Gates

[downeaster]

I know this is wandering off the topic of roundabouts, but it's an interesting point, since The Villages really isn't a gated community at all.
The Gates do give some type of psychological security, but is it really worth the price.
Many of us were unaware when we purchased that the gates are there for traffic control.
The streets are owned by the County; they are public property. As Bonanza said, anyone can enter.

Barefoot posted the above on another thread and I thought it an interesting subject and maybe worth a thread of its own.
First some history.
When the gates were first installed there was no provision for entrance without a card or pressing a button to connect to someone who could open it remotely. Gate cards were given out to lawn people, contractors etc. Every Tom, Dick and Harry had one. Then the county stepped in and said they were public roads and should open to the public. A compromise was reached and the county allowed the gates with a provision they could be opened by anyone. (The red button)
They have become vital to traffic control especially in regard to golf carts. However, the nuisance factor could be relieved by having them open the same way the exit gates open. No card and less frequent window motor replacements. I would think adjustments could be made to require a vehicle to come to a complete stop before the gate would open. I am considering taking this to the next level but thought I might get some input here first.
Good idea? Bad idea? Got a better idea? Let sleeping dogs lie?

[AriaGrandparents2013]

Barefoot posted the above on another thread and I thought it an interesting subject and maybe worth a thread of its own.
First some history.
When the gates were first installed there was no provision for entrance without a card or pressing a button to connect to someone who could open it remotely. Gate cards were given out to lawn people, contractors etc. Every Tom, Dick and Harry had one. Then the county stepped in and said they were public roads and should open to the public. A compromise was reached and the county allowed the gates with a provision they could be opened by anyone. (The red button)
They have become vital to traffic control especially in regard to golf carts. However, the nuisance factor could be relieved by having them open the same way the exit gates open. No card and less frequent window motor replacements. I would think adjustments could be made to require a vehicle to come to a complete stop before the gate would open. I am considering taking this to the next level but thought I might get some input here first.
Good idea? Bad idea? Got a better idea? Let sleeping dogs lie?

My thoughts are "Let sleeping dogs lie".........I like the false sense of security of a gate even with the ability for anyone to open them.

[Challenger]

IMHO the system serves several good purposes. No need to fiddle with it.

Unintended consequences.

[Bogie Shooter]

I guess you could assume that this topic has been discussed before. Reading these threads should give you the information you are seeking.

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/new-resident-i-am-curious-why-so-many-gates-get-damaged-135648/
https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/resident-gate-rain-policy-126090/
https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/do-we-have-gate-guards-gate-openers-125865/
https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/gate-keepers-safe-entry-120141/
https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/entry-gates-112114/
https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/belvedere-golf-cart-gate-111755/

[MikeV]

The only change I would like is to have a gate card that could be kept inside the car with no need to open a window and put your arm out. If the Turnpike can detect a Sun Pass at 25 MPH then I think a gate system could detect a gate card at 5 feet.

[downeaster]

I guess you could assume that this topic has been discussed before. Reading these threads should give you the information you are seeking.

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/new-resident-i-am-curious-why-so-many-gates-get-damaged-135648/
https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/resident-gate-rain-policy-126090/
https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/do-we-have-gate-guards-gate-openers-125865/
https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/gate-keepers-safe-entry-120141/
https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/entry-gates-112114/
https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/belvedere-golf-cart-gate-111755/

I am aware of the numerous threads relative to gates but they cover many aspects. My intention was to keep focused on entrance gates opening in a manner similar to exit gates. This maintains the safety aspect without the need of a gate card.

[raynan]

I like the gates because it does slow people down especially before a roundabout and as a caution for golf carts entering the cross. However, I also would prefer something that could be read without opening the windows especially in the rain.

[Susan G]

The only change I would like is to have a gate card that could be kept inside the car with no need to open a window and put your arm out. If the Turnpike can detect a Sun Pass at 25 MPH then I think a gate system could detect a gate card at 5 feet.

This is the best idea yet! I hate the constant wear & tear on my electric window motor. They were not made for that much use I am sure, not to mention I dislike getting the inside of my vehicle wet when it is STORMING.

Another option would be the auto open gate like they use when a new Village is in "construction mode." It stops traffic long enough to get a visual on the vehicle license plates and also gives golf carts time to cross.

Clearly there has got to be a better way...

[Barefoot]

My intention was to keep focused on entrance gates opening in a manner similar to exit gates. This maintains the safety aspect without the need of a gate card.

I like that idea. Keep the gates for traffic control, without the need for cards.

[BobnBev]

I like that idea. Keep the gates for traffic control, without the need for cards.

I'll 2nd that.....you've got my vote.

[TVMayor]

The only change I would like is to have a gate card that could be kept inside the car with no need to open a window and put your arm out. If the Turnpike can detect a Sun Pass at 25 MPH then I think a gate system could detect a gate card at 5 feet.
YES
https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcR_zCqX3PQQhLf_Ejd5yC6CY_wgLkzNo lA_yn7PzFBE947pXFS_rQ

[buzzy]

Without cards, I think the incidence of broken gates and damaged vehicles would go up considerably. And, the carts would be backed up waiting for a break in the bumper to bumper line of cars.

[rubicon]

Some people have too much time on their hands

[pbkmaine]

My card works at the Santiago gate without rolling the window down. Nice on a rainy day.

[DougB]

What's the difference what anyone thinks about the gates? It is what it is.

[LndLocked]

The only change I would like is to have a gate card that could be kept inside the car with no need to open a window and put your arm out. If the Turnpike can detect a Sun Pass at 25 MPH then I think a gate system could detect a gate card at 5 feet.

Plus we could have the TV version of Death Race 2000 at the golf cart crossings!! :22yikes:

[tomwed]

I think it's a great idea. I suggested it once before. The gate regulates traffic but it does not provide security. The one on canal street is broken near 44A and the one in pinellas on the way to winn dixie is also broken. Someone is wasting money on needless repairs.

Maybe with the money saved we could irrigate the executive golf courses better and grow longer grass so I can hit my flop shots on the fluffy grass.

See, it's always about me,

[downeaster]

Some people have too much time on their hands

If that remark is directed at me you are correct. Unfortunately the time on my hands is due to circumstances beyond my control. I use some of that time getting some enjoyment by participating on this forum.

[gerryh1943]

Do what we do we going visitors gates to save us from opening are window all the time it does not take but may be 15 seconds and don't have to put your window in the rain. Works for us. We have doing 5 plus years.

[CFrance]

Barefoot posted the above on another thread and I thought it an interesting subject and maybe worth a thread of its own.
First some history.
When the gates were first installed there was no provision for entrance without a card or pressing a button to connect to someone who could open it remotely. Gate cards were given out to lawn people, contractors etc. Every Tom, Dick and Harry had one. Then the county stepped in and said they were public roads and should open to the public. A compromise was reached and the county allowed the gates with a provision they could be opened by anyone. (The red button)
They have become vital to traffic control especially in regard to golf carts. However, the nuisance factor could be relieved by having them open the same way the exit gates open. No card and less frequent window motor replacements. I would think adjustments could be made to require a vehicle to come to a complete stop before the gate would open. I am considering taking this to the next level but thought I might get some input here first.
Good idea? Bad idea? Got a better idea? Let sleeping dogs lie?
Good idea.:BigApplause:

[tomwed]

If that remark is directed at me you are correct. Unfortunately the time on my hands is due to circumstances beyond my control. I use some of that time getting some enjoyment by participating on this forum.
And why not. For now I'm living alone and TOTV is company. There are a lot of nice people here. Pick and choose your threads and start ones too.

[Average Guy]

It seems like whenever there is a discussion about the gates that the concern about having to replace window motors is brought up.

I am just curious how many of you have had to replace the window motor for your driver's side window as a result of over-use. If so, how much did it cost you?

[VillagesFlorida]

Except for the Resident Only gates I don't see the problem. We only use the Visitor gates now. We burned out one power window and won't do it again. Visitor gates are for residents, also.

[tomwed]

It seems like whenever there is a discussion about the gates that the concern about having to replace window motors is brought up.

I am just curious how many of you have had to replace the window motor for your driver's side window as a result of over-use. If so, how much did it cost you?
I guess I missed that twice. Did someone suggest that they wore out the window motor because of all the gates?
That's a very creative argument.

"An electric car window motor works the windows and make them go up or down. Depending on the model of the car and if the window motor is new or used, it should last at least four or five years. In many cases, it will last up to around 7 to 8 years." according to CarsDirect

[Indydealmaker]

I guess I missed that twice. Did someone suggest that they wore out the window motor because of all the gates?
That's a very creative argument.

"An electric car window motor works the windows and make them go up or down. Depending on the model of the car and if the window motor is new or used, it should last at least four or five years. In many cases, it will last up to around 7 to 8 years." according to CarsDirect

The windows in my 2000 Tahoe (266,000 miles) all work well and have never been replaced. That equates to a lot of drive-thru coffee episodes.

[NYGUY]

The only change I would like is to have a gate card that could be kept inside the car with no need to open a window and put your arm out. If the Turnpike can detect a Sun Pass at 25 MPH then I think a gate system could detect a gate card at 5 feet.

:BigApplause::BigApplause:

[JoMar]

This is the best idea yet! I hate the constant wear & tear on my electric window motor. They were not made for that much use I am sure, not to mention I dislike getting the inside of my vehicle wet when it is STORMING.

Another option would be the auto open gate like they use when a new Village is in "construction mode." It stops traffic long enough to get a visual on the vehicle license plates and also gives golf carts time to cross.

Clearly there has got to be a better way...

When it rains I go through the visitor side.....don't have to open the window...also, when is the last time anyone replaced a window motor?

[Barefoot]

When it rains I go through the visitor side.....don't have to open the window...also, when is the last time anyone replaced a window motor?

See Post # 23 by VillagesFlorida.

[Bonanza]

My thoughts are "Let sleeping dogs lie".........I like the false sense of security of a gate even with the ability for anyone to open them.

Why would anyone like that false sense of security when it is exactly as you say . . . FALSE?

The public at large knows anyone can enter.

You really think your false sense of security is worth a million dollars plus a year??? That's what it costs us!

[Bonanza]

The only change I would like is to have a gate card that could be kept inside the car with no need to open a window and put your arm out. If the Turnpike can detect a Sun Pass at 25 MPH then I think a gate system could detect a gate card at 5 feet.

Most REAL gated communities have a decal on their car on the rear window which is automatically read for opening a gate. The method that is used here is archaic, but cheap!

Do you really think the powers that be care? Why should they? They don't have to use the gates a million times a day like we do.

[Walter123]

It seems like whenever there is a discussion about the gates that the concern about having to replace window motors is brought up.

I am just curious how many of you have had to replace the window motor for your driver's side window as a result of over-use. If so, how much did it cost you?

I was wondering the same thing.

[Bureau007]

My card works with the window closed,I just slide it flat on the inside of the window ,even in the rain.

[George Bieniaszek]

Most REAL gated communities have a decal on their car on the rear window which is automatically read for opening a gate. The method that is used here is archaic, but cheap!

Do you really think the powers that be care? Why should they? They don't have to use the gates a million times a day like we do.

A system such as that would work very well here in The Villages, especially if it could be linked to identify the vehicle going thru and causing damage to the gates because of their impatience! A bill or two itemizing the costs of damage or repair would do wonders to cool the jets of some of the pseudo-NASCAR drivers here!

[George Bieniaszek]

It seems like whenever there is a discussion about the gates that the concern about having to replace window motors is brought up.

I am just curious how many of you have had to replace the window motor for your driver's side window as a result of over-use. If so, how much did it cost you?

I had to replace the power window on my Dodge Ram truck years ago, before I owned a home here and when I had it done at the dealer's, the repair bill was approx. $475. OUCH!!

A couple of years later, the power window on the passenger door failed and didn't want another large repair bill. Looked on the internet, the motor cost approx. $70. Needed to buy a tool to pop the interior door panel off and a specialized TORX wrench set for screw removal and 1 hour later, I had a perfectly operational power window for under $100. Great videos online too that give tips etc. for the DIY crowd and a very easy job.

[capecoralbill]

Do what we do we going visitors gates to save us from opening are window all the time it does not take but may be 15 seconds and don't have to put your window in the rain. Works for us. We have doing 5 plus years.

Do you proofread your messages before posting? I would like to know what you were trying to say, it seemed important.
I agree with the need for the passes to work from a greater distance, I had never considered that my window would wear out until I read this, now I am wondering when it will fail. Furthermore how inconvenient to have to stick your arm out the window in a much too common Florida downpour.

[capecoralbill]

Except for the Resident Only gates I don't see the problem. We only use the Visitor gates now. We burned out one power window and won't do it again. Visitor gates are for residents, also.

Many gates are unmanned, ie Belvedere. So I have to stick arm out the window.

[dave harris]

Without cards, I think the incidence of broken gates and damaged vehicles would go up considerably. And, the carts would be backed up waiting for a break in the bumper to bumper line of cars.

A gated community near Orlando had transponders. They stuck on your windshield and automatically opened the gate. Never was any backup and the gate closed after each car. Never saw a broken gate there.

[MikeV]

A system such as that would work very well here in The Villages, especially if it could be linked to identify the vehicle going thru and causing damage to the gates because of their impatience! A bill or two itemizing the costs of damage or repair would do wonders to cool the jets of some of the pseudo-NASCAR drivers here!


I have a theory about the broken gates. I have noticed that the reflective paint on the gate arms is not very reflective at night. The gate arm is a little too high for non SUV/Truck headlights to illuminate the reflective paint. I noticed this because I recently switched from a SUV to a sedan. It's very hard to see the gate arm at night. Of course this doesn't account for daytime incidents.

[tomwed]

I have a theory about the broken gates. I have noticed that the reflective paint on the gate arms is not very reflective at night. The gate arm is a little too high for non SUV/Truck headlights to illuminate the reflective paint. I noticed this because I recently switched from a SUV to a sedan. It's very hard to see the gate arm at night. Of course this doesn't account for daytime incidents.
If you live here you know there is a gate.
If you don't live here one would think everything that surrounds the gate looks like something you have seen before that had a gate.
Someone posted a youtube video awhile ago of a cart slowly pushing the pole until it broke and than kept going.
I think that's how most of them get broken. Those kind of people don't change.
Let the gates open automatically.

[Bogie Shooter]

Do you proofread your messages before posting? I would like to know what you were trying to say, it seemed important.
I agree with the need for the passes to work from a greater distance, I had never considered that my window would wear out until I read this, now I am wondering when it will fail. Furthermore how inconvenient to have to stick your arm out the window in a much too common Florida downpour.

How many times a year do you get your arm wet?

[TVMayor]

Villages Golf Cart Rampage

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SJTixaHac3c

[dbussone]

Villages Golf Cart Rampage

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SJTixaHac3c

Excellent video. I think I recognized VPL in one frame.

[downeaster]

As the OP I request Admin to close this thread. The original purpose has been lost.

[TVMayor]

Did anyone else see themselves in the movie?

[CFrance]

Excellent video. I think I recognized VPL in one frame.
I just have to meet you. :)

[JoMar]

See Post # 23 by VillagesFlorida.

I saw that.....raises more questions but not worth exploring here.....if she believes the gates caused her motor to fail the I have to assume it did.

[CFrance]

The window motors (front & rear on driver's side) in my XTerra both failed. That was around 2007. The car was six years old but hardly driven after 2005. No gates involved. Back then it was $100 apiece to have them replaced. Who knows how much it is now.

[buzzy]

A gated community near Orlando had transponders. They stuck on your windshield and automatically opened the gate. Never was any backup and the gate closed after each car. Never saw a broken gate there.

Sorry, but I don't think your example disproves my theory. Did that community have 100,000 seniors, with assorted conditions associated with aging, or a resort mentality with numerous seasonal and transient residents?

[kcrazorbackfan]

Villages Golf Cart Rampage

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SJTixaHac3c

Wow! There are some real brain dead "I am entitled and will do whatever I want to do" people in TV. I've got to ask, and I probably know the answer, do any of these people ever contact the department that oversees the gates and offers to pay for it?😜. Is there a video that shows vehicles destroying the gates?

[Barefoot]

Villages Golf Cart Rampage

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SJTixaHac3c

Gotta love the seniors that break the gate, get out and gently move the broken arm out of harm's way, before they merrily drive on!

I wonder how many people who break gates report themselves to Community Watch. :shocked:

[dbussone]

Gotta love the seniors that break the gate, get out and gently move the broken arm out of harm's way, before they merrily drive on!

I wonder how many people who break gates report themselves to Community Watch. :shocked:

I loved watching the ones who just picked up the gate and snapped it off. With the new HD cameras you'd think they could get decent images and track down some of these folks.

[tomwed]

So what did we learn.
Gate crashers exist, they will enter the community and remain anonymous.
Why do we need a gate that opens with a card or pushing a button?
Why can't they open automatically when we enter as they do when we exit?
A million dollars in repairs can go a long way.
Follow the money.

[dbussone]

So what did we learn.
Gate crashers exist, they will enter the community and remain anonymous.
Why do we need a gate that opens with a card or pushing a button?
Why can't they open automatically when we enter as they do when we exit?
A million dollars in repairs can go a long way.
Follow the money.

Tom - I agree with you often, but I think your approach is a little simplistic. It takes a little longer for a gate to open when a driver has to stop and present a card to open it. That amount of time gives a cart driver the chance to make a decision about going or waiting for the car. My reflexes are slowing and I really like that extra second or two.

[Sandtrap328]

Tom - I agree with you often, but I think your approach is a little simplistic. It takes a little longer for a gate to open when a driver has to stop and present a card to open it. That amount of time gives a cart driver the chance to make a decision about going or waiting for the car. My reflexes are slowing and I really like that extra second or two.

I think your reply here is accurate and how it should (and will) be kept.

BTW, the dog in your avatar is good looking. Is it a King Charles Spaniel?

[tomwed]

Tom - I agree with you often, but I think your approach is a little simplistic. It takes a little longer for a gate to open when a driver has to stop and present a card to open it. That amount of time gives a cart driver the chance to make a decision about going or waiting for the car. My reflexes are slowing and I really like that extra second or two.
Whatever time you want the gate to wait before it automatically opens can be built into the electronics.

[dbussone]

Good point Tom

[dbussone]

I think your reply here is accurate and how it should (and will) be kept.



BTW, the dog in your avatar is good looking. Is it a King Charles Spaniel?


He is. That is Harry! Thank you for asking.475054750647507

[Ooper]

Numerous folks have stated that they just hold the card up to the window and the gate will open. I very seldom roll down the window to enter a gate. The only times I have to roll the window down is when the sensor is either above or below the window. If the sensor is ever with the window glass, just get within a foot or so and hold the card flat against the window.

[sunnyatlast]

It sounds good when people suggest that the entrance gates be set up to open automatically like the exit ones do. But…..

Our cards have our particular property/ID information embedded in them, and the system logs in that info when the card is swiped to open the gate. (This is what I was told at the district offices when I had to replace our gate cards because one was lost.)

Maybe somebody here knows more about that, and the possibility that the system tracks entrants for security reasons. There might be more to it than just slowing down cars so carts can merge in.

[Barefoot]

It sounds good when people suggest that the entrance gates be set up to open automatically like the exit ones do. But…..

Our cards have our particular property/ID information embedded in them, and the system logs in that info when the card is swiped to open the gate. (This is what I was told at the district offices when I had to replace our gate cards because one was lost.)

Maybe somebody here knows more about that, and the possibility that the system tracks entrants for security reasons. There might be more to it than just slowing down cars so carts can merge in.

I don't understand why tracking resident activity would be important.
People without cards can enter TV streets by merely pushing a button.
Contractors, delivery vans and other non-residents are constantly in and out.
I've heard rumors about cameras at the gates, but I've been told by gate attendants there are no cameras.

[Greg Nelson]

As has been mentioned, TV is not really a gated community. I remember the the north entrance gate in Mulberry being stuck open for days. We are currently staying in River Wilderness in Parrish, FL. The gates here have an actual person at all hours. Very safe feeling.

[graciegirl]

I like our gates the way they are. They slow down traffic enough that carts can safely cross over roads. They keep people from barreling around like teenagers. They look nice.

Our law enforcement group; Sumter County Sheriff, Marion County Sheriff, Lady Lake Police Department and now Wildwood and Fruitland park police departments work very well together, share information and don't all act like Prima Donna's.

Community Watch drives through our neighborhoods at night when we are sleeping, watching and looking.

The fact that most of us are retired and know to call the police when something or someone looks out of place is a huge help in keeping us safe.

For those who are new and feel the need to reorganize and change things, please wait a couple of years and see how things work very well the way they are.

[Walter123]

Whatever time you want the gate to wait before it automatically opens can be built into the electronics.

Tom, This is the solution to the problem created on this thread.
I really don't mind flashing my card. I don't mind getting my arm wet or (LOL) wear and tear on my window motor but your idea is better. Cameras can record who comes and goes.

[graciegirl]

Tom, This is the solution to the problem created on this thread.
I really don't mind flashing my card. I don't mind getting my arm wet or (LOL) wear and tear on my window motor but your idea is better. Cameras can record who comes and goes.


How many gates? How much per gate? Who pays? We pay.



Fiscally conservative Gracie.

[Barefoot]

I like our gates the way they are. They slow down traffic enough that carts can safely cross over roads. They keep people from barreling around like teenagers. They look nice.
Our law enforcement group; Sumter County Sheriff, Marion County Sheriff, Lady Lake Police Department and now Wildwood and Fruitland park police departments work very well together, share information and don't all act like Prima Donna's.
Community Watch drives through our neighborhoods at night when we are sleeping, watching and looking.
The fact that most of us are retired and know to call the police when something or someone looks out of place is a huge help in keeping us safe.
For those who are new and feel the need to reorganize and change things, please wait a couple of years and see how things work very well the way they are.

Gracie, I think that most of us are talking about getting rid of the cards, not getting rid of the gates.
The Villages would still give the appearance of a gated community.
The gates would open automatically, after a few seconds, and still serve as traffic control.
Our Law Enforcement Group would still work well together, and Community Watch would still patrol.
For years, the Belvedere Gate opened automatically after about a five second wait.
A lot of people didn't realize it would open automatically and still used their cards.
When they installed the golf cart gate, they changed the car gate system to always requiring a card.
It was very handy to have the gate open automatically.

[Walter123]

How many gates? How much per gate? Who pays? We pay.



Fiscally conservative Gracie.

Who the heck do you think pay's now, the gate fairy?

[Walter123]

Gracie, I think that most of us are talking about getting rid of the cards, not getting rid of the gates.
The Villages would still give the appearance of a gated community.
The gates would open automatically, after a few seconds, and still serve as traffic control.
Our Law Enforcement Group would still work well together, and Community Watch would still patrol.
For years, the Belvedere Gate opened automatically after about a five second wait.
A lot of people didn't realize it would open automatically and still used their cards.
When they installed the golf cart gate, they changed the car gate system to always requiring a card.
It was very handy to have the gate open automatically.


TY for explaining that to GG. very well put.

[kstew43]

just go thru the non resident gates......most of them open automatically......just pull up, sit a second, and bingo your in.....

no need to fish for your card and open your window.....

[graciegirl]

Who the heck do you think pay's now, the gate fairy?


I don't like people who don't believe in fairies.

What part of the east coast are you from?

[john1953]

Gate keys are a total waste of time.First off the villages is replacing gates that have been hit every single day.Next they stop no one form entering.Charles Mason and his family could use a gate to enter,if he wasn`t in prison.Pain in the neck opening your window in the pouring down rain to go threw a gate.

[downeaster]

Barefoot posted the above on another thread and I thought it an interesting subject and maybe worth a thread of its own.
First some history.
When the gates were first installed there was no provision for entrance without a card or pressing a button to connect to someone who could open it remotely. Gate cards were given out to lawn people, contractors etc. Every Tom, Dick and Harry had one. Then the county stepped in and said they were public roads and should open to the public. A compromise was reached and the county allowed the gates with a provision they could be opened by anyone. (The red button)
They have become vital to traffic control especially in regard to golf carts. However, the nuisance factor could be relieved by having them open the same way the exit gates open. No card and less frequent window motor replacements. I would think adjustments could be made to require a vehicle to come to a complete stop before the gate would open. I am considering taking this to the next level but thought I might get some input here first.
Good idea? Bad idea? Got a better idea? Let sleeping dogs lie?

Gracie, I think that most of us are talking about getting rid of the cards, not getting rid of the gates.
The Villages would still give the appearance of a gated community.
The gates would open automatically, after a few seconds, and still serve as traffic control.
Our Law Enforcement Group would still work well together, and Community Watch would still patrol.
For years, the Belvedere Gate opened automatically after about a five second wait.
A lot of people didn't realize it would open automatically and still used their cards.
When they installed the golf cart gate, they changed the car gate system to always requiring a card.
It was very handy to have the gate open automatically.


Thanks for getting my original post back on track, Barefoot

[graciegirl]

As has been mentioned, TV is not really a gated community. I remember the the north entrance gate in Mulberry being stuck open for days. We are currently staying in River Wilderness in Parrish, FL. The gates here have an actual person at all hours. Very safe feeling.


My defending post on gates was directed at this post which I should have quoted.

I wasn't paying attention.

Trying to find my squirt gun for the smart mouth and the fairy jab..

[Walter123]

I don't like people who don't believe in fairies.

What part of the east coast are you from?

The Ohio part, you?

[Walter123]

my defending post on gates was directed at this post which i should have quoted.

I wasn't paying attention.

Trying to find my squirt gun for the smart mouth and the fairy jab..

lol!

[Polar Bear]

I like our gates the way they are. They slow down traffic enough that carts can safely cross over roads. They keep people from barreling around like teenagers...

As usual, what Gracie said.

[Bogie Shooter]

I don't understand why tracking resident activity would be important.
People without cards can enter TV streets by merely pushing a button.
Contractors, delivery vans and other non-residents are constantly in and out.
I've heard rumors about cameras at the gates, but I've been told by gate attendants there are no cameras.

This gate attendant needs to read the POA Bulletin...........there are cameras!

[Bogie Shooter]

As has been mentioned, TV is not really a gated community. I remember the the north entrance gate in Mulberry being stuck open for days. We are currently staying in River Wilderness in Parrish, FL. The gates here have an actual person at all hours. Very safe feeling.

No need to shout................

[Bogie Shooter]

To bad the gates were not noticed before a home was purchased in TV.

[Bogie Shooter]

With a little effort I found one (of many) comments on cameras at the gates.
Go to Property Owners, Association of Florida (http://www.poa4us.org/) and do a search on gate cameras.
Yes, Virginia there are cameras!

Gate connectivity is scheduled to be completed
in October, 2014. The cameras will be
able to pick up license plates and facial images,
including those of golf cart drivers.
Signs will be installed indicating that the
Community is “Under Surveillance”

[janmcn]

To bad the gates were not noticed before a home was purchased in TV.



They were noticed. That's the point of the gates. Unfortunately, for a lot of residents it's not until after purchasing a home, that they are told they are only for show and could be done away with at any time.

[JoMar]

They were noticed. That's the point of the gates. Unfortunately, for a lot of residents it's not until after purchasing a home, that they are told they are only for show and could be done away with at any time.

Otherwise known as making a decision without doing the research and asking the questions. Then, when they move in they jump on here to detail everything they didn't know and want to change.

[Miles42]

Leave well enough alone . That is my outlook. There are more important issues in ones life to look at. At least one would hope so,

[LuckySevens]

Most REAL gated communities have a decal on their car on the rear window which is automatically read for opening a gate. The method that is used here is archaic, but cheap!

Do you really think the powers that be care? Why should they? They don't have to use the gates a million times a day like we do.

Agree.....if we MUST have gates, why not decals on the cars to open them like an IPass. The nuisance of having to roll down a window, time it takes to go up and down, possibly raining, etc. are all good reasons NOT to have to roll down a window to gain entrance. Some of you can hold your pass up against the window without rolling it down but our SUV is too tall and will not read the card through the window. It's all about convenience! Anyway, how much could those stickers to attach to a car cost?

[Bogie Shooter]

Stickers, probably very little. The readers on the other hand, ?
BTW, why the hurry?

[Polar Bear]

for a lot of residents it's not until after purchasing a home, that they are told they are only for show and could be done away with at any time.

"...only for show..."?

Simply not true. Gates can (and TV's do) serve other purposes that those of a fully gated community. Safety for carts, traffic calming, crime deterrence...just to name a few.

[TVMayor]

What ever you all decide to do with the gates is fine with me. If the gates are eliminated I would be interested in buy some of the guardhouses to convert into rental homes.

[dewilson58]

I'm always amazed (entertained) about the negative comments over gates. Gates.

:1rotfl:

:1rotfl:

:1rotfl:

[Barefoot]

......Gate connectivity is scheduled to be completed in October, 2014. The cameras will be able to pick up license plates and facial images, including those of golf cart drivers. Signs will be installed indicating that the Community is “Under Surveillance”

It's good news that cameras and "under surveillance" signs are now at all gates.

What ever you all decide to do with the gates is fine with me. If the gates are eliminated I would be interested in buy some of the guardhouses to convert into rental homes.

:1rotfl:

[Greg Nelson]

Let there be gates!

[TVMayor]

Let there be gates!
So let it be written so let it be done.

https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQ6rNbWIhgCUov_yyzWVtpIHUBd3KW8v lj6Fpm7G1lz042LY_dYkQ

[graciegirl]

Otherwise known as making a decision without doing the research and asking the questions. Then, when they move in they jump on here to detail everything they didn't know and want to change.


Ain't it just the truth???

JoMar...you are one smart person.

[tomwed]

yea, love it or leave

[ditka41]

Nobody has proposed a totally cost-effective, safe, solution to our "Welcome Gate" situation so far.
So, how about this: Surrounding the Villages, the county always needs more money. We tortured residents could buy all the existing roads here and turn the gates into actual "Security Gates"? Each legitimate resident could have a decal easily recognizable by a real, live, armed attendant who could control the traffic flow. This change would go a long way toward eliminating the dreaded "wet left wrist disease" and reduce the tremendous window motor replacement cost that we all fear daily. By owning and controlling the streets we may eliminate all the outside "seat-savers", illegal trail users, non-entitled swimmers, etc. This would involve a some significant costs, but we could always increase taxes and apply for part time jobs that could become necessary due to the absence of all those pesky contractors who would naturally be banned or lined up in the special lanes required to show ID's and temporary passes at each gate. Biggest advantage to this would be the ability to maintain a dry left wrist while driving! Additionally, with all the places of business that would likely close, traffic would be lighter even when the snowbirds are here fighting with bicyclists. ---Back to my nap now!

[Mleeja]

You forgot the bridge would stop sinking due to the reduced traffic. With that money saved, the indoor pool could be built.

[ditka41]

Thank you for adding the bridge issue. We'll just need to make sure that the areas around the new indoor pool will be monitored 24/7 to ban those nasty looking, dog-walking, troublemakers from the premises.

[tomwed]

Nobody has proposed a totally cost-effective, safe, solution to our "Welcome Gate" situation so far.
I think I and a few others did.
Let the gates open automatically upon entering as they do exiting.

It's cost effective -- probably everything is in place. No more repairs from gate crashers.
It's safe -- As safe as the red button or pushing on through. Real gates are not made out of extremely light weight material.
It regulates traffic the same way the exit gates do.

[downeaster]

Nobody has proposed a totally cost-effective, safe, solution to our "Welcome Gate" situation so far.
I think I and a few others did.
Let the gates open automatically upon entering as they do exiting.

It's cost effective -- probably everything is in place. No more repairs from gate crashers.
It's safe -- As safe as the red button or pushing on through. Real gates are not made out of extremely light weight material.
It regulates traffic the same way the exit gates do.

That possible solution was mentioned in the original post on this thread.

[Challenger]

IMHO the gates are just fine as they are.

[George Bieniaszek]

Here's a simple solution to eliminate the damage caused to the gates by impatient drivers :)


http://youtu.be/OmgjsYQHE0w

[CWGUY]

Anyone get off their computer long enough to read the "Daily Sun" today?

Nice article on "GATES". :ohdear:

Need a smiley for " Get a life". IMHO

[Bogie Shooter]

That possible solution was mentioned in the original post on this thread.

And repeated many times after.........

[MnGirl]

The reason the gates are open to the public is so the county has to pay for street repair. When The Villages was told that by the county they opened all the gates to the public. Private communities must pay for their own street repair. Now for the cameras: Don't any of you know or remember the shooting death in The Villages?? Three thugs came in and shot the husband and wife ( she died and he lived), and then took their daughter with them (all on camera). They immediately had pictures of them and the license, and caught them the same day. So we may be open, but their is security.

[tomwed]

The reason the gates are open to the public is so the county has to pay for street repair. When The Villages was told that by the county they opened all the gates to the public. Private communities must pay for their own street repair. Now for the cameras: Don't any of you know or remember the shooting death in The Villages?? Three thugs came in and shot the husband and wife ( she died and he lived), and then took their daughter with them (all on camera). They immediately had pictures of them and the license, and caught them the same day. So we may be open, but their is security.

Is that the story of the drug dealer[s] who were [or maybe once] friends with the daughter?

I found the story. click here (http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2007-10-28/news/ltrial28_1_sheila-miller-diana-miller-miller-death)

I agree that it's important to take pictures of everyone entering and leaving at the gates whether you use a card, push a button or they open automatically.