VHA (Villages Homeowners Association)

[gpirate]

As a new resident in TV should we become members? What benefits do they provide?

[JoMar]

Neither of the two Home Owners Associations are traditional HOA's in that they have no enforcement capabilities, do not establish rules or can not penalize home owners. They do provide a conduit to the Developer and the District and their voice is listened to because they do have significant numbers of members. I suggest you join both organizations since some will tell you that one is more Developer leaning and the other is more District leaning. The costs are more than fair and both bring value.

[gpirate]

Thanks.

[Warren Kiefer]

Thanks.

The POA should be your only choice. The POA has in fact done more to benefit the residents than the VHA ever has. We can thank the POA for the Rec Centers being constructed in areas already built out. The POA was 100% responsible for winning the lawsuit that is providing the funds.

[2BNTV]

Both, if one to stay informed and get involved in their community. They sometimes have different views. The POA is an organization that fights for homeowners rights.

The VHA is the developers point of view of what is happening, in TV.

Only you, can decide if this something you want, to do.

[Mleeja]

The advise by JoMar and 2BNTV is very reasonable. The poa may be a very reasonable organization, but thier posters on this site sure makes me question this. Anyone who says " the poa should be your only choice." raises red flags of lack of objectivity for me! Just sayin....

[CFrance]

Neither of the two Home Owners Associations are traditional HOA's in that they have no enforcement capabilities, do not establish rules or can not penalize home owners. They do provide a conduit to the Developer and the District and their voice is listened to because they do have significant numbers of members. I suggest you join both organizations since some will tell you that one is more Developer leaning and the other is more District leaning. The costs are more than fair and both bring value.
Excellent explanation, JoMar.

[zcaveman]

You get discounts at certain merchants if you have a VHA membership card. Same with the POA. I belong to both.

Z

[Warren Kiefer]

The advise by JoMar and 2BNTV is very reasonable. The poa may be a very reasonable organization, but thier posters on this site sure makes me question this. Anyone who says " the poa should be your only choice." raises red flags of lack of objectivity for me! Just sayin....

Read the monthly papers that are tossed onto our driveways. The differences will quickly become very clear. We owe the POA a great deal for their efforts. I cannot come up with a single thing the VHA has done that protected the rights of the residents. I would be interested if someone can provide a benefit that we can thank the VHA for doing.

[JoMar]

Read the monthly papers that are tossed onto our driveways. The differences will quickly become very clear. We owe the POA a great deal for their efforts. I cannot come up with a single thing the VHA has done that protected the rights of the residents. I would be interested if someone can provide a benefit that we can thank the VHA for doing.

Warren, you made your point earlier. I suspect that most on here are intelligent people and will do their research. Some of us suggested belonging to both to obtain more than one perspective. If you chose to not want to hear anything other than the POA, good for you...that's your choice. Just please accept that it might not be everyone's choice....both organizations have significant memberships and many of us belong to both.

[rubicon]

For those who said belong to both because of the coupons and discounts is about the only reason to do so in my mind

[Warren Kiefer]

Warren, you made your point earlier. I suspect that most on here are intelligent people and will do their research. Some of us suggested belonging to both to obtain more than one perspective. If you chose to not want to hear anything other than the POA, good for you...that's your choice. Just please accept that it might not be everyone's choice....both organizations have significant memberships and many of us belong to both.

I have been a member of both associations.

[Mleeja]

warren, you made your point earlier. I suspect that most on here are intelligent people and will do their research. Some of us suggested belonging to both to obtain more than one perspective. If you chose to not want to hear anything other than the poa, good for you...that's your choice. Just please accept that it might not be everyone's choice....both organizations have significant memberships and many of us belong to both.

amen!!!

[ureout]

Read the monthly papers that are tossed onto our driveways. The differences will quickly become very clear. We owe the POA a great deal for their efforts. I cannot come up with a single thing the VHA has done that protected the rights of the residents. I would be interested if someone can provide a benefit that we can thank the VHA for doing.

you can certainly support one or both organizations .... but would someone answer Warren's question??? I've been here 13 years and I cannot come up with anything that the VHA has done to help any homeowners that have had problems with the developer

[looneycat]

I don't belong to either and don't care to.

[Thnonne]

Once again the POA backers attack the VHA (Warren, ureout) I have never heard the VHA attack the POA. Tell me why the POA is better, don't expect me to support you because you attack the other organization.

[Advogado]

Once again the POA backers attack the VHA (Warren, ureout) I have never heard the VHA attack the POA. Tell me why the POA is better, don't expect me to support you because you attack the other organization.
As a general observation, it is certainly unusual, if not bizarre, to have two home owners' associations in a community. One might ask, why does this situation exist here?

In any event, facts are facts about the VHA and POA. Some members of this forum don't like those facts, and personally attack ("if you don't like it here, leave", etc.) anyone who points them out. The facts regarding the VHA and POA are the following:

The purpose of a homeowners' association is to protect and advance the interests of the homeowners. The VHA does not do this, and to my knowledge, never has. If anybody can point out an instance where the VHA has taken a position in support of the homeowners where those interests conflict with those of the Developer, I would be interested in knowing about it. On the other hand, the POA has consistently done so. The best example of this is the POA's support of the class-action lawsuit against the Developer, which won something like $43 million for the Villagers' amenity system.

The VHA was started and is maintained with the support of the Developer and now essentially serves as his front organization. Note that the VHA Bulletin gets delivered (and I imagine printed) by the Daily Sun. Read any article in the VHA Bulletin on any subject involving the Developer and you will get the Developer's spin on it.

This being said, I do credit the VHA for its golf-cart-driver education classes, which are of real value to the community. Beyond that, I cannot see a reason for its existence.

Disclosure to head off the usual responses to a critical post like this one by the usual small group of people: I am not now and never have been an officer or director of the POA and did not have any involvement in the class-action lawsuit. Furthermore, I have no intention of selling my house and leaving The Villages. Therefore, I would respectfully request that any responses to this post address the facts and not me.

[Warren Kiefer]

[QUOTE=Thnonne;1081927]Once again the POA backers attack the VHA (Warren, ureout) I have never heard the VHA attack the POA. Tell me why the POA is better, don't expect me to support you because you attack the other organi

How about the fact that the POA provided the only leadership in the lawsuit that recouped millions of our dollars that have now provided funding for the beautiful Paradise Park, the Tierra Del Sol rec center and the soon to be Santiago rec center. Other important battles were won by the POA regarding the defective roofing and poor vinyl siding installation. The VHA was silent on all three of these issues. We truly owe the POA a great debt for looking out for our interests. Everyone should read the two publications that are left monthly on your driveway (POA and VHA) . It is an easy determination which organization work constantly for we residents. Another interesting observation is the fact that most VHA former presidents do well politically in Sumter County.

[Big O]

[QUOTE=Thnonne;1081927]Once again the POA backers attack the VHA (Warren, ureout) I have never heard the VHA attack the POA. Tell me why the POA is better, don't expect me to support you because you attack the other organi

How about the fact that the POA provided the only leadership in the lawsuit that recouped millions of our dollars that have now provided funding for the beautiful Paradise Park, the Tierra Del Sol rec center and the soon to be Santiago rec center. Other important battles were won by the POA regarding the defective roofing and poor vinyl siding installation. The VHA was silent on all three of these issues. We truly owe the POA a great debt for looking out for our interests. Everyone should read the two publications that are left monthly on your driveway (POA and VHA) . It is an easy determination which organization work constantly for we residents. Another interesting observation is the fact that most VHA former presidents do well politically in Sumter County.


I had a suspicion that the vitriol towards the VHA and developer was political.

[Advogado]

[quote=Warren Kiefer;1082120]


I had a suspicion that the vitriol towards the VHA and developer was political.

I have seen no vitriol, just plain simple facts. Why not stick to a discussion of them?

[ureout]

Once again the POA backers attack the VHA (Warren, ureout) I have never heard the VHA attack the POA. Tell me why the POA is better, don't expect me to support you because you attack the other organization.

explain to me how I am attacking the VHA ....I stated a FACT and agreed with Warren..... I have yet to see the VHA follow thru on any program that was not instituted by the developer, now honestly think about it is that what a true HOMEOWNERS ASSOC. does ....those that choose to stick up for the VHA that's OK ....but again I will ask can ANYONE answer Warrens original question....

[downeaster]

Both delivered their bulletins this week. Reading both should leave no question as to which really represents residents.

We are fortunate to have so many able people (POA) watching our backs.

[mickey100]

Both delivered their bulletins this week. Reading both should leave no question as to which really represents residents.

We are fortunate to have so many able people (POA) watching our backs.

Agreed.

[Thnonne]

Again, why can't POA supporters just tell us about the good things they have done and not attack the VHA? What are they afraid of? They tell us about what they have done and then have to add a negative comment about what the VHA has not done. Let people decide on your organization's merits not what you feel are other organizations faults.

[ureout]

Again, why can't POA supporters just tell us about the good things they have done and not attack the VHA? What are they afraid of? They tell us about what they have done and then have to add a negative comment about what the VHA has not done. Let people decide on your organization's merits not what you feel are other organizations faults.

Thnonne....below is gpirate's original post read it again and you might understand why we answer the way we do....if you feel the VHA has benefited you...then by all means give them reasons to joinVHA (Villages Homeowners Association)As a new resident in TV should we become members? What benefits do they provide?

[Advogado]

Again, why can't POA supporters just tell us about the good things they have done and not attack the VHA? What are they afraid of? They tell us about what they have done and then have to add a negative comment about what the VHA has not done. Let people decide on your organization's merits not what you feel are other organizations faults.
And why don't the supporters of the VHA present any facts to demonstrate that it is really a true homeowners' association and not merely a front organization of the Developer?

In any event, in response to your request, here is just a partial list of the POA's accomplishments (copied verbatim from the poa4us.org website):

The Lawsuit Settlement - Villagers achieved a friendly class action lawsuit settlement with the developer in 2008 valued at $43 million. The key points of the settlement were: Provision for Reserve funds for eventual repair and replacement of our facilities north of Hwy. 466; provision for renovation of the recreation trails north of Hwy 446; creation of the AAC (Amenity Authority Committee) which allows residents elected by residents to make decisions about the expenditure of amenity funds north of Hwy. 466; and payoff of the Paradise Recreation Center renovation debt.

Defeat of the Sumter County Hospital Tax - We opposed the creation of this taxing district which would have taxed Sumter County residents about $200-$300 per home for use by our hospital and also given 20% of the tax off the top to the developer's foundation.

Expansion of the Hospital - After the defeat of the Sumter Hospital Tax, the owner of our hospital, the Leesburg Regional Medical Center, said it would delay construction of the expansion. We called this morally wrong to delay expansion of our life-saving hospital. After a series of hard-hitting stories in the Bulletin, LRMC finally relented and proceeded with the expansion.

Hospital Emergency Room - We noticed continuing poor service and performance in our hospital's ER over the years. We documented over 125 instances of serious problems in the ER. We publicized the problems. In response, LRMC brought in a new CEO of the hospital, a new director of the ER, dedicated more resources and staff to the ER, hired more nurses, established better training programs, and brought in three Villagers to sit on the Board of the hospital's parent organization.

Moffitt Cancer Center - We advocated bringing this cancer center to The Villages for what we believed would be one of the crown jewels in the medical facilities of The Villages. We organized a letter-writing program, researched the demographics, argued for bringing the center here, and voiced our hopes to the appropriate decision-makers.

Vinyl Siding - Sloppy work and installation procedures characterized the building effort of the contractors for homes in The Villages south of Hwy 466 in the 2005-2008 time period. Credit has to go to Ray Micucci and his wife Lori for spearheading the inspection of over 1,500 homes and prodding the work of the warranty department and various contractors to repair the problems.

Activity Policy Reversal - The Center Districts voted to restrict residents from gathering to protest anything. A liability insurance policy for $1 million was also required 30 days in advance of any protest gathering. The POA opposed this action, calling it a violation of our Constitutional Rights of Freedom of Speech and Freedom of Assembly, and argued against it in the Bulletin. The Center Districts backed down and rescinded the rule.

Paradise Center - The original recreation center on the east side of Hwy 441/27 was deteriorating and an absolute disgrace. We did a survey, organized residents, pleaded with the VCCDD to renovate the center, advocated renovation in the Bulletin, and were eventually successful in getting this $5 million project off the ground.

IRS/Bonds - We are waiting on this one. But, what we did do was caution restraint rather than wild speculation, and we identified the developer as the only one to benefit financially from the issuance of the bonds as tax exempt. If we get the negative outcome, we trust that the developer will do what is necessary to protect residents from any adverse impact.

Performing Arts Center - We began advocating for this center early in 2010 and gave this idea the publicity it needed which helped secure the support of many Villagers. We presented the facts on the undesirability of the Church on the Square as a performing arts center. We will continue our support until the dream becomes a reality.

Conflict of Interests by District Employees - We documented the fact that some Center District employees were in line to benefit financially from certain dealings with the developer. We viewed this as a conflict of interests. As a result, one Center District employee was re-assigned, and any dealing like this in the future will be scrutinized for any potential conflict of interests problems.

Forgotten $200,000 Billing - Somehow or another, a VCCDD bill to the developer for about $200,000 for expenses related to his use of the Savannah Center was never issued. A POA director, Irving Yedwab, noticed the problem and we publicized the situation in the Bulletin. The developer did pay up once the bill was issued.

Sexual Offended Database - We published the State of Florida Sexual Offender Database for our area in the Bulletin and brought it to our meetings for review. Some opposed this move; but, we felt it appropriate to publicize names and addresses so that residents could judge for themselves how best to react to any nearby offenders.

Purchase of Common Property - The then District Manager also thought it unnecessary to publish details explaining the various common property purchases by the Center Districts from the developer. We analyzed many of these deals and published detailed explanations in the Bulletin. Unfortunately, the District Manager's reluctance to publish details has caused huge misunderstandings on the part of residents which continue to confuse to this day.

Center District Financial Statements - We were the first organization to publish the financial statements of the two Center Districts. Prior to that the District Manager said that it was not important to provide that information for residents. Thankfully, the Center Districts now routinely publish this information and includes it on their website (Village Community Development Districts (http://www.districtgov.org))..

Bob Evans Restaurant - The developer wanted to build a Bob Evans restaurant on the east side of Hwy. 441/27. He used a heavy-handed approach with near-by residents to try to force them to approve a zoning change from residential to commercial. We publicized the issue in the Bulletin and the local opposition to this plan. The developer finally relented and the restaurant was located on Hwy. 466.

Violence on the Squares - We reported in the Bulletin on several instances of violence on the Squares. As a result, Center District administration worked with local law enforcement to provide a heightened law enforcement presence on the Squares.

POA Surveys - We conducted five Surveys through the Bulletin over the years detailing attitudes about life in The Villages. Some of the actions were later addressed by the developer and the Center Districts.

Wind Mitigation - We publicized the details of this state program to save residents literally hundreds of dollars annually on their home insurance for older homes.

[ureout]

And why don't the supporters of the VHA present any facts to demonstrate that it is really a true homeowners' association and not merely a front organization of the Developer?

In any event, in response to your request, here is just a partial list of the POA's accomplishments (copied verbatim from the poa4us.org website):

The Lawsuit Settlement - Villagers achieved a friendly class action lawsuit settlement with the developer in 2008 valued at $43 million. The key points of the settlement were: Provision for Reserve funds for eventual repair and replacement of our facilities north of Hwy. 466; provision for renovation of the recreation trails north of Hwy 446; creation of the AAC (Amenity Authority Committee) which allows residents elected by residents to make decisions about the expenditure of amenity funds north of Hwy. 466; and payoff of the Paradise Recreation Center renovation debt.

Defeat of the Sumter County Hospital Tax - We opposed the creation of this taxing district which would have taxed Sumter County residents about $200-$300 per home for use by our hospital and also given 20% of the tax off the top to the developer's foundation.

Expansion of the Hospital - After the defeat of the Sumter Hospital Tax, the owner of our hospital, the Leesburg Regional Medical Center, said it would delay construction of the expansion. We called this morally wrong to delay expansion of our life-saving hospital. After a series of hard-hitting stories in the Bulletin, LRMC finally relented and proceeded with the expansion.

Hospital Emergency Room - We noticed continuing poor service and performance in our hospital's ER over the years. We documented over 125 instances of serious problems in the ER. We publicized the problems. In response, LRMC brought in a new CEO of the hospital, a new director of the ER, dedicated more resources and staff to the ER, hired more nurses, established better training programs, and brought in three Villagers to sit on the Board of the hospital's parent organization.

Moffitt Cancer Center - We advocated bringing this cancer center to The Villages for what we believed would be one of the crown jewels in the medical facilities of The Villages. We organized a letter-writing program, researched the demographics, argued for bringing the center here, and voiced our hopes to the appropriate decision-makers.

Vinyl Siding - Sloppy work and installation procedures characterized the building effort of the contractors for homes in The Villages south of Hwy 466 in the 2005-2008 time period. Credit has to go to Ray Micucci and his wife Lori for spearheading the inspection of over 1,500 homes and prodding the work of the warranty department and various contractors to repair the problems.

Activity Policy Reversal - The Center Districts voted to restrict residents from gathering to protest anything. A liability insurance policy for $1 million was also required 30 days in advance of any protest gathering. The POA opposed this action, calling it a violation of our Constitutional Rights of Freedom of Speech and Freedom of Assembly, and argued against it in the Bulletin. The Center Districts backed down and rescinded the rule.

Paradise Center - The original recreation center on the east side of Hwy 441/27 was deteriorating and an absolute disgrace. We did a survey, organized residents, pleaded with the VCCDD to renovate the center, advocated renovation in the Bulletin, and were eventually successful in getting this $5 million project off the ground.

IRS/Bonds - We are waiting on this one. But, what we did do was caution restraint rather than wild speculation, and we identified the developer as the only one to benefit financially from the issuance of the bonds as tax exempt. If we get the negative outcome, we trust that the developer will do what is necessary to protect residents from any adverse impact.

Performing Arts Center - We began advocating for this center early in 2010 and gave this idea the publicity it needed which helped secure the support of many Villagers. We presented the facts on the undesirability of the Church on the Square as a performing arts center. We will continue our support until the dream becomes a reality.

Conflict of Interests by District Employees - We documented the fact that some Center District employees were in line to benefit financially from certain dealings with the developer. We viewed this as a conflict of interests. As a result, one Center District employee was re-assigned, and any dealing like this in the future will be scrutinized for any potential conflict of interests problems.

Forgotten $200,000 Billing - Somehow or another, a VCCDD bill to the developer for about $200,000 for expenses related to his use of the Savannah Center was never issued. A POA director, Irving Yedwab, noticed the problem and we publicized the situation in the Bulletin. The developer did pay up once the bill was issued.

Sexual Offended Database - We published the State of Florida Sexual Offender Database for our area in the Bulletin and brought it to our meetings for review. Some opposed this move; but, we felt it appropriate to publicize names and addresses so that residents could judge for themselves how best to react to any nearby offenders.

Purchase of Common Property - The then District Manager also thought it unnecessary to publish details explaining the various common property purchases by the Center Districts from the developer. We analyzed many of these deals and published detailed explanations in the Bulletin. Unfortunately, the District Manager's reluctance to publish details has caused huge misunderstandings on the part of residents which continue to confuse to this day.

Center District Financial Statements - We were the first organization to publish the financial statements of the two Center Districts. Prior to that the District Manager said that it was not important to provide that information for residents. Thankfully, the Center Districts now routinely publish this information and includes it on their website (Village Community Development Districts (http://www.districtgov.org))..

Bob Evans Restaurant - The developer wanted to build a Bob Evans restaurant on the east side of Hwy. 441/27. He used a heavy-handed approach with near-by residents to try to force them to approve a zoning change from residential to commercial. We publicized the issue in the Bulletin and the local opposition to this plan. The developer finally relented and the restaurant was located on Hwy. 466.

Violence on the Squares - We reported in the Bulletin on several instances of violence on the Squares. As a result, Center District administration worked with local law enforcement to provide a heightened law enforcement presence on the Squares.

POA Surveys - We conducted five Surveys through the Bulletin over the years detailing attitudes about life in The Villages. Some of the actions were later addressed by the developer and the Center Districts.

Wind Mitigation - We publicized the details of this state program to save residents literally hundreds of dollars annually on their home insurance for older homes.

Advogado.....EXCELLENT POST now we'll see if there are any replies

[Bogie Shooter]

What is really accomplished from all this bickering???

[Advogado]

Advogado.....EXCELLENT POST now we'll see if there are any replies
Thank you.

I was amazed enough that anybody is defending the VHA to do a little more digging. Frankly, I don't have "inside" information on the subject, and my conclusion that the VHA is clearly in the pocket of the Developer has been based on facts available to anybody who pays the least bit of attention to the subject.

Here is what twenty minutes of research on the cozy relationship between presidents of the VHA and the Developer turned up. I don't know if it is merely the tip of the iceberg or the whole berg (I've included links to substantiating information where the information is not general knowledge):

Incredibly, one VHA president, while purportedly safeguarding the interests of the homeowners, was actually on the payroll of the Developer. MONTHLY POA BULLETIN (http://www.poa4us.org/bulletins_files/bulletin200708.html) and Roger Kass | The Villages Homeowners Association | ZoomInfo.com (http://www.zoominfo.com/p/Roger-Kass/1189625559)

Furthermore, a more-recent VHA president, shortly after leaving office was elected a Sumter County Commissioner with the backing of the Republican Party, something one would think would be very difficult without Developer backing. One of his campaign contributors was Developer executive, Pete Wahl. Search Candidate Reports (http://www.sumterelections.org/Finance-Reporting/Search-Candidate-Reports) DISCLOSURE: I am a registered Republican, and this is not a criticism of that Party. It is a criticism of the lack of independence of the VHA.

Perhaps the best history (although somewhat outdated) of the unsavory relationship between the VHA and the Developer is found here:
MONTHLY POA BULLETIN (http://www.poa4us.org/bulletins_files/bulletin200709.html#article%201)

The Developer has done many things to be proud of in making The Villages what it is today, but his relationship with the VHA is not one of them.

[Warren Kiefer]

explain to me how i am attacking the vha ....i stated a fact and agreed with warren..... I have yet to see the vha follow thru on any program that was not instituted by the developer, now honestly think about it is that what a true homeowners assoc. Does ....those that choose to stick up for the vha that's ok ....but again i will ask can anyone answer warrens original question....

thank you my friend. I see it as black and white, others see it in rosy colors. I usually don't get an answer. I have been a resident for 19 years and follow the villages government closely and to the best of my knowledge the vha has never taken a position opposing anything the developer has done. The poa is very much the opposite.

[Warren Kiefer]

thank you.

I was amazed enough that anybody is defending the vha to do a little more digging. Frankly, i don't have "inside" information on the subject, and my conclusion that the vha is clearly in the pocket of the developer has been based on facts available to anybody who pays the least bit of attention to the subject.

Here is what twenty minutes of research on the cozy relationship between presidents of the vha and the developer turned up. I don't know if it is merely the tip of the iceberg or the whole berg (i've included links to substantiating information where the information is not general knowledge):

incredibly, one vha president, while purportedly safeguarding the interests of the homeowners, was actually on the payroll of the developer. monthly poa bulletin (http://www.poa4us.org/bulletins_files/bulletin200708.html) and roger kass | the villages homeowners association | zoominfo.com (http://www.zoominfo.com/p/roger-kass/1189625559)

furthermore, a more-recent vha president, shortly after leaving office was elected a sumter county commissioner with the backing of the republican party, something one would think would be very difficult without developer backing. one of his campaign contributors was developer executive, pete wahl. search candidate reports (http://www.sumterelections.org/finance-reporting/search-candidate-reports) disclosure: I am a registered republican, and this is not a criticism of that party. It is a criticism of the lack of independence of the vha.

Perhaps the best history (although somewhat outdated) of the unsavory relationship between the vha and the developer is found here:
monthly poa bulletin (http://www.poa4us.org/bulletins_files/bulletin200709.html#article%201)

the developer has done many things to be proud of in making the villages what it is today, but his relationship with the vha is not one of them.

excellent and absolutely correct. You did leave out another person, don burgess.

[Big O]

Thank you.

I was amazed enough that anybody is defending the VHA to do a little more digging. Frankly, I don't have "inside" information on the subject, and my conclusion that the VHA is clearly in the pocket of the Developer has been based on facts available to anybody who pays the least bit of attention to the subject.

Here is what twenty minutes of research on the cozy relationship between presidents of the VHA and the Developer turned up. I don't know if it is merely the tip of the iceberg or the whole berg (I've included links to substantiating information where the information is not general knowledge):

Incredibly, one VHA president, while purportedly safeguarding the interests of the homeowners, was actually on the payroll of the Developer. MONTHLY POA BULLETIN (http://www.poa4us.org/bulletins_files/bulletin200708.html) and Roger Kass | The Villages Homeowners Association | ZoomInfo.com (http://www.zoominfo.com/p/Roger-Kass/1189625559)

Furthermore, a more-recent VHA president, shortly after leaving office was elected a Sumter County Commissioner with the backing of the Republican Party, something one would think would be very difficult without Developer backing. One of his campaign contributors was Developer executive, Pete Wahl. Search Candidate Reports (http://www.sumterelections.org/Finance-Reporting/Search-Candidate-Reports) DISCLOSURE: I am a registered Republican, and this is not a criticism of that Party. It is a criticism of the lack of independence of the VHA.

Perhaps the best history (although somewhat outdated) of the unsavory relationship between the VHA and the Developer is found here:
MONTHLY POA BULLETIN (http://www.poa4us.org/bulletins_files/bulletin200709.html#article%201)

The Developer has done many things to be proud of in making The Villages what it is today, but his relationship with the VHA is not one of them.

I am not a supporter of the VHA. I don't know what they do. However, I am definitely against the POA. They seem to me to be nothing but whiners and obstructionists. If The Developer says up they say down. If there is an anti Developer view they take it. As I said before, I beleive it is political and I haven't seen anything to change my mind.

[Warren Kiefer]

and why don't the supporters of the vha present any facts to demonstrate that it is really a true homeowners' association and not merely a front organization of the developer?

In any event, in response to your request, here is just a partial list of the poa's accomplishments (copied verbatim from the poa4us.org website):

the lawsuit settlement - villagers achieved a friendly class action lawsuit settlement with the developer in 2008 valued at $43 million. The key points of the settlement were: Provision for reserve funds for eventual repair and replacement of our facilities north of hwy. 466; provision for renovation of the recreation trails north of hwy 446; creation of the aac (amenity authority committee) which allows residents elected by residents to make decisions about the expenditure of amenity funds north of hwy. 466; and payoff of the paradise recreation center renovation debt.

defeat of the sumter county hospital tax - we opposed the creation of this taxing district which would have taxed sumter county residents about $200-$300 per home for use by our hospital and also given 20% of the tax off the top to the developer's foundation.

expansion of the hospital - after the defeat of the sumter hospital tax, the owner of our hospital, the leesburg regional medical center, said it would delay construction of the expansion. We called this morally wrong to delay expansion of our life-saving hospital. After a series of hard-hitting stories in the bulletin, lrmc finally relented and proceeded with the expansion.

hospital emergency room - we noticed continuing poor service and performance in our hospital's er over the years. We documented over 125 instances of serious problems in the er. We publicized the problems. In response, lrmc brought in a new ceo of the hospital, a new director of the er, dedicated more resources and staff to the er, hired more nurses, established better training programs, and brought in three villagers to sit on the board of the hospital's parent organization.

moffitt cancer center - we advocated bringing this cancer center to the villages for what we believed would be one of the crown jewels in the medical facilities of the villages. We organized a letter-writing program, researched the demographics, argued for bringing the center here, and voiced our hopes to the appropriate decision-makers.

vinyl siding - sloppy work and installation procedures characterized the building effort of the contractors for homes in the villages south of hwy 466 in the 2005-2008 time period. Credit has to go to ray micucci and his wife lori for spearheading the inspection of over 1,500 homes and prodding the work of the warranty department and various contractors to repair the problems.

activity policy reversal - the center districts voted to restrict residents from gathering to protest anything. A liability insurance policy for $1 million was also required 30 days in advance of any protest gathering. The poa opposed this action, calling it a violation of our constitutional rights of freedom of speech and freedom of assembly, and argued against it in the bulletin. The center districts backed down and rescinded the rule.

paradise center - the original recreation center on the east side of hwy 441/27 was deteriorating and an absolute disgrace. We did a survey, organized residents, pleaded with the vccdd to renovate the center, advocated renovation in the bulletin, and were eventually successful in getting this $5 million project off the ground.

irs/bonds - we are waiting on this one. But, what we did do was caution restraint rather than wild speculation, and we identified the developer as the only one to benefit financially from the issuance of the bonds as tax exempt. If we get the negative outcome, we trust that the developer will do what is necessary to protect residents from any adverse impact.

performing arts center - we began advocating for this center early in 2010 and gave this idea the publicity it needed which helped secure the support of many villagers. We presented the facts on the undesirability of the church on the square as a performing arts center. We will continue our support until the dream becomes a reality.

conflict of interests by district employees - we documented the fact that some center district employees were in line to benefit financially from certain dealings with the developer. We viewed this as a conflict of interests. As a result, one center district employee was re-assigned, and any dealing like this in the future will be scrutinized for any potential conflict of interests problems.

forgotten $200,000 billing - somehow or another, a vccdd bill to the developer for about $200,000 for expenses related to his use of the savannah center was never issued. A poa director, irving yedwab, noticed the problem and we publicized the situation in the bulletin. The developer did pay up once the bill was issued.

sexual offended database - we published the state of florida sexual offender database for our area in the bulletin and brought it to our meetings for review. Some opposed this move; but, we felt it appropriate to publicize names and addresses so that residents could judge for themselves how best to react to any nearby offenders.

purchase of common property - the then district manager also thought it unnecessary to publish details explaining the various common property purchases by the center districts from the developer. We analyzed many of these deals and published detailed explanations in the bulletin. Unfortunately, the district manager's reluctance to publish details has caused huge misunderstandings on the part of residents which continue to confuse to this day.

center district financial statements - we were the first organization to publish the financial statements of the two center districts. Prior to that the district manager said that it was not important to provide that information for residents. Thankfully, the center districts now routinely publish this information and includes it on their website (village community development districts (http://www.districtgov.org))..

bob evans restaurant - the developer wanted to build a bob evans restaurant on the east side of hwy. 441/27. He used a heavy-handed approach with near-by residents to try to force them to approve a zoning change from residential to commercial. We publicized the issue in the bulletin and the local opposition to this plan. The developer finally relented and the restaurant was located on hwy. 466.

violence on the squares - we reported in the bulletin on several instances of violence on the squares. As a result, center district administration worked with local law enforcement to provide a heightened law enforcement presence on the squares.

poa surveys - we conducted five surveys through the bulletin over the years detailing attitudes about life in the villages. Some of the actions were later addressed by the developer and the center districts.

wind mitigation - we publicized the details of this state program to save residents literally hundreds of dollars annually on their home insurance for older homes.

this is a wonderful job of presenting absolute facts and not providing a single personal opinion.

[Advogado]

excellent and absolutely correct. You did leave out another person, don burgess.
What is the story there? As I said, I don't claim any special knowledge of the intricacies of the relationship between the VHA and the Developer. I just know that it smells.

[Advogado]

this is a wonderful job of presenting absolute facts and not providing a single personal opinion.

Thank you, but personal opinions are the only ones I have.

[Advogado]

I am not a supporter of the VHA. I don't know what they do. However, I am definitely against the POA. They seem to me to be nothing but whiners and obstructionists. If The Developer says up they say down. If there is an anti Developer view they take it. As I said before, I beleive it is political and I haven't seen anything to change my mind.
As Daniel Moynihan said, "You are entitled to your own opinion. You are not entitled to your own facts."

Would you please point out at least one specific instance in which POA opposition to an action by the Developer has been wrong.

[Big O]

As Daniel Moynihan said, "You are entitled to your own opinion. You are not entitled to your own facts."

Would you please point out at least one specific instance in which POA opposition to an action by the Developer has been wrong.

There do not seem to be many absolute right and wrong issues for anything anymore, but degrees of right and wrong. I can sue anyone for anything and maybe get something out of it. Does that make me absolutely right? No it doesn't. It means my lawyer was a pain in the as* and someone paid him to go away. I beleive that because of political differences the POA has taken the obstructionist road. Was I here when most of this happened? No. I can only make my decision based on the monthly POA publication and the antagonistic rhetoric on this thread. I'm out.

[Thnonne]

Advogado, thank you for posting the accomplishments of the POA for people to see the good things they have done. But again why did you feel it necessary to belittle the VHA in your next post? The POA should feel they can stand on their merits which you listed, not by belittling their "rival" organization.

[Advogado]

Advogado, thank you for posting the accomplishments of the POA for people to see the good things they have done. But again why did you feel it necessary to belittle the VHA in your next post? The POA should feel they can stand on their merits which you listed, not by belittling their "rival" organization.
I do not think that setting forth the facts regarding the relationship between the Developer and the VHA is "belittling" the VHA. Many Villagers are not aware of that relationship. And judging from the tone of some of the posts in this thread, some Villagers do not want to be aware of it.

In fact, I do not purport to know all the details about the relationship between the VHA and the Developer. But since my last post, I have done some more research on the subject and have learned, by checking Sumter County Board of Elections records, that a second VHA president, upon leaving office, has been supported financially and politically by the Developer in the ex-president's election as County Commissioner. (Refer to my earlier post regarding financial and political ties between the Developer and two other VHA presidents.)

I take it that you are not offended by an organization, in our community, representing itself as a "homeowners' association" despite such a relationship with the Developer. I am.

[kansasr]

And why don't the supporters of the VHA present any facts to demonstrate that it is really a true homeowners' association and not merely a front organization of the Developer?

In any event, in response to your request, here is just a partial list of the POA's accomplishments (copied verbatim from the poa4us.org website):

The Lawsuit Settlement - Villagers achieved a friendly class action lawsuit settlement with the developer in 2008 valued at $43 million. The key points of the settlement were: Provision for Reserve funds for eventual repair and replacement of our facilities north of Hwy. 466; provision for renovation of the recreation trails north of Hwy 446; creation of the AAC (Amenity Authority Committee) which allows residents elected by residents to make decisions about the expenditure of amenity funds north of Hwy. 466; and payoff of the Paradise Recreation Center renovation debt.

Defeat of the Sumter County Hospital Tax - We opposed the creation of this taxing district which would have taxed Sumter County residents about $200-$300 per home for use by our hospital and also given 20% of the tax off the top to the developer's foundation.

Expansion of the Hospital - After the defeat of the Sumter Hospital Tax, the owner of our hospital, the Leesburg Regional Medical Center, said it would delay construction of the expansion. We called this morally wrong to delay expansion of our life-saving hospital. After a series of hard-hitting stories in the Bulletin, LRMC finally relented and proceeded with the expansion.

Hospital Emergency Room - We noticed continuing poor service and performance in our hospital's ER over the years. We documented over 125 instances of serious problems in the ER. We publicized the problems. In response, LRMC brought in a new CEO of the hospital, a new director of the ER, dedicated more resources and staff to the ER, hired more nurses, established better training programs, and brought in three Villagers to sit on the Board of the hospital's parent organization.

Moffitt Cancer Center - We advocated bringing this cancer center to The Villages for what we believed would be one of the crown jewels in the medical facilities of The Villages. We organized a letter-writing program, researched the demographics, argued for bringing the center here, and voiced our hopes to the appropriate decision-makers.

Vinyl Siding - Sloppy work and installation procedures characterized the building effort of the contractors for homes in The Villages south of Hwy 466 in the 2005-2008 time period. Credit has to go to Ray Micucci and his wife Lori for spearheading the inspection of over 1,500 homes and prodding the work of the warranty department and various contractors to repair the problems.

Activity Policy Reversal - The Center Districts voted to restrict residents from gathering to protest anything. A liability insurance policy for $1 million was also required 30 days in advance of any protest gathering. The POA opposed this action, calling it a violation of our Constitutional Rights of Freedom of Speech and Freedom of Assembly, and argued against it in the Bulletin. The Center Districts backed down and rescinded the rule.

Paradise Center - The original recreation center on the east side of Hwy 441/27 was deteriorating and an absolute disgrace. We did a survey, organized residents, pleaded with the VCCDD to renovate the center, advocated renovation in the Bulletin, and were eventually successful in getting this $5 million project off the ground.

IRS/Bonds - We are waiting on this one. But, what we did do was caution restraint rather than wild speculation, and we identified the developer as the only one to benefit financially from the issuance of the bonds as tax exempt. If we get the negative outcome, we trust that the developer will do what is necessary to protect residents from any adverse impact.

Performing Arts Center - We began advocating for this center early in 2010 and gave this idea the publicity it needed which helped secure the support of many Villagers. We presented the facts on the undesirability of the Church on the Square as a performing arts center. We will continue our support until the dream becomes a reality.

Conflict of Interests by District Employees - We documented the fact that some Center District employees were in line to benefit financially from certain dealings with the developer. We viewed this as a conflict of interests. As a result, one Center District employee was re-assigned, and any dealing like this in the future will be scrutinized for any potential conflict of interests problems.

Forgotten $200,000 Billing - Somehow or another, a VCCDD bill to the developer for about $200,000 for expenses related to his use of the Savannah Center was never issued. A POA director, Irving Yedwab, noticed the problem and we publicized the situation in the Bulletin. The developer did pay up once the bill was issued.

Sexual Offended Database - We published the State of Florida Sexual Offender Database for our area in the Bulletin and brought it to our meetings for review. Some opposed this move; but, we felt it appropriate to publicize names and addresses so that residents could judge for themselves how best to react to any nearby offenders.

Purchase of Common Property - The then District Manager also thought it unnecessary to publish details explaining the various common property purchases by the Center Districts from the developer. We analyzed many of these deals and published detailed explanations in the Bulletin. Unfortunately, the District Manager's reluctance to publish details has caused huge misunderstandings on the part of residents which continue to confuse to this day.

Center District Financial Statements - We were the first organization to publish the financial statements of the two Center Districts. Prior to that the District Manager said that it was not important to provide that information for residents. Thankfully, the Center Districts now routinely publish this information and includes it on their website (Village Community Development Districts (http://www.districtgov.org))..

Bob Evans Restaurant - The developer wanted to build a Bob Evans restaurant on the east side of Hwy. 441/27. He used a heavy-handed approach with near-by residents to try to force them to approve a zoning change from residential to commercial. We publicized the issue in the Bulletin and the local opposition to this plan. The developer finally relented and the restaurant was located on Hwy. 466.

Violence on the Squares - We reported in the Bulletin on several instances of violence on the Squares. As a result, Center District administration worked with local law enforcement to provide a heightened law enforcement presence on the Squares.

POA Surveys - We conducted five Surveys through the Bulletin over the years detailing attitudes about life in The Villages. Some of the actions were later addressed by the developer and the Center Districts.

Wind Mitigation - We publicized the details of this state program to save residents literally hundreds of dollars annually on their home insurance for older homes.

I would also add CELL PHONE COVERAGE. When AT&T's coverage was very poor just north of 466A, the POA worked with them to secure low cost units that would provide coverage within your house until AT&T was able to add additional towers. They are now acting as a conduit to Verizon for similar problems south of 466A

[ureout]

Advogado, thank you for posting the accomplishments of the POA for people to see the good things they have done. But again why did you feel it necessary to belittle the VHA in your next post? The POA should feel they can stand on their merits which you listed, not by belittling their "rival" organization.

Thnonne.....I understand that you fully support the VHA and you definitely have the right to do so.....Please explain to us that don't understand... why? It seems from reading your posts it's because you feel POA backers attack the VHA ? Please give me a reason why I should change my mind....as in what have they done for the HOMEOWNERS that have had problems???

[graciegirl]

There do not seem to be many absolute right and wrong issues for anything anymore, but degrees of right and wrong. I can sue anyone for anything and maybe get something out of it. Does that make me absolutely right? No it doesn't. It means my lawyer was a pain in the as* and someone paid him to go away. I beleive that because of political differences the POA has taken the obstructionist road. Was I here when most of this happened? No. I can only make my decision based on the monthly POA publication and the antagonistic rhetoric on this thread. I'm out.



Don't be out.

I have to agree.



Avogado, does anyone actively involved in leadership of the POA live south of 466?

Please name them and their position.

[Advogado]

Don't be out.

I have to agree.



Avogado, does anyone actively involved in leadership of the POA live south of 466?

Please name them and their position.
Offhand, I don't know. I guess you could determine that by checking the list of officers and directors against the phone book.

[graciegirl]

Offhand, I don't know. I guess you could determine that by checking the list of officers and directors against the phone book.



Yup. I thought so.

[Laurie2]

And why don't the supporters of the VHA present any facts to demonstrate that it is really a true homeowners' association and not merely a front organization of the Developer?

In any event, in response to your request, here is just a partial list of the POA's accomplishments (copied verbatim from the poa4us.org website):

The Lawsuit Settlement - Villagers achieved a friendly class action lawsuit settlement with the developer in 2008 valued at $43 million. The key points of the settlement were: Provision for Reserve funds for eventual repair and replacement of our facilities north of Hwy. 466; provision for renovation of the recreation trails north of Hwy 446; creation of the AAC (Amenity Authority Committee) which allows residents elected by residents to make decisions about the expenditure of amenity funds north of Hwy. 466; and payoff of the Paradise Recreation Center renovation debt.

Defeat of the Sumter County Hospital Tax - We opposed the creation of this taxing district which would have taxed Sumter County residents about $200-$300 per home for use by our hospital and also given 20% of the tax off the top to the developer's foundation.

Expansion of the Hospital - After the defeat of the Sumter Hospital Tax, the owner of our hospital, the Leesburg Regional Medical Center, said it would delay construction of the expansion. We called this morally wrong to delay expansion of our life-saving hospital. After a series of hard-hitting stories in the Bulletin, LRMC finally relented and proceeded with the expansion.

Hospital Emergency Room - We noticed continuing poor service and performance in our hospital's ER over the years. We documented over 125 instances of serious problems in the ER. We publicized the problems. In response, LRMC brought in a new CEO of the hospital, a new director of the ER, dedicated more resources and staff to the ER, hired more nurses, established better training programs, and brought in three Villagers to sit on the Board of the hospital's parent organization.

Moffitt Cancer Center - We advocated bringing this cancer center to The Villages for what we believed would be one of the crown jewels in the medical facilities of The Villages. We organized a letter-writing program, researched the demographics, argued for bringing the center here, and voiced our hopes to the appropriate decision-makers.

Vinyl Siding - Sloppy work and installation procedures characterized the building effort of the contractors for homes in The Villages south of Hwy 466 in the 2005-2008 time period. Credit has to go to Ray Micucci and his wife Lori for spearheading the inspection of over 1,500 homes and prodding the work of the warranty department and various contractors to repair the problems.

Activity Policy Reversal - The Center Districts voted to restrict residents from gathering to protest anything. A liability insurance policy for $1 million was also required 30 days in advance of any protest gathering. The POA opposed this action, calling it a violation of our Constitutional Rights of Freedom of Speech and Freedom of Assembly, and argued against it in the Bulletin. The Center Districts backed down and rescinded the rule.

Paradise Center - The original recreation center on the east side of Hwy 441/27 was deteriorating and an absolute disgrace. We did a survey, organized residents, pleaded with the VCCDD to renovate the center, advocated renovation in the Bulletin, and were eventually successful in getting this $5 million project off the ground.

IRS/Bonds - We are waiting on this one. But, what we did do was caution restraint rather than wild speculation, and we identified the developer as the only one to benefit financially from the issuance of the bonds as tax exempt. If we get the negative outcome, we trust that the developer will do what is necessary to protect residents from any adverse impact.

Performing Arts Center - We began advocating for this center early in 2010 and gave this idea the publicity it needed which helped secure the support of many Villagers. We presented the facts on the undesirability of the Church on the Square as a performing arts center. We will continue our support until the dream becomes a reality.

Conflict of Interests by District Employees - We documented the fact that some Center District employees were in line to benefit financially from certain dealings with the developer. We viewed this as a conflict of interests. As a result, one Center District employee was re-assigned, and any dealing like this in the future will be scrutinized for any potential conflict of interests problems.

Forgotten $200,000 Billing - Somehow or another, a VCCDD bill to the developer for about $200,000 for expenses related to his use of the Savannah Center was never issued. A POA director, Irving Yedwab, noticed the problem and we publicized the situation in the Bulletin. The developer did pay up once the bill was issued.

Sexual Offended Database - We published the State of Florida Sexual Offender Database for our area in the Bulletin and brought it to our meetings for review. Some opposed this move; but, we felt it appropriate to publicize names and addresses so that residents could judge for themselves how best to react to any nearby offenders.

Purchase of Common Property - The then District Manager also thought it unnecessary to publish details explaining the various common property purchases by the Center Districts from the developer. We analyzed many of these deals and published detailed explanations in the Bulletin. Unfortunately, the District Manager's reluctance to publish details has caused huge misunderstandings on the part of residents which continue to confuse to this day.

Center District Financial Statements - We were the first organization to publish the financial statements of the two Center Districts. Prior to that the District Manager said that it was not important to provide that information for residents. Thankfully, the Center Districts now routinely publish this information and includes it on their website (Village Community Development Districts (http://www.districtgov.org))..

Bob Evans Restaurant - The developer wanted to build a Bob Evans restaurant on the east side of Hwy. 441/27. He used a heavy-handed approach with near-by residents to try to force them to approve a zoning change from residential to commercial. We publicized the issue in the Bulletin and the local opposition to this plan. The developer finally relented and the restaurant was located on Hwy. 466.

Violence on the Squares - We reported in the Bulletin on several instances of violence on the Squares. As a result, Center District administration worked with local law enforcement to provide a heightened law enforcement presence on the Squares.

POA Surveys - We conducted five Surveys through the Bulletin over the years detailing attitudes about life in The Villages. Some of the actions were later addressed by the developer and the Center Districts.

Wind Mitigation - We publicized the details of this state program to save residents literally hundreds of dollars annually on their home insurance for older homes.


AND, I credit the presence and profile of the POA with the FACT that so many Villagers have had their roofs replaced, at no cost, after that bad run of Owens-Corning shingles.

The developer, obviously, could wield influence over Owens-Corning and did, BUT like I said -- I credit the presence and profile of the POA with seeing us through the Owens-Corning mess.

I like the balance and advocacy the POA provides for homeowners. I am glad they are here and, of course, I am a member.

Anyone who wants to read the POA bulletin, including archives, can go to poa4us.org.

[outlaw]

And why don't the supporters of the VHA present any facts to demonstrate that it is really a true homeowners' association and not merely a front organization of the Developer?

In any event, in response to your request, here is just a partial list of the POA's accomplishments (copied verbatim from the poa4us.org website):

The Lawsuit Settlement - Villagers achieved a friendly class action lawsuit settlement with the developer in 2008 valued at $43 million. The key points of the settlement were: Provision for Reserve funds for eventual repair and replacement of our facilities north of Hwy. 466; provision for renovation of the recreation trails north of Hwy 446; creation of the AAC (Amenity Authority Committee) which allows residents elected by residents to make decisions about the expenditure of amenity funds north of Hwy. 466; and payoff of the Paradise Recreation Center renovation debt.

Defeat of the Sumter County Hospital Tax - We opposed the creation of this taxing district which would have taxed Sumter County residents about $200-$300 per home for use by our hospital and also given 20% of the tax off the top to the developer's foundation.

Expansion of the Hospital - After the defeat of the Sumter Hospital Tax, the owner of our hospital, the Leesburg Regional Medical Center, said it would delay construction of the expansion. We called this morally wrong to delay expansion of our life-saving hospital. After a series of hard-hitting stories in the Bulletin, LRMC finally relented and proceeded with the expansion.

Hospital Emergency Room - We noticed continuing poor service and performance in our hospital's ER over the years. We documented over 125 instances of serious problems in the ER. We publicized the problems. In response, LRMC brought in a new CEO of the hospital, a new director of the ER, dedicated more resources and staff to the ER, hired more nurses, established better training programs, and brought in three Villagers to sit on the Board of the hospital's parent organization.

Moffitt Cancer Center - We advocated bringing this cancer center to The Villages for what we believed would be one of the crown jewels in the medical facilities of The Villages. We organized a letter-writing program, researched the demographics, argued for bringing the center here, and voiced our hopes to the appropriate decision-makers.

Vinyl Siding - Sloppy work and installation procedures characterized the building effort of the contractors for homes in The Villages south of Hwy 466 in the 2005-2008 time period. Credit has to go to Ray Micucci and his wife Lori for spearheading the inspection of over 1,500 homes and prodding the work of the warranty department and various contractors to repair the problems.

Activity Policy Reversal - The Center Districts voted to restrict residents from gathering to protest anything. A liability insurance policy for $1 million was also required 30 days in advance of any protest gathering. The POA opposed this action, calling it a violation of our Constitutional Rights of Freedom of Speech and Freedom of Assembly, and argued against it in the Bulletin. The Center Districts backed down and rescinded the rule.

Paradise Center - The original recreation center on the east side of Hwy 441/27 was deteriorating and an absolute disgrace. We did a survey, organized residents, pleaded with the VCCDD to renovate the center, advocated renovation in the Bulletin, and were eventually successful in getting this $5 million project off the ground.

IRS/Bonds - We are waiting on this one. But, what we did do was caution restraint rather than wild speculation, and we identified the developer as the only one to benefit financially from the issuance of the bonds as tax exempt. If we get the negative outcome, we trust that the developer will do what is necessary to protect residents from any adverse impact.

Performing Arts Center - We began advocating for this center early in 2010 and gave this idea the publicity it needed which helped secure the support of many Villagers. We presented the facts on the undesirability of the Church on the Square as a performing arts center. We will continue our support until the dream becomes a reality.

Conflict of Interests by District Employees - We documented the fact that some Center District employees were in line to benefit financially from certain dealings with the developer. We viewed this as a conflict of interests. As a result, one Center District employee was re-assigned, and any dealing like this in the future will be scrutinized for any potential conflict of interests problems.

Forgotten $200,000 Billing - Somehow or another, a VCCDD bill to the developer for about $200,000 for expenses related to his use of the Savannah Center was never issued. A POA director, Irving Yedwab, noticed the problem and we publicized the situation in the Bulletin. The developer did pay up once the bill was issued.

Sexual Offended Database - We published the State of Florida Sexual Offender Database for our area in the Bulletin and brought it to our meetings for review. Some opposed this move; but, we felt it appropriate to publicize names and addresses so that residents could judge for themselves how best to react to any nearby offenders.

Purchase of Common Property - The then District Manager also thought it unnecessary to publish details explaining the various common property purchases by the Center Districts from the developer. We analyzed many of these deals and published detailed explanations in the Bulletin. Unfortunately, the District Manager's reluctance to publish details has caused huge misunderstandings on the part of residents which continue to confuse to this day.

Center District Financial Statements - We were the first organization to publish the financial statements of the two Center Districts. Prior to that the District Manager said that it was not important to provide that information for residents. Thankfully, the Center Districts now routinely publish this information and includes it on their website (Village Community Development Districts (http://www.districtgov.org))..

Bob Evans Restaurant - The developer wanted to build a Bob Evans restaurant on the east side of Hwy. 441/27. He used a heavy-handed approach with near-by residents to try to force them to approve a zoning change from residential to commercial. We publicized the issue in the Bulletin and the local opposition to this plan. The developer finally relented and the restaurant was located on Hwy. 466.

Violence on the Squares - We reported in the Bulletin on several instances of violence on the Squares. As a result, Center District administration worked with local law enforcement to provide a heightened law enforcement presence on the Squares.

POA Surveys - We conducted five Surveys through the Bulletin over the years detailing attitudes about life in The Villages. Some of the actions were later addressed by the developer and the Center Districts.

Wind Mitigation - We publicized the details of this state program to save residents literally hundreds of dollars annually on their home insurance for older homes.

Very informative! I always felt the POA was the true resident advocate, mainly because of the multimillion dollar settlement. But I had not realized all the important things the POA has done in the interest of the residents. WOW! I heard about the cozy relationship between the developer and the VHA, with the developer even funding the VHA. I am amazed at the number of otherwise intelligent and rational people that blindly and continuously ignore the transgressions of the developer; always attacking the messengers as "complainers" and "whiners", but never providing any facts refuting the message.
Another recent example of the POA watching out for the residents is the issue of the offer by the developer to fund a pool at a new recreation center on the proposed Baptist church property if purchased by the AAC. The recent POA monthly pointed out that the developer is offering nothing, because the offer to fund the pool is in lieu of the developer building a neighborhood pool in one of the new 300 home developments in the north end. For this, the developer wants the AAC to allow an additional 300 homes to be built in the north end of TV.

[graciegirl]

;;;
[/list]

[outlaw]

You seem very involved, counselor.


You could have just said "Good job, counselor."

[rustyp]

;;;
[/list]

For the benefit of any newbies here the above response signifies the author posted a reply then deleted it sometime after airing. This should help make Outlaw's response make better sense.

[Warren Kiefer]

I am not a supporter of the VHA. I don't know what they do. However, I am definitely against the POA. They seem to me to be nothing but whiners and obstructionists. If The Developer says up they say down. If there is an anti Developer view they take it. As I said before, I beleive it is political and I haven't seen anything to change my mind.

Do you live in the Villages, the one in Florida ??? Everyday I see the beautiful Paradise Park area, the new Rec Center for Tierra Del Sol and the soon to be Santiago Rec Center reminds me that none of this would exist if not for the POA fighting the legal battle. And for those of you who care, check out to see who provided the out of their pocket legal funding for this case.

[Warren Kiefer]

What is the story there? As I said, I don't claim any special knowledge of the intricacies of the relationship between the VHA and the Developer. I just know that it smells.

Simply put, it is not unusual for past VHA presidents the be successful in Sumter County politics. One is even running for State Representative. The Developer created the VHA to counter balance the efforts of the POA.

[Warren Kiefer]

As Daniel Moynihan said, "You are entitled to your own opinion. You are not entitled to your own facts."

Would you please point out at least one specific instance in which POA opposition to an action by the Developer has been wrong.

I would place my bet that there has never been such a case. The President of the POA is a very bright lady. While the VHA sits sucking their thumb, the POA is fighting for the benefits duly due to we residents. I am not sure I can come up with a single decision involving the Residents that the VHA has supported on behalf of the Residents.

[Thnonne]

Thnonne.....I understand that you fully support the VHA and you definitely have the right to do so.....Please explain to us that don't understand... why? It seems from reading your posts it's because you feel POA backers attack the VHA ? Please give me a reason why I should change my mind....as in what have they done for the HOMEOWNERS that have had problems???
I am a member of the VHA, I do not support them because the POA backers attack them. I just am wary of any person or group who feels they have to bash their opponent to make themselves look better. I am not trying to change your mind about being a POA member, I just wish you [the POA] would stand on your merits alone. I feel the same way about mudslinging politicians, tell me to vote for you because of what you have done or will do, not because you say your opponent is unworthy.

[Advogado]

I am a member of the VHA, I do not support them because the POA backers attack them. I just am wary of any person or group who feels they have to bash their opponent to make themselves look better. I am not trying to change your mind about being a POA member, I just wish you [the POA] would stand on your merits alone. I feel the same way about mudslinging politicians, tell me to vote for you because of what you have done or will do, not because you say your opponent is unworthy.
First, I am not trying to recruit members for the POA, and I don't care whether you join or don't join the POA. And, if knowing the relationship between the VHA and the Developer, you still want to join the VHA, that is certainly up to you.

However, I want to make it clear that when others and myself point out facts demonstrating the corrupt relationship between the Developer and the VHA (and, in particular, between the Developer and certain VHA presidents), we are not "bashing" the VHA. Instead, we are exposing the VHA for what it is-- a phony homeowners' association, supported by the Developer for the purpose of weakening or destroying the POA.

[janmcn]

Residents in districts five through eleven will soon get a chance to see which organization has their back when they are handed a million dollar bill to shore up the land under the Morse Blvd bridge. The contractor doing the work has already said his plan may not solve the problem.

Which one would you want in your corner? Good times ahead.

[graciegirl]

Residents in districts five through eleven will soon get a chance to see which organization has their back when they are handed a million dollar bill to shore up the land under the Morse Blvd bridge. The contractor doing the work has already said his plan may not solve the problem.

Which one would you want in your corner? Good times ahead.



Road repairs happen everywhere. Are we going to blame the developer for the geological problems underlying the whole area of central west Florida????

It is these kinds of jabs and half truths and innuendos and rumors that make my blood boil.

[Big O]

Do you live in the Villages, the one in Florida ??? Everyday I see the beautiful Paradise Park area, the new Rec Center for Tierra Del Sol and the soon to be Santiago Rec Center reminds me that none of this would exist if not for the POA fighting the legal battle. And for those of you who care, check out to see who provided the out of their pocket legal funding for this case.

I live in Fernandina. I look out every day and see Bonifay and Evans Prarie golf courses and that reminds me that the Developer is doing a wonderful job. It reminds me of what can be done with a positive attitude and that it exists in spite of the POA and the people who disagree with everythig the Developer does because of his politics. I will say this: They used crappy white carpet in my Gardenia. Do you think the POA would file a class action law suit for me if I said I was a Democrat?

[CFrance]

I live in Fernandina. I look out every day and see Bonifay and Evans Prarie golf courses and that reminds me that the Developer is doing a wonderful job. It reminds me of what can be done with a positive attitude and that it exists in spite of the POA and the people who disagree with everythig the Developer does because of his politics. I will say this: They used crappy white carpet in my Gardenia. Do you think the POA would file a class action law suit for me if I said I was a Democrat?
Um... I'm a Democrat, and they used crappy carpet in my Begonia. What the heck are you saying, anyway? "Facts" not in evidence.

[Big O]

Um... I'm a Democrat, and they used crappy carpet in my Begonia. What the heck are you saying, anyway? "Facts" not in evidence.

What I am saying is that I think the POA is an organization that has the objective to be a thorn in The Developer's side because of political reasons. I didn't mean to paint all Democrats with that brush. Sorry.

[Advogado]

I live in Fernandina. I look out every day and see Bonifay and Evans Prarie golf courses and that reminds me that the Developer is doing a wonderful job. It reminds me of what can be done with a positive attitude and that it exists in spite of the POA and the people who disagree with everythig the Developer does because of his politics. I will say this: They used crappy white carpet in my Gardenia. Do you think the POA would file a class action law suit for me if I said I was a Democrat?
As I said in an earlier post: You are entitled to your own opinion. You are not entitled to your own facts. Can you produce any facts whatsoever to substantiate your allegation that POA actions vis-a-vis the Developer are politically motivated?

To get my politics and animus toward the Developer out of the way, as I have said in earlier posts: I am a registered Republican, like the Developer. The Developer has done many things to be proud of in making The Villages the wonderful place it is today.

However, the Developer's relationship with the VHA (a VHA president on his payroll and upon their leaving office, ex-VHA presidents rewarded with County Commissioner positions, and maybe other favors extended to VHA officers that I no way of knowing about) is absolutely disgraceful.

[rustyp]

Don't be out.

I have to agree.



Avogado, does anyone actively involved in leadership of the POA live south of 466?

Please name them and their position.

I need help understanding the significance of the importance of living north or south of 466 neighbor.

[ureout]

I need help understanding the significance of the importance of living north or south of 466 neighbor.

many of the problems that the property owners went thru on the N side of 466 have yet to happen on the S/side.....that is because the developer still owns everything....wait until the IRS issue is FINALLY complete and then the developer will start selling rec. centers and softball complexes back to the residents of the district they live in

[janmcn]

many of the problems that the property owners went thru on the N side of 466 have yet to happen on the S/side.....that is because the developer still owns everything....wait until the IRS issue is FINALLY complete and then the developer will start selling rec. centers and softball complexes back to the residents of the district they live in


That might be the time the residents of those districts need an organization like the POA or the VHA looking out for their interests.

[Advogado]

many of the problems that the property owners went thru on the N side of 466 have yet to happen on the S/side.....that is because the developer still owns everything....wait until the IRS issue is FINALLY complete and then the developer will start selling rec. centers and softball complexes back to the residents of the district they live in
An important factual correction: The Developer will not be selling those assets to the residents. If that were the case, the pricing and terms of sale would, by definition, be arm's length since it would be a transaction between unrelated parties.

Instead, the Developer will be selling those assets (and the right to receive the related amenity fees) to Center Community Development Districts that he controls. Thus, he will, in essence, be selling them to himself, and he will be setting the price and terms of sale.

It is this self dealing that underlay both the POA-backed class-action lawsuit and the IRS investigation. It is important that somebody keep a close eye on the pricing and terms of these future sales to ensure that they are arm's length and do not place the viability of our amenities system at risk by unduly burdening the Center Districts. That somebody will certainly not be the VHA.

[Warren Kiefer]

An important factual correction: The Developer will not be selling those assets to the residents. If that were the case, the pricing and terms of sale would, by definition, be arm's length since it would be a transaction between unrelated parties.

Instead, the Developer will be selling those assets (and the right to receive the related amenity fees) to Center Community Development Districts that he controls. Thus, he will, in essence, be selling them to himself, and he will be setting the price and terms of sale.

It is this self dealing that underlay both the POA-backed class-action lawsuit and the IRS investigation. It is important that somebody keep a close eye on the pricing and terms of these future sales to ensure that they are arm's length and do not place the viability of our amenities system at risk by unduly burdening the Center Districts. That somebody will certainly not be the VHA.

You are mostly correct, you failed to make it clear that when sold to the CCDD, it is the Residents who pay the bill.

[Warren Kiefer]

Road repairs happen everywhere. Are we going to blame the developer for the geological problems underlying the whole area of central west Florida????

It is these kinds of jabs and half truths and innuendos and rumors that make my blood boil.

I am a Highway Engineer and it concerns me that that bridge not being very old is already failing. Bridges are built on pilings usually driven to bed rock. This is not simple road repairs this is a bridge having serious failures. Every day almost everyone drives across interstate bridges that are still functional even though most are more than fifty years old.

[Warren Kiefer]

as i said in an earlier post: You are entitled to your own opinion. You are not entitled to your own facts. Can you produce any facts whatsoever to substantiate your allegation that poa actions vis-a-vis the developer are politically motivated?

To get my politics and animus toward the developer out of the way, as i have said in earlier posts: I am a registered republican, like the developer. The developer has done many things to be proud of in making the villages the wonderful place it is today.

However, the developer's relationship with the vha (a vha president on his payroll and upon their leaving office, ex-vha presidents rewarded with county commissioner positions, and maybe other favors extended to vha officers that i no way of knowing about) is absolutely disgraceful.

amen!!

[Advogado]

You are mostly correct, you failed to make it clear that when sold to the CCDD, it is the Residents who pay the bill.
Only in the sense that we, after the sale to the CCDD, pay our amenity fees to the CCDD, instead of to the Developer. In other words, if things work as planned after the sale, everything is fine from the residents' perspective. We keep paying the same amenity fees, but they go to the CCDD instead of to the Developer.

The only problem for residents would arise if the CCDD were, for some reason (like the CCDD's overpaying the Developer for the assets-- the allegation in the class-action lawsuit), financially unable to continue to furnish the amenities at the promised level. In fact, thanks to the recovery in the class-action lawsuit, things now seem to be working out okay. Of course, an adverse outcome in the IRS investigation or other factors (e.g., a huge increase in the minimum wage) increasing costs to the CCDDs at a rate faster than the CPI cap on amenity-fee increases could change that.

[Thnonne]

First, I am not trying to recruit members for the POA, and I don't care whether you join or don't join the POA. And, if knowing the relationship between the VHA and the Developer, you still want to join the VHA, that is certainly up to you.

However, I want to make it clear that when others and myself point out facts demonstrating the corrupt relationship between the Developer and the VHA (and, in particular, between the Developer and certain VHA presidents), we are not "bashing" the VHA. Instead, we are exposing the VHA for what it is-- a phony homeowners' association, supported by the Developer for the purpose of weakening or destroying the POA.

Wow, you don't consider it bashing to describe another as a "corrupt" "phony homeowners association," in print. I have never seen any such claims in the VHA publications about the POA. It must be horrible to live in such fear of your rival organization. Remember if you can't say something good about someone don't say anything, especially in Florida's friendliest hometown.

[Advogado]

I am a Highway Engineer and it concerns me that that bridge not being very old is already failing. Bridges are built on pilings usually driven to bed rock. This is not simple road repairs this is a bridge having serious failures. Every day almost everyone drives across interstate bridges that are still functional even though most are more than fifty years old.

Warren, in the post that you quote, Graciegirl said her blood was boiling at the suggestion that the Developer might be responsible since bridges fail all the time due to natural causes. I know nothing about the matter, but I suppose that she might be right. In any case, somebody ought to look at whether the bridge was properly constructed in the first place. With the Developer's having put his ex-VHA presidents on the County Commission, I don't know who that somebody will be.

[Advogado]

Wow, you don't consider it bashing to describe another as a "corrupt" "phony homeowners association," in print. I have never seen any such claims in the VHA publications about the POA. It must be horrible to live in such fear of your rival organization. Remember if you can't say something good about someone don't say anything, especially in Florida's friendliest hometown.
First, making those factual statements about the VHA is not bashing. It is exposing.

Second, the VHA is not "my rival organization". I am not the POA and have made it very clear that I am neither an officer or director thereof and never have been. I am a resident of The Villages, who is frankly outraged that the VHA, while its president was an employee of the Developer and whose other presidents, upon leaving office, have had their political careers launched by the Developer, would hold itself out as a homeowners' association.

Third, I would request that you stick to the facts of this issue rather than berating me for pointing out an uncomfortable truth.

A lot of residents do not understand the facts regarding the relationship between the Developer and the VHA. They are not well publicized. Frankly, I did not understand how unsavory that relationship is until, inspired by some of the posts in this thread defending the VHA, I decided to do some digging. Thus, as this thread continued, and I learned more, my criticism of that relationship became more and more harsh.

[mickey100]

Very informative! I always felt the POA was the true resident advocate, mainly because of the multimillion dollar settlement. But I had not realized all the important things the POA has done in the interest of the residents. WOW! I heard about the cozy relationship between the developer and the VHA, with the developer even funding the VHA. I am amazed at the number of otherwise intelligent and rational people that blindly and continuously ignore the transgressions of the developer; always attacking the messengers as "complainers" and "whiners", but never providing any facts refuting the message.
Another recent example of the POA watching out for the residents is the issue of the offer by the developer to fund a pool at a new recreation center on the proposed Baptist church property if purchased by the AAC. The recent POA monthly pointed out that the developer is offering nothing, because the offer to fund the pool is in lieu of the developer building a neighborhood pool in one of the new 300 home developments in the north end. For this, the developer wants the AAC to allow an additional 300 homes to be built in the north end of TV.

I am as amazed as you are about the people who seem unable to grasp the facts
And then attack the the messenger. For the record, most people I've talked to are big supporters of the POA. We had friends who had some issues they needed help with. They first went to the VHA and found them completely useless, just an arm of the developer. They said they'd never waste time with them again, they would always look to the POA for assistance.

Thanks to Advogado and others for posting facts and educating the residents who read theses postings.

[outlaw]

Warren, in the post that you quote, Graciegirl said her blood was boiling at the suggestion that the Developer might be responsible since bridges fail all the time due to natural causes. I know nothing about the matter, but I suppose that she might be right. In any case, somebody ought to look at whether the bridge was properly constructed in the first place. With the Developer's having put his ex-VHA presidents on the County Commission, I don't know who that somebody will be.

It would be Kimley-Horn & Associates Inc., of course. I wonder what the "study" will show....

Seriously, why isn't the county responsible for this bridge maintenance? I thought Morse Blvd was a county road. Is the bridge ownership carved out?

[Moderator]

Please keep the replies on topic or the thread will be closed.

A number of empty/nonsense and personally-directed posts have been removed.

Thanks.

Moderator

[Advogado]

Please keep the replies on topic or the thread will be closed.

A number of empty/nonsense and personally-directed posts have been removed.

Thanks.

Moderator
Closing discussion of this very important subject is exactly what the posters making the "personally directed posts" would like. Therefore, you will be playing into their hands if you close the thread. I would suggest that you continue to delete the "empty/nonsense and personally-directed posts" and leave the thread open.

[Warren Kiefer]

Only in the sense that we, after the sale to the CCDD, pay our amenity fees to the CCDD, instead of to the Developer. In other words, if things work as planned after the sale, everything is fine from the residents' perspective. We keep paying the same amenity fees, but they go to the CCDD instead of to the Developer.

The only problem for residents would arise if the CCDD were, for some reason (like the CCDD's overpaying the Developer for the assets-- the allegation in the class-action lawsuit), financially unable to continue to furnish the amenities at the promised level. In fact, thanks to the recovery in the class-action lawsuit, things now seem to be working out okay. Of course, an adverse outcome in the IRS investigation or other factors (e.g., a huge increase in the minimum wage) increasing costs to the CCDDs at a rate faster than the CPI cap on amenity-fee increases could change that.

The developer has total control over the CCDD's. The CCDD boards are elected by landowner elections, the only landowner in the Districts is the Developer. Get the picture ??? One could conclude that the CCDD boards would do exactly what the Developer wanted them to do. Most of the board members are employees of the Developer. I recall that at one time one of the board members of the VCCDD was the caretaker of the buffalo herd.

[Advogado]

The developer has total control over the CCDD's. The CCDD boards are elected by landowner elections, the only landowner in the Districts is the Developer. Get the picture ??? One could conclude that the CCDD boards would do exactly what the Developer wanted them to do. Most of the board members are employees of the Developer. I recall that at one time one of the board members of the VCCDD was the caretaker of the buffalo herd.

I understand that; you are correct; and I hope that I never said anything to the contrary. It is why the IRS has said that the Center Districts can no longer issue tax-exempt bonds.

Developer control over those governmental units does open avenues for potential abuse in dealings between the Developer and the Districts, and some of those dealings could negatively impact homeowners. This is one of the reasons why we need a genuine homeowners' association to represent our interests.

[outlaw]

Does the POA facilitate a one time payment for a 10 year membership?

[PennBF]

How many have read the POA Bulletin and understand that the POA is currently trying to help over 330 residents that have complained about their Verizon performance. POA has been working with Seniors vs Crime on the problem and
they are providing great support with the issues. We are not only proud of our POA which steps in on problems which nobody else will help with but also the Seniors vs Crime who is always there for us and willing to step up to the challenges. Thanks to the POA and Seniors vs Crime for their interest and help.:BigApplause:

[CFrance]

I am a POA fan and have been a member for years. I had noticed way back when we first arrived four years ago, that they were a bit snarky toward the developer and VHA in their writings. But they have gotten rid of that attitude. I think they are concentrating on defending homeowners' rights.

Some have disparaged their leader, Elaine Dreidame, as being merely a PE teacher, but she actually has advanced degrees, including a Ph.D. in administration of higher education as well as physical education. She served as Division I Vice-President of the NCAA, a member of the NCAA Council and the NCAA Executive Committee, the NCAA Joint Policy Board and numerous other NCAA Committees. I think she is well qualified in administration. I continue to support the POA. .

I have nothing against the VHA, but I note that POA delivers a newsletter to everyone's driveway whether a member or not. We have not once received a VHA newsletter. Do you have to be a member to receive one?

[Jdmiata]

How anyone could call an organization that just nods in agreement with the developer a "homeowner " group amazes me . The VHA is a sham. Thank God for the POA.

[outlaw]

I am a POA fan and have been a member for years. I had noticed way back when we first arrived four years ago, that they were a bit snarky toward the developer and VHA in their writings. But they have gotten rid of that attitude. I think they are concentrating on defending homeowners' rights.

Some have disparaged their leader, Elaine Dreidame, as being merely a PE teacher, but she actually has advanced degrees, including a Ph.D. in administration of higher education as well as physical education. She served as Division I Vice-President of the NCAA, a member of the NCAA Council and the NCAA Executive Committee, the NCAA Joint Policy Board and numerous other NCAA Committees. I think she is well qualified in administration. I continue to support the POA. .

I have nothing against the VHA, but I note that POA delivers a newsletter to everyone's driveway whether a member or not. We have not once received a VHA newsletter. Do you have to be a member to receive one?

I think the VHA newsletter is delivered with the Daily Sun.

[bargee]

The POA is not anti-developer it is Pro Resident

[CFrance]

I think the VHA newsletter is delivered with the Daily Sun.

The POA is not anti-developer it is Pro Resident
That explains why I don't get it. I don't read enough of the Daily Sun to justify all the paper waste, although I would subscribe if they would come up with an online edition.

I do agree POA is pro resident.

[outlaw]

That explains why I don't get it. I don't read enough of the Daily Sun to justify all the paper waste, although I would subscribe if they would come up with an online edition.

I do agree POA is pro resident.

The Daily Sun does have an online edition. The Villages Daily Sun (http://www.thevillagesdailysun.com/)

[Warren Kiefer]

I think the VHA newsletter is delivered with the Daily Sun.

I would think that no one would believe that the Daily Sun would agree to distribute the POA news letter. At one time when the Developer owned the Daily Sun, the delivery for the VHA newsletter was free. I would like to know if this is still true.

[CFrance]

The Daily Sun does have an online edition. The Villages Daily Sun (http://www.thevillagesdailysun.com/)
That is not the daily edition of the newspaper. For the most part, it is some local information. The news stories are not there. If you click on one of those headlines, you find only a teaser.

If you know otherwise, I would appreciate it if you could provide a link to subscribing to an online edition of the full newspaper. I have three other full newspaper online subscriptions and would love to add The Daily Sun to those.

[CFrance]

By the way, you can receive VHA's monthly newsletter free online by going to their web site and subscribing. But I think you will receive other notifications via email from them as well.

[Advogado]

I would think that no one would believe that the Daily Sun would agree to distribute the POA news letter. At one time when the Developer owned the Daily Sun, the delivery for the VHA newsletter was free. I would like to know if this is still true.

If the Developer does not still own the Daily Sun, what is the name of the present owner and what is his/her/its relationship with the Developer? Florida Department of State records show that The Villages Daily Sun name is still owned by the Developer. Thus, the Developer has not severed all ties with our only newspaper. Meantime, the Daily Sun continues to deliver, and I presume print, the VHA bulletin.

[graciegirl]

[QUOTE=Advogado;1087017]If the Developer does not still own the Daily Sun, what is the name of the present owner and what is his/her/its relationship with the Developer? Florida Department of State records show that The Villages Daily Sun name is still owned by the Developer. Thus, the Developer has not severed all ties with our only newspaper. Meantime, the Daily Sun continues to deliver, and I presume print, the VHA bulletin.[/QUOTE


The Daily Sun was sold to publisher Phillip J. Markward a little over three years ago. The building and the equipment still belongs to the developer, his heirs and assigns. I wouldn't be surprised if the new owner was carefully vetted just like every thing else the Morses do.


The Daily Sun is popular with the majority of Villagers.

[kcrazorbackfan]

I joined the VHA tonight at the newcomers orientation at Colony; I only do things that I BELIEVE will benefit my wife and I. We also joined the POA in March; I feel that belonging to both will allow us to see both sides of representation. To each his own. Isn't being an American great? Free to make your own decisions about choosing what benefits you?