Community (don't) Watch - mini rant

[JohnN]

Well, I was picking up the mail at the Hemingway pool and my battery died in the car (only vehicle here). I could have asked a neighbor, but I thought, hey.. Community Watch can help, I bet.

I call 'em up. Guy says he's not sure if they have cables, let him check.
He talks to some other guy there, sure they've got cables and they'll be right out, I think "hey that's great, thanks". 20 minutes later, guy shows up from CW and says his boss sent him out, and asks what the problem is, I say "dead battery". He says, "well, if you have AAA, I can phone them for you". I replied, I thought you were bringing cables out here, he says
"no, we don't have any battery cables and I can't give you a jump".

So, 30 minutes after I call, I'm sitting there, going to plan B which should have been Plan-A, my neighbor helps me out.

Does Community Watch actually do anything constructive?
If so, I'd feel a lot better about my mini-rant.

[Bogie Shooter]

Well, I was picking up the mail at the Hemingway pool and my battery died in the car (only vehicle here). I could have asked a neighbor, but I thought, hey.. Community Watch can help, I bet.

I call 'em up. Guy says he's not sure if they have cables, let him check.
He talks to some other guy there, sure they've got cables and they'll be right out, I think "hey that's great, thanks". 20 minutes later, guy shows up from CW and says his boss sent him out, and asks what the problem is, I say "dead battery". He says, "well, if you have AAA, I can phone them for you". I replied, I thought you were bringing cables out here, he says
"no, we don't have any battery cables and I can't give you a jump".

So, 30 minutes after I call, I'm sitting there, going to plan B which should have been Plan-A, my neighbor helps me out.

Does Community Watch actually do anything constructive?
If so, I'd feel a lot better about my mini-rant.

Just wondering where you read the Community Watch responded to disabled vehicles?

[chuckster]

Then he said...........:popcorn::popcorn:

[Bogie Shooter]

Now its time for........:beer3:

[The Great Fumar]

Just wondering where you read the Community Watch responded to disabled vehicles?

Wouldn't hurt to have a pair of jumper cables in the truck ......Their own battery might die while talking to a gate guard........

[Talk Host]

Just wondering where you read the Community Watch responded to disabled vehicles?

I've read and re-read the original post, and I see nowhere that it was said that the poster "read that Community Watch responds to disabled vehicles."

He did exactly what many people would do, call the organization that you would expect to be of some help or at least offer advice. His mistake was taking them at their word that they would help.

I'm curious where you may have read that they don't help in these instances.

[paulandjean]

this cannot be real.you call community watch? because your car will not start? Its like your not in the middle of the freeway at midnight. call a friend, call AAA but do not waste their time.

[Barefoot]

Does Community Watch actually do anything constructive? If so, I'd feel a lot better about my mini-rant.

Hey John, the occasional mini-rant makes TOTV a more interesting place!

I think Community Watch vehicles drive the neighbourhoods and report any suspicious activity to the Police. And they give warnings if they see any covenant violations (e.g., if you've painted your front door purple).

Sadly, I don't think their mission extends to giving a helping hand to Village residents. I hope I'm wrong.

[Talk Host]

.... do not waste their time.

What is the role of Community Watch?

[pooh]

What is the role of Community Watch?

Here it is......from VCDD

Community Watch

Community Watch is the eyes of The Villages. We are not a law enforcement agency, but we do work closely with the Sheriff's departments of Lake, Marion and Sumter counties as well as the Lady Lake Police Department. We conduct roving patrols in all districts (VCCDD, SLCDD and Districts 1-10) and are responsible for manning all gates in that same coverage area.

Some of services we provide Village Residents are:


House Checks � If you should take a vacation or be away from your home for more than seven days Community Watch will walk the perimeter of your home for a minimal fee.
Dispatch Center � Community Watch mans a dispatch Center 24 hours a day 7 days a week in an effort to ensure that Village Residents always have a person to contact should you have any question we may help you with. Our number at our Dispatch Center is 753-0550.
Adult Watch Program � Village residents may sign up for the Community Watch Adult Watch Program by coming into the Community Watch Office at 3130 Glenview Road, filling out a simple form and we will call any resident that wishes to participate in our program at various times during the day. This program provides those who live alone with a sense of reassurance.
Community Watch Office � We at the Community Watch office are the organizational and directional hub of all services provided by this Division. We are open Monday thru Friday from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. and we ask that all residents with concerns contact our office for assistance. To contact us call 753-0550 -- our staff will be pleased to serve you.


Re: Community Watch Dispatch: We have an operator located at our Dispatch Center. This Dispatch Center is manned 24 hours, 7 days a week. Call 753-0550. This Dispatch Center will help you with your concerns, assist you in reaching necessary services and/or telephone the proper authorities for you. The Dispatch Center will also send law enforcement or one of our vehicles when necessary.

http://www.districtgov.org/departments/Community-Watch/community-watch.aspx

[redwitch]

Here it is......from VCDD

Community Watch

Community Watch is the eyes of The Villages. We are not a law enforcement agency, but we do work closely with the Sheriff's departments of Lake, Marion and Sumter counties as well as the Lady Lake Police Department. We conduct roving patrols in all districts (VCCDD, SLCDD and Districts 1-10) and are responsible for manning all gates in that same coverage area.

Some of services we provide Village Residents are:

* House Checks � If you should take a vacation or be away from your home for more than seven days Community Watch will walk the perimeter of your home for a minimal fee.
* Dispatch Center � Community Watch mans a dispatch Center 24 hours a day 7 days a week in an effort to ensure that Village Residents always have a person to contact should you have any question we may help you with. Our number at our Dispatch Center is 753-0550.
* Adult Watch Program � Village residents may sign up for the Community Watch Adult Watch Program by coming into the Community Watch Office at 3130 Glenview Road, filling out a simple form and we will call any resident that wishes to participate in our program at various times during the day. This program provides those who live alone with a sense of reassurance. Won't swear to it, but I believe there is a fee for this, as well.
* Community Watch Office � We at the Community Watch office are the organizational and directional hub of all services provided by this Division. We are open Monday thru Friday from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. and we ask that all residents with concerns contact our office for assistance. To contact us call 753-0550 -- our staff will be pleased to serve you.

Re: Community Watch Dispatch: We have an operator located at our Dispatch Center. This Dispatch Center is manned 24 hours, 7 days a week. Call 753-0550. This Dispatch Center will help you with your concerns, assist you in reaching necessary services and/or telephone the proper authorities for you. The Dispatch Center will also send law enforcement or one of our vehicles when necessary.

http://www.districtgov.org/departments/Community-Watch/community-watch.aspx

I ran out of gas (yes, my fault, but still) at 11:00 pm on the golf cart path by Lake Miona. I watched 3 Community Watch trucks drive by -- not one stopped to see if anyone was in true distress -- while I waited for a friend to help me.

I once stopped a Community Watch truck and explained that my neighbor's garage door had been left open for three days, which was not the norm for him (he was an ill-tempered alcoholic with diabetes). I asked if they could either check on him or call the appropriate authorities to do so. They said they would. Two days later, the man's brother called the police to check on his brother. Turns out the man had burned to death in his home after falling into a diabetic coma.

So, when and where are they ever helpful to anyone? They're friendly, they wave hi to you, they chat to the gate guards, they drive around and are a presence, they do write citations if you don't follow the covenants and restrictions, but I don't see where they're truly particularly helpful.

[pooh]

I ran out of gas (yes, my fault, but still) at 11:00 pm on the golf cart path by Lake Miona. I watched 3 Community Watch trucks drive by -- not one stopped to see if anyone was in true distress -- while I waited for a friend to help me.

I once stopped a Community Watch truck and explained that my neighbor's garage door had been left open for three days, which was not the norm for him (he was an ill-tempered alcoholic with diabetes). I asked if they could either check on him or call the appropriate authorities to do so. They said they would. Two days later, the man's brother called the police to check on his brother. Turns out the man had burned to death in his home after falling into a diabetic coma.

So, when and where are they ever helpful to anyone? They're friendly, they wave hi to you, they chat to the gate guards, they drive around and are a presence, they do write citations if you don't follow the covenants and restrictions, but I don't see where they're truly particularly helpful.

You were on the cart path? The trucks were on the road? It's unfortunate that they didn't at least ask you if you needed them to call someone. They were driving, and in all honesty, they might not have really "noticed" you there. Having no transportation at 11 PM isn't a good thing! (Sorry when I started writing, I forgot that you said it was 11...so I've been editing and obviously not doing a good job...lol)

About the neighbor...How sad that he died in such a manner. If his garage door was up for 3 days, why didn't someone in the neighborhood call the sheriff earlier? Sadly, by the time the door had been open even one day, he was probably already gone. It might have been worth calling to find out why no one from Community Watch notified the authorities when they were asked to do so.

My feelings about Community Watch....some who patrol are better than others. On occasion I've seen the truck go around our loop much to fast for the driver to notice ANYTHING

[redwitch]

While we Villagers are under the illusion, they are there to help protect us, I think the reality is far from that. They make sure everything looks "pretty." If an individual needs help, let's hope a Villager stops because the odds are that CW will wave hi and continue checking that no one breaks the rules.

[JohnN]

redwitch,
Bingo, you've got it. I'm so sorry to hear of that tragedy, mine was more an inconvenience.

For some other replies here - I didn't know if they'd help or not, but I was stranded and had their phone number. They said they'd help - then didn't.
That's what aggravated me.

If they'd have said, no , that's not their charter, fine and I'd understand.
But don't offer to help, to double check, and then don't.

I found a good samaritin and got him a thank you gift to boot and made a new friend, so it all worked out.

I'm just cautioning people about thinking Community Watch really does much.

[pooh]

While we Villagers are under the illusion, they are there to help protect us, I think the reality is far from that. They make sure everything looks "pretty." If an individual needs help, let's hope a Villager stops because the odds are that CW will wave hi and continue checking that no one breaks the rules.

I think you're right....but my feeling, and they are strictly mine, is that people come with pre-conceived ideas about what is here. When we bought, we were told about the gates, how the roads in the community are public. People see the gates, feel that the community is truly gated and if you don't live or work here, driving throughout the community just can't happen. Others seem to come with the impression that the town squares are for Villagers only. Again, the stores and the entertainment are open to all...we were told this. Some get upset when they see children around, feeling that they were moving to a community where kids just weren't allowed. Maybe it's just ideas and feelings they bring with them from their previous communities. They feel they're moving to "an exclusive community." It is a unique community, a beautiful community and a place to relax, have fun, help out, contribute and most of all, enjoy.

[l2ridehd]

Based on there charter, they should have helped. Maybe not with jumper cables, but they should have offered to call someone, call a tow truck, offer you a ride home, or something. If they are not here to help the citizens, then we should do what ever is necessary to eliminate them. Why pay for a service that does not add value. They need to take a hard look at what they can do to increase there value to those who pay for them. Or they could find themselves without any charter at all. (oops, starting to sound like they are acting like our folks we place in Washington)

[Donna2]

I don't get it. America's friendliest Hometown??? Me and hubby both carry jumper cables in our vehicles which are fairly new. They don't cost very much either. Why can't these community watch characters carry them in their vehicles to help? Who cares about dumb charters and rules?

[BogeyBoy]

Here it is......from VCDD

Community Watch

Community Watch is the eyes of The Villages. We are not a law enforcement agency, but we do work closely with the Sheriff's departments of Lake, Marion and Sumter counties as well as the Lady Lake Police Department. We conduct roving patrols in all districts (VCCDD, SLCDD and Districts 1-10) and are responsible for manning all gates in that same coverage area.

Some of services we provide Village Residents are:

* House Checks — If you should take a vacation or be away from your home for more than seven days Community Watch will walk the perimeter of your home for a minimal fee.
* Dispatch Center — Community Watch mans a dispatch Center 24 hours a day 7 days a week in an effort to ensure that Village Residents always have a person to contact should you have any question we may help you with. Our number at our Dispatch Center is 753-0550.
* Adult Watch Program — Village residents may sign up for the Community Watch Adult Watch Program by coming into the Community Watch Office at 3130 Glenview Road, filling out a simple form and we will call any resident that wishes to participate in our program at various times during the day. This program provides those who live alone with a sense of reassurance.
* Community Watch Office — We at the Community Watch office are the organizational and directional hub of all services provided by this Division. We are open Monday thru Friday from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. and we ask that all residents with concerns contact our office for assistance. To contact us call 753-0550 -- our staff will be pleased to serve you.

Re: Community Watch Dispatch: We have an operator located at our Dispatch Center. This Dispatch Center is manned 24 hours, 7 days a week. Call 753-0550. This Dispatch Center will help you with your concerns, assist you in reaching necessary services and/or telephone the proper authorities for you. The Dispatch Center will also send law enforcement or one of our vehicles when necessary.

http://www.districtgov.org/departments/Community-Watch/community-watch.aspx

Not to get off subject, but I finally figured out why deed restrictions state you have to notify TV if you are away for more than 7 days. You call to tell them and they turn on the sales pitch, "For only $X.XX per day we can have our Community Watch team walk around your house so it will be safe during your absence." Yet another profit center!

[Talk Host]

Sometime, you can ask me about the road rage incident by a CW car against me. The CW guy actually got out of his car and came up to me with his face into mine. Fortunately for me, the entire thing was captured on surveillance video. The guy's bosses viewed the tape after I called.

They couldn't apologize enough. But I also understand that there are bad employees in every group. One incident doesn't represent the entire fleet.

[bluedog103]

I don't get it. America's friendliest Hometown??? Me and hubby both carry jumper cables in our vehicles which are fairly new. They don't cost very much either. Why can't these community watch characters carry them in their vehicles to help? Who cares about dumb charters and rules?
Donna, you are absolutely right. Why can't the CW do what any decent person would do? It isn't like they're all that busy. If they can't help the residents of TV when they're having a problem, I don't see any need for them.

[Pturner]

Based on there charter, they should have helped. Maybe not with jumper cables, but they should have offered to call someone, call a tow truck, offer you a ride home, or something. If they are not here to help the citizens, then we should do what ever is necessary to eliminate them. Why pay for a service that does not add value. They need to take a hard look at what they can do to increase there value to those who pay for them. Or they could find themselves without any charter at all. (oops, starting to sound like they are acting like our folks we place in Washington)

I guess they work for the developer and not the residents. It's sad if it does not occur to them that they can do both.

To offer help though and then not provide it, that's pathetic.
:sigh:

[Talk Host]

"This Dispatch Center is manned 24 hours, 7 days a week. Call 753-0550. This Dispatch Center will help you with your concerns, assist you in reaching necessary services and/or telephone the proper authorities for you. The Dispatch Center will also send law enforcement or one of our vehicles when necessary."

This is pretty clear to me.

[REH7380]

When reading the Community Watch program it states:
-House Check for a Fee: (These services are already available)
-Dispatch Center: (The last I knew this was a Sheriff's Dept. action)
-Adult Watch Program: (Who and how many use this?)
-Community Watch Offices Open: If the above is what they do why be open?
I am relatively sure the cost of this program is pretty significant and the next quesiton is do the costs justify the above identified programs? There are significant labor and transportation costs with very little return to the community. Think of this as just another tax you are paying and what is the value add to the community? The residents are paying for this outrages set of limited services. :eek:

[paulandjean]

I have a flat tire,should I call community watch to change it. How about "you" figuring out what to do.Maybe "you should take reponsibility to get the situation done.If your car will not start at the mailbox,walk home, hitch a ride home, call a friend. the car would be save there for awhile.The community watch would be the last I would call to help me out. You have a cell phone use it.

[JohnN]

paulandjean, well that's what I did, friend.
I knew my wife didn't have jumpers, so tried to find someone who did.

They said they had cables and would come help, then didn't. That's the issue.

When that didn't work, I called around and found someone.

I hope you don't ever need their services though you're paying for them, that's the second issue.

[redwitch]

paulaandjean -- I think you're missing the point. When I was stranded on the side of the road, I didn't expect Community Watch to do anything for me, but it seems to me they certainly should have made sure I was okay. I'd already called a friend to come help me, another car that drove by managed to stop to make sure I was okay. When I asked that they do something about my neighbor's garage door being opened, I was told they would call the proper authorities. They didn't. It didn't matter to my neighbor -- he was already dead.

The issue is that we do expect them to semi-protect us. We're told that's their mission. Yet, it seems all they really do is make sure no one is violating rules. They are not here to assist residents in any true way. They are here to aid the developer in insuring TV looks good. We are paying for this but really getting nothing in return (unless, of course, your neighbor happens to have a family of gnomes in their yard).

[JohnN]

Just a sidenote,
I've jumped a thousand cars over the years, used to work in a auto repair shop during college years. This was no major deal, but I was in a bind and needed some help.

I didn't have jumper cables.
I could have had my wife rustling through the neighbors.
I could have called AAA immediately and waited a bit.
I wasn't trying to get Community Watch to be my car service, but...
I had their number in the car right there, and I wasn't sure what their scope of services was (besides talking to the guards at the gates), so I phoned.

They said they'd come out, they did.
They said they had jumper cables, no problem, they didn't.

I'm just suggesting here that you not have high expectations.
I think redwitch explained it much better than I.

I won't call 'em again. If I need the police or AAA or whoever, I'll call direct, no sense putting CW in the middle - non-value added

[Donna2]

I would think that any service would carry the basics like a first aid kit and jumper cables. Whatever become of the help thy neighbor adage?

[Barefoot]

The issue is that we do expect them to semi-protect us. We're told that's their mission.

I agree that Community Watch could be more helpful to residents.

However, I do think they semi-protect us. I get a certain sense of security from having their trucks patrolling the neighbourhoods. I think Community Watch would immediately report any suspicious people or activities to authorities. (And I don't mean lawn ornaments!!)

[Donna2]

To watch for plastic pink flamingo invasions.

LOL I sprayed coffee all over my screen with that one!:laugh:

[otherbruddaDarrell]

I think because too many people in the world want to take you to court for even the smallest thing.
Years ago when I was a Patrol Sgt. we would open locked car doors with a slim jim or wire set. We would jumper a car or help change a tire.............
Then it got to where we had to have them sign a release of liability in case we caused damage......and at times damage does occur.
Then the time came in the late 90's where we were told not to unlock cars or jumper them. We were advised to have a locksmith come out ($100 charge a lot of times) and a service station for the jumps.
I remember one of my officers trying to jumper a squad car in our parking lot and the battery blew up and got acid on him......things do happen.
Another time one of the patrolman locked his keys in his private car and asked me to open the car since I was experienced in that model.
I even had him sign the waiver...........I got the door open but the handle assy. fell apart and he had to take the door panel off to put it back together.
Times have changed.
It would be an easy thing to have a portable battery pack available at CW to jumper cars, but are they allowed to?
At the very minimum CW should have made sure help was available and keep checking back to make sure help had arrived.

[Talk Host]

I'm thinking that at least one poster in this thread is an overly defensive employee of CW.

[Donna2]

I'm thinking that at least one poster in this thread is an overly defensive employee of CW.

I was thinking the same thing. And I know where I'm placing my bet.

[Rob Stevens]

It may be a liability issue. If your electrical system were to somehow get fried because of an error on their part - or even yours - TV might owe you for some expensive electrical work.

[NJblue]

Vision
To be respected as the most responsive and responsible Community Development District.

Core Values
�Hospitality: �The taste of the roast is determined by the handshake of the host.� (Benjamin Franklin). We believe in creating an atmosphere in every arena which is: of high quality, friendly, warm, comfortable, clean, honest, welcoming, and like home.
�Innovation & Creativity: We provide opportunities for learning and newness. Residents, employees, and all helpers are encouraged to grow and change. We embrace personal and professional progress. We believe in organizational innovation, risk taking, and �out of the box� thinking.
�Stewardship: We believe each employee acts as a steward of our resources. Stewardship includes prudent decision-making and accountability. We each embrace the full measure of both freedom and responsibility in the execution of our position. We choose to treat The Villages and all its resources as �ours� to nourish and protect.
�Hard Work: We are committed to excellence in all that we do. Our work ethic reflects a personal pride in our work and in our community. We believe in exceeding everyone�s expectations with our effort and our results. We enjoy the good feeling derived from completing a job well done.


Above is the stated vision and core values of the VCDD who employs the CW program. My guess is that based on this experience, CW missed the mark in terms of living up to its vision and core values.

[redwitch]

NJ -- Given that "Vision", I'd say the exact opposite. CW does in fact fulfill that role quite well. They do make sure the lawns are well kept and that you don't water when you're not supposed or have something on the lawn you shouldn't. Things do look pretty. I imagine when you're 75 YO, sitting in a truck and driving around for 4 hours isn't all tha easy, so they work hard. I'm sure they find various routes for their section, so they do think out of the box. They do wave to you, so they're friendly and encompass the friendliest town image. So, sounds like the vision is well-covered. What is not is not doing what they say they will do (jumping the car, calling authorities for the garage door), going the extra steps that might be needed to help and protect Villagers and visitors. BUT, they really do a good job of blocking the gate to talk to the gatekeepers (how hard would it be to park the truck and go chat or discuss daily events, whatever?).

[Donna2]

It may be a liability issue. If your electrical system were to somehow get fried because of an error on their part - or even yours - TV might owe you for some expensive electrical work.

No offense, but if everybody lived by that code, nobody would ever lend a hand to anybody. Is that what civilization has come to?

[mgm4444]

I agree that Community Watch could be more helpful to residents.

However, I do think they semi-protect us. I get a certain sense of security from having their trucks patrolling the neighbourhoods. I think Community Watch would immediately report any suspicious people or activities to authorities. (And I don't mean lawn ornaments!!)


You are more a gentleman than I a lady. Sometimes it’s very intimidating to want to post something on here when a response like this is given and then be so cordial. Kudos to you, JohnN !!

[mgm4444]

I agree that Community Watch could be more helpful to residents.

However, I do think they semi-protect us. I get a certain sense of security from having their trucks patrolling the neighbourhoods. I think Community Watch would immediately report any suspicious people or activities to authorities. (And I don't mean lawn ornaments!!)

paulandjean, well that's what I did, friend.
I knew my wife didn't have jumpers, so tried to find someone who did.
They said they had cables and would come help, then didn't. That's the issue.
When that didn't work, I called around and found someone.
I hope you don't ever need their services though you're paying for them, that's the second issue.

You are more a gentleman than I a lady. Sometimes it�s very intimidating to want to post something on here when a response like this is given and then be so cordial. Kudos to you, JohnN !!

[ceejay]

MGM...I think you quoted the wrong poster:oops:...there's nothing at all intimidating in Barefoot's post!:confused:

[Bogie Shooter]

I suggest all of you who have complaints, opinions, suggestions contact Mike Tucker who is in charge Community watch, email publicsafety@districtgov.org. Or if you would rather call 352-205-8280.
I'm sure he will respond to your email.

[Donna2]

I suggest all of you who have complaints, opinions, suggestions contact Mike Tucker who is in charge Community watch, email publicsafety@districtgov.org. Or if you would rather call 352-205-8280.
I'm sure he will respond to your email.

Hey that is a good idea, only I think we should invite him here at the forum. Then we all can ask questions and he will not have to repeat all the answers.

[mgm4444]

MGM...I think you quoted the wrong poster:oops:...there's nothing at all intimidating in Barefoot's post!:confused:

I know ! I know ! I apologized to Barefoot in a PM !! Everytime I took JohnN's quote her's would pop up, too !! -- TO ALL: My response has nothing to do with Barefoot's quote. hahaha :jester:

[BobKat1]

It may be a liability issue. If your electrical system were to somehow get fried because of an error on their part - or even yours - TV might owe you for some expensive electrical work.

You may have a point. Unfortunately, it's different if a resident is helping another resident vs. a representative of TV, if something expensive goes wrong. You can only imagine the possibilities for lawsuits.

[Bogie Shooter]

Hey that is a good idea, only I think we should invite him here at the forum. Then we all can ask questions and he will not have to repeat all the answers.
I doubt that will happen.

[Donna2]

You may have a point. Unfortunately, it's different if a resident is helping another resident vs. a representative of TV, if something expensive goes wrong. You can only imagine the possibilities for lawsuits.

How about they bring with them waivers the distressed could sign to relieve TV of it's liability. They could carry it in a folder. Shouldn't be that burdensome.

[otherbruddaDarrell]

I'm thinking that at least one poster in this thread is an overly defensive employee of CW.

No.......I was trying to show what might be a possibility.
I was at one time a substitute gate attendant here, but no longer.
When I was a Patrol Sgt. it was in Indiana and do not think the call was handled in an appropriate manner by our CW.

[Pturner]

Maybe after the CW guy hung up the phone, another CW guy protested, "If we jump this guy's car, we'll have to do it for everybody, including all the people who run out charge on their the golf carts..."

[Talk Host]

No.......I was trying to show what might be a possibility.
I was at one time a substitute gate attendant here, but no longer.
When I was a Patrol Sgt. it was in Indiana and do not think the call was handled in an appropriate manner by our CW.

Actually, you were not the individual I was speaking of. :oops:

[bkcunningham1]

I have emergency roadside assistance with my Geico auto insurance.

[Talk Host]

I have emergency roadside assistance with my Geico auto insurance.

Have your ever tried to use it?

[Barefoot]

I know ! I know ! I apologized to Barefoot in a PM !! Everytime I took JohnN's quote her's would pop up, too !! -- TO ALL: My response has nothing to do with Barefoot's quote. hahaha :jester:

Ceejay .. thanks for the defense. Mgm444 did send me a lovely private message. And I'm glad that she sent me a PM cuz I was trying to figure out what the heck I'd said. Wowser!

I thought I stepped into Political by accident!

[bkcunningham1]

As a matter of fact, we used it a couple of months ago. We were at a hotel near Baltimore, Maryland. Came out to the car to go to dinner and the battery in our Tahoe was dead as a door nail. Called the number on a card I keep in my glove compartment. Got a Geico representative who called a local service. Within 20 minutes we were off to dinner. He charged the battery and no charge to us. The Geico rep even called back to make sure we were on our way.

[otherbruddaDarrell]

Actually, you were not the individual I was speaking of. :oops:

Sorry TH............how about an icon of a foot in mouth?:laugh:

[chuckster]

Man.......talk about beating a subject to death and beyond. :rant-rave: How about we all use our AAA, or any other auto club and if not a member help a neighbor in need. Have done just that on several ocassions, it works. Give it a rest, use common sense if there is any left out there.........Let's bury this topic and leave CW to their picture taking at gates................Oh and by the way, I agree with Barefoot

Whew!! now I feel better........

[mulligan]

Hey barefoot, you have to be real careful traipsing around political unshod!!

[Donna2]

Man.......talk about beating a subject to death and beyond. :rant-rave: How about we all use our AAA, or any other auto club and if not a member help a neighbor in need. Have done just that on several ocassions, it works. Give it a rest, use common sense if there is any left out there.........Let's bury this topic and leave CW to their picture taking at gates................Oh and by the way, I agree with Barefoot

Whew!! now I feel better........

:police: Yes officer.

[Pturner]

Hey barefoot, you have to be real careful traipsing around political unshod!!

Barefoot traipsing... unshod! That's redundant.

:crap2:

[chuckster]

:police: Yes officer.

Far, faaaaaaar from it...........and in no way affiliated with CW.............Just an amused bystander that agrees with Barefoot.

[REH7380]

I really think the message being sent is being missed. The residents currently pay for something called "Community Watch". This is not an insignificant expense as there is labor, transportation and the other costs that go along with this activity. The question is what do the resident(s) get for this TAX?
If you look at the expense vs the benefits it is a very fair question. I personally like the idea of making sure the communities don't start to look like run down housing projects, but other than that it looks like the benefits are to the Developer?
Isn't it the right of the people being taxed to understand their money is being spent for their benefit rather than the most taxes going to the developer?:confused:

[Talk Host]

If anybody has anything more to say about this subject, they are welcome to do it.

[zcaveman]

If anybody has anything more to say about this subject, they are welcome to do it.

I like to check in occasionally to see how far it is going to go.

[GatbTester]

You all miss the point........the point of Village Watch, is just that..........to watch!

[784caroline]

The services now provided are a good service BUT I predict it is only a matter of time..and that time being once the developer turns things over to the homeowners ....and certain budgetary decisions have to be made such as are the gate guards and villlage watch people worth $1 -2 million a year that we the homeowners pay. This will be especialy true for the snow birds who are here3-6 months a year and paying the full tilt.

[Bogie Shooter]

Anybody know who pays for VW? Which budget is it in?

[Donna2]

The services now provided are a good service BUT I predict it is only a matter of time..and that time being once the developer turns things over to the homeowners ....and certain budgetary decisions have to be made such as are the gate guards and villlage watch people worth $1 -2 million a year that we the homeowners pay. This will be especialy true for the snow birds who are here3-6 months a year and paying the full tilt.

Oh my. I was thinking it was voluntary. Guess I still have a few things to learn.

[NJblue]

Community Watch is paid by the CDD and hence comes from our amenity fees. It is not paid for by the developer, nor do they work for the developer. Because it comes from the amenity fees and because the amenity fees are contractually tied to the inflation rate, elimination of CW is not likely to reduce the fees. However, the money could be spent on other amenities which we may get better use of.

[chelsea24]

I've only had one experience with CW, although that was 2 1/2 years ago. We had just moved in a few months and our neighbors mentioned they were leaving for a few weeks. Well, I didn't notice because I never went out that day, but their garage door was left open.

The CW must have noticed it during the night, then at about 6am the next day, they knocked on our door (after knocking on theirs to no response) and asked if we knew if they were out of town. I did, and so, we all surmised they had left and simply forgot to put their garage door down. It happens. The one man then went inside and hit the button and quickly ran out. Safe and sound.

Well, I have to say, I was impressed. We live on a kind of hidden cul-de-sac and I was amazed that they actually drove around and noticed this situation. After all, coming from a big city, where you could literally be lying in the street and some may step over you, I found this to be very surprising.

I agree with Barefoot's earlier post, in that they do give somewhat a sense of security. However, I would think that part of their duties would be to stop and ask someone if they are all right, if they are obviously broken down in a golf cart or car -- especially if they are alone at night like Red was.

All in all, I'm still happy they're around.

[graciegirl]

I would guess that the Village Watch has a clearly defined job description. It is likely that they are not supposed to offer jumps because if you do not do it correctly you can hurt the cars electrical system. Now I know it doesn't take all that much experience to do it right but it can happen.

Back to the clearly defined job description, that probably would clearly state that they are not supposed to try to fix anything. I say this because it appears to me that the powers that be are really good at defining what their help can and cannot do.

I realized pretty quick(ly) that the Villages Watch was NOT like a patrol car and that we do NOT have a police force employed by TV. I am not sure about the fire department, they have fire stations throughout TV.

I even suppose that closing that garage door had it's rules and regulations. They contacted a neighbor first and that neighbor observed them entering the garage for the purpose of closing the door. If they went in without someone knowing exactly what they were doing then confusion and questions could follow about the Village Watch going into someones garage.

Now this is all guessing on my part, because I can see that almost every little detail is thought out around here.

Now we know that you cannot call the Villages watch to get a jump.

And you can't borrow their ice scraper either.

[memason]

My perception is that people are people. I believe its just like when you go to one of the restaurants and complain about the wait staff. Some waiters/waitresses are good, enjoy their job, are friendly to everyone; some are not.

I suspect its the same issue with CW. If you have a really friendly, outgoing person working CW, they are much more likely to stop when they encounter someone having trouble to see if they need help. I hope it's 10% or less that have the bad attitude.... In my experience, you find that 5 to 10% of the people working in any company should be fired...sometimes at the executive level :o

I would expect CW has "rules" about jumping cars, entering houses, towing carts, etc. That's understandable; bad attitude isn't.

[Talk Host]

I'm afraid the entire point of the original post is being missed. The poster ranted that he was told that help (specific help) was on the way. Turns out that help did not arrived.

An organization is only as good as its word.

[memason]

I'm afraid the entire point of the original post is being missed. The poster ranted that he was told that help (specific help) was on the way. Turns out that help did not arrived.

An organization is only as good as its word.

TH.... That is my point [maybe not expressed very well]. An organization is nothing more than a group of people, called employees. You're only as good as your weakest link.

[JohnN]

Talk Host - that's my point exactly. I didn't exactly know the rules, I asked if they could help, the guy on the phone asked someone there and they said "sure we can give a jump, help's on the way" and then, when CW arrived, they said, no jumper cables.

[REH7380]

I am not a great supporter of the Community Watch but feel there are a couple of points which should be considered. First: The rules which the CW employees are to follow are set by the Management and the employee should not be faulted for the errors of management. It is a good guess that the employee's have been given a very narrow set of rules which they are to follow and like the employee's in the Rec Centers or Country Clubs risk their jobs if they make any decisions. It appears that management does not delegate any descretion to the employees and therefore they are not the fault. Second: I personally like the idea of looking at the various Villages to ensure they do not start to let things run down, that they maintain good standards and we don't end up living in the "hood".
I think most employee's do their best. Of course there are a few who try to slip by but that is in any large group and one apple should not be the one that sets the reputation for the whole barrell.;)

[Barefoot]

Does Community Watch actually do anything constructive? If so, I'd feel a lot better about my mini-rant.

Hey JohnN ... I betcha when you started this thread you didn't think you'd generate 75 posts. It turns out that Village Watch is almost as controversial as roundabouts and dog doo.

And I do wear rubber boots when I venture into political. :evil6:

[mulligan]

Good to hear it bare!!

[JohnN]

Barefoot, I haven't visited the political thread in over 2 years and my blood pressure is doing much better! LOL

Regarding Community Watch and customer service in general, I'm learning to keep my expectations low and I'm not near as disappointed.

I hope all is going great in Barefoot-ville

[Barefoot]

Barefoot, I haven't visited the political thread in over 2 years and my blood pressure is doing much better! LOL
Regarding Community Watch and customer service in general, I'm learning to keep my expectations low and I'm not near as disappointed.
I hope all is going great in Barefoot-ville

Barefoot-ville is a sad place these days. I'm packing for my exile to Canada. (The U.S. government will only allow Canadians to stay in the US for 182 days in any calendar year). :cus:
Back to Community Watch.

If you advise them you're going to be absent, they will watch the outside of your house while you're away (for a fee). I'm also told that Community Watch has a free service. If you advise them you're going to be away, and if there is a tornado or other catastrophe, they will drive by your house to make sure it is OK.

In my opinion these exterior checks seem a bit redundant as most people who leave TV either have a "watchdog" service or they ask neighbours to check their house.

[golf2140]

Community Watch may not offer the service of using jumper cables to start a car. If they hook them up incorrectly they could cause damage to the electrical system. In my past life I allowed my employees to assist motorist who locked the keys inside of their vehicle. On one occasion they were trying to open a vehicle with electric locks. A short occurred. My organization wound up paying over $500.00 for repairs to the vehicle. We were only trying to help. then the crap hit the fan. Sometimes we have to look outside the box before we criticize.

[Talk Host]

Community Watch may not offer the service of using jumper cables to start a car. If they hook them up incorrectly they could cause damage to the electrical system. In my past life I allowed my employees to assist motorist who locked the keys inside of their vehicle. On one occasion they were trying to open a vehicle with electric locks. A short occurred. My organization wound up paying over $500.00 for repairs to the vehicle. We were only trying to help. then the crap hit the fan. Sometimes we have to look outside the box before we criticize.



Again, the whole point of the thread is that CW said they would be there to help, but didn't help when they got there.

[Pturner]

In my past life I allowed my employees to assist motorist who locked the keys inside of their vehicle.

That reminds me of a hilarious situation I witnessed in my past life-- about 30 years ago when I was a newspaper reporter. I was covering a murder trial. A former inmate-- a car thief-- testified for the prosecution, claiming the defendent had allegedly confessed to him when they were both in jail. The witness was released in exchange for his testimony.

I left the courthouse for lunch that day with the district attorney's wife, a long-time friend. Well, she had locked her keys in her car. We had tried for about ten minutes to open her car door with a coat hanger when the witness walked up offering help. Of course, he did not know us. He took the coat hanger and had the door open in less than a split second. Tears were streaming down our faces we laughed so hard.

Sorry for the hijack.

[martie1947]

I have never posted before. I hope this is in the right place. I was out walking my dog in the dark the other day and I passed a golf course. There was a man there who was parked in his golf cart. He had turned off his golf cart lights and was hunting through the bushes with his dog had like a green flashlight. I stopped and asked him what he was doing but he didn't answer me. I asked him if he had lost something. He didn't answer me. All of a sudden the community watch then came down the street. Well he jumped in his cart with his dog and zoomed away. I stopped the community watch and told them that it looks suspicious I didn't know what he was doing. The guy in the van sarcastically told me there was no law against looking in bushes. Does anyone have any idea what this guy was doing?

[Barefoot]

I have never posted before. I hope this is in the right place. I was out walking my dog in the dark the other day and I passed a golf course. There was a man there who was parked in his golf cart. He had turned off his golf cart lights and was hunting through the bushes with his dog had like a green flashlight. I stopped and asked him what he was doing but he didn't answer me. I asked him if he had lost something. He didn't answer me. All of a sudden the community watch then came down the street. Well he jumped in his cart with his dog and zoomed away. I stopped the community watch and told them that it looks suspicious I didn't know what he was doing. The guy in the van sarcastically told me there was no law against looking in bushes. Does anyone have any idea what this guy was doing?

First of all, welcome to TOTV. We are always glad to see new posters.

In answer to your question, I don't know what that guy was doing.
Maybe he was deaf and didn't hear your question?
Maybe he was hiding Easter eggs for his grandchildren?
Perhaps he had lost something earlier in the day?

I don't want to appear unsympathetic to your concern.
However I don't think Community Watch would be too concerned about a man with a dog who drives a golf cart.

[perrjojo]

This has nothing to do with the OP but many have commented that Community Watch drives around looking for violations. I don't think that is correct. All violation letters are complaint driven and not due to community watch employees.

[TheVillageChicken]

I don't want to appear unsympathetic to your concern.
However I don't think Community Watch would be too concerned about a man with a dog who drives a golf cart.

Was the dog 14 or older? I guess he would technically only need to two in human years to drive a golf cart.

[buggyone]

It seems Mayotte is a brand new poster and has revived a couple of threads from 2010 and 2008.

It would be best to start new threads instead of adding on to such old ones but that is all a learning process.

[Barefoot]

Quote:
Originally Posted by Barefoot View Post
I don't want to appear unsympathetic to your concern.
However I don't think Community Watch would be too concerned about a man with a dog who drives a golf cart.

Posted by The Village Chicken
Was the dog 14 or older? I guess he would technically only need to two in human years to drive a golf cart.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

OK, Village Chicken, you got me. :loco:
The OP didn't say the dog was driving the golf cart.
But I bet Community Watch would have been impressed.

[TheVillageChicken]

Drat! I really wanted to see a dog driving a golf cart. Even better if he/she got out and striped a drive right down the middle of the fairway.

[duffysmom]

He was looking for golf balls.

[57ChevyFI]

Community watch does not patrol in vans, they have a couple small SUV's and pickup trucks. And just becasue he said there was no law against looking in bushes that didn't mean he didn't canvas the area. Most likely the guy was snipe hunting

[mgjim]

Community watch does not patrol in vans, they have a couple small SUV's and pickup trucks. And just becasue he said there was no law against looking in bushes that didn't mean he didn't canvas the area. Most likely the guy was snipe hunting

Of course, it would be a violation if he was snipe hunting out of season.

[keithwand]

MMM...love snipe. Tastes like chicken.

[mm1717]

Lets face it all they do is ride around and waste gas that we pay for !! Oh but they do wave at ya !!!

[Bonanza]

[B][/Community Watch --

A/K/A . . . . (are you ready?????)

The Keystone Kops (with a shred of authority . . . . . sort of).B]

[TraceyMooreRN]

I certainly love TOTV, reading the pros and cons to everyone's personal experience in The Villages--

So here is my response--I heard a story (first hand) from a person who had a dog pass away at his house. He was so distraught, he reached out for help from The Community Watch. The problem was- his dog was so large (or heavier) than he could handle. He needed assistance to get his deceased dog into his vehicle so he could take his loved one to the Vet's for proper disposal. The Community Watch assisted him during his hard time going to his home and helping him load a deceased pet.

Was this in the description of what Community Watch does? Did the Community Watch go above and beyond? Yes!!!!

As far as if you are stranded with car/cart--people are SUE HAPPY. Imagine- Community Watch hooked up cables wrong- (like someone did in VA to a friend's Lexus) and destroyed her electronic control panel. Who is at fault? The one doing a favor--YEP. Would the Community Watch insurance cover that expense- no, because a policy states they can't---which equals no liability an employee did not follow policy-

How about the gate that "hit the car". After video shows person drove too slow to get through the gate. Who is at fault?

I certainly think it was in error for them to mislead you into thinking they could assist- and you waiting longer for assistance. I hope you wouldn't have been upset if they would have just told you from the start that they could not assist with jumping your car- but could respond to assist you for security while waiting for another person. No company I know couldn't improve with communication within the employees--lesson learned, Community Watch isn't here for jumping your car. However, they certainly do way more than most know of behind closed doors.

[graciegirl]

I certainly love TOTV, reading the pros and cons to everyone's personal experience in The Villages--

So here is my response--I heard a story (first hand) from a person who had a dog pass away at his house. He was so distraught, he reached out for help from The Community Watch. The problem was- his dog was so large (or heavier) than he could handle. He needed assistance to get his deceased dog into his vehicle so he could take his loved one to the Vet's for proper disposal. The Community Watch assisted him during his hard time going to his home and helping him load a deceased pet.

Was this in the description of what Community Watch does? Did the Community Watch go above and beyond? Yes!!!!

As far as if you are stranded with car/cart--people are SUE HAPPY. Imagine- Community Watch hooked up cables wrong- (like someone did in VA to a friend's Lexus) and destroyed her electronic control panel. Who is at fault? The one doing a favor--YEP. Would the Community Watch insurance cover that expense- no, because a policy states they can't---which equals no liability an employee did not follow policy-

How about the gate that "hit the car". After video shows person drove too slow to get through the gate. Who is at fault?

I certainly think it was in error for them to mislead you into thinking they could assist- and you waiting longer for assistance. I hope you wouldn't have been upset if they would have just told you from the start that they could not assist with jumping your car- but could respond to assist you for security while waiting for another person. No company I know couldn't improve with communication within the employees--lesson learned, Community Watch isn't here for jumping your car. However, they certainly do way more than most know of behind closed doors.



Excellent post!

[travelguy]

what is wrong here is that when he called community watch for assistance they were ony too happy to tell him that they would take care of it. and then they showed up to tell him that they would not help. why did they offer in the first place?

[Ken24]

I think because too many people in the world want to take you to court for even the smallest thing.
Years ago when I was a Patrol Sgt. we would open locked car doors with a slim jim or wire set. We would jumper a car or help change a tire.............
Then it got to where we had to have them sign a release of liability in case we caused damage......and at times damage does occur.
Then the time came in the late 90's where we were told not to unlock cars or jumper them. We were advised to have a locksmith come out ($100 charge a lot of times) and a service station for the jumps.
I remember one of my officers trying to jumper a squad car in our parking lot and the battery blew up and got acid on him......things do happen.
Another time one of the patrolman locked his keys in his private car and asked me to open the car since I was experienced in that model.
I even had him sign the waiver...........I got the door open but the handle assy. fell apart and he had to take the door panel off to put it back together.
Times have changed.
It would be an easy thing to have a portable battery pack available at CW to jumper cars, but are they allowed to?
At the very minimum CW should have made sure help was available and keep checking back to make sure help had arrived.


CW should have told them they do not provide that service and made sure to send someone out to check on them. Times have changed you have to protect yourself and your employer from lawsuit.

[mickey100]

I certainly love TOTV, reading the pros and cons to everyone's personal experience in The Villages--

So here is my response--I heard a story (first hand) from a person who had a dog pass away at his house. He was so distraught, he reached out for help from The Community Watch. The problem was- his dog was so large (or heavier) than he could handle. He needed assistance to get his deceased dog into his vehicle so he could take his loved one to the Vet's for proper disposal. The Community Watch assisted him during his hard time going to his home and helping him load a deceased pet.

Was this in the description of what Community Watch does? Did the Community Watch go above and beyond? Yes!!!!

As far as if you are stranded with car/cart--people are SUE HAPPY. Imagine- Community Watch hooked up cables wrong- (like someone did in VA to a friend's Lexus) and destroyed her electronic control panel. Who is at fault? The one doing a favor--YEP. Would the Community Watch insurance cover that expense- no, because a policy states they can't---which equals no liability an employee did not follow policy-

How about the gate that "hit the car". After video shows person drove too slow to get through the gate. Who is at fault?

I certainly think it was in error for them to mislead you into thinking they could assist- and you waiting longer for assistance. I hope you wouldn't have been upset if they would have just told you from the start that they could not assist with jumping your car- but could respond to assist you for security while waiting for another person. No company I know couldn't improve with communication within the employees--lesson learned, Community Watch isn't here for jumping your car. However, they certainly do way more than most know of behind closed doors.

If they were worried about "sue happy" residents, surely there was the potential for someone to have had back problems helping lifting a heavy dog. I'm sorry but I just don't see the difference. The dog could have waited until a friend or neighbor was there to help, the same argument someone made regarding jumping the dead battery. I agree with your statement regarding providing security assistance while waiting for someone to help with the battery, and that they should have had better communication regarding what they could and could not do. I'm not totally sure what the value of Community Watch is, but I would be more inclined to include a service such as jumping a cart battery, rather than loading/unloading dead pets. Just my two cents.

[TraceyMooreRN]

If they were worried about "sue happy" residents, surely there was the potential for someone to have had back problems helping lifting a heavy dog. I'm sorry but I just don't see the difference. The dog could have waited until a friend or neighbor was there to help, the same argument someone made regarding jumping the dead battery. I agree with your statement regarding providing security assistance while waiting for someone to help with the battery, and that they should have had better communication regarding what they could and could not do. I'm not totally sure what the value of Community Watch is, but I would be more inclined to include a service such as jumping a cart battery, rather than loading/unloading dead pets. Just my two cents.

I would think that having a man crying asking for assistance and clearly distraught who lost his pet/loved one- is a bit different than having a woman ask for a jump of a battery.

[mickey100]

I would think that having a man crying asking for assistance and clearly distraught who lost his pet/loved one- is a bit different than having a woman ask for a jump of a battery.

We all feel for people who are crying and distraught, but where do we draw the line for having Community Watch provide assistance? If I am safely in my home, I personally wouldn't even think of calling community watch if a pet died, I would wait and ask assistance from a friend or neighbor. If I am stranded somewhere in my golf cart and unable to find a ride home or to contact a friend, and Community watch was available and willing, I would make that call.

We are each entitled to our opinions.

[Bryan]

A very old thread - no posts for four years (Apr 2010 to Apr 2014) and then this. Stuff happens, I guess, and certainly no biggie on posting to a four year old post.

I agree the response by CW (if accurate) was a little "snarky", probably way out of the ball park for a good community relations comment. It could and should have been handled a little better. They are generally paid to "watch" (thus their name) but he didn't bother to get out of his van (???) and look, record, and report to higher authority if necessary - he blew it off.

Perrjojo is a little off base when stating that CW can't start the complaint process. I guess he/she missed the article in the 3/25/14 edition of The Daily Sun (Pages C1 and C3) titled "Warning: No Parking". The article explained how our CW personnel were being utilized to give out written "warnings" to golf carts and vehicles improperly parked. According to the article, CW patrols "have handed out hundreds of these warnings, mostly around the high-traffic town squares, in the past 10 months or so." That certainly;y sounds like CW is actively involved in starting the complaint process to me.

[Bay Kid]

The key word is watch.

[perrjojo]

A very old thread - no posts for four years (Apr 2010 to Apr 2014) and then this. Stuff happens, I guess, and certainly no biggie on posting to a four year old post.

I agree the response by CW (if accurate) was a little "snarky", probably way out of the ball park for a good community relations comment. It could and should have been handled a little better. They are generally paid to "watch" (thus their name) but he didn't bother to get out of his van (???) and look, record, and report to higher authority if necessary - he blew it off.

Perrjojo is a little off base when stating that CW can't start the complaint process. I guess he/she missed the article in the 3/25/14 edition of The Daily Sun (Pages C1 and C3) titled "Warning: No Parking". The article explained how our CW personnel were being utilized to give out written "warnings" to golf carts and vehicles improperly parked. According to the article, CW patrols "have handed out hundreds of these warnings, mostly around the high-traffic town squares, in the past 10 months or so." That certainly;y sounds like CW is actively involved in starting the complaint process to me.

Perhaps not off base but not clearly stating my thoughts. Many on this thread insinuated that CW went around looking for weeds and pink flamingos. That is not their purpose for driving our streets. Those types of issues are complaint driven and reported to Community Standards.

[Warren Kiefer]

i ran out of gas (yes, my fault, but still) at 11:00 pm on the golf cart path by lake miona. I watched 3 community watch trucks drive by -- not one stopped to see if anyone was in true distress -- while i waited for a friend to help me.

I once stopped a community watch truck and explained that my neighbor's garage door had been left open for three days, which was not the norm for him (he was an ill-tempered alcoholic with diabetes). I asked if they could either check on him or call the appropriate authorities to do so. They said they would. Two days later, the man's brother called the police to check on his brother. Turns out the man had burned to death in his home after falling into a diabetic coma.

So, when and where are they ever helpful to anyone? They're friendly, they wave hi to you, they chat to the gate guards, they drive around and are a presence, they do write citations if you don't follow the covenants and restrictions, but i don't see where they're truly particularly helpful.

their pay checks come from thje residents. What's
the big deal in helping out a resident with a small problem??
All the residents ask is that they do their jobs and become an asset to the community.

[57ChevyFI]

Lets face it all they do is ride around and waste gas that we pay for !! Oh but they do wave at ya !!!

Do you really honestly feel that is all the Community Watch does? If so you are basically saying everyone with any type of authority in the Villages are complete idiots. Do you feel that the powers that by would allow a total and complete waste of amenities for the service of waving at people? If you feel that the primary job of Community Watch is to wave at people, I would encourage you to go in and talk to an administrator with Community watch, and I'm sure they would gladly educate you on how they help the community. That thought process of they do nothing or just wave is laughable. The problem is, the crimes they may have deterred just from neighborhood presence, is unmeasurable so it goes as "unnoticed" or just just ride around waste gas and wave at people. If you look at the population of The Villages and compare it to any City in America, hands down The Villages is the safest. And why? Go sit on your front porch tomorrow and count how many times you see a Sheriff's deputy ride by and how many times you see a Community Watch vehicle. In no way is that a slight on the Sheriff's department, I had the utmost respect for law enforcement and what they provide to the Community. SO like neighborhood watch, which was a program to reduce crime in communities by residents being watchful in the community, proved watchful eyes deter crime.

[graciegirl]

their pay checks come from thje residents. What's
the big deal in helping out a resident with a small problem??
All the residents ask is that they do their jobs and become an asset to the community.



THEY DO do their jobs and are an asset to the community. They have guidelines that can't be reinvented everyday. Pretty soon the expectations would take on a life of their own...They can jump a battery but not change a tire? They can change a tire, but not change the oil?


They can drive you home but not to the grocery? They can push your cart off of the road but not brush out the glass from your cart from a broken windshield?


There is no end to the expectations that our VERY reasonable amenity fee should cover. I feel so much sympathy for the folks who work as Village Watchers, I can ONLY imagine how some people treat them. On every occasion that we have had an opportunity for any interaction they were all just like the golf ambassadors; politely doing their jobs.

[mickey100]

their pay checks come from thje residents. What's
the big deal in helping out a resident with a small problem??
All the residents ask is that they do their jobs and become an asset to the community.

Well said.

[nitehawk]

I ran out of gas (yes, my fault, but still) at 11:00 pm on the golf cart path by Lake Miona. I watched 3 Community Watch trucks drive by -- not one stopped to see if anyone was in true distress -- while I waited for a friend to help me.

I once stopped a Community Watch truck and explained that my neighbor's garage door had been left open for three days, which was not the norm for him (he was an ill-tempered alcoholic with diabetes). I asked if they could either check on him or call the appropriate authorities to do so. They said they would. Two days later, the man's brother called the police to check on his brother. Turns out the man had burned to death in his home after falling into a diabetic coma.

So, when and where are they ever helpful to anyone? They're friendly, they wave hi to you, they chat to the gate guards, they drive around and are a presence, they do write citations if you don't follow the covenants and restrictions, but I don't see where they're truly particularly helpful.

Let me ask you a simple question --- did you ever think of going to the front door and ring the bell or look in the garage and yell "HELLO" or try and investigate --- seem to me after 3 day and then another 2 more --- I do not understand - could not the neighbors got together and investigated - friendliest town --- Maybe being a alcoholic and diabetic had something to do with not investigating ---

[redwitch]

Let me ask you a simple question --- did you ever think of going to the front door and ring the bell or look in the garage and yell "HELLO" or try and investigate --- seem to me after 3 day and then another 2 more --- I do not understand - could not the neighbors got together and investigated - friendliest town --- Maybe being a alcoholic and diabetic had something to do with not investigating ---

I did ring his doorbell. Got no answer. Since I had tried to talk to him previously and found him to be mean-spirited, ill-tempered and rude was enough to stop me from doing more. All I asked was that CW contact the necessary people to see that he was okay. Guess I should have thought to call the Sheriff myself but I didn't. CW told me they would in fact check or have someone come out and do so. Neither happened and a man lay dead in his home for three days. Sorry, I am not and never will be a fan of CW.

[nitehawk]

I did ring his doorbell. Got no answer. Since I had tried to talk to him previously and found him to be mean-spirited, ill-tempered and rude was enough to stop me from doing more. All I asked was that CW contact the necessary people to see that he was okay. Guess I should have thought to call the Sheriff myself but I didn't. CW told me they would in fact check or have someone come out and do so. Neither happened and a man lay dead in his home for three days. Sorry, I am not and never will be a fan of CW.

I have to agree with you the Community Watch is a waste

[Buffalo Jim]

Question : Suppose the Community Watch was eliminated . How much do you think the savings would be at the Home-Owner level ?

My guess it would be between $5 to $10 per year . Please FIRE-AWAY at me !!

[mickey100]

Just curious, what do you base your guess on? Do you have stats on how many are employed, what they earn, etc?

[Buffalo Jim]

I spent 35 years managing very large and complex budgets and in strategic planning .
Here is my guess-timate . There are about 45,000 individual homes here which are assessed what amounts to HOA fees .
My guess is that the budget for Community Watch would not be more than about $450,000 per year . No employees to pay , no employer taxes . Mostly vehicle maintenance and gas et al . So it is a reasonable guess . If I am in the ball-park then we are looking at an annual assessment of about $10 per home per year to bring in the requisite $450K.
Now suppose that I am well off the mark and that it takes about double my estimate to operate this service . The annual assessment would be about $20 per home per year .
What do you think ?

[rubicon]

I spent 35 years managing very large and complex budgets and in strategic planning .
Here is my guess-timate . There are about 45,000 individual homes here which are assessed what amounts to HOA fees .
My guess is that the budget for Community Watch would not be more than about $450,000 per year . No employees to pay , no employer taxes . Mostly vehicle maintenance and gas et al . So it is a reasonable guess . If I am in the ball-park then we are looking at an annual assessment of about $10 per home per year to bring in the requisite $450K.
Now suppose that I am well off the mark and that it takes about double my estimate to operate this service . The annual assessment would be about $20 per home per year .
What do you think ?

Buffalo Jim, I respect what you are saying However, such a study has two point entry cost vis a vis benefits.
Benefits would be difficult to quantify. What is it worth to a resident to have eyes on their street? What is the value of assisting in enforcement of Deed Compliance, especially since Deed compliance has such an affection the look and future look of The villages. I for one as an example deplore plastic pink flamingo's because I believe they diminish the look of TV and hence its value

[JP]

I spent 35 years managing very large and complex budgets and in strategic planning .
Here is my guess-timate . There are about 45,000 individual homes here which are assessed what amounts to HOA fees .
My guess is that the budget for Community Watch would not be more than about $450,000 per year . No employees to pay , no employer taxes . Mostly vehicle maintenance and gas et al . So it is a reasonable guess . If I am in the ball-park then we are looking at an annual assessment of about $10 per home per year to bring in the requisite $450K.
Now suppose that I am well off the mark and that it takes about double my estimate to operate this service . The annual assessment would be about $20 per home per year .
What do you think ?

I agree with you and think community watch is worth it. I think it has to deter some crime.

[rp001]

They have none. They are part time and make minimum wage. The supervisors make about a buck and a half more. They do not do deed restriction enforcement other than looking for yard waste left at the curb too early and that water restrictions are adhered too, plus ID checks at the pools. Like every other employee in the villages they are powerless. They do security checks at the rec centers and pools, aid law enforcement in traffic control and even pick up road kill. Ever wonder how those dead squirrels disappear so fast? No, I'm not an employee, but I was.

[Buffalo Jim]

Just to clarify I am very Ok with Community Watch . For about $2 per month it is worth it to have an official looking vehicle driving up and down my residential street a few times per day . We will never know what type of " Evil-Doer " they just might be " scaring off .
Yet ,I do understand that some of my fellow Villagers feel that "CW" should do more .
Again I have noticed that some feel that there might be discernible real savings in their pockets if the service was ended . My point is simply that it would be nearly undetectable at about $2 per month which I believe is on the high side . I`m sure that someone can easily locate the info on the annual budget for "CW " . However I do believe that my calculation would be close .
Recently some were complaining about the beautiful flowers and some suggested that we were " wasting money ". My guess : The annual budget would be no more than $500K+ which again would work out to about $1 to $2 per month .
The huge expense involves the maintenance and care of the golf courses , pools and roadsides which are all quite well maintained . Several years ago I served as a Board Member at a Private Country Club . Being that it was in the Buffalo ,NY area the course was only open for play from May 1st to Oct. 1st . The pool opened on Memorial Day and Closed on Labor Day . The cost to maintain that single 18 hole course and the grounds was astronomical -- over $3 Million each year . Booze sales made money . Food sales lost money . The profits on Booze were offset by the losses on food . As a result to keep the place up to standards and running smoothly the 400 members were assessed at that time $700 per month . No this did not include any money a member spent on food and drink . I mention this just to illustrate how expensive it is to maintain a golf course in quality condition .
Thanks for listening . Buffalo Jim

[buggyone]

Buffalo Jim, I respect what you are saying However, such a study has two point entry cost vis a vis benefits.
Benefits would be difficult to quantify. What is it worth to a resident to have eyes on their street? What is the value of assisting in enforcement of Deed Compliance, especially since Deed compliance has such an affection the look and future look of The villages. I for one as an example deplore plastic pink flamingo's because I believe they diminish the look of TV and hence its value

I moved to Florida so my pink lawn flamingos can have their perfect home. I am North of 466 so there is no problem.

[westcoastsunshine]

Oh my goodness people! Perhaps CW needs to be less humble
Because they do many things for this community that go
Unnoticed.
Let me ask all of you....should a burglary be in progress, is it
Better for CW to proceed to the home or help someone
Jump start their car? Did you know that the burglars that
Were in the process of robbing were caught because of
An initial call to CW who jumped on it and got everyone
Involved to catch those thieves?
How about the alligators who accidentally end up in our
Pools? Who do you think makes sure this is handled for
All our safety?
Who do you think handles the call from an adult living
Alone who has fallen in their home?
Who do you think is usually first on the scene for golf cart
And car accidents making sure the right EMS people show up?
Did you know all personnel must have updated first aid training?

Would it make you feel better if someone died or was seriously
Hurt because a driver could not respond to an emergency call
Due to the fact he/she was helping change a tire?

It is very sad that our beautiful, caring community has become
So self centered.

The only improvement CW needs is a good publicity campaign.
Shame on those who wish to monopolize the time for their own
Selfish requests and no I do not work for Community Watch.

WCS

[TexaninVA]

Well, I was picking up the mail at the Hemingway pool and my battery died in the car (only vehicle here). I could have asked a neighbor, but I thought, hey.. Community Watch can help, I bet.

I call 'em up. Guy says he's not sure if they have cables, let him check.
He talks to some other guy there, sure they've got cables and they'll be right out, I think "hey that's great, thanks". 20 minutes later, guy shows up from CW and says his boss sent him out, and asks what the problem is, I say "dead battery". He says, "well, if you have AAA, I can phone them for you". I replied, I thought you were bringing cables out here, he says
"no, we don't have any battery cables and I can't give you a jump".

So, 30 minutes after I call, I'm sitting there, going to plan B which should have been Plan-A, my neighbor helps me out.

Does Community Watch actually do anything constructive?
If so, I'd feel a lot better about my mini-rant.

It's not CW's responsibility to give your car a boost should the battery die. That is your responsibility and all you have to do is join AAA.

[Challenger]

Oh my goodness people! Perhaps CW needs to be less humble
Because they do many things for this community that go
Unnoticed.
Let me ask all of you....should a burglary be in process, is it
Better for CW to proceed to the home or help someone
Jump start their car? Did you know that the burglars that
Were in the process of robbing were caught because of
An initial call to CW who jumped on it and got everyone
Involved to catch those thieves?
How about the alligators who accidentally end up in our
Pools? Who do you think makes sure this is handled for
All our safety?
Who do you think handles the call from an adult living
Alone who has fallen in their home?
Who do you think is usually first on the scene for golf cart
And car accidents making sure the right EMS people show up?
Did you know all personnel must have updated first aid training?

Would it make you feel better if someone died or was seriously
Hurt because a driver could not respond to an emergency call
Due to the fact he/she was helping change a tire?

It is very sad that our beautiful, caring community has become
So self centered.

The only improvement CW needs is a good publicity campaign.
Shame on those who wish to monopolize their time for their
Selfish requests and no I do not work for Community Watch.

Community Watch is an important institution in producing the quality of life that we enjoy in TV. From reading the posts , I wonder what utopia most of these people have lived in for the first 55+/- years of their lives

[Barefoot]

I have to agree with you the Community Watch is a waste

I don't think Community Watch is a waste at all.
The CW trucks are a visible presence in the community.
It gives security to residents to know that CW is watching out for their best interests.

I don't think they should be criticized for things like not being available to jump a battery.
However in Redwitch's situation, they definitely should have called the Sheriff.

[TheVillageChicken]

It's not CW's responsibility to give your car a boost should the battery die. That is your responsibility and all you have to do is join AAA.

I have been a member of AAA for years and I cannot get them to watch my house when I am away. Seriously though, OP's rant has merit. The dispatcher did tell them that someone would come jump them off.

[westcoastsunshine]

Community Watch is an important institution in producing the quality of life that we enjoy in TV. From reading the posts , I wonder what utopia most of these people have lived in for the first 55+/- years of their lives

Oh my goodness people! Perhaps CW needs to be less humble
Because they do many things for this community that go
Unnoticed.
Let me ask all of you....should a burglary be in progress, is it
Better for CW to proceed to the home or help someone
Jump start their car? Did you know that the burglars that
Were in the process of robbing were caught because of
An initial call to CW who jumped on it and got everyone
Involved to catch those thieves?
How about the alligators who accidentally end up in our
Pools? Who do you think makes sure this is handled for
All our safety?
Who do you think handles the call from an adult living
Alone who has fallen in their home?
Who do you think is usually first on the scene for golf cart
And car accidents making sure the right EMS people show up?
Did you know all personnel must have updated first aid training?

Would it make you feel better if someone died or was seriously
Hurt because a driver could not respond to an emergency call
Due to the fact he/she was helping change a tire?

It is very sad that our beautiful, caring community has become
So self centered.

The only improvement CW needs is a good publicity campaign.
Shame on those who wish to monopolize the time for their own
Selfish requests and no I do not work for Community Watch.

WCS

There will always be isolated incidents but how do you know
An emergency call was not received from the dispatcher which
Would require immediate action. Certainly, I would think
This case would take precedence over other matters.
Don't you agree?

WCS

[Warren Kiefer]

there will always be isolated incidents but how do you know
an emergency call was not received from the dispatcher which
would require immediate action. Certainly, i would think
this case would take precedence over other matters.
Don't you agree?

Wcs

neighborhood watch is not an emergency organization.

[westcoastsunshine]

neighborhood watch is not an emergency organization.

You are correct...."neighbourhood" watch is not an emergency service.
COMMUNITY WATCH on the other hand is there to support emergency
Services wherever they can. In fact, I am willing to bet CW gets
Called first because they are there for us 24/7 including Christmas and
Other major holidays.

WCS

[Bogie Shooter]

This has nothing to do with the OP but many have commented that Community Watch drives around looking for violations. I don't think that is correct. All violation letters are complaint driven and not due to community watch employees.

You are right..........nothing to do with the OP in 2010.

[Bogie Shooter]

Buffalo Jim, I respect what you are saying However, such a study has two point entry cost vis a vis benefits.
Benefits would be difficult to quantify. What is it worth to a resident to have eyes on their street? What is the value of assisting in enforcement of Deed Compliance, especially since Deed compliance has such an affection the look and future look of The villages. I for one as an example deplore plastic pink flamingo's because I believe they diminish the look of TV and hence its value

What part does CW have in deed compliance?

[redwitch]

I'm trying to figure out why anyone would call CW rather than 911 in an emergency. First I've ever heard to CW being the one folks call when they see someone breaking into a home or other types of emergencies. (Suspicious folks walking around the neighborhood [not solicitors or garbage pickers] -- yup, have heard of that and have heard that CW tells these callers to call 911, not them.)

[westcoastsunshine]

I'm trying to figure out why anyone would call CW rather than 911 in an emergency. First I've ever heard to CW being the one folks call when they see someone breaking into a home or other types of emergencies. (Suspicious folks walking around the neighborhood [not solicitors or garbage pickers] -- yup, have heard of that and have heard that CW tells these callers to call 911, not them.)

You are entitled to your opinion, of course, but I believe you would be
Quite surprised at the number of times CW is called first. They will
Be directed to 911 but I do believe, depending on the situation CW
Will also send their own drivers.
We are a growing community and you can't expect the sheriff to be
Everywhere. Be happy we have CW.
I really don't understand how you can be so opinionated when clearly
You do not understand how this wonderful service with its team of
Dedicated men and women contribute to the safety and quality of
Our community.

WCS

[perrjojo]

what part does cw have in deed compliance?

none

[swimdawg]

Community Watch is an important institution in producing the quality of life that we enjoy in TV. From reading the posts , I wonder what utopia most of these people have lived in for the first 55+/- years of their lives

I hear ya loud and clear, Chal.

I have friends who work for CW and they have stories to tell that are unreal. They have been verbally abused and even bullied. I have mentioned they work for minimum wage with no medical benefits. It certainly is not a glamorous job but the people working CW are our friends and neighbors who WANT to protect us. (I bet they'd make more $$$ at McDonald's and wouldn't have the crazy hours).

We are fortunate to have Community Watch in TV!

[buggyone]

I hear ya loud and clear, Chal.

I have friends who work for CW and they have stories to tell that are unreal. They have been verbally abused and even bullied. I have mentioned they work for minimum wage with no medical benefits. It certainly is not a glamorous job but the people working CW are our friends and neighbors who WANT to protect us. (I bet they'd make more $$$ at McDonald's and wouldn't have the crazy hours).

We are fortunate to have Community Watch in TV!

I agree that we are fortunate to have Community Watch. They are a dedicated group of people. I think most probably do it more for a sense of community service rather than the money.

Keep up the good work, Community Watch.

[swimdawg]

I agree that we are fortunate to have Community Watch. They are a dedicated group of people. I think most probably do it more for a sense of community service rather than the money.

Keep up the good work, Community Watch.

You are absolutely positively 100% correct, Bug! They are a great group of people!

[Matzy]

I am really surprised how much people can write about their own little stuff. If I wouldn't know what have to write to entertain other people I wouldn't write anything about things I might not know it correctly because I don't don't like to make public what I do not know - instead, I would learn it quietly. In case of CW ... Well: Just read again what CW has to do and how they are doing it, it is just GREAT.

[Halibut]

Does Community Watch actually do anything constructive?

It may not be the norm according to others here, but they did stop at my sister-in-law's house one night when their garage door was inadvertently left open. Interestingly, they did not knock on the door but called her on the phone while sitting in front of the house.

As others have said, their primary purpose (which I've experienced myself) seems to be following up on deed restriction complaints. That is necessary if people want restrictions enforced, but maybe it should be a separate department that doesn't claim to do anything else.

[Bogie Shooter]

none

The question was being asked of someone else. Yes, I too knew the answer.

[Bogie Shooter]

The best thing that could have happened was; if this 4 year old thread was left to die.:thumbup: