Today at 5:23 PM Thanks for the complaints!

[drcar]

I want to thank the individual, or individuals who must have issues with the home owners in the village of Tamarind Grove. A complaint was filed with “Deed Compliance” concerning “Lawn Ornaments”, 97 separate complaints! The complaints range from “Decorative flags” to statues! Before everyone jumps on me, I understand the rules, BUT 97 complaints! I have been informed that this person or persons have also gone into St James and Buttonwood! This is NOT a small issue this is a personal vendetta. When does this stop? Do we really need this type of reporting, people in the neighbors have had no issues, but a person who outside the village can travel anywhere and file complaints?

[jnieman]

I want to thank the individual, or individuals who must have issues with the home owners in the village of Tamarind Grove. A complaint was filed with “Deed Compliance” concerning “Lawn Ornaments”, 97 separate complaints! The complaints range from “Decorative flags” to statues! Before everyone jumps on me, I understand the rules, BUT 97 complaints! I have been informed that this person or persons have also gone into St James and Buttonwood! This is NOT a small issue this is a personal vendetta. When does this stop? Do we really need this type of reporting, people in the neighbors have had no issues, but a person who outside the village can travel anywhere and file complaints?

How did you find out that there were 97 complaints? Were they all from the same person?

[drcar]

How did you find out that there were 97 complaints? Were they all from the same person?

They were all from the same person, emailed, emails are public! I will NOT post the email address.

[DougB]

Wow, lots of rule breakers in Tamarind Grove! Darn young 'uns.

[drcar]

Wow, lots of rule breakers in Tamarind Grove! Darn young 'uns.

LOL, Be careful, they are coming to your area soon!!!

[DougB]

Do you know how many homes are in Tamarind Grove?

[Villager Joyce]

Are you saying anyone can file complaints? You don't need to live in the same village, area or street? What happens next? Do you and the other offenders (I presume all 97 are not against you) have an opportunity to speak to the complaints. I have been fortunate not to run into this yet.

[rdhdleo]

Sounds like someone has way too much time on their hands! Absolutely ridiculous!

[drcar]

Do you know how many homes are in Tamarind Grove?

Nope, BUT a lot more then 97

[EnglishJW]

I want to thank the individual, or individuals who must have issues with the home owners in the village of Tamarind Grove. A complaint was filed with “Deed Compliance” concerning “Lawn Ornaments”, 97 separate complaints! The complaints range from “Decorative flags” to statues! Before everyone jumps on me, I understand the rules, BUT 97 complaints! I have been informed that this person or persons have also gone into St James and Buttonwood! This is NOT a small issue this is a personal vendetta. When does this stop? Do we really need this type of reporting, people in the neighbors have had no issues, but a person who outside the village can travel anywhere and file complaints?

I don't mean to offend but 97 violations seems to be rather substantial. Are all the complaints valid?

[drcar]

Are you saying anyone can file complaints? You don't need to live in the same village, area or street? What happens next? Do you and the other offenders (I presume all 97 are not against you) have an opportunity to speak to the complaints. I have been fortunate not to run into this yet.

Residents have been informed, by the "Deed Compliance" staff that they have to remove all items, even the ones not listed in the complaints. Please let me state the person who came to the house was VERY nice and almost apologetic, but they still had to do their job. ANYONE can go in ANY village and file complaints!

[drcar]

I don't mean to offend but 97 violations seems to be rather substantial. Are all the complaints valid?

Whats valid, I guess they are if you want to say so, BUT we are talking about small, and I mean small statues, about 8 inches high. Yes I know what the rules state, BUT these people are looking for problems! One person was informed that the flat stepping stones had to be removed because they had words on them!!!!

[Villager Joyce]

I don't believe you should list the persons name here. I'm not asking for that information. Can you find out why she is doing this, or does it even matter? Does it matter if it is just malicious? Does the person want to live here and can't? I can see if someone has a PeeWee Herman house, except it made me smile so I need another example.

[drcar]

I don't believe you should list the persons name here. I'm not asking for that information. Can you find out why she is doing this, or does it even matter? Does it matter if it is just malicious? Does the person want to live here and can't? I can see if someone has a PeeWee Herman house, except it made me smile so I need another example.

I have found out who the person is, I have been given email, but a person who is going to at least 3 villages, would not talk. I have been told that the person is moving and does not care whats happens or who they anger! Malicious, YES, Mean, YES, downright ugly YES!!! have the common courtesy to talk to your neighbors!

[Villager Joyce]

That likely is the kind of person that should be avoided at all costs. Sounds like someone who would file a lawsuit or pull a knife. I was initially thinking to try to have done sort of arbitration, but that doesn't seem feasible or possible. I am sorry this happened to you and others.

[drcar]

That likely is the kind of person that should be avoided at all costs. Sounds like someone who would file a lawsuit or pull a knife. I was initially thinking to try to have done sort of arbitration, but that doesn't seem feasible or possible. I am sorry this happened to you and others.

Thank You! It is to bad that one person can start such a whirlwind, has to make you wonder " America's Friendliest Home Town?"

[Bogie Shooter]

Are you saying anyone can file complaints? You don't need to live in the same village, area or street? What happens next? Do you and the other offenders (I presume all 97 are not against you) have an opportunity to speak to the complaints. I have been fortunate not to run into this yet.

Yep. A Villager is a Villager.

[dbussone]

Thank You! It is to bad that one person can start such a whirlwind, has to make you wonder " America's Friendliest Home Town?"

This person's actions make me wonder if he/she has a mental imbalance of some type.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

They were all from the same person, emailed, emails are public! I will NOT post the email address.

???? E-mails are public?

Do you mean e-mails to the Villages are public?

[Boudicca]

Yes one person filed 70 complaints here in buttonwood three years ago. Sigh

[TheVillageChicken]

???? E-mails are public?

Do you mean e-mails to the Villages are public?


from the districtgov.org homepage


Please note: Florida has a very broad Public Records Law. Most written communications to or from State and Local Officials regarding State or Local business are public records available to the public and media upon request. Your email communications may therefore be subject to public disclosure.

[mrsanborn]

... One person was informed that the flat stepping stones had to be removed because they had words on them!!!!

How do you see a stepping stone with words on it from the street?

[drcar]

???? E-mails are public?

Do you mean e-mails to the Villages are public?

To quote Deed Compliance, Under Florida Law, email communications are public record. If you do not want your e-mail address or email contents released in response to a public records request, do no send email communications to this entity."

[drcar]

How do you see a stepping stone with words on it from the street?

You can't BUT the compliant was about a decorative flag, but when they came to investigate the villages rep pointed out all items that must be removed!

[Bogie Shooter]

Thank You! It is to bad that one person can start such a whirlwind, has to make you wonder " America's Friendliest Home Town?"

This jerk doesn't change that.........................

[dbussone]

To quote Deed Compliance, Under Florida Law, email communications are public record. If you do not want your e-mail address or email contents released in response to a public records request, do no send email communications to this entity."

It is called the Sunshine Law and effects all public or semi-public entities.

[TheVillageChicken]

You can't BUT the compliant was about a decorative flag, but when they came to investigate the villages rep pointed out all items that must be removed!

What happens if one tells the villages rep to pound sand?

[drcar]

What happens if one tells the villages rep to pound sand?

Three warnings, then fines, up to $200.00

[Bogie Shooter]

I have found out who the person is, I have been given email, but a person who is going to at least 3 villages, would not talk. I have been told that the person is moving and does not care whats happens or who they anger! Malicious, YES, Mean, YES, downright ugly YES!!! have the common courtesy to talk to your neighbors!

Can I assume the person is moving from TV?
If so, do as deed compliance as asked you to. Wait a month and replace your items.
However, if you are reported again.........sorry, get rid of your ugly stuff!:throwtomatoes:

[drcar]

Can I assume the person is moving from TV?
If so, do as deed compliance as asked you to. Wait a month and replace your items.
However, if you are reported again.........sorry, get rid of your ugly stuff!:throwtomatoes:

I hear you, AND I did tell my wife they were ugly, JUST KIDDING dear! Bogie my point is this, "what a shame this happens." But I do hear you and understand, this is a shout out to all, watch out they are coming!!

[njbchbum]

Sounds like someone has way too much time on their hands! Absolutely ridiculous!

That likely is the kind of person that should be avoided at all costs. Sounds like someone who would file a lawsuit or pull a knife. I was initially thinking to try to have done sort of arbitration, but that doesn't seem feasible or possible. I am sorry this happened to you and others.

This person's actions make me wonder if he/she has a mental imbalance of some type.

Sounds to me like someone who was similarly burned for the same infraction.

[Barefoot]

I have found out who the person is, I have been given email, but a person who is going to at least 3 villages, would not talk. I have been told that the person is moving and does not care whats happens or who they anger! Malicious, YES, Mean, YES, downright ugly YES!!! have the common courtesy to talk to your neighbors!

I don't blame you for being upset. 97 complaints show a peculiar obsession. So much silliness!!
I feel sorry for anyone with such a mindset.
Also, I find it hard to believe that anyone could find 97 violations in any Village!
Since the person is moving, just say Good Riddance!

[Villager Joyce]

Sounds to me like someone who was similarly burned for the same infraction.

///

[dotti105]

We live in Gilchrist and a neighbor told us that her salesman dropped by to say "hi!" and mentioned to her that she had several items in her planted areas that were prohibited.

Now this couple has a beautifully landscaped front and unless you walk to the door, the items would not be seen. They are tasteful and small.

He then went on to brag to her that he has reported several homes in Gilchrist for the same infractions. He told her that he actually drives around and take addresses to report.

He is now LIVING in Gilchrist and from what we hear he has had some very expensive and tasteful bronze statues reported and removed. One was a beautiful and very expensive bronze bench with a little boy and little girl sitting on it. It was placed under a palm in a lovely landscaped yard. In other yards he has also had bronze birds removed. (osprey, cranes etc.)

Certainly what is attractive to one person is not to another. But in the case of this guy, he is simply looking for things to report in a vengeful way.

It is interesting that the bright turquoise and bright pink homes with mushroom pads and gnomes are acceptable in the older areas, but subtle, and expensive bronze statuary is prohibited in our area.

This guy is on a power trip and must get great satisfaction out of exercising that power.

[njbchbum]

"subtle, and expensive bronze statuary" is also acceptable in our historic neighborhoods.

[NYGUY]

As an aside, am I correct in understanding that complaints to Compliance that are called in do not need or should not indicate who they are?

[rdhdleo]

Sounds to me like someone who was similarly burned for the same infraction.

:agree:

[wereback]

what ever happened to what we signed and agreed to when we bought. This all came about when a house on Oak forest (north of 466) had 54 items in the yard. We signed not to have them and we should not if not enforced it will soon look like a trash dump More should send complaints in. I am not the one who sent the complaints in I don't live near there.

[champion6]

As an aside, am I correct in understanding that complaints to Compliance that are called in do not need or should not indicate who they are?You are correct.

[CFrance]

Whats valid, I guess they are if you want to say so, BUT we are talking about small, and I mean small statues, about 8 inches high. Yes I know what the rules state, BUT these people are looking for problems! One person was informed that the flat stepping stones had to be removed because they had words on them!!!!
...

[CFrance]

They were all from the same person, emailed, emails are public! I will NOT post the email address.
I don't understand. Someone showed you the emails? what do you mean by this? Complaints are anonymous. Who told you there were 97 emails from the same person? please explain.

[SALYBOW]

They have been to our section of Buttonwood

[CFrance]

this kind of vengeful power play crap is exactly why the villages needs to step up and enforce their own rules THAT THEY WROTE and then refused to enforce unless somebody complained. they're basically making us the watchdogs' and we have no training. you made the rules, t v. enforce them yourselves!!

[CFrance]

what part of tamarind grove?

[Allegiance]

///

[TVMayor]

Has the enforcer filed charges against seat savers in the squares yet?

[Villager Joyce]

Sounds to me like someone who was similarly burned for the same infraction.

Many of us were Having an informative discussion when this poster decided he/she would call out three of us for having been burned for the same infraction. I responded I didn't appreciate the accusation. He/she decided to then send nasty gram PMs. It's too bad some have to spoil it for the rest. One bad apple.

[Bosoxfan]

I was just on the district.org website .Nowhere is there a way to see these emails.

[sunnyatlast]

A man that studieth revenge keeps his own wounds green, which otherwise would heal and do well.

--Francis Bacon Quotes

[patfla06]

this kind of vengeful power play crap is exactly why the villages needs to step up and enforce their own rules THAT THEY WROTE and then refused to enforce unless somebody complained. they're basically making us the watchdogs' and we have no training. you made the rules, t v. enforce them yourselves!!

You're absolutely right!

If you have rules then enforce them.

I can't imagine filing a complaint, but I also don't have neighbors
whose yards look crazy.

[Ralphy]

Just playing devil’s advocate!

Maybe this person was hit with a violation for some stupid thing like having a small stick American flag in a flower pot and sent in the 97 other violations to prove that a lot of people are violating this no lawn ornament deed restriction. As I drive around getting acquainted with TV, I see hundreds of lawn ornaments.

My example of the flag was a real example in a condo in Florida where the war veteran homeowner refused to remove it from his front porch and was fined $100 for each day until the fine totaled the max allowed by law of $1,000.

[Down Sized]

You're absolutely right!

If you have rules then enforce them.

I can't imagine filing a complaint, but I also don't have neighbors
whose yards look crazy.

I second this opinion!!!
We moved here BECAUSE OF THE RESTRICTION !

[Bonanza]

I have found out who the person is, I have been given email, but a person who is going to at least 3 villages, would not talk. I have been told that the person is moving and does not care whats happens or who they anger! Malicious, YES, Mean, YES, downright ugly YES!!! have the common courtesy to talk to your neighbors!

Well, after this malicious person moves, the maligned homeowners should put their small statue (or whatever it is) back!

On a serious note, why aren't you mentioning this person? I don't know why you aren't doing that.

I am not a believer in anonymous complaints. I think that kind of system stinks! That gives carte blanche to anyone who has a beef with someone, to create a problem. I believe a better way is for the compliance people to report "real" violations when they see them. Heaven knows, they ride up and down ll of the streets and certainly have noticed the ones that are genuine violations.

[drcar]

Well, after this malicious person moves, the maligned homeowners should put their small statue (or whatever it is) back!

On a serious note, why aren't you mentioning this person? I don't know why you aren't doing that.

I am not a believer in anonymous complaints. I think that kind of system stinks! That gives carte blanche to anyone who has a beef with someone, to create a problem. I believe a better way is for the compliance people to report "real" violations when they see them. Heaven knows, they ride up and down ll of the streets and certainly have noticed the ones that are genuine violations.

I will NOT post their name or email address, TOV would stop the thread and take it down, ANYONE can see the email and the complaints if they call the Deed Compliance and request a copy of the email about the issues in Tamarind Grove.

[Bryan]

The "deed compliance" process is totally complaint driven. No violation is acted upon unless/until someone files a complaint. And yes, complaints may be filed anonymously. Some are, some aren't.

It would seem there are two simple fixes to this.

The first would be for those 97 homeowners (and all others) to read and follow the rules (this presumes there are actually 'deed restriction violations' involved - not a proven fact yet).

The second would be to change the rules to reflect the desires of homeowners in a particular area (a Village Community Development District) to allow lawn ornaments or whatever. Go to your district board of supervisors to get this done.

[drcar]

The "deed compliance" process is totally complaint driven. No violation is acted upon unless/until someone files a complaint. And yes, complaints may be filed anonymously. Some are, some aren't.

It would seem there are two simple fixes to this.

The first would be for those 97 homeowners (and all others) to read and follow the rules (this presumes there are actually 'deed restriction violations' involved - not a proven fact yet).

The second would be to change the rules to reflect the desires of homeowners in a particular area (a Village Community Development District) to allow lawn ornaments or whatever. Go to your district board of supervisors to get this done.

Thank You, you are correct on both points, I will be going to the district board meeting. I am not disagreeing with the fact that there were, are some violations, but a person flooding the office with 97 different complaints! The deed compliance office is afraid this will snowball.

[dirtbanker]

"subtle, and expensive bronze statuary" is also acceptable in our historic neighborhoods.

Along with the junk golf carts piled around several of those "homes"...:jester:

[mfp509]

I have never agreed with Deed Compliance being complaint driven. I am retired and did not move here to police my neighborhood. Neighborhood Watch used to see a violation and leave a note on the person's door. Most of the time compliance was pretty quick. When it became complaint driven, things have gone downhill. Also, there is some procedure followed when dealing with a violation - don't know the exact details - but it involves so many warning letters and it's probably 30 to 45 days before the person has to comply. That is not effective. Don't understand why Neighborhood Watch cannot do this anymore. It seemed to work then.

[looneycat]

why keep harping on the number of complaints? if you have deed restriction violations it doesn't matter, fix them. I moved here because it is beautiful, I don't want to see the crap you think is nice spoiling that, it's as simple as that.

[Bobcuse]

Several good points on both sides of this issue. Opinions should be respected not condemned and these sensitive issues seem to bring out the worst in some people. I was on the receiving end of a complaint 4 years ago and the Community Watch guy said that someone had driven around several neighborhoods and listed several violations for very small items which in his opinion enhanced the landscaping, but he was simply the messenger. We all know taste is subjective and varies widely. I like the complaint driven system because it allows some decorations yet those who don't like looking at them can have them removed by complaining. I would love to see the rules changed to restrict complaints to residents living on the same street since they are the ones who see the decorations everyday. Most neighbors get along which would eliminate these nuisance vendetta driven purges we are seeing. (This should bring a hailstorm of comments)

[Villager Joyce]

Several good points on both sides of this issue. Opinions should be respected not condemned and these sensitive issues seem to bring out the worst in some people. I was on the receiving end of a complaint 4 years ago and the Community Watch guy said that someone had driven around several neighborhoods and listed several violations for very small items which in his opinion enhanced the landscaping, but he was simply the messenger. We all know taste is subjective and varies widely. I like the complaint driven system because it allows some decorations yet those who don't like looking at them can have them removed by complaining. I would love to see the rules changed to restrict complaints to residents living on the same street since they are the ones who see the decorations everyday. Most neighbors get along which would eliminate these nuisance vendetta driven purges we are seeing. (This should bring a hailstorm of comments)

I agreed with you until I got to your sentence about getting along. Just reading this thread will prove that is not true. I believe it was on a Twilight Zone episode that the curator of another planet said--as long as there is man, there will be no peace.
What floored me is any person from anywhere can complain. Several of my neighbors have beautiful flower beds with ornamentals scattered beautifully throughout the garden. I would hate for someone who is out looking for something to complain about to squash their enthusiasm and cause them to stop gardening.

[Bonny]

I like the deed restrictions. I don't want to see bronze statues, 7 gnomes, bird baths that haven't been cleaned, arbors with dead vines, etc. I say this because when we lived in Santiago there were no deed restrictions like here. One person had a stop light in their yard. When we were selling our house in Santiago our neighbor's yard was just nasty. We loved them so I certainly wouldn't say anything to them.
We all know the rules when we move somewhere.
The problem is the ones that get carried away, ruin it for the others. What some think is cute is an eyesore to other homeowners.

[kstew43]

Sounds to me like someone who was similarly burned for the same infraction.

Exactly what I was thinking.....

[njbchbum]

Many of us were Having an informative discussion when this poster decided he/she would call out three of us for having been burned for the same infraction. I responded I didn't appreciate the accusation. He/she decided to then send nasty gram PMs. It's too bad some have to spoil it for the rest. One bad apple.

Called three of you out "for having been burned for the same infraction."? Accuse you of what? I think there was a comprehension failure there! How do you get to that conclusion? I merely cited 3 opinions and added my fourth!!!!!

Original post: #33

[DruannB]

May yard ornaments be placed in the back yard if they can't be seen from the front? I ask because we haven't bought yet. I'm just thinking of my one iron sculpture of a rescue worker. He is currently saving my dogs from drowning in our pond (figuratively). Should I plan on finding him a good home?

[njbchbum]

May yard ornaments be placed in the back yard if they can't be seen from the front? I ask because we haven't bought yet. I'm just thinking of my one iron sculpture of a rescue worker. He is currently saving my dogs from drowning in our pond (figuratively). Should I plan on finding him a good home?

Would probably be best if you read the deed restrictions for the area[s] where you are thinking of purchasing or if you asked directly of someone in the district government office.

[DonH57]

Several good points on both sides of this issue. Opinions should be respected not condemned and these sensitive issues seem to bring out the worst in some people. I was on the receiving end of a complaint 4 years ago and the Community Watch guy said that someone had driven around several neighborhoods and listed several violations for very small items which in his opinion enhanced the landscaping, but he was simply the messenger. We all know taste is subjective and varies widely. I like the complaint driven system because it allows some decorations yet those who don't like looking at them can have them removed by complaining. I would love to see the rules changed to restrict complaints to residents living on the same street since they are the ones who see the decorations everyday. Most neighbors get along which would eliminate these nuisance vendetta driven purges we are seeing. (This should bring a hailstorm of comments)

I agree. Living in one village and filing complaints in another shouldn't even be on the table. As for the people doing this, I wonder how much time they have on their hands to study all the variances for the different districts and driving all over to record this. Sounds to me like they retired far to early.:sigh:

[Barefoot]

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Most of us find The Villages a beautiful community.
In the newer areas, deed restrictions are a way of maintaining the pristine appearance.
If you need to have statues to be happy, put them in the back yard and hide them from the neighbors' view with shrubs.

[DianeM]

With all the evil in the world, it's rather ridiculous to walk around looking for problems with neighbors. If someone had a junker car on their front lawn or their laundry flapping in the breeze, that would irritate me and I would do something about it . I hardly think a bronze egret is going to make the world come to an end or junk up TV. Some people really need to get a life.

[Villageswimmer]

this kind of vengeful power play crap is exactly why the villages needs to step up and enforce their own rules THAT THEY WROTE and then refused to enforce unless somebody complained. they're basically making us the watchdogs' and we have no training. you made the rules, t v. enforce them yourselves!!


I agreed completely until I went for a walk this morning. I paid particular attention to garden objects in my very nice, tasteful (IMO) neighborhood...things I really never noticed before.

I was surprised to note that 9 out of 10 yards has SOMETHING, however minor, that would break the rules.

If TV took on the role of enforcing to the letter of the law, they'd never be done! If my yard is ok today, it may not be tomorrow. Is this really worth the effort,not to mention related costs, to hire an army of people to be enforcers?

Yes, the current complaint-driven system is FAR from perfect, but I think it beats the alternative.

[Wing-nut2]

I'd almost bet someone jumped on them, and their jumping back.

[alemorkam]

Sounds like the person that gets a speeding ticket for going 75 mph and complains that everyone else is doing it. Why not just comply?

[TheVillageChicken]

Many of us were Having an informative discussion when this poster decided he/she would call out three of us for having been burned for the same infraction. I responded I didn't appreciate the accusation. He/she decided to then send nasty gram PMs. It's too bad some have to spoil it for the rest. One bad apple.

I took the post you are referring to in an entirely different way. I thought he/she was speculating that the complainant who identified the 95 violations had likely been burned by the same infraction and went on a crusade.

[Barefoot]

If TV took on the role of enforcing to the letter of the law, they'd never be done! If my yard is ok today, it may not be tomorrow. Is this really worth the effort, not to mention related costs, to hire an army of people to be enforcers? Yes, the current complaint-driven system is FAR from perfect, but I think it beats the alternative.

I think the existing system works.
Usually an infraction has to be really blatant and annoying before someone bothers to complain.
In the OP's case, sadly it's someone with a vendetta, and not a typical occurrence.

[eremite06]

Personal attacks will get this thread closed. I have noticed an abundance of lawn ornaments which do violate the deed restrictions. Rules are rules.

[looneycat]

I agreed with you until I got to your sentence about getting along. Just reading this thread will prove that is not true. I believe it was on a Twilight Zone episode that the curator of another planet said--as long as there is man, there will be no peace.
What floored me is any person from anywhere can complain. Several of my neighbors have beautiful flower beds with ornamentals scattered beautifully throughout the garden. I would hate for someone who is out looking for something to complain about to squash their enthusiasm and cause them to stop gardening.

you're missing the point, you signed the deed restrictions..for example, if they were deed laws, the same action would be criminal...a bit extreme but the same principle. in this case the restrictions take taste out of the equation. certainly there is enough beautiful flora to be found to beautify your lawn

[Villager Joyce]

I bow out.

[drcar]

I posted this tread to open a discussion, and it did. Most of the people missed the point, the point wasn't good or bad lawn ornaments. The point is the "troll patrol," making rounds in villages just to create problems. I would never dispute the fact that the said items are against the deed. My problem is when a person, either a villager, or outsider can create a stir and send paid staff out to do VERY tough jobs. I will say again the worker who came to my street was very nice and understanding. My issue is not with the deed enforcement, but with the person who takes it on themselves to make waves. I do find it funny that I can not have a sand hill crane statue in my front yard but I CAN have a clothes line!!!!

[TrudyM]

I personally love the metal cranes etc., but am glad of the restrictions as yards with large gaudy displays bother me and you can't have one without the other. I agree that maybe a more defined rule needs to be in place so there would be less violators.
I was under the impression that American flags were allowed as I see flag poles all over. Plus I thought I read someplace that although the size of the flag and placement may be restricted but flying the colors is a right of all US citizens and can not be prohibited.
I bought in Tamarind grove but left all the rules stuff in the house when I went back to Wa so can't check right now. Can someone tell me if it is only the front yard that has rules and if so how does that work as some houses back yards back to streets.

[skip0358]

What I don't like is we have to turn in each other because they're complaint driven. I too was turned in and after a discussion mine was not a violation and could stay. What I don't agree with is why my front yard has to be free of violations because it faces the road, when a backyard that faces the roadway can look like a junkyard. Before you ask that came from Deed Compliance Officers mouth. I'll bet IF we had a true deed compliance officer
not very many homes and or yards would pass IF the rules were enforced the way they're written. Everyone should re read them and then look around even at your own yard. JMO
I think it goes like"People who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones"

[drcar]

What I don't like is we have to turn in each other because they're complaint driven. I too was turned in and after a discussion mine was not a violation and could stay. What I don't agree with is why my front yard has to be free of violations because it faces the road, when a backyard that faces the roadway can look like a junkyard. Before you ask that came from Deed Compliance Officers mouth. I'll bet IF we had a true deed compliance officer
not very many homes and or yards would pass IF the rules were enforced the way they're written. Everyone should re read them and then look around even at your own yard. JMO
I think it goes like"People who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones"

:clap2::clap2::clap2::clap2::clap2::clap2:

[janmcn]

I posted this tread to open a discussion, and it did. Most of the people missed the point, the point wasn't good or bad lawn ornaments. The point is the "troll patrol," making rounds in villages just to create problems. I would never dispute the fact that the said items are against the deed. My problem is when a person, either a villager, or outsider can create a stir and send paid staff out to do VERY tough jobs. I will say again the worker who came to my street was very nice and understanding. My issue is not with the deed enforcement, but with the person who takes it on themselves to make waves. I do find it funny that I can not have a sand hill crane statue in my front yard but I CAN have a clothes line!!!!

The clothes line issue is a state law and takes precedence over deed restrictions.

[drcar]

The clothes line issue is a state law and takes precedence over deed restrictions.

LOL, I know, I just find it funny!:a20::a20::a20::a20::a20:

[JoMar]

May yard ornaments be placed in the back yard if they can't be seen from the front? I ask because we haven't bought yet. I'm just thinking of my one iron sculpture of a rescue worker. He is currently saving my dogs from drowning in our pond (figuratively). Should I plan on finding him a good home?

You can put it out until someone complains. As someone who has lived here a long time told me, "the inside of your house is yours, the outside belongs to everyone" His point was that the density here makes it almost impossible for the houses not to impact their neighbors or the neighborhoods.

[Challenger]

Im sure that those who wre upset will not like this post, however, all real property purchasers in TV should have known what things were prohibited in their village. Covenents and restrictions are recorded in county property records. Zoning ordinances are public documents. There should be no mystery about the "rules"

I live in Tamarind Grove and commented to my wife several months ago that many of the properties here were violating the rules and some streets were becoming "tacky". Suddenly the infractions disappeared. I wondered if someone had finally complained.

I for one , like the rules, and when I see infractions, I have from time to time regestered complaints. Especially annoying are religious signs in many yards during the holidays. Sesonal decorations are acceptable for a limited period. Signs , however. are signs and as such are violations. Slippery slopes abound.

This thread reminds me of those who get traffic ticket and then trash the police for enforcing rules.

Ignoring the rules is an offense to those of us who have moved here because such rules exist. Our rights are essentually contractural and the contract is being violated.

[Carl in Tampa]

What happens if one tells the villages rep to pound sand?

If you fail to comply then the HOA can assess a fine and file a lien against your property to compel payment.

[wereback]

I really feel we should all get behind Challengers post as he has stated what we all signed and now so many want to do what ever they want.

[Warren Kiefer]

[QUOTE=drcar;1056265]Whats valid, I guess they are if you want to say so, BUT we are talking about small, and I mean small statues, about 8 inches high. Yes I know what the rules state, BUT these people are looking for problems! One person was informed that the flat stepping stones had to be removed because they had words on them!!!![/QUO

At what point does one obey the rules??

[wereback]

No where in our deed papers does it say a little statue is okay

[Carl in Tampa]

:girlneener:I was just on the district.org website .Nowhere is there a way to see these emails.

You must go to the District Office in person and file a Sunshine Law request in order to see the complaints, which are a public record.

[drcar]

:girlneener:

You must go to the District Office in person and file a Sunshine Law request in order to see the complaints, which are a public record.

No you do not, just asked the deed compliance office and they will send it to you! That is a fact.

[Carl in Tampa]

One man's Garden Gnome is another man's pile of dog poop.

Just follow the restrictions in the area where you live and Code Compliance won't bother you.

I would like to put a 43' aluminum mast (not a flag pole) in my yard, but it is prohibited. Maybe I could start with a 6' mast and have it grow over time. If you don't nip it in the bud and you give me an inch, I might take a mile later.

:crap2:

[Carl in Tampa]

No you do not, just asked the deed compliance office and they will send it to you! That is a fact.


No problem. The point was that the poster stated that the information could not be found on the web site, and I was saying that you must ask for it.

[Challenger]

[QUOTE=drcar;1056265]Whats valid, I guess they are if you want to say so, BUT we are talking about small, and I mean small statues, about 8 inches high. Yes I know what the rules state, BUT these people are looking for problems! One person was informed that the flat stepping stones had to be removed because they had words on them!!!![/QUO

At what point does one obey the rules??

Clearly when he does not violate them!!! They are not hard to understand>

[Villageswimmer]

Does anyone find it ironic that when a handful of folks were doing aerobics in a neighborhood pool, posters were all riled up because "rules are rules." It wasn't even clear that this practice was verboten.

Now, in the case of yard ornaments, rules should be overlooked.

I don't have a dog in either fight. Just sayin...

[redwitch]

So, to me, there are three issues:

First, the issue of deed restrictions being violated. This should be corrected by individual homeowners. You signed the paper. If you didn't like the restrictions, you should have moved further north where there are less restrictions. This is pretty black and white to me.

Next, we have the issue of a mean-spirited, petty individual complaining about every violation she sees, even in neighborhoods that do not impact her in the least. Let the neighbors deal with it. They're the ones who have to live with it. And, if you have to drive by the offender constantly, I put you in the neighbor category, so do what you feel is right.

The biggest issue is that we are forced to be tattletales if there is a problem. That's just wrong. Community Watch can easily see issues and can just as easily report same to Community Standards. It should not be our job.

[DianeM]

Rules are meant to be bent. I would much rather look at a bronze egret then a pair of undies hanging on the line.

[Challenger]

Rules are meant to be bent. I would much rather look at a bronze egret then a pair of undies hanging on the line.

What rules are meant to be bent????? The choice is not egrets or undies, it's neither,

[Barefoot]

What I don't like is we have to turn in each other because they're complaint driven.

No, Skip, I do not agree.
That's the thing, we don't have to turn each other in!
In eight years I've never complained about anyone.
There is absolutely no way anyone has to complain about anyone else.
Most people take a "live and let live" attitude.
The process is there for people to address a property which they feel is garish and unacceptable.
However most of us will never use the complaint process, and that is the way it should be.

[kcrazorbackfan]

I haven't had time to read every response, but from what I understand, the couple that has this vendetta against EVERYONE had something in their yard that was complained about.

So, in essence, someone's need to tattle on this couple started this ball rolling.

[DougB]

Wow, this is getting like the kid's game of "Telephone".

[DonH57]

No, Skip, I do not agree.
That's the thing, we don't have to turn each other in!
In eight years I've never complained about anyone.
There is absolutely no way anyone has to complain about anyone else.
Most people take a "live and let live" attitude.
The process is there for people to address a property which they feel is garish and unacceptable.
However most of us will never use the complaint process, and that is the way it should be.


I pretty much agree.I've never turned in my neighbors for anything mainly because I'm busy living my own life, I don't memorize regulations and codes, and I'm not consumed with my neighbors' business. No one issued me orders and binoculars.:beer3:

[alemorkam]

Thank you challenger

[DianeM]

What rules are meant to be bent????? The choice is not egrets or undies, it's neither,

What rules are meant to be bent? Any stupid rule that makes me supposedly have to turn in my neighbor for minor infractions. Give me a break. Short of painting your house hot pink I don't give a good rat's behind what you do. Live and let live. I'm not going to memorize silly rules. I'd much rather just live my life.

[Challenger]

What rules are meant to be bent? Any stupid rule that makes me supposedly have to turn in my neighbor for minor infractions. Give me a break. Short of painting your house hot pink I don't give a good rat's behind what you do. Live and let live. I'm not going to memorize silly rules. I'd much rather just live my life.

No one has said that you need to turn anyone in.

[gap2415]

There always seems to be a Mrs Kravitz looking to find fault! In our old area, it was a man who went out walking his dog at 5 pm with nothing better to do than see if he could find fault with someone who just may have made a minor slip in the area. He annoyed everyone and soon became the most hated person in the subdivision.

Big difference between the letter and the spirit of rules! Live and let live ... Unless it is totally outrageous in my opinion ..which may not be worth much to the Mrs Kravitz' s of the world.

[Challenger]

There always seems to be a Mrs Kravitz looking to find fault! In our old area, it was a man who went out walking his dog at 5 pm with nothing better to do than see if he could find fault with someone who just may have made a minor slip in the area. He annoyed everyone and soon became the most hated person in the subdivision.

Big difference between the letter and the spirit of rules! Live and let live ... Unless it is totally outrageous in my opinion ..which may not be worth much to the Mrs Kravitz' s of the world.

By whose authority do we determine outrageous. How does it work if one puts up a small egret and a neighbor puts up a small statue of Count Dracula. They are equally in violation. Can we require that the Count has to go and the egret can stay. Strong rules, enforced uniformly serve to maintain property values for all.

[JCMSr]

At this point in this discussion I feel that I am beating a dead horse just by putting in my two cents worth. Nevertheless, here goes. First of all I have owned many houses over the years within communities both with and without restrictive covenants and have seen many of the positives and negatives which can result from each situation. I personally prefer to have such rules in place to protect my investment and will abide by them until they can be changed if it is for the good of the community as a whole. That said, there are times when the rules can be misinterpreted by the governing authorities to an extreme which can be just as bad.

Our community clearly has rules against any "yard ornaments" other than seasonal ornaments which must be removed after 30 days. I know that the OP used a small (approx. 8") ornament as an example and my question is if one 8" ornament is acceptable what happens when it becomes 6, 8 or 12? One of the latest fads for decorating yards are what I believe are called gazing balls (10-12" brightly colored reflective balls) placed as accent pieces in the flower beds. Personally I like the look but can easily see how even that could get out of hand very quickly if someone decided to place one of every color around their yard.

Although it may seem a minor infraction to some once the rules begin to be broken and even worse ignored by the governing body they are essentially worthless. One statue leads to a fence or a storage shed or perhaps a 30' short wave radio antenna (painted blue of course to match the sky)! I am exaggerating of course but you can see my point. The rules are there for a reason. Rather than acting like the rules should apply to everyone else except you accept the fact that this is what you agreed to when you signed the purchase papers and decided to move to TV.

In our particular area of The Villages the restrictive covenants were created "For the purpose of enhancing and protecting the value, attractiveness and desirability of the lots or tracts constituting such Subdivision". This same document further speaks to the enforcement of this covenants by the property owners by stating "All Owners shall have the right and duty" to prosecute violators of these covenants, conditions or restrictions. The Villages of Lake-Sumter Inc. as having the "right but not the duty to enforce ....... as though Declarant were the Owner...". Notice the differences? We as Owners have a duty to attempt to rectify violations whereas The Villages can do so if they see fit but is under no legal obligation to enforce these regulations. Although it may not seem the neighborly thing to do to turn someone in it is your duty! This does not mean you have to be rude or mean spirited in your actions but you certainly owe it to yourself and your neighbors to bring the infraction to someone's attention. Perhaps you are too shy to directly talk to the offending party and would prefer ask The Villages to do so on your behalf. Personally I see no problem with either scenario. That said, submitting 70, 80 or 90 so called violations seems to be someone going overboard trying to make his/her point.

I believe at this point I have exceeded my two cents worth and have probably used up the better part of a nickel. Thoughtful comments are welcomed. Rants will be politely ignored!

[Challenger]

The revelation that there were at least 90 violations kind of makes the point that things can get far out of hand without strong , timely enforcement.

[Bonny]

At this point in this discussion I feel that I am beating a dead horse just by putting in my two cents worth. Nevertheless, here goes. First of all I have owned many houses over the years within communities both with and without restrictive covenants and have seen many of the positives and negatives which can result from each situation. I personally prefer to have such rules in place to protect my investment and will abide by them until they can be changed if it is for the good of the community as a whole. That said, there are times when the rules can be misinterpreted by the governing authorities to an extreme which can be just as bad.

Our community clearly has rules against any "yard ornaments" other than seasonal ornaments which must be removed after 30 days. I know that the OP used a small (approx. 8") ornament as an example and my question is if one 8" ornament is acceptable what happens when it becomes 6, 8 or 12? One of the latest fads for decorating yards are what I believe are called gazing balls (10-12" brightly colored reflective balls) placed as accent pieces in the flower beds. Personally I like the look but can easily see how even that could get out of hand very quickly if someone decided to place one of every color around their yard.

Although it may seem a minor infraction to some once the rules begin to be broken and even worse ignored by the governing body they are essentially worthless. One statue leads to a fence or a storage shed or perhaps a 30' short wave radio antenna (painted blue of course to match the sky)! I am exaggerating of course but you can see my point. The rules are there for a reason. Rather than acting like the rules should apply to everyone else except you accept the fact that this is what you agreed to when you signed the purchase papers and decided to move to TV.

In our particular area of The Villages the restrictive covenants were created "For the purpose of enhancing and protecting the value, attractiveness and desirability of the lots or tracts constituting such Subdivision". This same document further speaks to the enforcement of this covenants by the property owners by stating "All Owners shall have the right and duty" to prosecute violators of these covenants, conditions or restrictions. The Villages of Lake-Sumter Inc. as having the "right but not the duty to enforce ....... as though Declarant were the Owner...". Notice the differences? We as Owners have a duty to attempt to rectify violations whereas The Villages can do so if they see fit but is under no legal obligation to enforce these regulations. Although it may not seem the neighborly thing to do to turn someone in it is your duty! This does not mean you have to be rude or mean spirited in your actions but you certainly owe it to yourself and your neighbors to bring the infraction to someone's attention. Perhaps you are too shy to directly talk to the offending party and would prefer ask The Villages to do so on your behalf. Personally I see no problem with either scenario. That said, submitting 70, 80 or 90 so called violations seems to be someone going overboard trying to make his/her point.

I believe at this point I have exceeded my two cents worth and have probably used up the better part of a nickel. Thoughtful comments are welcomed. Rants will be politely ignored!
I agree. I have lived next to people that took tacky yard ornaments to the extreme. One thing leads to another and it gets out of hand. The only way to do it is say "none allowed". I knew that when I moved here and agreed to it.

[justjim]

According to one post, the complaint filer is moving. Things will then get back to "normal" for the neighborhood. I'm not a fan of lawn ornaments myself but to each his own.

[Patty55]

I don't know, nothing says "Central Florida" to me like a flock of pink flamingos.

[Barefoot]

Although it may not seem the neighborly thing to do to turn someone in it is your duty!

If someone's decorations bother you, call Deed Compliance.
If they don't bother you, don't call.
Don't let anyone convince you that reporting your neighbor is your duty!

[Bonanza]

If someone's decorations bother you, call Deed Compliance.
If they don't bother you, don't call.
Don't let anyone convince you that reporting your neighbor is your duty!

I agree with you that we do not have a duty to report someone. I often visit a friend on Twisted Oak Way in Sanibel. There is a house there that looks like a circus. It has a flag pole, statues, the shape of the map of Texas; offhand, I can't remember what else they have on the front of their property.

As distasteful as I find it, I have not reported them. If the compliance officers haven't done something about it, why should I? Heaven knows, they have driven by there and seen it.

[shcisamax]

As distasteful as I find it, I have not reported them. If the compliance officers haven't done something about it, why should I? Heaven knows, they have driven by there and seen it.

Yessiree Bonanza, right you are. Can't people just let it go...If you aren't living next to it, in which case feel free to report, how much does it actually impact your life? For a retired laid back livin' the good life group of people, don't they have enough happiness to stop raining on other's parades? sheesh.

[biker1]

I am sure this will be an unpopular position to take, but I agree. I suspect most people have not read the deed restrictions. I suspect there are many who feel that they don't need to comply because the deed restrictions shouldn't apply to them because their violation is "tasteful and how could anyone object". You can argue whether compliance should be complaint driven or whether the CDD should employ people to drive around looking for violations but that is tangential to the real issue. As in almost everything in life, it behooves you to know the rules and make sure you comply. When you do otherwise, there may be consequences that involve misunderstandings, bad feelings, conflict, and turmoil. I think it is safe to say that we are all better off without these in our lives. If you bought here, follow the rules. If you don't like the rules then either move or be prepared for conflict.

Sounds like the person that gets a speeding ticket for going 75 mph and complains that everyone else is doing it. Why not just comply?

[biker1]

I suspect compliance officers will not taken action without a specific complaint.

I agree with you that we do not have a duty to report someone. I often visit a friend on Twisted Oak Way in Sanibel. There is a house there that looks like a circus. It has a flag pole, statues, the shape of the map of Texas; offhand, I can't remember what else they have on the front of their property.

As distasteful as I find it, I have not reported them. If the compliance officers haven't done something about it, why should I? Heaven knows, they have driven by there and seen it.

[drcar]

I suspect compliance officers will not taken action without a specific complaint.

Biker 1, you are correct. The compliance officers will not act without a specific complaint. They do their duty, nicely and professionally. My point to which keeps getting twisted, do we really want a community to which people drive around and file hundreds of complaints because they can! Some posters have said "if you can't take the heat". Again my point is NOT to say that the lawn ornaments are legal or tasteful but to point out the way this is being handled. Myself and my neighbors could place statues of any kind on the front porches to prove a point and that would be ok. And to have posters state that no one should judge on what is tasteful, I agree, but the compliance officers are already doing that by using their judgment about what is and is not a lawn ornament. JUST SAYING!!

[kcrazorbackfan]

Back in November when we closed on our home in St. James, we asked the ARC about two yard lights that we bought for our home in Louisiana, then took to STL and then to KC. Now, these are CONCRETE lights about 4' tall (and approx. 100lbs.) that only illuminate a small area w/ 25w lights and are on dusk to dawn timers. They are a lot nicer than the yard lights in front of all TV homes - cost about $200 each. "Nope" was the answer we got.

Then we started looking around the neighborhood; plenty of violations, but we took the high road and didn't report them, all the time thinking "Yep, our lights are going up".

Two weeks ago we sold our home our KC home. After the sale, the couple that bought it wanted to meet with me to find out how to work the heat/ac system, the security system, the sprinkler system and what I did to have the best looking yard in our neighborhood :D. When we got done, they offered $300 each for the lights; needless to say, as much as my wife loved them, they are not coming to TV. :laugh:

The moral of the story? "Live and let live". Problems have a way of taking care of themselves, even pink flamingos.

[NavyNJ]

I suspect compliance officers will not taken action without a specific complaint.

What is a Compliance Officer? Who employs and/or pays him? How many of them are there? What are their normal duties - in office taking complaints? Out on patrol? Do they wear uniforms? Do they patrol in their own vehicles, or golf carts, or those owned by the CDD they represent? Or do they represent all CDDs in TV?

Have seen many referrals to these guys in this thread, but have zero idea who they are.

[Bonny]

What is a Compliance Officer? Who employs and/or pays him? How many of them are there? What are their normal duties - in office taking complaints? Out on patrol? Do they wear uniforms? Do they patrol in their own vehicles, or golf carts, or those owned by the CDD they represent? Or do they represent all CDDs in TV?

Have seen many referrals to these guys in this thread, but have zero idea who they are.
Like neighborhood watch. Just making sure people are following the rules when there is a complaint made.

[biker1]

We have lived in a deed restricted community before The Villages. Compliance was a combination of anonymous complaints (something I never agreed with, you should put your name on the complaint) and a resident manager inspecting the community weekly. The HOA actually took someone to court over a violation, and won. There were some violations they never enforced because they felt too much time had gone by without enforcement and that was an implicit acceptance of the violation. The lesson learned was that timely enforcement is a good idea.

What is done in The Villages is the easy way out: let the residents report non-compliance. I have never agreed with that approach. I can understand that people are hesitant to report neighbors, those who enjoy reporting violations notwithstanding. Given that The Villages (actually the CDDs??) doesn't want to do the dirty work, we must realize that it is up to us to take the steps to maintain the look and feel that we want for our neighborhoods. I personally don't like seeing a yard full of tchotchkes. Fortunately, all of my neighbors apparently feel the same way.

Biker 1, you are correct. The compliance officers will not act without a specific complaint. They do their duty, nicely and professionally. My point to which keeps getting twisted, do we really want a community to which people drive around and file hundreds of complaints because they can! Some posters have said "if you can't take the heat". Again my point is NOT to say that the lawn ornaments are legal or tasteful but to point out the way this is being handled. Myself and my neighbors could place statues of any kind on the front porches to prove a point and that would be ok. And to have posters state that no one should judge on what is tasteful, I agree, but the compliance officers are already doing that by using their judgment about what is and is not a lawn ornament. JUST SAYING!!

[NavyNJ]

There always seems to be a Mrs Kravitz looking to find fault! In our old area, it was a man who went out walking his dog at 5 pm with nothing better to do than see if he could find fault with someone who just may have made a minor slip in the area. He annoyed everyone and soon became the most hated person in the subdivision.

Big difference between the letter and the spirit of rules! Live and let live ... Unless it is totally outrageous in my opinion ..which may not be worth much to the Mrs Kravitz' s of the world.

Gap - Not sure that "Lenny" would be too appreciative of casting his mom in such a light! :)

[NavyNJ]

Like neighborhood watch. Just making sure people are following the rules when there is a complaint made.

Sorry, Bonny. Not being a jerk here, but I kind of knew that much of it. I was looking for specific answers from those who might know to the other questions. Cheers! :)

[Bonny]

Sorry, Bonny. Not being a jerk here, but I kind of knew that much of it. I was looking for specific answers from those who might know to the other questions. Cheers! :)
When I saw that you asked "what is a compliance officer ?" I assumed you didn't know. Answers to the rest of your questions, I couldn't tell you.

[NavyNJ]

When I saw that you asked "what is a compliance officer ?" I assumed you didn't know. Answers to the rest of your questions, I couldn't tell you.

Yeah, that was my fault the way I worded it. What I was getting at was, what's their Job Description? What are the requirements to be hired for that job? Do they get any training? Seems like it could be a power trip for the wrong person in that job.

[CFrance]

I don't think the compliance guys themselves are on power trips. Our neighbor (snowbird) received a complaint about weeds in the yard, and the compliance person was very apologetic and handled it very nicely.

It's the people who drive around looking for rule benders and then turn 97 of them in who seem to be on power trips. You would think common sense would say to the compliance department that if they get 97complaints from the same person, he's probably a nut case. But I guess they are duty bound to investigate.

[mulligan]

If someone's decorations bother you, call Deed Compliance.
If they don't bother you, don't call.
Don't let anyone convince you that reporting your neighbor is your duty!

Not to be contrary, but if you read the last section of the restrictions you signed for, it states that you DO have an obligation to report infractions, and pursue mitigation up to and including litigation.

[CFrance]

Not to be contrary, but if you read the last section of the restrictions you signed for, it states that you DO have an obligation to report infractions, and pursue mitigation up to and including litigation.
Surely that doesn't mean that we have an obligation to take on the cost of suing someone over lack of compliance. What are they smoking?

[PennBF]

We all agreed to Deed Restrictions when we bought. They are simple and in most cases reasonable. In a lot of cases Residents break the rules but don't want to accept the consequences for doing so, (e.g. removing the alleged violation). Our community is great and we are proud when visitors come and agree and in some cases buy. Lets not screw it up with a lot of junk in the
yards, etc. One mans treasurer is another mans junk.:bowdown:

[Sanibel7]

If you want to know what Community Standards does and the procedures that are taken Please go to Village Community Development Districts (http://www.districtgov.org), Hover your mouse over Departments on the blue bar, Click on Community Standards. This will bring you to they're home page. Scroll down and find your district. These will be on the main page with a red line. Click on it. There will be an overview with definitions and basic deed restriction guidelines. Not all Districts have the same restrictions, The individual district boards have the right to enforce or not enforce certain restrictions. They cannot change the restrictions though. When you bought your home you signed and agreed to abide by the deed restrictions set forth by the developer. That is a binding contract and the boards can not change that but they can choose to enforce or not enforce certain parts of the document. If you would like something changed bring it up to your board at an open meeting.

[Sanibel7]

Village Community Development Districts (http://www.districtgov.org)

[janmcn]

I don't think the compliance guys themselves are on power trips. Our neighbor (snowbird) received a complaint about weeds in the yard, and the compliance person was very apologetic and handled it very nicely.

It's the people who drive around looking for rule benders and then turn 97 of them in who seem to be on power trips. You would think common sense would say to the compliance department that if they get 97complaints from the same person, he's probably a nut case. But I guess they are duty bound to investigate.


What is the next step once a person gets a complaint? Are they given a certain amount of time to correct the situation? If so, does the compliance department come back for a second inspection and sign off on the complaint?

I wonder how many of these 97 residents want to plead not guilty and if there is such a remedy?

Maybe the complainer is having trouble selling their home and feels that the neighborhoods are looking a little junked up.

[skip0358]

No, Skip, I do not agree.
That's the thing, we don't have to turn each other in!
In eight years I've never complained about anyone.
There is absolutely no way anyone has to complain about anyone else.
Most people take a "live and let live" attitude.
The process is there for people to address a property which they feel is garish and unacceptable.
However most of us will never use the complaint process, and that is the way it should be.


Guess I didn't word it right. These are District rules we shouldn't have to nor do I intend to turn someone in for breaking a district rule. Period unless it's a safety or health issue. The District should enforce their own rules without a tattletale enforcement.

[Villageswimmer]

Biker 1, you are correct. The compliance officers will not act without a specific complaint. They do their duty, nicely and professionally. My point to which keeps getting twisted, do we really want a community to which people drive around and file hundreds of complaints because they can! Some posters have said "if you can't take the heat". Again my point is NOT to say that the lawn ornaments are legal or tasteful but to point out the way this is being handled. Myself and my neighbors could place statues of any kind on the front porches to prove a point and that would be ok. And to have posters state that no one should judge on what is tasteful, I agree, but the compliance officers are already doing that by using their judgment about what is and is not a lawn ornament. JUST SAYING!!


OP, not sure why you've taken this on as your problem. If some wha cko wants to file what is now "hundreds of complaints," despite your intentions, it is not your problem. The Villages compliance folks are the professionals in this arena and have probably dealt successfully with these issues before. Best not to stress over it.

[kcrazorbackfan]

I don't think the compliance guys themselves are on power trips. Our neighbor (snowbird) received a complaint about weeds in the yard, and the compliance person was very apologetic and handled it very nicely.

It's the people who drive around looking for rule benders and then turn 97 of them in who seem to be on power trips. You would think common sense would say to the compliance department that if they get 97complaints from the same person, he's probably a nut case. But I guess they are duty bound to investigate.

Not just a nut case but more like :loco::loco::loco::loco:. On 2nd thought, they must really lead miserable lives with no friends and nothing to do to feel the need to travel around neighborhoods and write all of these so-called "infractions" down. I know I get fired up about divots on greens and tee boxes but it's hard to call someone out when everyone you play with fixes them.

[drcar]

Not just a nut case but more like :loco::loco::loco::loco:. On 2nd thought, they must really lead miserable lives with no friends and nothing to do to feel the need to travel around neighborhoods and write all of these so-called "infractions" down. I know I get fired up about divots on greens and tee boxes but it's hard to call someone out when everyone you play with fixes them.

:clap2::clap2::clap2::clap2::clap2::clap2:

[drcar]

Whats really funny is the person missed some homes, but according to some posters we should turn them now!

[rockyisle]

I've waited until now to chime in - wondering when someone would bring up the obvious - that's why we live here. I really don't want yard ornaments in my neighbors' yards or I'd have chosen a home in the northern district where they have no rules. You can slather on all the ornaments you want on your lawn without infraction.
As to the 90+ complaints, it certainly is sour grapes, yet are there that many people in the area that are out of compliance with the rules they said they would uphold? I'm glad I live in a neighborhood that lives in compliance.... phew... they are also the neighbors who let us walk our dogs and don't worry about the d-mail scents left behind.

[Carl in Tampa]

I've waited until now to chime in - wondering when someone would bring up the obvious - that's why we live here. I really don't want yard ornaments in my neighbors' yards or I'd have chosen a home in the northern district where they have no rules. You can slather on all the ornaments you want on your lawn without infraction.
As to the 90+ complaints, it certainly is sour grapes, yet are there that many people in the area that are out of compliance with the rules they said they would uphold? I'm glad I live in a neighborhood that lives in compliance.... phew... they are also the neighbors who let us walk our dogs and don't worry about the d-mail scents left behind.

I guess I'm unfamiliar with the different areas. What is the "northern district" where there are no rules?

The area of TV that is in Marion County is very restricted due to County rules.

[DianeM]

"My duty to report someone out of compliance". ??? Are you kidding me? That's so uncivilized it's pathetic. You can bang your covenants papers to your hearts desire but the majority of the world believes "live and let live". I truly believe the great majority scan those documents at closing and say yeah yeah. Hell will freeze before I report anyone for a lawn ornament.

[DougB]

My God, people! Have you never heard of the falling domino theory. You have a row of dominoes set up, you knock over the first one, and what will happen to the last one is the certainly that it will fall over very quickly.

This needs to be nipped in the bud. Lawn ornament victory in one village can quickly lead to a chain reaction of lawn ornament takeovers in neighboring villages. *Deed restrictions might then be re-wrote where if you own a house in The Villages it must have a lawn ornament in the front yard. This could lead to a major rise in the price of lawn ornaments. Then we would have to start having them made in China. This could not only end life in The Villages as we know it, but could be the destruction of our whole economic system.

[rockyisle]

If you head over to Rio Grande into the Mira Mesa area near Spanish Springs you will see every version of lawn decor on the planet. No deed restrictions. I'm guessing here (certainly not a legal expert), but that area is in Lake County.

[Polar Bear]

...the majority of the world believes "live and let live"...

If your saying the majority wants to ignore deed restrictions, I strongly dispute your claim.

[lafoto]

"My duty to report someone out of compliance". ??? Are you kidding me? That's so uncivilized it's pathetic. You can bang your covenants papers to your hearts desire but the majority of the world believes "live and let live". I truly believe the great majority scan those documents at closing and say yeah yeah. Hell will freeze before I report anyone for a lawn ornament.

Hear hear!!! This thread and this "issue" are such a waste of time. If you moved to the Villages so you could become part of the "Gnome Police".....well you will be very lonely... no one wants to hear your whining.

[perrjojo]

Hear hear!!! This thread and this "issue" are such a waste of time. If you moved to the Villages so you could become part of the "Gnome Police".....well you will be very lonely... no one wants to hear your whining.

I certainly don't report my neighbors but I did move to TV because there are restrictions and I DO NOT WANT TO LIVE IN A GNOME VILLAGE. People should comply with the covenants. If you comply you will not get a letter..simple as that.

[Polar Bear]

I certainly don't report my neighbors but I did move to TV because there are restrictions and I DO NOT WANT TO LIVE IN A GNOME VILLAGE. People should comply with the covenants. If you comply you will not get a letter..simple as that.
Agree. Pretty simple.

[DianeM]

wish I had a gnome to put on my lawn. Might have to go shopping.

[TheVillageChicken]

wish I had a gnome to put on my lawn. Might have to go shopping.

Stay tasteful

http://www.dudeiwantthat.com/outdoors/garden/Zombie-Gnomes-Bye-Bye-Birdie-574.jpg

[DianeM]

Stay tasteful

http://www.dudeiwantthat.com/outdoors/garden/Zombie-Gnomes-Bye-Bye-Birdie-574.jpg

Good one

[OCsun]

Zombie Gnome's! Too funny! :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Villageswimmer]

I certainly don't report my neighbors but I did move to TV because there are restrictions and I DO NOT WANT TO LIVE IN A GNOME VILLAGE. People should comply with the covenants. If you comply you will not get a letter..simple as that.


...and if you get a letter, put the gnomes away! Simple as that. Why so much drama over nothing?

[Challenger]

"Good fences make good neighbors"
From the Mending Wall by Robert Frost

It would be good for posters to read (google) this wonderful poem written many years ago by one of America's greatest philosophers/poets.It refers to neighbors agreeing to rebuild and keep in good repair a fence (rule of use).

Good rules (fences) also make good neighbors, provided that everyone abides by the covenants that they have previouly agreed to.

No one is required to be a "snitch". Some feel that they should utilize their contractural right to report infractions (rebuild and repair) the wall. In the final analysis the reporters are helpping to preserve the values of all, even those who protest so loudly.

[drcar]

"Good fences make good neighbors"
From the Mending Wall by Robert Frost

It would be good for posters to read (google) this wonderful poem written many years ago by one of America's greatest philosophers/poets.It refers to neighbors agreeing to rebuild and keep in good repair a fence (rule of use).

Good rules (fences) also make good neighbors, provided that everyone abides by the covenants that they have previouly agreed to.

No one is required to be a "snitch". Some feel that they should utilize their contractural right to report infractions (rebuild and repair) the wall. In the final analysis the reporters are helpping to preserve the values of all, even those who protest so loudly.

LOL, good fences make ...... fences!

[asianthree]

I love the metal birds in the yards by houses, but have to admit in our old neighbor hood, the house down the street had more garden decorations in the front yard than Walmart. Yes I know they loved it but not following the rules is not right. Nope no one has turned them in but...

[graciegirl]

"Good fences make good neighbors"
From the Mending Wall by Robert Frost

It would be good for posters to read (google) this wonderful poem written many years ago by one of America's greatest philosophers/poets.It refers to neighbors agreeing to rebuild and keep in good repair a fence (rule of use).

Good rules (fences) also make good neighbors, provided that everyone abides by the covenants that they have previouly agreed to.

No one is required to be a "snitch". Some feel that they should utilize their contractural right to report infractions (rebuild and repair) the wall. In the final analysis the reporters are helpping to preserve the values of all, even those who protest so loudly.





Excellent post Challenger and very reasonable point made.

One of the reasons that this place is so beautiful is because of the deed restrictions.

They aren't a minus, they are a plus. Deed restrictions are not new to many of us. We chose to build our last five homes in deed restricted areas, because the restrictions protected our investment and because we liked the way it looked.

The deed restrictions became more tight as The Villages grew. There are not as many in the historical parts and in the areas off of Morse north of 466 as there are in the newer areas north of 466 of Buena Vista and all areas south of 466.

They used to be overseen by Villages Watch but now they are enforced when someone reports them. If you call Standards, there will be NO public record. I was surprised to read about the emails being public...which makes me muse...........Whoops.

I did not move here to look at bend over ladies and multiple pots and gee gaws and frou frous and plastic flowers. I didn't even move here to look at expensive bronze ornaments....but there are some that can get approval from ARC if requested, so ask them before you place something beautiful and find out it is against deed restrictions.

I think it odd that someone turned in myriads of reports, but if a bend over lady comes into my line of vision near my home...well..you guessed it.

And if I get all out of wack and silly as I grow older and buy a bronze statue of Brad Pitt and place it in my front flower bed, well please feel free to report me. I know that if I don't comply, I will get fined and a lien placed on my home. Rules and restrictions were there when I bought and I signed the papers.

Let's keep The Villages beautiful.

[MelZ]

I want to thank the individual, or individuals who must have issues with the home owners in the village of Tamarind Grove. A complaint was filed with “Deed Compliance” concerning “Lawn Ornaments”, 97 separate complaints! The complaints range from “Decorative flags” to statues! Before everyone jumps on me, I understand the rules, BUT 97 complaints! I have been informed that this person or persons have also gone into St James and Buttonwood! This is NOT a small issue this is a personal vendetta. When does this stop? Do we really need this type of reporting, people in the neighbors have had no issues, but a person who outside the village can travel anywhere and file complaints?

So let me understand I break the law (or violate my deed restrictions) but my friends say it's ok.
It's not the number of violations that's the problem even one is too many.

[drcar]

So let me understand I break the law (or violate my deed restrictions) but my friends say it's ok.
It's not the number of violations that's the problem even one is too many.

Let me try and bring this back to the original issue. One item is a violation. Anyone can file a compliant. No one can defend by stating the value, the beauty or the number. The posters are correct, the deed states no lawn ornaments. Now drive around, of course you see them. My issues is with a person on a personal mission, turning in hundreds of people. The person does not live in my village. Yes they have the right, but wow, what a power trip. Heck the person does not even need to live in the villages. The other issue in the compliance people are telling different people different rules. The other funny issue is that as they are talking to reported home owners, they do no address homeowners who have ornaments but no one reported them. The system is not working!

[Villageswimmer]

Let me try and bring this back to the original issue. One item is a violation. Anyone can file a compliant. No one can defend by stating the value, the beauty or the number. The posters are correct, the deed states no lawn ornaments. Now drive around, of course you see them. My issues is with a person on a personal mission, turning in hundreds of people. The person does not live in my village. Yes they have the right, but wow, what a power trip. Heck the person does not even need to live in the villages. The other issue in the compliance people are telling different people different rules. The other funny issue is that as they are talking to reported home owners, they do no address homeowners who have ornaments but no one reported them. The system is not working!


Right. Sounds like this has really upset you. Whether it's 1, 97 or "hundreds," makes no difference.

While the system is not perfect, it does work. Obviously, TV and many posters agree. Sometimes one just needs to accept what one cannot change. Don't hold a grudge against this person despite the fact that you don't like what they did. Sounds like this is eating you up inside. Not worth it. Namaste.

[Challenger]

Let me try and bring this back to the original issue. One item is a violation. Anyone can file a compliant. No one can defend by stating the value, the beauty or the number. The posters are correct, the deed states no lawn ornaments. Now drive around, of course you see them. My issues is with a person on a personal mission, turning in hundreds of people. The person does not live in my village. Yes they have the right, but wow, what a power trip. Heck the person does not even need to live in the villages. The other issue in the compliance people are telling different people different rules. The other funny issue is that as they are talking to reported home owners, they do no address homeowners who have ornaments but no one reported them. The system is not working!

Only a few get caught for traffic violations. Should we stop enforcement?

[Barefoot]

The other funny issue is that as they are talking to reported home owners, they do not address homeowners who have ornaments but no one reported them. The system is not working!

If home owners haven't been reported, isn't that because neighbors find their ornaments acceptable and tasteful?
And therefore, isn't the System working as it should?

[wereback]

Could it be we really hate it but want to try to be nice???

[Jayhawk]

Here's a nearby place that doesn't worry about these things. Vote with your wallet.

Lake Weir Preserve - Lake Weir Preserve (http://www.lakeweirliving.com/community/lake-weir-preserve/)

HOA (Home-Owner Association) fees & restrictions, and CDD or bond fees are not part of the active adult lifestyle at Lake Weir Preserve

[lafoto]

I think the system is broken. I think instead of having to report someone for the heinous crime of placing a small ceramic statue in their garden, the person who is offended by said statue should have to confront the classless buffoon face to face. I can imagine the conversation would go like this, " Hi Johnny I am your neighbor 5 doors down the block and I drive down the street everyday and I am appalled at your lack of taste and class with your choice of lawn decoration! Get rid of that lawn gnome right now!" Johnny might reply with," Oh its nice to meet you! I have seen you and your lovely wife riding down the street with your gnome documentation equipment. That is you right? You have that neon pink cart with all the little fuzzy dice hanging from roof. I love those floral Moo Moos your wife wears and those clown sunglasses are just priceless! Well listen about my yard gnome....I am retired and I just dont give a sh-- any more. I moved down here to Americas friendliest hometown so that I can spend what time i have left on this planet just relaxing. I have lots of friends here who dont care how much money I have, or what kind of car I drive, and they certainly dont care if I have a lawn gnome or not! So listen when you pass my house in the future please just avert your eyes and keep right on going. And one last thing... please tell your wife that Omar the tent maker is having a sale on Moomoos this week!"

[graciegirl]

I think the system is broken. I think instead of having to report someone for the heinous crime of placing a small ceramic statue in their garden, the person who is offended by said statue should have to confront the classless buffoon face to face. I can imagine the conversation would go like this, " Hi Johnny I am your neighbor 5 doors down the block and I drive down the street everyday and I am appalled at your lack of taste and class with your choice of lawn decoration! Get rid of that lawn gnome right now!" Johnny might reply with," Oh its nice to meet you! I have seen you and your lovely wife riding down the street with your gnome documentation equipment. That is you right? You have that neon pink cart with all the little fuzzy dice hanging from roof. I love those floral Moo Moos your wife wears and those clown sunglasses are just priceless! Well listen about my yard gnome....I am retired and I just dont give a sh-- any more. I moved down here to Americas friendliest hometown so that I can spend what time i have left on this planet just relaxing. I have lots of friends here who dont care how much money I have, or what kind of car I drive, and they certainly dont care if I have a lawn gnome or not! So listen when you pass my house in the future please just avert your eyes and keep right on going. And one last thing... please tell your wife that Omar the tent maker is having a sale on Moomoos this week!"

And that is the reason so many of us choose deed restricted areas to buy.
Only some people like confrontation. You may call and report someone's statue of President Bush if that is not the kind of thing you enjoy. No one will know unless you email. So don't email, just call.

Or not.

But that is something very positive to have, Deed restrictions. Because good taste isn't universal. Nor is the courage to confront someone....

Believe in DEED RESTRICTIONS..., without them this place would look VERY DIFFERENT in about a month.

[njbchbum]

snipped

Believe in DEED RESTRICTIONS..., without them this place would look slummy in about a month.

Hmmmmm.....'slummy'? Alas and alack! Another dispersion cast on the historic neighborhoods which clearly demonstrate their individuality, personal character, and most of all - a sense of humor! Nothing cookie cutter about us! :)

[graciegirl]

Hmmmmm.....'slummy'? Alas and alack! Another dispersion cast on the historic neighborhoods which clearly demonstrate their individuality, personal character, and most of all - a sense of humor! Nothing cookie cutter about us! :)


njbchbum, no dispersion meant to be cast on the historic neighborhoods. We have choices here in The Villages and I choose the area with the stricter deed restrictions.

And I applaud the individuality, personal character and sense of humor of all villagers.

[CFrance]

Here's a nearby place that doesn't worry about these things. Vote with your wallet.

Lake Weir Preserve - Lake Weir Preserve (http://www.lakeweirliving.com/community/lake-weir-preserve/)

HOA (Home-Owner Association) fees & restrictions, and CDD or bond fees are not part of the active adult lifestyle at Lake Weir Preserve
Isn't that the same thing as saying If you don't like it, move?

I was just about to comment that this and the bus parking have both been debated with civility. I hope they won't turn nasty.

[MoeVonB61]

I want to thank the individual, or individuals who must have issues with the home owners in the village of Tamarind Grove. A complaint was filed with “Deed Compliance” concerning “Lawn Ornaments”, 97 separate complaints! The complaints range from “Decorative flags” to statues! Before everyone jumps on me, I understand the rules, BUT 97 complaints! I have been informed that this person or persons have also gone into St James and Buttonwood! This is NOT a small issue this is a personal vendetta. When does this stop? Do we really need this type of reporting, people in the neighbors have had no issues, but a person who outside the village can travel anywhere and file complaints?

I would be sure to get a background check done of this person. I would fear that their mental health is severely unstable..................who would spend the little time they have left on this is INSANE......MENTALLY ILL.....why does she or he not CHOOSE to go to a soup kitchen or volunteer for Habitat for Humanity instead....do some volunteer work for a local church???SICK, SICK SICK....:ohdear:

[Bonny]

Let me try and bring this back to the original issue. One item is a violation. Anyone can file a compliant. No one can defend by stating the value, the beauty or the number. The posters are correct, the deed states no lawn ornaments. Now drive around, of course you see them. My issues is with a person on a personal mission, turning in hundreds of people. The person does not live in my village. Yes they have the right, but wow, what a power trip. Heck the person does not even need to live in the villages. The other issue in the compliance people are telling different people different rules. The other funny issue is that as they are talking to reported homeowners, they do no address homeowners who have ornaments but no one reported them. The system is not working!
The system is working. My neighborhood follows the rules & looks great. It doesn't matter if someone turns in 1 or 97, if they are violations, they are violations. Doesn't matter what Village you live in, you are free to call about those that aren't following the rules within the Villages.

[Bonny]

If home owners haven't been reported, isn't that because neighbors find their ornaments acceptable and tasteful?
And therefore, isn't the System working as it should?
It only means the ornaments aren't bad enough to call. If it's not really an eyesore, some people may not notice it. However, I had a neighbor that put a golf bag out and put a big bunch of plastic flowers in it and put it in their flower bed. I think not.

[Bonny]

I think the system is broken. I think instead of having to report someone for the heinous crime of placing a small ceramic statue in their garden, the person who is offended by said statue should have to confront the classless buffoon face to face. I can imagine the conversation would go like this, " Hi Johnny I am your neighbor 5 doors down the block and I drive down the street everyday and I am appalled at your lack of taste and class with your choice of lawn decoration! Get rid of that lawn gnome right now!" Johnny might reply with," Oh its nice to meet you! I have seen you and your lovely wife riding down the street with your gnome documentation equipment. That is you right? You have that neon pink cart with all the little fuzzy dice hanging from roof. I love those floral Moo Moos your wife wears and those clown sunglasses are just priceless! Well listen about my yard gnome....I am retired and I just dont give a sh-- any more. I moved down here to Americas friendliest hometown so that I can spend what time i have left on this planet just relaxing. I have lots of friends here who dont care how much money I have, or what kind of car I drive, and they certainly dont care if I have a lawn gnome or not! So listen when you pass my house in the future please just avert your eyes and keep right on going. And one last thing... please tell your wife that Omar the tent maker is having a sale on Moomoos this week!"
Really ?? You want to compare someone size to lawn ornaments that may affect home resale ! :ohdear: Deed restrictions are a rule that people agreed to.

[graciegirl]

Hmmmmm.....'slummy'? Alas and alack! Another dispersion cast on the historic neighborhoods which clearly demonstrate their individuality, personal character, and most of all - a sense of humor! Nothing cookie cutter about us! :)

I am very sorry Maria. Slummy was a terrible word and I regret using it.

I hope I didn't hurt anyone's feelings. Two people who I care very much about live in the historical section and although I have never been to either of their homes it wouldn't matter to me what they looked like. or if they had fourteen bend over ladies in their yard. It wouldn't matter to me if they decided to wear a Mohawk and gain four hundred pounds and become a ...well maybe not THAT..

But two dear people I may have insulted and I am sorry. And anyone else that I hurt with my callous remark, I apologize to. So sorry. My aim was not that at all.. Lafoto? You and I can't see eye to eye. Because most people DO give a sh*t.

And keeping our property nice is important. It affects other people. not just us.

[njbchbum]

snipped

But two dear people I may have insulted and I am sorry. And anyone else that I hurt with my callous remark, I apologize to. So sorry. My aim was not that at all.. Lafoto? You and I can't see eye to eye. Because most people DO give a sh*t.

And caring that we keep things nice is important. It affects other people.

Fear not! Did not take your post personally - just had ta poke atcha. Know you too well and know that 'slummy' was a knee-jerk reaction. I often refer to our villages as just a bit out of the ordinary! :)

[rockyisle]

I think the system is broken. I think instead of having to report someone for the heinous crime of placing a small ceramic statue in their garden, the person who is offended by said statue should have to confront the classless buffoon face to face. I can imagine the conversation would go like this, " Hi Johnny I am your neighbor 5 doors down the block and I drive down the street everyday and I am appalled at your lack of taste and class with your choice of lawn decoration! Get rid of that lawn gnome right now!" Johnny might reply with," Oh its nice to meet you! I have seen you and your lovely wife riding down the street with your gnome documentation equipment. That is you right? You have that neon pink cart with all the little fuzzy dice hanging from roof. I love those floral Moo Moos your wife wears and those clown sunglasses are just priceless! Well listen about my yard gnome....I am retired and I just dont give a sh-- any more. I moved down here to Americas friendliest hometown so that I can spend what time i have left on this planet just relaxing. I have lots of friends here who dont care how much money I have, or what kind of car I drive, and they certainly dont care if I have a lawn gnome or not! So listen when you pass my house in the future please just avert your eyes and keep right on going. And one last thing... please tell your wife that Omar the tent maker is having a sale on Moomoos this week!"

Lafoto - Not sure why you have resorted to insulting the people who you call your neighbors in this "friendliest town"... but you seem to be missing the point of the original posts and responses. When you purchased your home, if it was in the newer districts, there were very specific conditions for how your house and property would look. Are you aware that if your weeds get out of control, you will be cited? It's in the agreement you signed and said you would abide by. Taking your analogy, then I should be pulling people over who are driving unsafely on the highway and place them in a citizen's arrest rather than calling 911 for help? I should be confronting the shoplifter in a store rather than calling security?

If I wanted to take my chances on the neighbors to the left and right of me, I'd have purchased a home in Summerfield or Fruitland Park. I didn't. I purchased a home and live by the rules I agreed to follow.

I would say to those who violate these rules, put a for sale sign up on your house and move out of The Villages and into the Wilds....

[bagboy]

I think the system is broken. I think instead of having to report someone for the heinous crime of placing a small ceramic statue in their garden, the person who is offended by said statue should have to confront the classless buffoon face to face. I can imagine the conversation would go like this, " Hi Johnny I am your neighbor 5 doors down the block and I drive down the street everyday and I am appalled at your lack of taste and class with your choice of lawn decoration! Get rid of that lawn gnome right now!" Johnny might reply with," Oh its nice to meet you! I have seen you and your lovely wife riding down the street with your gnome documentation equipment. That is you right? You have that neon pink cart with all the little fuzzy dice hanging from roof. I love those floral Moo Moos your wife wears and those clown sunglasses are just priceless! Well listen about my yard gnome....I am retired and I just dont give a sh-- any more. I moved down here to Americas friendliest hometown so that I can spend what time i have left on this planet just relaxing. I have lots of friends here who dont care how much money I have, or what kind of car I drive, and they certainly dont care if I have a lawn gnome or not! So listen when you pass my house in the future please just avert your eyes and keep right on going. And one last thing... please tell your wife that Omar the tent maker is having a sale on Moomoos this week!"


That must have taken quite some time to think that through, the again...maybe not.

[Suzi]

Before I moved into my new home in TV, I was warned that there were people from anywhere in TV, who would ride around and file complaints against anything that appeared to them to be in violation of deed restrictions. Well, I was pretty scared when Direct TV came to install the "dish". I must have asked him 10 times if the location would be OK. I spent countless nights worrying that I could be a violator.
To play the devils advocate, I see many homes with flower pots that I would consider distasteful; I see flower beds that look unkept; I see lawn furniture on porches that don't match at all or have seen better days; I see garage doors open and the insides are a mess. These ARE NOT infractions of the deed regulations but they can be unsightly and legal.
I think there is something grossly wrong with people from a different village/neighborhood making complaints about another persons property in another area. I may like the bronze bird in my neighbors front yard. I may like my other neighbors gazing ball. Since I am the one who looks at it every day, what right should someone from another village tell ME what I can look at. If I DISLIKED it, I would understand my or my neighbors complaint.
I like the deed restrictions, but I think this particular area should be reconsidered. It is plane wrong for people to ride around playing "deed" police.

[Bonny]

Before I moved into my new home in TV, I was warned that there were people from anywhere in TV, who would ride around and file complaints against anything that appeared to them to be in violation of deed restrictions. Well, I was pretty scared when Direct TV came to install the "dish". I must have asked him 10 times if the location would be OK. I spent countless nights worrying that I could be a violator.
To play the devils advocate, I see many homes with flower pots that I would consider distasteful; I see flower beds that look unkept; I see lawn furniture on porches that don't match at all or have seen better days; I see garage doors open and the insides are a mess. These ARE NOT infractions of the deed regulations but they can be unsightly and legal.
I think there is something grossly wrong with people from a different village/neighborhood making complaints about another persons property in another area. I may like the bronze bird in my neighbors front yard. I may like my other neighbors gazing ball. Since I am the one who looks at it every day, what right should someone from another village tell ME what I can look at. If I DISLIKED it, I would understand my or my neighbors complaint.
I like the deed restrictions, but I think this particular area should be reconsidered. It is plane wrong for people to ride around playing "deed" police.
I certainly wouldn't go all around the Villages looking for people to call on. However, what goes on in all of the Villages can affect all of our property values, not just that street.

[Villageswimmer]

I would be sure to get a background check done of this person. I would fear that their mental health is severely unstable..................who would spend the little time they have left on this is INSANE......MENTALLY ILL.....why does she or he not CHOOSE to go to a soup kitchen or volunteer for Habitat for Humanity instead....do some volunteer work for a local church???SICK, SICK SICK....:ohdear:


Rather dramatic, no?

[Bonny]

I would be sure to get a background check done of this person. I would fear that their mental health is severely unstable..................who would spend the little time they have left on this is INSANE......MENTALLY ILL.....why does she or he not CHOOSE to go to a soup kitchen or volunteer for Habitat for Humanity instead....do some volunteer work for a local church???SICK, SICK SICK....:ohdear:
Wow, this is quite post !! :shocked:

[asianthree]

i think the system is broken. I think instead of having to report someone for the heinous crime of placing a small ceramic statue in their garden, the person who is offended by said statue should have to confront the classless buffoon face to face. I can imagine the conversation would go like this, " hi johnny i am your neighbor 5 doors down the block and i drive down the street everyday and i am appalled at your lack of taste and class with your choice of lawn decoration! Get rid of that lawn gnome right now!" johnny might reply with," oh its nice to meet you! I have seen you and your lovely wife riding down the street with your gnome documentation equipment. That is you right? You have that neon pink cart with all the little fuzzy dice hanging from roof. I love those floral moo moos your wife wears and those clown sunglasses are just priceless! Well listen about my yard gnome....i am retired and i just dont give a sh-- any more. I moved down here to americas friendliest hometown so that i can spend what time i have left on this planet just relaxing. I have lots of friends here who dont care how much money i have, or what kind of car i drive, and they certainly dont care if i have a lawn gnome or not! So listen when you pass my house in the future please just avert your eyes and keep right on going. And one last thing... Please tell your wife that omar the tent maker is having a sale on moomoos this week!"

wow

[missypie]

I think the system is broken. I think instead of having to report someone for the heinous crime of placing a small ceramic statue in their garden, the person who is offended by said statue should have to confront the classless buffoon face to face. I can imagine the conversation would go like this, " Hi Johnny I am your neighbor 5 doors down the block and I drive down the street everyday and I am appalled at your lack of taste and class with your choice of lawn decoration! Get rid of that lawn gnome right now!" Johnny might reply with," Oh its nice to meet you! I have seen you and your lovely wife riding down the street with your gnome documentation equipment. That is you right? You have that neon pink cart with all the little fuzzy dice hanging from roof. I love those floral Moo Moos your wife wears and those clown sunglasses are just priceless! Well listen about my yard gnome....I am retired and I just dont give a sh-- any more. I moved down here to Americas friendliest hometown so that I can spend what time i have left on this planet just relaxing. I have lots of friends here who dont care how much money I have, or what kind of car I drive, and they certainly dont care if I have a lawn gnome or not! So listen when you pass my house in the future please just avert your eyes and keep right on going. And one last thing... please tell your wife that Omar the tent maker is having a sale on Moomoos this week!"

This is so funny. LMAO!

[DonH57]

I think the system is broken. I think instead of having to report someone for the heinous crime of placing a small ceramic statue in their garden, the person who is offended by said statue should have to confront the classless buffoon face to face. I can imagine the conversation would go like this, " Hi Johnny I am your neighbor 5 doors down the block and I drive down the street everyday and I am appalled at your lack of taste and class with your choice of lawn decoration! Get rid of that lawn gnome right now!" Johnny might reply with," Oh its nice to meet you! I have seen you and your lovely wife riding down the street with your gnome documentation equipment. That is you right? You have that neon pink cart with all the little fuzzy dice hanging from roof. I love those floral Moo Moos your wife wears and those clown sunglasses are just priceless! Well listen about my yard gnome....I am retired and I just dont give a sh-- any more. I moved down here to Americas friendliest hometown so that I can spend what time i have left on this planet just relaxing. I have lots of friends here who dont care how much money I have, or what kind of car I drive, and they certainly dont care if I have a lawn gnome or not! So listen when you pass my house in the future please just avert your eyes and keep right on going. And one last thing... please tell your wife that Omar the tent maker is having a sale on Moomoos this week!"

Well. I think that have been a little rough way of putting it but it could happen. Under an non anonymous system if Tormented Tom from district nine confronted Happy Harry in district two about his pink flamingos and garden gnome I'm thinking the result will be Tormented Tom making an unexpected trip to the hospital emergency room. Tormented Tom will really have no grounds to press charges.:duck:

[perrjojo]

Hmmmmm.....'slummy'? Alas and alack! Another dispersion cast on the historic neighborhoods which clearly demonstrate their individuality, personal character, and most of all - a sense of humor! Nothing cookie cutter about us! :)

I didn't see the Historic side mentioned. Why are you assuming the slummy comment was directed at any particular area in TV?
Just curious.

[njbchbum]

I didn't see the Historic side mentioned. Why are you assuming the slummy comment was directed at any particular area in TV?
Just curious.

perrjojo - 1,449 posts and a member since Jan 2010 and you have not read the variety of historic side dispersions oft cast by various posters? Self-deprecating humor perhaps? And perhaps you did not read my follow-up to graciegirl where I explained I was poking her. Chill.

[asianthree]

Since the historic district does not have to fear the gnome police, there is no fear of you being called out. But let's be honest in every neighborhood there is that yard that looks like walmart garden shop vomited on it. We had that person two doors down. Nope did not address the problem with her, or make an officall complaint . We just moved, it was easier, than upsetting some of the neighborhood, since it would have been a hot topic.

[dirtbanker]

I didn't see the Historic side mentioned. Why are you assuming the slummy comment was directed at any particular area in TV?
Just curious.

Your right, Gracie did not direct the comment towards the historic side. But she did say "Believe in DEED RESTRICTIONS..., without them this place would look slummy in about a month." and hence (because there a little deed restrictions over there) the historic district defense mechanism was activated.

[Villager Joyce]

perrjojo - 1,449 posts and a member since Jan 2010 and you have not read the variety of historic side dispersions oft cast by various posters?

///nevermind

[manaboutown]

I think the system is broken. I think instead of having to report someone for the heinous crime of placing a small ceramic statue in their garden, the person who is offended by said statue should have to confront the classless buffoon face to face. I can imagine the conversation would go like this, " Hi Johnny I am your neighbor 5 doors down the block and I drive down the street everyday and I am appalled at your lack of taste and class with your choice of lawn decoration! Get rid of that lawn gnome right now!" Johnny might reply with," Oh its nice to meet you! I have seen you and your lovely wife riding down the street with your gnome documentation equipment. That is you right? You have that neon pink cart with all the little fuzzy dice hanging from roof. I love those floral Moo Moos your wife wears and those clown sunglasses are just priceless! Well listen about my yard gnome....I am retired and I just dont give a sh-- any more. I moved down here to Americas friendliest hometown so that I can spend what time i have left on this planet just relaxing. I have lots of friends here who dont care how much money I have, or what kind of car I drive, and they certainly dont care if I have a lawn gnome or not! So listen when you pass my house in the future please just avert your eyes and keep right on going. And one last thing... please tell your wife that Omar the tent maker is having a sale on Moomoos this week!"

I thoroughly enjoyed the humor in this post. Thank you! The imagery it invoked put a big smile on my face although I almost spilled my morning coffee on my keyboard!

BTW, I do know an Omar. He is a rather large guy who does great drywall repair. I do not know if he makes muumuus on the side.

[Woodartist]

It seems that there is no way to reach a happy median between the "everything goes" and the get rid of it all" residents. Perhaps there is a solution that will make both camps equally unhappy and therefore equitable. As the past chairman of the Nassau County Code Enforcement Board (Just north east of Jacksonville), I have a bit of experience in this type of "cat fight". When I took the chairmanship of the board residents where able to file complaints with out giving their name. In short we had our "97" type complainers.
When we forced the complainant to give their name the complaints dropped dramatically. The property owners that were cited were then given a period to correct the infraction or request to appear before the enforcement board. This board was made up of seven county residents and the county attorney. Both sides were given an opportunity to be heard and photos were shown of the alleged infraction. In short we could decide neighbor to neighbor where the 8" statue should be considered offensive or decorative and in good taste. Individuals that were cited were allowed to bring others to testify in their behalf, in short neighbors who had no objections to the alleged infraction.

I realize that it would take a bit of work to set up a system such as this but considering the time spent here on this subject......

[Woodartist]

It seems that there is no way to reach a happy median between the "everything goes" and the get rid of it all" residents. Perhaps there is a solution that will make both camps equally unhappy and therefore equitable. As the past chairman of the Nassau County Code Enforcement Board (Just north east of Jacksonville), I have a bit of experience in this type of "cat fight". When I took the chairmanship of the board residents where able to file complaints with out giving their name. In short we had our "97" type complainers.
When we forced the complainant to give their name the complaints dropped dramatically. The property owners that were cited were then given a period to correct the infraction or request to appear before the enforcement board. This board was made up of seven county residents and the county attorney. Both sides were given an opportunity to be heard and photos were shown of the alleged infraction. In short we could decide neighbor to neighbor where the 8" statue should be considered offensive or decorative and in good taste. Individuals that were cited were allowed to bring others to testify in their behalf, in short neighbors who had no objections to the alleged infraction.

I realize that it would take a bit of work to set up a system such as this but considering the time spent here on this subject......

[KeepingItReal]

It seems that there is no way to reach a happy median between the "everything goes" and the get rid of it all" residents. Perhaps there is a solution that will make both camps equally unhappy and therefore equitable. As the past chairman of the Nassau County Code Enforcement Board (Just north east of Jacksonville), I have a bit of experience in this type of "cat fight". When I took the chairmanship of the board residents where able to file complaints with out giving their name. In short we had our "97" type complainers.
When we forced the complainant to give their name the complaints dropped dramatically. The property owners that were cited were then given a period to correct the infraction or request to appear before the enforcement board. This board was made up of seven county residents and the county attorney. Both sides were given an opportunity to be heard and photos were shown of the alleged infraction. In short we could decide neighbor to neighbor where the 8" statue should be considered offensive or decorative and in good taste. Individuals that were cited were allowed to bring others to testify in their behalf, in short neighbors who had no objections to the alleged infraction.

I realize that it would take a bit of work to set up a system such as this but considering the time spent here on this subject......


Maybe everyone should just go back and actually read their deed restrictions they have already agreed to and then go by what they say.....then there will be no disagreements. :jester:

[Polar Bear]

It seems that there is no way to reach a happy median...

Not sure why that is necessary...rules are already in place.

[graciegirl]

It seems that there is no way to reach a happy median between the "everything goes" and the get rid of it all" residents. Perhaps there is a solution that will make both camps equally unhappy and therefore equitable. As the past chairman of the Nassau County Code Enforcement Board (Just north east of Jacksonville), I have a bit of experience in this type of "cat fight". When I took the chairmanship of the board residents where able to file complaints with out giving their name. In short we had our "97" type complainers.
When we forced the complainant to give their name the complaints dropped dramatically. The property owners that were cited were then given a period to correct the infraction or request to appear before the enforcement board. This board was made up of seven county residents and the county attorney. Both sides were given an opportunity to be heard and photos were shown of the alleged infraction. In short we could decide neighbor to neighbor where the 8" statue should be considered offensive or decorative and in good taste. Individuals that were cited were allowed to bring others to testify in their behalf, in short neighbors who had no objections to the alleged infraction.

I realize that it would take a bit of work to set up a system such as this but considering the time spent here on this subject......

Welcome to the forum. The deed restrictions are very clear here. And if someone complains. the restrictions will be enforced. And if the offending item is not removed or moved the homeowner will be fined and if the fine is not paid further action is forthcoming. All that horsing around described above just isn't something I would want. In fact that description is the very reason I fear the Morses not running this place and the homeowners taking over. .

Horrors.

[Woodartist]

Are the US Flags on poles in front an exception?? or just protected from the "condo nazis" by the second admendment?

[JohnN]

really sucks. nice job, deed compliance folks

[Barefoot]

Maybe everyone should just go back and actually read their deed restrictions they have already agreed to and then go by what they say.....then there will be no disagreements. :jester:
I think everyone agrees that we have stringent deed restrictions, at least in the newer areas.
I think the conflict is about whether we have a "duty" to complain about any and all infractions.
Or we if should refrain from complaining unless we are truly offended.


But let's be honest in every neighborhood there is that yard that looks like walmart garden shop vomited on it.
:shocked: OK, that's sounds awful. IMHO, it would be grounds for a call to Deed Compliance.

[Challenger]

It seems that there is no way to reach a happy median between the "everything goes" and the get rid of it all" residents. Perhaps there is a solution that will make both camps equally unhappy and therefore equitable. As the past chairman of the Nassau County Code Enforcement Board (Just north east of Jacksonville), I have a bit of experience in this type of "cat fight". When I took the chairmanship of the board residents where able to file complaints with out giving their name. In short we had our "97" type complainers.
When we forced the complainant to give their name the complaints dropped dramatically. The property owners that were cited were then given a period to correct the infraction or request to appear before the enforcement board. This board was made up of seven county residents and the county attorney. Both sides were given an opportunity to be heard and photos were shown of the alleged infraction. In short we could decide neighbor to neighbor where the 8" statue should be considered offensive or decorative and in good taste. Individuals that were cited were allowed to bring others to testify in their behalf, in short neighbors who had no objections to the alleged infraction.

I realize that it would take a bit of work to set up a system such as this but considering the time spent here on this subject......

Code enforcement and covenant enforcement are entirely different. Covenants are contractual agreements between the parties subject to the contract and as such anyone subject can bring action. Depending upon the provisions of the covenant, either a supermajority or all must agree to a modification. An 8" infraction is equal in substance to a three foot infracrion The testimony would be to the question " Is there an infraction or not" ?

[ProximaMan]

Oh my. Oh my. We have a village full of 97 scofflaws, and the developer drops the hammer. Somebody should stifle that mean developer.

Imagine. Enforcing deed restrictions.

Oh dear, I bet somebody here probably signed restrictions that only apply to everybody else.

Yeah. That's it.

[DonH57]

Are the US Flags on poles in front an exception?? or just protected from the "condo nazis" by the second admendment?

I know they are all over in our district. I don't believe a flag pole could be considered a lawn ornament unless you use it for uses otherwise intended. On our street there about 7 where our house is. When the developement first sold out the neighbors all helped each other place and set the poles. One was a former VCDD member and former marine. When we moved in the rope was missing . There was no shortage of help available when I repaired it and hoist ed our flag.

[Challenger]

Are the US Flags on poles in front an exception?? or just protected from the "condo nazis" by the second admendment?

"Condo Nazis" Not appropriate reference. Why can't we discuss vigorously without becomming venemous?

[Villager Joyce]

I didn't give two seconds thought at closing about yard gnomes. All I thought about was we made it. That's right. We made it and bought our house. I didn't give it another thought until this thread started. In my past life there were association people that dealt with violations. No, I'm not asking for this, but it worked. Simply stating what I have experienced so probably what I expected. I certainly would not expect that a person with no vested interest could cause this kind of grief. 97 people had their lives changed in some way because one person complained. I have a friend who has a stone in her garden with her sons name who was killed in Iraq so we would have the freedom to debate gnomes. It is well hidden but if you go in her garden you can find it if you have nothing better to do or on a vendetta. To me it isn't as simple as rules are rules. Do we want all houses to be identical with no personality? Some might say this is what the restrictions say.

[Villager Joyce]

"Condo Nazis" Not appropriate reference. Why can't we discuss vigorously without becomming venemous?

A quick google search shows that term being used since 2008. Maybe not PC by today's standards, but one used many times as a descriptive for overzealous HOA leaders.

[TheVillageChicken]

Remember this one?

Controversy brewing over statue of the Virgin Mary in The... | www.wftv.com (http://www.wftv.com/news/news/local/controversy-brewing-over-statue-virgin-mary-villag/nf76M/)

[DonH57]

I didn't give two seconds thought at closing about yard gnomes. All I thought about was we made it. That's right. We made it and bought our house. I didn't give it another thought until this thread started. In my past life there were association people that dealt with violations. No, I'm not asking for this, but it worked. Simply stating what I have experienced so probably what I expected. I certainly would not expect that a person with no vested interest could cause this kind of grief. 97 people had their lives changed in some way because one person complained. I have a friend who has a stone in her garden with her sons name who was killed in Iraq so we would have the freedom to debate gnomes. It is well hidden but if you go in her garden you can find it if you have nothing better to do or on a vendetta. To me it isn't as simple as rules are rules. Do we want all houses to be identical with no personality? Some might say this is what the restrictions say.

I don't your friend but I must say I'm sorry to hear of her loss. The 97 complaints to which I understand was just the tip of the iceberg was only done out of hatred by someone with a deep sickness. Someone with lack of social skills. I only hope they get the help they need.

[TheVillageChicken]

I don't your friend but I must say I'm sorry to hear of her loss. The 97 complaints to which I understand was just the tip of the iceberg was only done out of hatred by someone with a deep sickness. Someone with lack of social skills. I only hope they get the help they need.

My guess is, as others have speculated, that the person who complained was reacting to having had someone do the same to them.

[Villager Joyce]

Since this is Mothers Day, let me quote my mom: two wrongs don't make a right.

[Challenger]

A quick google search shows that term being used since 2008. Maybe not PC by today's standards, but one used many times as a descriptive for overzealous HOA leaders.

Doesn't make it right!! Civil discourse not name calling.

[Villager Joyce]

Doesn't make it right!! Civil discourse not name calling.

Didn't say it was right. I explained background of a term. Try to focus more on the content of posts and not on trying to divert the attention to something else.

[Challenger]

Didn't say it was right. I explained background of a term. Try to focus more on the content of posts and not on trying to divert the attention to something else.

They name calling was , in fact , part of the content of the post. My point was , stop the name calling and talk rationally and civily about the subject at hand. Rational civil discourse will produce more light and much less heat.

[graciegirl]

I didn't give two seconds thought at closing about yard gnomes. All I thought about was we made it. That's right. We made it and bought our house. I didn't give it another thought until this thread started. In my past life there were association people that dealt with violations. No, I'm not asking for this, but it worked. Simply stating what I have experienced so probably what I expected. I certainly would not expect that a person with no vested interest could cause this kind of grief. 97 people had their lives changed in some way because one person complained. I have a friend who has a stone in her garden with her sons name who was killed in Iraq so we would have the freedom to debate gnomes. It is well hidden but if you go in her garden you can find it if you have nothing better to do or on a vendetta. To me it isn't as simple as rules are rules. Do we want all houses to be identical with no personality? Some might say this is what the restrictions say.

Joyce. If the people had a figure or object or pot of some size not sanctioned by standards that was not under the eaves as required then they were breaking their deed restrictions. I don't think that their "lives would be changed". I have never heard of a flagpole issue here either.

It generally works like this. Someone puts up a series of pots with artificial flowers in their front yard which is against the rule and someone reports them and they send a letter and check back and if they haven't moved them to under the eaves then they are fined. We all have the same rules south of 466, it shouldn't change our lives. It might annoy some, but it wouldn't annoy me. I think we have a lot of ways to show individuality without breaking the rules of deed restrictions.

We have lived with deed restrictions for the last thirty years. They are different for different places but usually include time limits on campers (RV's) and boats parked in the driveway or street and in our old neighborhood only wooden and not metal swing sets were allowed.

Please don't be upset. Someone went out and reported a lot of folks who had things that shouldn't have been there. We don't know why...maybe out of some kind of misplaced civic duty. Who knows?

No one is going to jail, they won't have their heart broken, they won't become sick, but they may have to sell an expensive object but most infringements are just yard junk that aren't real pretty by most people's standards. It is far simpler to not allow any than have all of that rigamarole with witnesses and lawyers and stuff like that Mr. Beck reported. Holy cow!.

[Villager Joyce]

The part that bothers me is anyone can report anyone. And I'm somewhat concerned about Stepford Wives invading TV. Flagpoles are somebody else's battle. It would devastate my friend if she had to remove her stone.

[Villageswimmer]

The part that bothers me is anyone can report anyone. And I'm somewhat concerned about Stepford Wives invading TV. Flagpoles are somebody else's battle. It would devastate my friend if she had to remove her stone.


Not sure I understand. What do you mean by "Stepford wives invading TV?"

[graciegirl]

The part that bothers me is anyone can report anyone. And I'm somewhat concerned about Stepford Wives invading TV. Flagpoles are somebody else's battle. It would devastate my friend if she had to remove her stone.

You can report anything but if it isn't a deed restriction, then it won't be acted on. Some things are allowed by community standards. Ask first. It isn't a bad thing at all. Please don't be upset. I doubt her stone would be noticed, Joyce. Large stones are often allowed as part of landscaping.

Here is a partial explanation from 2012

http://www.districtgov.org/PDFView/PDFMeeting.aspx?id=20120517000801

[dbussone]

Since this is Mothers Day, let me quote my mom: two wrongs don't make a right.


Amen to that. Our mothers had the same philosophy.

[graciegirl]

These pictures are worth a few thousand more words....

yard ornaments - Bing Images (http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=yard%20ornaments&FORM=BILH1)

[dbussone]

These pictures are worth a few thousand more words....

yard ornaments - Bing Images (http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=yard%20ornaments&FORM=BILH1)


I believe I recognize the pink flamingo.

[Villageswimmer]

Looks like the OP dropped off the thread. This topic clearly got a lot of people upset. Maybe one person filed 97 complaints (In later posts it became "hundreds"), but maybe not. :22yikes:

OTOH, maybe TV gets 97 complaints a day or a thousand--who knows? Hmmm...

The only real fact we are sure of is that we all agreed to abide by certain rules for the greater good. This should not be a surprise to anyone. Dramatic, emotional reactions and name calling change nothing.

[KeepingItReal]

Quote:
Originally Posted by KeepingItReal View Post
Maybe everyone should just go back and actually read their deed restrictions they have already agreed to and then go by what they say.....then there will be no disagreements.


[QUOTE=Barefoot;1058540][SIZE=3]

I think the conflict is about whether we have a "duty" to complain about any and all infractions.
Or we if should refrain from complaining unless we are truly offended.

Don't think anyone in the Villages is likely to succeed in telling anyone else here what it is their duty to do or not do, certainly not myself.

Everyone has to do and will do whatever they feel they need to do, all this is much ado about nothing...

[Villager Joyce]

Has one person changed their mind on this topic? My guess is maybe one or two people at best, but I doubt it. We all continue to repeat our opinion over and over again. Heck. I'm in The Villages. I shall not waste one more second of my life on this topic.

[lafoto]

Has one person changed their mind on this topic? My guess is maybe one or two people at best, but I doubt it. We all continue to repeat our opinion over and over again. Heck. I'm in The Villages. I shall not waste one more second of my life on this topic.

I agree! Not changing to many minds here.

It comes down to lines of independence really. Are you a person who follows
all the rules without exceptions ever? Or are you a person that is fiercely independent and holds tightly to your personal freedoms at all costs?
Most of us probably fall somewhere in the middle.

I think the Villages is very wise to let those who are squabbling about the "line" work it out.

[JCMSr]

As TV as grown each new section has been given its own version of deed restrictions/covenants. It seems that the newer the area the more restrictive the covenants have become. Obviously there were issues (real or perceived) in prior areas pertaining to "lawn ornaments" or this would never have been included in the legal documents. We can debate forever over what is in good or poor taste when it comes to decorating styles and never agree. It is amazing to me that so many people seem to have signed in acknowledgement of these rules at the time of purchase but prefer to ignore them now that we are all settled in to our new lifestyle. The fact is, ignoring the rules will not make the problem go away and in fact is most likely what started this entire issue. The individual who decided to file 90+ complaints was more than likely trying to make a point and make a point he did! As has been previously speculated he probably was notified of a violation in his own yard and decided he did not have to comply until everyone else was treated the same way. Sounds reasonable even though his actions were a bit over the top (I refuse to say he is crazy, mean spirited, etc. as some have claimed). I have already been criticized for quoting my deed restrictions which state it to be our "duty" to report infractions. Like it or not it is what we agreed to. Have I reported anyone? No, but at least I have an option to do so in the event a giant flock of pink flamingos decides to move in next door or down the street. Is it fair for the developer to look the other way on such issues until they receive a complaint? Technically yes since they wrote the rules giving themselves "the rights but not the duty" for enforcement. Obviously, having neighbor tattle on neighbor is not very conducive to creating the friendly neighborhoods we thought we were moving to. On the other hand, ignoring the rules and acting as if they do not apply to you personally is not very neighborly either. So if you do not share your neighbors taste in yard art you can either keep your mouth shut and steam about it every time you walk out your door or you can do something about it and report it to the developer. At least you have choices.

I refuse to chastise anyone for exercising their rights in reporting a violation of this type although clearly in this instance it could have been dealt with in a more subtle manner. I can only imagine what this thread would have been like had he been reporting violations of the "no more than two pets" rule. I guess then I would have to break up my family of gold fish.

[Bonny]

As TV as grown each new section has been given its own version of deed restrictions/covenants. It seems that the newer the area the more restrictive the covenants have become. Obviously there were issues (real or perceived) in prior areas pertaining to "lawn ornaments" or this would never have been included in the legal documents. We can debate forever over what is in good or poor taste when it comes to decorating styles and never agree. It is amazing to me that so many people seem to have signed in acknowledgement of these rules at the time of purchase but prefer to ignore them now that we are all settled in to our new lifestyle. The fact is, ignoring the rules will not make the problem go away and in fact is most likely what started this entire issue. The individual who decided to file 90+ complaints was more than likely trying to make a point and make a point he did! As has been previously speculated he probably was notified of a violation in his own yard and decided he did not have to comply until everyone else was treated the same way. Sounds reasonable even though his actions were a bit over the top (I refuse to say he is crazy, mean spirited, etc. as some have claimed). I have already been criticized for quoting my deed restrictions which state it to be our "duty" to report infractions. Like it or not it is what we agreed to. Have I reported anyone? No, but at least I have an option to do so in the event a giant flock of pink flamingos decides to move in next door or down the street. Is it fair for the developer to look the other way on such issues until they receive a complaint? Technically yes since they wrote the rules giving themselves "the rights but not the duty" for enforcement. Obviously, having neighbor tattle on neighbor is not very conducive to creating the friendly neighborhoods we thought we were moving to. On the other hand, ignoring the rules and acting as if they do not apply to you personally is not very neighborly either. So if you do not share your neighbors taste in yard art you can either keep your mouth shut and steam about it every time you walk out your door or you can do something about it and report it to the developer. At least you have choices.

I refuse to chastise anyone for exercising their rights in reporting a violation of this type although clearly in this instance it could have been dealt with in a more subtle manner. I can only imagine what this thread would have been like had he been reporting violations of the "no more than two pets" rule. I guess then I would have to break up my family of gold fish.
One of the best and most sensible posts I have seen !!!:bigbow:

[Hummintwo]

I have sat back, read, and remember my own experiences as a County Code Compliance Officer for one of the Largest Counties in the United States. Now we finally see in totality the truths about codes and enforcement. I often said someday I could write a book regarding types of code violations, reactions, resolution and bottom line the Court System.

In the Villages, as in my experience, investigations were complaint driven. On occasion, a complainant might circumvent the process by contacting the Chairman of the County Commission or their district Commissioner. In those instances, we would usually confirm a violation existed and report back our findings and then try to seek the cooperation of the complainant to make their formal complaint because our cases were complaint driven. Most of the time, a violator was not contacted by a neighbor or citizen and usually will cooperate without a court appearance. Each of us should take pause and understand that although we may feel uncomfortable, generally most people would rather a neighbor enlighten them to receive official notification through government enforcement. Complainant info was confidential unless a defendant would not cooperate and pleads not guilty to a charge(s) and a trial date is set with subpenas issued to the Code Enforcement Officer who wrote the citation and the complainants. We usually were quite successful in achieving our goal of compliance and anonymity of the complainant before citation(s) were necessary.

I hope this info is helpful to anyone who reads it but most of all a tribute to JCM for understand and communicating so well the issues at hand. The 97 complaints were generated to make a point. The complainant would have preferred to spend their time differently but he must face the truth as well as all 97 violators. Bring the property into compliance because we all bought into the deed restrictions.

I will now go back to my retirement and contemplate that book, maybe.

[Challenger]

As TV as grown each new section has been given its own version of deed restrictions/covenants. It seems that the newer the area the more restrictive the covenants have become. Obviously there were issues (real or perceived) in prior areas pertaining to "lawn ornaments" or this would never have been included in the legal documents. We can debate forever over what is in good or poor taste when it comes to decorating styles and never agree. It is amazing to me that so many people seem to have signed in acknowledgement of these rules at the time of purchase but prefer to ignore them now that we are all settled in to our new lifestyle. The fact is, ignoring the rules will not make the problem go away and in fact is most likely what started this entire issue. The individual who decided to file 90+ complaints was more than likely trying to make a point and make a point he did! As has been previously speculated he probably was notified of a violation in his own yard and decided he did not have to comply until everyone else was treated the same way. Sounds reasonable even though his actions were a bit over the top (I refuse to say he is crazy, mean spirited, etc. as some have claimed). I have already been criticized for quoting my deed restrictions which state it to be our "duty" to report infractions. Like it or not it is what we agreed to. Have I reported anyone? No, but at least I have an option to do so in the event a giant flock of pink flamingos decides to move in next door or down the street. Is it fair for the developer to look the other way on such issues until they receive a complaint? Technically yes since they wrote the rules giving themselves "the rights but not the duty" for enforcement. Obviously, having neighbor tattle on neighbor is not very conducive to creating the friendly neighborhoods we thought we were moving to. On the other hand, ignoring the rules and acting as if they do not apply to you personally is not very neighborly either. So if you do not share your neighbors taste in yard art you can either keep your mouth shut and steam about it every time you walk out your door or you can do something about it and report it to the developer. At least you have choices.

I refuse to chastise anyone for exercising their rights in reporting a violation of this type although clearly in this instance it could have been dealt with in a more subtle manner. I can only imagine what this thread would have been like had he been reporting violations of the "no more than two pets" rule. I guess then I would have to break up my family of gold fish.

My sentiments exactly ( if anyone cares). Wish I could be so articulate and concise. Good job JCMSr

[fred53]

I have no problem with someone who has the time reporting violations...those who move here are subject to the rules, deed compliance, lawn ornaments...whatever...it's simple...you move here knowing there are rules...why come here knowing you're going to break them? Just follow the guidelines and it's no problem...don't like them then don't move here...I like the rules and regulations and it's a reason why I moved here and I hope they keep up the strict adherence...

[justjim]

To be fair I have not read every post on this long Thread so I may repeat what,another has already posted. When we closed on our house, neither the agent or anyone explained the Convenants in our village. Reading them is rather boring and Not a high priority for somebody moving----I see a lot of violations apparently are in the new Villages.

This may be part of the problem---residents just don't know what the "restrictions" are.

[EnglishJW]

Agree. Pretty simple.

I too agree. We bought here because we loved the way it looked. We've all lived somewhere else where this wasn't the case. I know what I prefer and I hope it stays that way.

[Barefoot]

Has one person changed their mind on this topic? My guess is maybe one or two people at best, but I doubt it. We all continue to repeat our opinion over and over again.

227 posts on this topic. Maybe no one has changed their mind, but we sure know where everyone stands!

[DougB]

One of the best and most sensible posts I have seen !!!:bigbow:

Probably the best and most sensible post would be no post.

[CathyandSteveG]

i have a question....we are contemplating purchasing a home in TV...are holiday decorations allowed? or are those also taboo?

[Villager Joyce]

30 days in our section

[dbussone]

i have a question....we are contemplating purchasing a home in TV...are holiday decorations allowed? or are those also taboo?

Not only are they allowed but we have entire neighborhoods that decorate. One of our fun activities at Christmas is to travel by golf cart to see the decorations. We have seen many good ones so far, but not one approaching Chevy Chase's Christmas Vacation. Are you up to that? HOORAY!

[CFrance]

227 posts on this topic. Maybe no one has changed their mind, but we sure know where everyone stands!
Not really... I'm kind of on the fence.:icon_wink:

[dbussone]

Not really... I'm kind of on the fence.:icon_wink:


Be careful not to let it hurt you.

[CFrance]

Be careful not to let it hurt you.
:thumbup:

[Bonny]

To be fair I have not read every post on this long Thread so I may repeat what,another has already posted. When we closed on our house, neither the agent or anyone explained the Convenants in our village. Reading them is rather boring and Not a high priority for somebody moving----I see a lot of violations apparently are in the new Villages.

This may be part of the problem---residents just don't know what the "restrictions" are.
Well, that's your fault if you didn't read what you were signing. If I'm signing my name and agreeing to anything, that's a priority for me. Just sayin'. They tell you when you do your paperwork. Here are the deed restrictions !!

[Bonny]

Probably the best and most sensible post would be no post.
Yea, I kind of agree ! LOL :popcorn:

[Polar Bear]

...neither the agent or anyone explained the Convenants in our village. Reading them is...Not a high priority for somebody moving...

Please don't assume that applies to everybody.

[PennBF]

Let me see. Someone moves to the wonderful Villages community which is well groomed and maintained. They buy a home, sign an agreement they will keep up the great standards and then they proceed to fill up their yard, etc. with things that are offensive to some residents and violate the document they signed to keep our standards up. One mans treasurer is another mans junk. AAH, after being called on this violation they blame the lousy person who reported them for junking up The Villages. Who is to blame, (a) the person who signed an agreement and then violated it or (b) the person who held them to their word??
You make the call !!:rant-rave:

[DianeM]

Not changing my mind on a damn thing. Live and let live. Trust me-I won't report you for your egret. I would have to give a rats behind to report you and quite frankly I don't.

[graciegirl]

Not changing my mind on a damn thing. Live and let live. Trust me-I won't report you for your egret. I would have to give a rats behind to report you and quite frankly I don't.


Diane. Diane. Diane.

[janmcn]

To be fair I have not read every post on this long Thread so I may repeat what,another has already posted. When we closed on our house, neither the agent or anyone explained the Convenants in our village. Reading them is rather boring and Not a high priority for somebody moving----I see a lot of violations apparently are in the new Villages.

This may be part of the problem---residents just don't know what the "restrictions" are.


Prospective buyers should read the deed restrictions before they even start looking at homes to see if there is anything in there that they can't live with.

Go to villagesdistrictgov.org and click on declarations of restrictions. Don't be concerned if you don't know exactly what sub-division you will be looking at, as districts five through eleven deed restrictions are virtually identical. The only difference is in the courtyard villa neighborhoods, where the district maintains the streets.

The older areas (districts one through four) have substantial differences from the areas south of CR466.

[TheVillageChicken]

I have read my deed restrictions many times. I know that the lady down the street should only have two dogs but has three. She always walks them in the opposite direction....away from my home, and I have never heard them bark. She is not impacting my life...she gets a pass. Two streets up is an ugly lawn which breaks the 50% sodded requirement rule. They have replaced the sod with ugly grey stones. I don't have to see that house and those who visit me never see it either. Doesn't impact my life...gets a pass. If I thought either example infringed upon my rights or my quality of life, or if I found out they were Falcons fans, I would report them in a heartbeat. I am glad to have covenants and I obey them. I think we should all obey them, but I don't feel the need to be a crusader on someone else's behalf.

[Villager Joyce]

I have read my deed restrictions many times. I know that the lady down the street should only have two dogs but has three. She always walks them in the opposite direction....away from my home, and I have never heard them bark. She is not impacting my life...she gets a pass. Two streets up is an ugly lawn which breaks the 50% sodded requirement rule. They have replaced the sod with ugly grey stones. I don't have to see that house and those who visit me never see it either. Doesn't impact my life...gets a pass. If I thought either example infringed upon my rights or my quality of life, or if I found out they were Falcons fans, I would report them in a heartbeat. I am glad to have covenants and I obey them. I think we should all obey them, but I don't feel the need to be a crusader on someone else's behalf.

Well written.

[Barefoot]

I have read my deed restrictions many times. I know that the lady down the street should only have two dogs but has three. She always walks them in the opposite direction....away from my home, and I have never heard them bark. She is not impacting my life...she gets a pass. Two streets up is an ugly lawn which breaks the 50% sodded requirement rule. They have replaced the sod with ugly grey stones. I don't have to see that house and those who visit me never see it either. Doesn't impact my life...gets a pass. If I thought either example infringed upon my rights or my quality of life, or if I found out they were Falcons fans, I would report them in a heartbeat.

I am glad to have covenants and I obey them. I think we should all obey them, but I don't feel the need to be a crusader on someone else's behalf.

Well said.

[justjim]

Prospective buyers should read the deed restrictions before they even start looking at homes to see if there is anything in there that they can't live with.

Go to villagesdistrictgov.org and click on declarations of restrictions. Don't be concerned if you don't know exactly what sub-division you will be looking at, as districts five through eleven deed restrictions are virtually identical. The only difference is in the courtyard villa neighborhoods, where the district maintains the streets.

The older areas (districts one through four) have substantial differences from the areas south of CR466.

Do you think the Real Estate Agents should give you a copy of the deed restrictions before they take your deposit? :confused:

[justjim]

I have read my deed restrictions many times. I know that the lady down the street should only have two dogs but has three. She always walks them in the opposite direction....away from my home, and I have never heard them bark. She is not impacting my life...she gets a pass. Two streets up is an ugly lawn which breaks the 50% sodded requirement rule. They have replaced the sod with ugly grey stones. I don't have to see that house and those who visit me never see it either. Doesn't impact my life...gets a pass. If I thought either example infringed upon my rights or my quality of life, or if I found out they were Falcons fans, I would report them in a heartbeat. I am glad to have covenants and I obey them. I think we should all obey them, but I don't feel the need to be a crusader on someone else's behalf.

:a20: What about a Bears fan?

[TheVillageChicken]

:a20: What about a Bears fan?

Being a die hard NFC fan, the only problem I have ever had with the Bears was when they choked after the first quarter in Super Bowl XLI. To fully understand my hatred of the Falcons, you would have to know that my passport says I am from Who Dat Nation.

[janmcn]

Do you think the Real Estate Agents should give you a copy of the deed restrictions before they take your deposit? :confused:


Yes definitely. In some states this is the law. Buyers are given all Condo docs or deed restrictions to review before the contract is signed, apparently not in Florida.

Any prospective buyer can go to villagesdistrictgov.org and click on declaration of restrictions and see every deed restriction ever written in TV.