am stirring the pot and I resent your implication.
I guess you can't tell the difference between real questions that affect all of us
versus simply overlooking things that take place here and then criticizing someone who brings these items up.

I mentioned these things and Gracie commented. That was fine.
Can you tell me with a straight face that you don't find it strange that (supposedly) all residents south of 466 will be responsible for paying for the soil erosion?
Why residents south of 466 when residents north of 466 use the bridge just as much?
Anyone can use the bridge; it is a public bridge.
So why just certain residents and why any residents at all, since it is a county road?
You don't find it strange that a public road and bridge is built on private property?

You don't think it's strange (again, supposedly) that the residents of Districts 5 through 9 (I think that's accurate) have to pay for the tree thing?

I could go on, but these things have nothing whatsoever to do with a budget.
If that is your way of telling me you know more than me, it hasn't worked.
It's unfortunate you couldn't offer anything constructive.
You didn't even follow the forum's rule to stay on topic!
You think that asking these kind of questions are stirring a pot?
If you really think so, you are very wrong.
You may not care about answers to these questions, but I do, as do many others.
This forum is a great place to ask questions because there are a lot of smart and informed people who know some of these answers.

As usual. Whatever...............

[Warren Kiefer]

THEY can't DO that. I am not defending the folks who did it.

But you just can't accuse someone without proof. And a lie detector test is worth the paper it's printed on. People with no conscience can pass them 24/7.

There is no conspiracy with The Villages government.. Someone did something wrong and there is no way to prove they did. Period and amen.
I am guessing that people who live closeby are pretty sure they know who did it, but they don't know Which who.

Of course they can do it. All lie detector exams are voluntary and as far as accusing someone, this is not the case. In fact most people who agree to the exam are more interested in an indication of being innocent rather than the feeling of being accused. If I were one of the residents who seems to have benefitted by the cutting, and I were innocent, I would ask for the exam.

[Warren Kiefer]

I fail to see where there is a conflict of interest. We do not know who the perpetrator(s) is so how can we assume Janet Tutt has a conflict of interest. Are you assuming she knows the culprit and is protecting them?
It is now in the hands of the Sheriff's Department.
It is not Janet Tutt's decision to pay the fine. That decision was made when the agreement was established permitting expanding in that location.

You totally missed the point !! No one is accusing Janet Tutt of doing anything wrong. Her possible conflict of interest regarding all issues involving the Residents and the Developer is easily apparent. Her employment can easily be controlled by the Developer, yet we residents directly pay her for her services. A person that pays the salary usually has control of the hiring and firing of an individual. The board that has control of Janet Tutt, is an elected body, BUT THE ONLY LANDOWNER THAT CASTS SUCH VOTES IS THE DEVELOPER HIMSELF. I cannot imagine anyone who knows the inner workings of the VCCDD not seeing the possible conflict of interest.

[Chi-Town]

With break-ins occurring throughout the area and normal monitoring of the community I doubt if additional resources are going to be allocated to a victimless crime. It is probably a cold case already.

There should be insurance to cover this act. And if it is self insurance an amount of money is already set aside. Never should have happened though.

[Moderator]

If members cannot conduct themselves without a confrontational attitude, they risk losing the privilege of participating in TOTV. You can disagree without a "nose to nose" attitude.

[manaboutown]

As usual it is all about the money, i.e. out of whose pocket will it come?

Hopefully the cretins who vandalized the property by cutting down the trees will be identified, tried and convicted. Perhaps restitution can be had through a civil lawsuit so that those who did the deed pay the price.

Call me cynical, but the tree cutting could not have been accomplished by any one person without some witness observation or knowledge precedent or subsequent by others.

BTW, who would benefit from the cutting through view enhancement or other outcome?

[dewilson58]

Feels like this thread is long over dead.

[downeaster]

You totally missed the point !! No one is accusing Janet Tutt of doing anything wrong. Her possible conflict of interest regarding all issues involving the Residents and the Developer is easily apparent. Her employment can easily be controlled by the Developer, yet we residents directly pay her for her services. A person that pays the salary usually has control of the hiring and firing of an individual. The board that has control of Janet Tutt, is an elected body, BUT THE ONLY LANDOWNER THAT CASTS SUCH VOTES IS THE DEVELOPER HIMSELF. I cannot imagine anyone who knows the inner workings of the VCCDD not seeing the possible conflict of interest.

I do understand the inner workings of the VCDD, Warren. As in any government position there is always a possibility of conflict of interest. I would like to discuss this with you here in more detail but I hesitate in view of Moderator's recent admonition.

[graciegirl]

As usual it is all about the money, i.e. out of whose pocket will it come?

Hopefully the cretins who vandalized the property by cutting down the trees will be identified, tried and convicted. Perhaps restitution can be had through a civil lawsuit so that those who did the deed pay the price.

Call me cynical, but the tree cutting could not have been accomplished by any one person without some witness observation or knowledge precedent or subsequent by others.

BTW, who would benefit from the cutting through view enhancement or other outcome?

At the very least, hopefully many will now know what our very first grasscutter told us when we first moved here, that Live Oak trees past a certain diameter were protected by law from being removed.

[Bogie Shooter]

Feels like this thread is long over dead.

Do ya think...........................

[Mleeja]

:BigApplause:Do ya think...........................

[tommy steam]

As usual it is all about the money, i.e. out of whose pocket will it come?

Hopefully the cretins who vandalized the property by cutting down the trees will be identified, tried and convicted. Perhaps restitution can be had through a civil lawsuit so that those who did the deed pay the price.

Call me cynical, but the tree cutting could not have been accomplished by any one person without some witness observation or knowledge precedent or subsequent by others.

BTW, who would benefit from the cutting through view enhancement or other outcome?

Put a big fat reward for anyone with information , no questions asked . Maybe one of the workers who was in on it might come forward.

[DonH57]

I found this article mystifying. The "investigation" seems to be moving at a snail's pace. And what's with the two of the four homes "believed to be for sale." Either they are or they are not. Just the noise inherent in cutting these mature trees would certainly lead to neighbors asking questions. Something sounds fishy, and I hope folks living in that CDD don't end up paying.

So no one heard or seen anything while all this was done? Sounds like it was done by the same entity that formed the crop circles.:22yikes:

[Mleeja]

Couple of more post and we will hit 20 pages! The trees will grow back before we are done here. Kind of makes you miss talking about the Morse Ave. bridge... :024:

[Barefoot]

Put a big fat reward for anyone with information , no questions asked . Maybe one of the workers who was in on it might come forward.
An interesting suggestion. :thumbup:

[Bonanza]

You totally missed the point !! No one is accusing Janet Tutt of doing anything wrong. Her possible conflict of interest regarding all issues involving the Residents and the Developer is easily apparentHer possible conflict of interest re. Her employment can easily be controlled by the Developer, yet we residents directly pay her for her services. A person that pays the salary usually has control of the hiring and firing of an individual. The board that has control of Janet Tutt, is an elected body, BUT THE ONLY LANDOWNER THAT CASTS SUCH VOTES IS THE DEVELOPER HIMSELF. I cannot imagine anyone who knows the inner workings of the VCCDD not seeing the possible conflict of interest.

I was not aware that we, the residents, pay Janet Tutt's salary, and frankly, I find this very upsetting. In the real world, the fiduciary of an "employee" belongs to the person who is paying the salary. Period! So if this isn't a conflict of interest, what is it? Are we, all 110,000+ residents, drinking the Kool-Aid?

[graciegirl]

I was not aware that we, the residents, pay Janet Tutt's salary, and frankly, I find this very upsetting. In the real world, the fiduciary of an "employee" belongs to the person who is paying the salary. Period! So if this isn't a conflict of interest, what is it? Are we, all 110,000+ residents, drinking the Kool-Aid?


I suggest going to a meeting where how a CDD is run is explained and not taking an explanation from someone who posts on this forum.

How can it be a conflict of interest if the person who manages the business of a CDD doesn't KNOW who cut down the trees? She wasn't there. I wasn't there. You weren't there. We are all pretty sure who dunnit...but proof is another matter.

. The CDD common grounds and preserves are enjoyed by all of us. Some more than others. Lovely views if you live on them.

I don't understand the combative stance against the developers.

[virgind]

By paying for the trees to be replaced is the district saying we did it.If I had to pay that and was not the guilty party I would want to find out did and have them pay. Kind of suspicious .

[bargee]

We now have people calling for an end to these postings.I would think that is exactly what the people involved in this illegal act were hoping for.Drag something out long enough and everyone will tire of hearing about it.

[Cedwards38]

Put a big fat reward for anyone with information , no questions asked . Maybe one of the workers who was in on it might come forward.

Yeah, we could start a bidding war between the VCDD offering a reward and the jerks who initiated this who would try to buy their silence! :BigApplause: Honestly, I bet that has already happened.

[Mleeja]

We now have people calling for an end to these postings.I would think that is exactly what the people involved in this illegal act were hoping for.Drag something out long enough and everyone will tire of hearing about it.

The only problem is no one is offering anything new. What is being posted on page 19 is the same thing posted on page 2. Post something new or original, or at least take the time to read what others have posted.....

[marianne237]

would have been cheaper in the long run to just have the moss removed ... than you could have seen the view (IMHO)

[Bogie Shooter]

Couple of more post and we will hit 20 pages! The trees will grow back before we are done here. Kind of makes you miss talking about the Morse Ave. bridge... :024:

Its Morse Blvd.

[Bogie Shooter]

I suggest going to a meeting where how a CDD is run is explained and not taking an explanation from someone who posts on this forum.

How can it be a conflict of interest if the person who manages the business of a CDD doesn't KNOW who cut down the trees? She wasn't there. I wasn't there. You weren't there. We are all pretty sure who dunnit...but proof is another matter.

. The CDD common grounds and preserves are enjoyed by all of us. Some more than others. Lovely views if you live on them.

I don't understand the combative stance against the developers.

You mean, this is the first you noticed from this poster?

[Bogie Shooter]

By paying for the trees to be replaced is the district saying we did it.If I had to pay that and was not the guilty party I would want to find out did and have them pay. Kind of suspicious .

What makes you think the district is not trying to find out who did it?

[Bogie Shooter]

The only problem is no one is offering anything new. What is being posted on page 19 is the same thing posted on page 2. Post something new or original, or at least take the time to read what others have posted.....

Could not agree more.

[Bogie Shooter]

would have been cheaper in the long run to just have the moss removed ... than you could have seen the view (IMHO)

Ah ha...........how did you know the trees had moss?

[marianne237]

moss on trees...don't they all?

[graciegirl]

He's kiddin' Marianne.

Bogie. You ain't right.

[Mleeja]

Its Morse Blvd.

Ave...Blvd.... Don't ya know it is not anout the bridge, it is the manmade island under the bridge!:ho:

[Bonanza]

I suggest going to a meeting where how a CDD is run is explained and not taking an explanation from someone who posts on this forum.

How can it be a conflict of interest if the person who manages the business of a CDD doesn't KNOW who cut down the trees? She wasn't there. I wasn't there. You weren't there. We are all pretty sure who dunnit...but proof is another matter.

. The CDD common grounds and preserves are enjoyed by all of us. Some more than others. Lovely views if you live on them.

I don't understand the combative stance against the developers.

Gracie -- you missed my point entirely. It has nothing to do with trees. It has to do with the fact that "we" pay Janet Tutt's salary, if that truly is the case (this is the first I've ever heard that), and that she reports to and takes orders from the developer, that is ridiculous and unfair. She is not working for us and not reporting to us. She is taking orders from someone else and telling the residents what someone else wants us to know -- or not know. Is this not a conflict?

[asianthree]

moss on trees...don't they all?

Moss does not grow on trees who have spirts roaming near them:girlneener:

[Warren Kiefer]

Gracie -- you missed my point entirely. It has nothing to do with trees. It has to do with the fact that "we" pay Janet Tutt's salary, if that truly is the case (this is the first I've ever heard that), and that she reports to and takes orders from the developer, that is ridiculous and unfair. She is not working for us and not reporting to us. She is taking orders from someone else and telling the residents what someone else wants us to know -- or not know. Is this not a conflict?

Gracie should know the fact as well as anyone. Let me explain. The VCCDD that is guardian over Janet Tutt's activities is elected thru a landowners election. That District that I speak of has the boundaries of the Spanish Springs downtown area. Since the Developer owns all that downtown area, he is the only voting landowner. Naturally every elected VCCDD official is done thru the graces of the Developer. Janet Tutt's responsibilities are as a Supervisor for the VCCDD. In this role she is involved in all the activities of the VCCDD. This includes the Architectural Review Committee (ARC), the Ammentities Authority Committee (AAC) and nearly every committee that has activities within the District. The VCCDD receives funding directly from the Residents. Often the VCCDD is involved with the purchase of property from the Developer. An example of this is the purchase of various Rec Centers and the Savannah Center. So the potential conflict of interest arises, on one hand the Developer is selling property to the VCCDD, Janet Tutt is the Supervisor of that VCCDD, yet that board is elected by the Developer thru his landowner vote. Developer sells property, how much does VCCDD pay , do we reach a deal, who recommends the purchase, etc etc.
Bottom line, I wouldn't mind being like in a position whereby I wanted to sell something to a particular group (the VCCDD) , and at a huge price, the people who will decide on the purchase (and price) are the same people who I myself alone elected to office and are usually employees of mine.

[graciegirl]

Negativity makes me grind my teeth. Some people constantly look for trouble where there is none.

CONSTANTLY.

Soon Mrs. Mouse will be here to call me Pollyanna.

.

[downeaster]

Gracie should know the fact as well as anyone. Let me explain. The VCCDD that is guardian over Janet Tutt's activities is elected thru a landowners election. That District that I speak of has the boundaries of the Spanish Springs downtown area. Since the Developer owns all that downtown area, he is the only voting landowner. Naturally every elected VCCDD official is done thru the graces of the Developer. Janet Tutt's responsibilities are as a Supervisor for the VCCDD. In this role she is involved in all the activities of the VCCDD. This includes the Architectural Review Committee (ARC), the Ammentities Authority Committee (AAC) and nearly every committee that has activities within the District. The VCCDD receives funding directly from the Residents. Often the VCCDD is involved with the purchase of property from the Developer. An example of this is the purchase of various Rec Centers and the Savannah Center. So the potential conflict of interest arises, on one hand the Developer is selling property to the VCCDD, Janet Tutt is the Supervisor of that VCCDD, yet that board is elected by the Developer thru his landowner vote. Developer sells property, how much does VCCDD pay , do we reach a deal, who recommends the purchase, etc etc.
Bottom line, I wouldn't mind being like in a position whereby I wanted to sell something to a particular group (the VCCDD) , and at a huge price, the people who will decide on the purchase (and price) are the same people who I myself alone elected to office and are usually employees of mine.

An accurate and exceptional summation of how the VCCDD works, Warren. However, this thread is about the removal of trees on land they should not be removed from. Evidently the authorities do not know for certain who is the responsible party. Where does conflict of interest come into this situation? Who would Janet Tutt protect?

[Warren Kiefer]

An accurate and exceptional summation of how the VCCDD works, Warren. However, this thread is about the removal of trees on land they should not be removed from. Evidently the authorities do not know for certain who is the responsible party. Where does conflict of interest come into this situation? Who would Janet Tutt protect?

First and very important, I would never say or insinuate Janet Tutt has done anything wrong. In the tree issue, I cannot offer a conflict of interest in this particular issue. Perhaps the developer had a hand in having the trees cut. There is simply not enough information to make a sound call.
Someone seemed to not have a full understanding how the governmental system works here in the Villages. Some people just love the way things are and are convinced that everything is hunky-dory. I am the realist, there are problems that could be improved with little effort. For some Supervisor/VCCDD conflict of interest I direct you to have a look at a couple that come to mind. The residents originally paying(reversed later) for a pond liner for on the private golf course property owned by the Developer.
Or the Purchase of the savannah Center for the sum of $80 million dollars. Or the magic gate erected overnight blocking all traffic between the Village residents and WalMart. Or the purchase of the Santiago Club for $350, 000 that will be demolished, leaving the District with nothing more than about a third of an acre of land. It was also discovered that the Santiago property had no parking and could not be reopened as a restaurant. The inspector hired by AAC advised the AAC board to NOT purchase this property. They did anyway. Every example I have offered concerned the Developer, the VCCDD, Janet Tutt and District Legal advisors. I am pleased yopu agree that my information appears accurate. But as the saying goes; where there is smoke there will be fire.

[Warren Kiefer]

Negativity makes me grind my teeth. Some people constantly look for trouble where there is none.

CONSTANTLY.

Soon Mrs. Mouse will be here to call me Pollyanna.

.

Gracie, I fear you have no true knowledge of how everything works together to make for a great life. If there are areas of improvement, then do what it takes to make life better. We have an organization that at one time lived for the negative, but with time we find this organization has saved we residents millions and made our dream life better. Everytime a person walks the park like areas on the original side they should be reminded of the settlement the POA was responsible for getting for all we residents. Are you of the belief that we shouldn't look for trouble regarding the tree cutting because there is none ??

[Challenger]

Anyone have an update on the "Tree Saga"???

[Challenger]

The Saga of the Illegally cut trees.

Any news on the disposition of this case?

[Barefoot]

The Saga of the Illegally cut trees.
Any news on the disposition of this case?

The silence is deafening.
Although I'm sure the Police are still working "behind the scenes".
It seems strange that a huge issue would get so little media focus.

[Bonanza]

The silence is deafening.
Although I'm sure the Police are still working "behind the scenes".
It seems strange that a huge issue would get so little media focus.

[SIZE="4"]I agree with you, Bare. I also believe the only real media coverage we would ever get, will come from Orlando, not here.

I find the majority of Villagers to be complacent and don't want to be bothered with most things unless it's something that can bring a smile to their face. In short -- they simply want to go on living their happy-go-lucky lifestyle.

That's all well and good, however, there are some real things for which the the populace is entitled to get some real answers. The tree issue is one of them. The erosion under the Lake Sumpter Bridge is another. Why haven't we heard anything? I still don't understand how the residents can be held responsible for paying the millions to correct this problem. I still don't understand how a public road can be built on private property and then the residents are responsible for paying for this repair. I'm still scratching my head trying to figure out how that makes sense. I also don't get why the residents are paying the developer's attorney fees for the bond issue.
:shrug:

[graciegirl]

[SIZE="4"]I agree with you, Bare. I also believe the only real media coverage we would ever get, will come from Orlando, not here.

I find the majority of Villagers to be complacent and don't want to be bothered with most things unless it's something that can bring a smile to their face. In short -- they simply want to go on living their happy-go-lucky lifestyle.

That's all well and good, however, there are some real things for which the the populace is entitled to get some real answers. The tree issue is one of them. The erosion under the Lake Sumpter Bridge is another. Why haven't we heard anything? I still don't understand how the residents can be held responsible for paying the millions to correct this problem. I still don't understand how a public road can be built on private property and then the residents are responsible for paying for this repair. I'm still scratching my head trying to figure out how that makes sense. I also don't get why the residents are paying the developer's attorney fees for the bond issue.

:shrug:


Because it is protecting all of us and the CDD from the IRS who is challenging the very issue of the CDD.

I love your new font and I think these are legitimate questions. After you are here for awhile you see that no one is accessed anything for these things. There are wise funds held for these repairs. Many people are skeptical about the developers, I am skeptical about their detractors.

The developers are not horn tooters or very big on explaining. They hide and do good things.

[Bogie Shooter]

[SIZE="4"]I agree with you, Bare. I also believe the only real media coverage we would ever get, will come from Orlando, not here.

I find the majority of Villagers to be complacent and don't want to be bothered with most things unless it's something that can bring a smile to their face. In short -- they simply want to go on living their happy-go-lucky lifestyle.

That's all well and good, however, there are some real things for which the the populace is entitled to get some real answers. The tree issue is one of them. The erosion under the Lake Sumpter Bridge is another. Why haven't we heard anything? I still don't understand how the residents can be held responsible for paying the millions to correct this problem. I still don't understand how a public road can be built on private property and then the residents are responsible for paying for this repair. I'm still scratching my head trying to figure out how that makes sense. I also don't get why the residents are paying the developer's attorney fees for the bond issue.
:shrug:

Why not go to the district meetings and find out your answers? Rather than reposting the same old questions.

[Challenger]

Why not go to the district meetings and find out your answers? Rather than reposting the same old questions.

Because rumors and conspiracy theories are much more fun than mere facts.

[Mleeja]

Lordy, I had thought this topic had sunk to the bottom of lake sumter along with the bridge. boggie shooter is one hundred percent correct! Go to a meeting. There is a period for the residents to ask any question they want.

[gomoho]

Why are folks sick and tired of this post even paying attention to it? If you are tired of it don't look at it and let those that wish to continue to discuss do so without your negative comments.

[Mleeja]

Because after 22 pages of comments NO one says anything new.

[Challenger]

Tired of these posts? Stop opening!!!

[Bonanza]

Why not go to the district meetings and find out your answers? Rather than reposting the same old questions.

Because rumors and conspiracy theories are much more fun than mere facts.

Lordy, I had thought this topic had sunk to the bottom of lake sumter along with the bridge. boggie shooter is one hundred percent correct! Go to a meeting. There is a period for the residents to ask any question they want.

These topics have been brought up at meetings and the responses from the powers that be have been gobbledygook and cliff hangers.

Bogie, Challenger and Mleeja: Have any of you been to any meetings???

[Bonanza]

Tired of these posts? Stop opening!!!

Because after 22 pages of comments NO one says anything new.

So this must mean you are a Villager who is complacent regarding important things and really don't care about what gets done, what doesn't get done, who does it and who pays for it.

Life goes on regardless, right?

And becuase you say that no one says anything new, I guess it's okay just to forget about it and sweep it under a carpet.

Just as Challenger says -- no one is forcing you to read this thread!

[Bonanza]

Why are folks sick and tired of this post even paying attention to it? If you are tired of it don't look at it and let those that wish to continue to discuss do so without your negative comments.

Amen!:BigApplause:

[graciegirl]

In my opinion, again I say..........There isn't a conspiracy. Our amenity fees are based on cost of living. We won't have a special assessment. I say that after living here for eight years.

Hide and watch. You won't pay a penny, I won't pay a penny. BUT if it was a traditionally run community, run less efficiently, we would be wasting money all over the place.

I am hoping that the people who are critical have gone to the meetings particularly the orientation meetings that explain how a CDD works.

It isn't clear whether the people who are critical have gone to the meetings or not. I can't see how the culpability for the illegal tree removal is linked to how the district is run. It is clear to me that some homeowners have commissioned the tree removal to restore the clear view they THOUGHT they were entitled to and a government agency saw otherwise about cutting down protected live oak trees and fined the owner of the property where the oak trees grew; THE DISTRICT..

[LndLocked]

In my opinion, again I say..........There isn't a conspiracy. Our amenity fees are based on cost of living. We won't have a special assessment. I say that after living here for eight years.

Hide and watch. You won't pay a penny, I won't pay a penny. BUT if it was a traditionally run community, run less efficiently, we would be wasting money all over the place.

I am hoping that the people who are critical have gone to the meetings particularly the orientation meetings that explain how a CDD works.

It isn't clear whether the people who are critical have gone to the meetings or not. I can't see how the culpability for the illegal tree removal is linked to how the district is run. It is clear to me that some homeowners have commissioned the tree removal to restore the clear view they THOUGHT they were entitled to and a government agency saw otherwise about cutting down protected live oak trees and fined the owner of the property where the oak trees grew; THE DISTRICT..

If amenity fees are utilized to mitigate the unauthorized & illegal tree removal ..... then you and everyone that paid those fees ARE in effect paying.

It might not be via a special assessment that is specifically earmarked for the mitigation .... but residents of districts south of 466 ARE paying.

[tommy steam]

I still say they should put up a reward of 5k or more to anyone, no questions asked, for information leading to the arrest of the person responsible. Money talks.

[LndLocked]

I still say they should put up a reward of 5k or more to anyone, no questions asked, for information leading to the arrest of the person responsible. Money talks.

I believe that their was / is currently a reward posted for info that is in excess of 5K,

Out of shear curiosity I dove to the area where his happened and IMO, their is NO POSSIBLE way that this amount of tree removal could have happened without SEVERAL adjoining properly owners not being fully aware of who did it (both company doing the cutting and who paid for it). It is a conspiracy of silence that is costing each and every property owner south of 466.

[graciegirl]

I believe that their was / is currently a reward posted for info that is in excess of 5K,

Out of shear curiosity I dove to the area where his happened and IMO, their is NO POSSIBLE way that this amount of tree removal could have happened without SEVERAL adjoining properly owners not being fully aware of who did it (both company doing the cutting and who paid for it). It is a conspiracy of silence that is costing each and every property owner south of 466.


I think the neighbors can guess which one or two of the four is responsible but that isn't something you can tell the police with absolute certainty. You might be able to guess real good who was of that mindset and felt what they wanted was above authority...but that isn't something you can tell the police with absolute authority. I am NOT standing up for this action, just trying to explain why someone hasn't stepped forward. I doubt the choppers themselves wore logoed clothing or drove a truck with insignia..

[Chi-Town]

So much time has passed that it is probably just history to those concerned. Nobody there is going to say anything, and it's probably getting close to cold case time with the authorities. Let's hope any fine is negotiable.

[Bonanza]

I believe that their was / is currently a reward posted for info that is in excess of 5K,

Out of shear curiosity I dove to the area where his happened and IMO, their is NO POSSIBLE way that this amount of tree removal could have happened without SEVERAL adjoining properly owners not being fully aware of who did it (both company doing the cutting and who paid for it). It is a conspiracy of silence that is costing each and every property owner south of 466.

I, too, drove the area but was not able to determine behind which house the trees were cut down. Exactly where is this property?

I question why the immediate neighbors were not put under oath and asked salient questions about the tree removal. I doubt that they would perjure themselves under oath. Or, how about taking a lie detector test???

[Challenger]

I am not a conspiracy guy, however, IMO there is more than just normal reluctance to rat in this situation. The cost of fixing the damage far exceeds grand theft if there had been a robbery. I think that someone is scared to talk, for some reason.

[janmcn]

So much time has passed that it is probably just history to those concerned. Nobody there is going to say anything, and it's probably getting close to cold case time with the authorities. Let's hope any fine is negotiable.


Perhaps it's time for a peaceful protest march down Lake Miona Drive. If hundreds, maybe thousands, of residents showed up with their signs, the perpetrators might be flushed out of their hiding places. Marchers could march until they confess, as long as it takes.

Remember how quickly the wall got taken down when residents showed up to protest in Spanish Springs, almost two years ago. And BTW, the press also showed up.

My sign will say 'Heck no, I'm not paying', only it won't be heck.

[graciegirl]

Perhaps it's time for a peaceful protest march down Lake Miona Drive. If hundreds, maybe thousands, of residents showed up with their signs, the perpetrators might be flushed out of their hiding places. Marchers could march until they confess, as long as it takes.

My sign will say 'Heck no, I'm not paying', only it won't be heck.


I hope you're funnin' us.

[NavyNJ]

Perhaps it's time for a peaceful protest march down Lake Miona Drive. If hundreds, maybe thousands, of residents showed up with their signs, the perpetrators might be flushed out of their hiding places. Marchers could march until they confess, as long as it takes.

Remember how quickly the wall got taken down when residents showed up to protest in Spanish Springs, almost two years ago. And BTW, the press also showed up.

My sign will say 'Heck no, I'm not paying', only it won't be heck.


I like that idea!! What about setting up a rotating shift schedule to have maximum coverage, like unions do at non-union job sites. Hey...and maybe someone can locate one of big, inflatable Rats to have floating overhead, marking the location!! lol

[Mleeja]

I hope you're funnin' us.

I don't think so...... :mademyday:

[Bogie Shooter]

If amenity fees are utilized to mitigate the unauthorized & illegal tree removal ..... then you and everyone that paid those fees ARE in effect paying.

It might not be via a special assessment that is specifically earmarked for the mitigation .... but residents of districts south of 466 ARE paying.

Probably about $.50/lot.....................

[handyman]

There is a precedent being set,the rich and privileged can break the law with no consequences, and the lambs will pay for it.

[graciegirl]

There is a precedent being set,the rich and privileged can break the law with no consequences, and the lambs will pay for it.


Noone would like it if someone said something demeaning about all of the people who live in Gardenia's or in Hadley.

This is probably the most classless place you could ever live. Big houses or small, we are all OLD. AND none of us are getting out alive.

AND you can't take it with you.

[john2]

Won't the vegetation grow back?

[VT2TV]

Probably about $.50/lot.....................


I could be wrong, and am sure someone would correct me if I am, but I thought it was only 4 , maybe 5 CDD's that would pay for the trees, and all CDD's south of 466 would pay for the repair of the island under the bridge. Luckily, I am in both of these groups, so I do have a couple irons in the fire, so to speak. I think they should bill those 4 houses in Lake Miona they talked about earlier whose view was improved by cutting the trees. I can guarantee that anyone of the 4 who actually was not involved, would start talking very quickly if they thought they were going to have to pay such a large amount. As far as the island/bridge goes, IF the residents have to pay, then all residents should have to pay. It is not the amount, but about a half(or so) of the residents below 466a have been here under a year. They shouldn't have to pay when residents who have used the bridge for 10+ years don't have to pay. Again, I realize the amount would be small, but it is the priniciple, and why do several CDD's have to pay 2 of the fees, some CDD's have to pay 1 and some none. That just isn't right.

[Bonanza]

Probably about $.50/lot.....................

Do I understand you correctly that since the amount will only be about $.50 per unit, give or take, everyone should just forget about the tree incident? That in the scheme of things, it's really insignificant?

[Bonanza]

I could be wrong, and am sure someone would correct me if I am, but I thought it was only 4 , maybe 5 CDD's that would pay for the trees, and all CDD's south of 466 would pay for the repair of the island under the bridge. Luckily, I am in both of these groups, so I do have a couple irons in the fire, so to speak. I think they should bill those 4 houses in Lake Miona they talked about earlier whose view was improved by cutting the trees. I can guarantee that anyone of the 4 who actually was not involved, would start talking very quickly if they thought they were going to have to pay such a large amount. As far as the island/bridge goes, IF the residents have to pay, then all residents should have to pay. It is not the amount, but about a half(or so) of the residents below 466a have been here under a year. They shouldn't have to pay when residents who have used the bridge for 10+ years don't have to pay. Again, I realize the amount would be small, but it is the priniciple, and why do several CDD's have to pay 2 of the fees, some CDD's have to pay 1 and some none. That just isn't right.

I've never heard of anything more ridiculous than the rationale that everyone south of 466 should pay to repair the erosion!

The bridge is part of a city street. How a county built bridge can be built on private property is beyond me. And how a certain portion of homeowners should be responsible for paying for this repair is beyond me even more. It is a city street. It is used buy everyone in the Villages, regardless of where someone lives. It is also used by anyone who chooses to use Morse as their route to go somewhere -- residents and non-residents alike.

So why is only a certain group responsible for the fix? This entire matter defies logic and the same goes for paying for the trees.

[Bill2]

Put a lien on all four houses. Someone will tell who the guilty person is.

[graciegirl]

Put a lien on all four houses. Someone will tell who the guilty person is.


Ummm. You just can't do that. Law must be followed.

And marching isn't going to "flush" out the perp(s) either.

[graciegirl]

Do I understand you correctly that since the amount will only be about $.50 per unit, give or take, everyone should just forget about the tree incident? That in the scheme of things, it's really insignificant?

NO. But no one seems able to prove WHO did it even though they have it narrowed down to FOUR.

[graciegirl]

I've never heard of anything more ridiculous than the rationale that everyone south of 466 should pay to repair the erosion!

The bridge is part of a city street. How a county built bridge can be built on private property is beyond me. And how a certain portion of homeowners should be responsible for paying for this repair is beyond me even more. It is a city street. It is used buy everyone in the Villages, regardless of where someone lives. It is also used by anyone who chooses to use Morse as their route to go somewhere -- residents and non-residents alike.

So why is only a certain group responsible for the fix? This entire matter defies logic and the same goes for paying for the trees.

Because essentially the areas north and south of 466 are governed differently because of the danged ********

I think if you went to the meeting which explains a CDD form of government that it would be clearer.

[bimmertl]

Because essentially the areas north and south of 466 are governed differently because of the danged ********

I think if you went to the meeting which explains a CDD form of government that it would be clearer.

Really, the lawsuit is the reason? Read the third paragraph from the attached article and then the rest of it if you wish.

Don't you just hate facts?



PROJECT WIDE AGREEMENT AFFIDAVIT (http://www.poa4us.org/project_wide.html)

[virgind]

How did you get from trees to a bridge

[Barefoot]

Put a lien on all four houses. Someone will tell who the guilty person is.

I don't think it's an easy matter to just "put a lien on all four houses".
And although it's an appealing suggestion, I doubt you can force innocent people to take a Lie Detector test.
Since the coppers don't seem to be able to "finger a suspect", I think they're probably stymied.

I agree with Chi-Town. "So much time has passed that it is probably just history to those concerned. Nobody there is going to say anything, and it's probably getting close to cold case time with the authorities. Let's hope any fine is negotiable."

[graciegirl]

Really, the lawsuit is the reason? Read the third paragraph from the attached article and then the rest of it if you wish.

Don't you just hate facts?



PROJECT WIDE AGREEMENT AFFIDAVIT (http://www.poa4us.org/project_wide.html)


The areas north and south of 466 are governed differently.

I like my side the best.

[Polar Bear]

Put a lien on all four houses. Someone will tell who the guilty person is.
So...guilty 'till proven innocent?

[graciegirl]

I don't think it's an easy matter to just "put a lien on all four houses".
And although it's an appealing suggestion, I doubt you can force innocent people to take a Lie Detector test.
Since the coppers don't seem to be able to "finger a suspect", I think they're probably stymied.

I agree with Chi-Town. "So much time has passed that it is probably just history to those concerned. Nobody there is going to say anything, and it's probably getting close to cold case time with the authorities. Let's hope any fine is negotiable."



Bump