So why do people have such an issue...

[Mortal1]

with turning in folks with deed restriction violations.

Seems to me folks moved here in large part because of those deed restrictions. And since most are not enforced unless they are reported I'd think those who make it their duty to help enforce restrictions would be thanked.

Perhaps those who complain of those who help enforce the restrictions are those who break the simple to understand even by a 7 year old rules are upset.

Perhaps those who don't appreciate the folks who don't want our neighborhoods looking like a trailer park filled with degenerates are part of the problem.

Perhaps they just don't like people doing what is right and proper.

My take? Those who complain and continually post about those who keep the villages looking nice are usually in violation of more than one deed restriction.

Keep up the good work in reporting violations!!! If you don't like them you can always move to San Fran or L.A. or Seattle. You'd like it there. No restrictions at all. Watch where you step.

The restrictions are simple and easy to follow. All of them have a purpose. If you don't see the purpose perhaps it's because of the narrow view you take.

[Aces4]

with turning in folks with deed restriction violations.

Seems to me folks moved here in large part because of those deed restrictions. And since most are not enforced unless they are reported I'd think those who make it their duty to help enforce restrictions would be thanked.

Perhaps those who complain of those who help enforce the restrictions are those who break the simple to understand even by a 7 year old rules are upset.

Perhaps those who don't appreciate the folks who don't want our neighborhoods looking like a trailer park filled with degenerates are part of the problem.

Perhaps they just don't like people doing what is right and proper.

My take? Those who complain and continually post about those who keep the villages looking nice are usually in violation of more than one deed restriction.

Keep up the good work in reporting violations!!! If you don't like them you can always move to San Fran or L.A. or Seattle. You'd like it there. No restrictions at all. Watch where you step.

The restrictions are simple and easy to follow. All of them have a purpose. If you don't see the purpose perhaps it's because of the narrow view you take.

I can only tell you how it affects me and that it reminds me of Nazi Germany and how neighbors turned in neighbors. I don’t mind the restrictions but I don’t like the snitching.

[Number 10 GI]

If you don't live in the neighborhood and the people who actually live there have no problem with what their neighbor has in their yard, why is it any of your business?

[the square]

Over 55,over 65,over 75 a back stabbing rat is a rat just the same. You notice these rats don't have to identify themselves, that's where their nerve
comes from.

[EdFNJ]

N/M wrong thread! :)

[Martian]

I am having hard time figuring out how most of the rules I read in my neighborhood being violated will suddenly lead to my neighborhood becoming trailer park trash.

My home is in violation at this very moment and I have only been here 3 days! OMG! The Internet service provider had to run a bright orange cable from the junction box out front along my neighbors yard, around the back of my house and back up to the front side where it goes into my house. They had to do this because the junction box is on the wrong side of my drive way, and it's a RULE that they can not put it under my drive way without permission. So, my neighbor was fine with them putting this ugly cable on the ground for 2 or 3 days while they get permission to put it under my driveway.

I guess I have now personally made all the houses in the villages loose at a least 10% of their market value by letting the company install this monstrosity.

It appears to me that by making it a complaint driven system the rules are designed/intended to be interpreted by the neighbors as far as how strict or not they want their neighborhood to be. And I agree with the post above, if you don't live in my neighborhood, how is my having a pottery frog (or a long orange wire) in my front yard affecting your quality of life or the resale value of your property?

I guess it is just the same as the grammar NAZIs online. Those people that feel compelled to ignore the meaning of a post and focus on the missing comma... I mean, BUT BUT BUT ITS THE RULE!

[Edjkoz]

If you don't live in the neighborhood and the people who actually live there have no problem with what their neighbor has in their yard, why is it any of your business?

I agree. If you’re not in the neighborhood, you should mind your own businesses.
I understand having complaints handled anonymously but I believe the complaint should have to come from your neighbor s not from someone just passing thru your neighborhood

[graciegirl]

Over 55,over 65,over 75 a back stabbing rat is a rat just the same. You notice these rats don't have to identify themselves, that's where their nerve
comes from.

Your opinion is not the majority opinion. Most of us have lived with deed restrictions for many years before we came here.

This isn't a penitentiary where people rat out others. This is far from being a Nazi situation. People like their property, their street, their Village and their town to be nicely kept. Thank goodness we can report infringements and they will be stopped.

[Topspinmo]

with turning in folks with deed restriction violations.

Seems to me folks moved here in large part because of those deed restrictions. And since most are not enforced unless they are reported I'd think those who make it their duty to help enforce restrictions would be thanked.

Perhaps those who complain of those who help enforce the restrictions are those who break the simple to understand even by a 7 year old rules are upset.

Perhaps those who don't appreciate the folks who don't want our neighborhoods looking like a trailer park filled with degenerates are part of the problem.

Perhaps they just don't like people doing what is right and proper.

My take? Those who complain and continually post about those who keep the villages looking nice are usually in violation of more than one deed restriction.

Keep up the good work in reporting violations!!! If you don't like them you can always move to San Fran or L.A. or Seattle. You'd like it there. No restrictions at all. Watch where you step.

The restrictions are simple and easy to follow. All of them have a purpose. If you don't see the purpose perhaps it's because of the narrow view you take.

FILLED WITH DEGENERATE’S. I guess you don’t read the online news. Let’s see we got underaged kids living in the villages, 20 to 54 year olds drug addicts, methheads, drunks, living with parents and we’re worried about lawn ornaments when each district has different rules.

[manaboutown]

FILLED WITH DEGENERATE’S. I guess you don’t read the online news. Let’s see we got underaged kids living in the villages, 20 to 54 year olds drug addicts, methheads, drunks, living with parents and we’re worried about lawn ornaments when each district has different rules.

Convicted sex offenders, felonious care givers, drug dealers, ex-cons, chop shops, and adult children losers of every stripe living with parents get a free pass... but if someone places a small lawn ornament in their front yard which neighbors live with in peace and enjoy for years but an out of the neighborhood troll looking to cause trouble spots...look out!

[Velvet]

There is a beauty about TV the way it is. It is pleasant to drive along its well manicured streets. In most cities you have to pay a large premium to live in a similar district.

I agree with lawn ornament restrictions because what is beautiful to one person, can be offensive to another. If you want to express individual taste, this is the wrong place. It’s like a private school either you follow the rules or you’re out. No one is forcing anyone to be here.

And please don’t compare TV to Nazi anything. My parents lived under those folks, and until you see lamp shades made of human skin, we are not there.

[JimJohnson]

Your opinion is not the majority opinion. Most of us have lived with deed restrictions for many years before we came here.

This isn't a penitentiary where people rat out others. This is far from being a Nazi situation. People like their property, their street, their Village and their town to be nicely kept. Thank goodness we can report infringements and they will be stopped.

Agree 100%. Rat and snitch are terms more commonly used by criminals. Taking revenge on rats or snitches is how the mafia kept regular citizens quiet. Either change the rules or follow them, but for sure, don’t blame others for your shortcomings.

[roob1]

A common psychological defense mechanism....projection of blame or blame-shifting, may be one scenario that operates.

So, it is the "snitch's" fault (they are thus to blame), when I get caught violating the rules. This belief allows me to avoid taking responsibility for my own actions.

It also allows the violator to shift the focus from their action (i.e.cross in yard) to the nasty person who has no life and turns violators in.:)

[ColdNoMore]

Agree 100%. Rat and snitch are terms more commonly used by criminals. Taking revenge on rats or snitches is how the mafia kept regular citizens quiet. Either change the rules or follow them, but for sure, don’t blame others for your shortcomings.

Yep.

Those advocating that something bad or unfortunate happen to anyone (as long as they're on public property) who are within their rights, mirrors a certain scumbag segment of society at whole today...who seem to prefer a mafia/dictatorship like form of governance. :oops:

That's simply Un-American...and traitorous. :ohdear:

[coffeebean]

I don’t mind the restrictions but I don’t like the snitching.

I do not like the little white crosses.....at all! Having said that, I have never turned in any homeowner who has a white cross proudly displayed on their property. I just hope someone else does the complaining and turning in. :)

[ColdNoMore]

I agree. If you’re not in the neighborhood, you should mind your own businesses.
I understand having complaints handled anonymously but I believe the complaint should have to come from your neighbor s not from someone just passing thru your neighborhood

That's like saying "if you're not a store employee...you shouldn't be allowed to report theft/shop-lifting."

That's just plain silly.:oops:

[coffeebean]

I honestly don't mind one lawn ornament on a property. Some of them are quite nice and add a bit of whimsy to a property. It is when the homeowner takes it to the next level and adds a frog, then a deer, then a fish, then a bird then a mushroom, etc., etc. You see where I"m going with this. Some folks don't know when to stop and it gives the community a cluttered low class feel. That is not what hubby and I bought in to when we purchased here in The Villages.

We fell in love with the manicured pristine appearance of this community. That appearance is what maintains our property value. From what I have learned, neighborhoods north of 466 are allowed to display lawn ornaments. IMHO, those neighborhoods do not look as nice as those that do not allow the "self expression". Having said that, there is a place for everyone. If you prefer the look of all that "self expression", by all means, live in a neighborhood that allows that. If you prefer the more manicured and pristine (sterile if you will) appearance, by all means live in a neighborhood that does not allow it.

[NotGolfer]

A common psychological defense mechanism....projection of blame or blame-shifting, may be one scenario that operates.

So, it is the "snitch's" fault (they are thus to blame), when I get caught violating the rules. This belief allows me to avoid taking responsibility for my own actions.

It also allows the violator to shift the focus from their action (i.e.cross in yard) to the nasty person who has no life and turns violators in.:)

So agree!! This "conversation" reminds me of when we were school kids...people trying to get away with something and then when caught..."it wasn't MY fault, gee why do you keep picking on me?!" We all knew when we moved here and signed on the dotted line that there were "some" rules to follow. I think some people have too much time on their hands and LOVE to complain and find fault in others.

[Bogie Shooter]

I honestly don't mind one lawn ornament on a property. Some of them are quite nice and add a bit of whimsy to a property. It is when the homeowner takes it to the next level and adds a frog, then a deer, then a fish, then a bird then a mushroom, etc., etc. You see where I"m going with this. Some folks don't know when to stop and it gives the community a cluttered low class feel. That is not what hubby and I bought in to when we purchased here in The Villages.

We fell in love with the manicured pristine appearance of this community. That appearance is what maintains our property value. From what I have learned, neighborhoods north of 466 are allowed to display lawn ornaments. IMHO, those neighborhoods do not look as nice as those that do not allow the "self expression". Having said that, there is a place for everyone. If you prefer the look of all that "self expression", by all means, live in a neighborhood that allows that. If you prefer the more manicured and pristine (sterile if you will) appearance, by all means live in a neighborhood that does not allow it.

Where can I go to learn this?

[retiredguy123]

I agree with the OP. The deed restrictions should be followed and enforced. I don't care who enforces them. If you don't like a deed restriction, then try to have it changed or move.

[Martian]

A common psychological defense mechanism....projection of blame or blame-shifting, may be one scenario that operates.

So, it is the "snitch's" fault (they are thus to blame), when I get caught violating the rules. This belief allows me to avoid taking responsibility for my own actions.

It also allows the violator to shift the focus from their action (i.e.cross in yard) to the nasty person who has no life and turns violators in.:)

It depends. If the person is simply having a bad day and looking for someone to take it out on. If someone has a grudge and wants to make someone suffer, if someone wants to feel empowered, etc, etc, etc...

Proponents are suggesting that the reasons for reporting are always altruistic and that is not true. I haven't been here long, but I have driven through a lot of TV. There are some violations, but almost all at inconsequential.

I have lived with HOAs in the past and in almost all cases they are run by little people that want to appear powerful.

The approach of complain based reporting here is a big improvement over the "normal" HOA, but it still isn't perfect.

My point still is, that the point of the covenants is to protect property value and appearance in general, not to nitpick over trivial infractions.

And lets face it, "grumpy old people" can be a PIA - and this place is full of us.

[Madelaine Amee]

I honestly don't mind one lawn ornament on a property. Some of them are quite nice and add a bit of whimsy to a property. It is when the homeowner takes it to the next level and adds a frog, then a deer, then a fish, then a bird then a mushroom, etc., etc. You see where I"m going with this. Some folks don't know when to stop and it gives the community a cluttered low class feel. That is not what hubby and I bought in to when we purchased here in The Villages.

We fell in love with the manicured pristine appearance of this community. That appearance is what maintains our property value. From what I have learned, neighborhoods north of 466 are allowed to display lawn ornaments. IMHO, those neighborhoods do not look as nice as those that do not allow the "self expression". Having said that, there is a place for everyone. If you prefer the look of all that "self expression", by all means, live in a neighborhood that allows that. If you prefer the more manicured and pristine (sterile if you will) appearance, by all means live in a neighborhood that does not allow it.

Where did you LEARN this information? I live north of 466 and our deed restrictions say no lawn ornaments and our villages look very attractie. I have heard this before, unfortunately people hear these rumors and they become fact. You may be talking about the Historic side of TV which is across 441.

[roob1]

What is pertinent is the violation itself, not the reporters motivation. If one focuses on the reasons for reporting, they are blame shifting and moving the issue away from the violation to the existing process of reporting.

The "issue" is the violation. The focus (if any) needs to be why are owners violating, not why are people reporting.

And what is inconsequential to you, may not be to another person.

[QUOTE=Martian;1679518]It depends.

Proponents are suggesting that the reasons for reporting are always altruistic and that is not true. I haven't been here long, but I have driven through a lot of TV. There are some violations, but almost all at inconsequential.

[graciegirl]

If something is reported and it is not a violation then it will not be penalized.

There are all kinds of "loopholes". Things can be placed under the eaves of the home, against the house. I think that I am most troubled about those who make the crosses the crux of the matter. I don't believe people are against this much loved religious symbol at all. It just is that this as well as the lovely plywood "bend over ladies" are not allowed.

Don't make this a bigger issue than it is. This is not from the "HOA". This is a restriction on the deed of the home. It is wise for all new folks to take the class on just how a CDD functions and what powers that form of governance has. Perhaps this should be done before you buy here.

I love the way this place is run. Beats the heck out of Orlando and Tampa and Miami and etc. etc. etc.

[sail33or]

I would say "most" homes older than 4-5 years old are in violation of some sort of deed restriction, failure to get an architectural permit, etc.

If there was a picture (satellite image) of a home and compared to its picture today, there would be some change (paint color, landscape deletion/addition, satellite ant., shade awning, etc., etc.)

So really it is just a matter of whether you have normal, nice neighbors or live on a dead end street(no passers by). I am not talking about a yard filled with junk just normal, everyday things a homeowner should control themselves.

[Martian]

If something is reported and it is not a violation then it will not be penalized.

There are all kinds of "loopholes". Things can be placed under the eaves of the home, against the house. I think that I am most troubled about those who make the crosses the crux of the matter. I don't believe people are against this much loved religious symbol at all. It just is that this as well as the lovely plywood "bend over ladies" are not allowed.

Don't make this a bigger issue than it is. This is not from the "HOA". This is a restriction on the deed of the home. It is wise for all new folks to take the class on just how a CDD functions and what powers that form of governance has. Perhaps this should be done before you buy here.

I love the way this place is run. Beats the heck out of Orlando and Tampa and Miami and etc. etc. etc.

I agree, my point was just that life is not black and white. Stuff happens.

[Arctic Fox]

If you don't live in the neighborhood and the people who actually live there have no problem with what their neighbor has in their yard, why is it any of your business?

I agree

Seems a bit sad that people head to neighborhoods they may never normally visit just to find and report deed violations. Of course, they may have mental issues that we don't know about.

[Aces4]

There is a beauty about TV the way it is. It is pleasant to drive along its well manicured streets. In most cities you have to pay a large premium to live in a similar district.

I agree with lawn ornament restrictions because what is beautiful to one person, can be offensive to another. If you want to express individual taste, this is the wrong place. It’s like a private school either you follow the rules or you’re out. No one is forcing anyone to be here.

And please don’t compare TV to Nazi anything. My parents lived under those folks, and until you see lamp shades made of human skin, we are not there.

I just knew someone would use that analogy ploy. It’s the technique of pitting neighbor against neighbor and it’s divisiveness which is being examined and not lampshades. The responsibility of these reports belongs to community watch or a designated team so the guidelines are applied equitably.

[roob1]

///

[Dmbluk]

with turning in folks with deed restriction violations.

Seems to me folks moved here in large part because of those deed restrictions. And since most are not enforced unless they are reported I'd think those who make it their duty to help enforce restrictions would be thanked.

Perhaps those who complain of those who help enforce the restrictions are those who break the simple to understand even by a 7 year old rules are upset.

Perhaps those who don't appreciate the folks who don't want our neighborhoods looking like a trailer park filled with degenerates are part of the problem.

Perhaps they just don't like people doing what is right and proper.

My take? Those who complain and continually post about those who keep the villages looking nice are usually in violation of more than one deed restriction.

Keep up the good work in reporting violations!!! If you don't like them you can always move to San Fran or L.A. or Seattle. You'd like it there. No restrictions at all. Watch where you step.

The restrictions are simple and easy to follow. All of them have a purpose. If you don't see the purpose perhaps it's because of the narrow view you take.

:bigbow:

[coffeebean]

Where can I go to learn this?

I have learned this on this forum and believe every single thing I read. LOL.

Seriously, Many people have posted on this forum that the rules regarding lawn ornaments north of 466 are more lenient. In fact, I believe I have read there are no rules regarding lawn ornaments. I do find that hard to believe though.

I don't live north of 466 but I drive through the neighborhoods to go to Spanish Springs. I can see there are many more lawn ornaments north of 466. There is one of a dog lifting his leg and that is facing one of the thru streets so it is very visible to traffic. That is how I have seen it. Not a good look for a neighborhood. But that is just me. I prefer clean, pristine and a manicured neighborhood.

[Velvet]

Actually, the responsibility to report infractions lies with all of us. The way I read the deed restriction enforcement it leaves it slightly open to how it is enforced. You can get away with stuff... as long as no one objects.

I feel that some people seem to have a problem with rules. That is understandable, but what I can’t understand is why do they buy in an area with rules in the first place? They want to benefit from the beauty without them paying the price?

[Marathon Man]

Over 55,over 65,over 75 a back stabbing rat is a rat just the same. You notice these rats don't have to identify themselves, that's where their nerve
comes from.

So you would call an 80yo woman who is afraid of her bully neighbor that she is a rat for want to keep her report of his violations annonymous.

[queasy27]

It also allows the violator to shift the focus from their action (i.e.cross in yard) to the nasty person who has no life and turns violators in.:)

But the snoops are making peoples' lives miserable! People who report violations are a menace!

/end sarcasm

Reminds me of a friend who was storing a couple of cars at his parent's house. He was angry at his dad for constantly nagging him to come get them: "He's always on my case! He won't let it go!"

Well. Remove your cars, then. Unsurprisingly to anyone familiar with these threads, he said that wasn't the point.

"It's the principle, it's the unfair enforcement, it's the anonymity, it's the nosiness, it's freedom of expression, it's outside agitators ..."

Same as I told my friend: remove your non-compliant objects and the entire issue goes away.

[Marathon Man]

I can only tell you how it affects me and that it reminds me of Nazi Germany and how neighbors turned in neighbors. I don’t mind the restrictions but I don’t like the snitching.

This is so rediculous that it belongs in a category by itself.

[coffeebean]

Where did you LEARN this information? I live north of 466 and our deed restrictions say no lawn ornaments and our villages look very attractie. I have heard this before, unfortunately people hear these rumors and they become fact. You may be talking about the Historic side of TV which is across 441.

I stand corrected and I'm sorry for perpetuating the rumor. I honestly believed the incorrect rumors about lawn ornaments being allowed simply because I see more lawn ornaments in that area than I see south of 466.

No, I wasn't referring to the Historic side. I've only been there once in the last 10 years that I'm living here. I was referring to the neighborhoods that border Spanish Springs and are located just north of 466. That is where the statue of the dog lifting his leg is located. I'm honestly surprised no one has complained about that statue.

[Bogie Shooter]

I stand corrected and I'm sorry for perpetuating the rumor. I honestly believed the incorrect rumors about lawn ornaments being allowed simply because I see more lawn ornaments in that area than I see south of 466. You are correct, I was referring to the neighborhoods that border Spanish Springs and are located just north of 466. That is where the statue of the dog lifting his leg is located. I'm honestly surprised no one has complained about that statue.

It has been there for a long time, makes me smile when I go past.

[coffeebean]

It has been there for a long time, makes me smile when I go past.

I would imagine lots of folks have smiled at that dog. He is still there. :)

[Velvet]

Better a statue than a real dog....

[Alana33]

I live Lady Lake but just outside the Villages.
Have 2 sisters that own homes there.
When I decided to make a move in 2017, I found the Villages prices very high priced for what you get High HOA fees, rules and regulations not to my liking. All the houses looked alike.
I found a lovely home in a nice neighborhood on 1/2 acre, brick and block,new roof, shingles with a pool lovely landscape, large fenced yard for my dogs and everything updated and move in ready.
At a far lower price than in the Villages while being 10 minutes away from sisters and not having to put up with the BS.

[rmd2]

Not every Village north of 466 allows lawn ornaments.

[b0bd0herty]

Spot On!

[b0bd0herty]

You've missed the point.

[trichard]

with turning in folks with deed restriction violations.

Seems to me folks moved here in large part because of those deed restrictions. And since most are not enforced unless they are reported I'd think those who make it their duty to help enforce restrictions would be thanked.

Perhaps those who complain of those who help enforce the restrictions are those who break the simple to understand even by a 7 year old rules are upset.

Perhaps those who don't appreciate the folks who don't want our neighborhoods looking like a trailer park filled with degenerates are part of the problem.

Perhaps they just don't like people doing what is right and proper.

My take? Those who complain and continually post about those who keep the villages looking nice are usually in violation of more than one deed restriction.

Keep up the good work in reporting violations!!! If you don't like them you can always move to San Fran or L.A. or Seattle. You'd like it there. No restrictions at all. Watch where you step.

The restrictions are simple and easy to follow. All of them have a purpose. If you don't see the purpose perhaps it's because of the narrow view you take.

Right on! 👍

[crash]

I can only tell you how it affects me and that it reminds me of Nazi Germany and how neighbors turned in neighbors. I don’t mind the restrictions but I don’t like the snitching.

What really gets me is the people who snitch and don’t even live in the neighborhood where the violation is.

Really the little white crosses and the beautiful bird ornaments bothers people or detracts from the neighborhood.

[Phil_Linda]

I can understand why people could be upset if a place is totally overrun with lawn ornaments but a couple of nicely placed ones actually could 'increase' the value the values of surrounding homes. Not necessarily in money but in real sale time. A nicely appropriated home appeals to people, called curb value.
But what I do not understand if one is such a coward that they can't come forward and look their neighbor in the eye when doing this. If they feel so strongly about a colorful frog that is about 6 inches in height and it makes a potted plant look even better then they should put their name on it.
As they are saying, "We are correct in doing this" then stand up and do it in view.
We live in a Beautiful place but these cowards put more of a STAIN on it than any lawn ornament could ever do.

[edd.wade]

What a bunch of crap.

[Leadbone1]

I moved here nine months ago. I don’t have a clue what the restrictions are? So, I guess I couldn’t report anyone since I would not have any idea what to report? That said, I believe common sense is in order. If someone has a small pelican ornament in their front yard who cares? Now if someone has 20 lawn ornaments in their front yard, then certainly that’s a different thing. I’m too busy enjoying my new life in the villages to be looking for things to report. Again, I’m not even sure what I would report? Yes maybe I need to find out what the restrictions are

[diva1]

To me, there is a huge difference between a tiny white cross or a heron figurine in the flower bed and junk cars up on blocks in the driveway or a gaggle of Disney elves your made in ceramic class on the front lawn. And if you are a Purple Heart recipient and disabled I don't care if your driveway is a foot wider than mine so you can get out of your car better. It is this kind of nitpicking that irritates rational folks. And yes, if you don't live in my neighborhood you need to mind your own business and should have zero say!

[bmit16]

I have no problem with the rules. But lets make it fair. Require complaints to be addressed and signed so you can confront your accuser. The system promotes complaints which disrupt neighborhood harmony. If it bothers you, own it! Don't hide behind an anonymous complaint. Especially when I am sure you are not without fault. Cowards!!!

[Martian]

It seems this thread just keeps going round and round. And it is not the first thread on the subject. Apparently some people feel the letter of the rules is all that matters, and others feel the intent of the rules are what matters. All the name calling and vitriol are not going to help.

One observation, this is not unique to TV. It exists all around the country in work places and public places. With HOAs and Laws. It seems we are largely divided into two "types" of people - those that believe strongly that rules should be enforced literally, and those that feel rules should provide direction and the intent should be the main focus.

I don't think "yelling" at each other is going to change anything on this topic. It never has anywhere else...

[bfarrelljr]

I've lived in quite a few neighborhoods without deed restrictions. They were all extremely desirable areas. Not a trailer I sight. Houses were keep up with each individual taking personal responsibility for their own property. Values rose and homes sold quickly. We didn't have to have someone tell us what is good or bad taste regarding our homes. Worked out fine. Question? Do you get to face your accusers? Also, what's wrong with a few lawn decorations in the front of the house?

[biker1]

I just knew someone would use that analogy ploy. It’s the technique of pitting neighbor against neighbor and it’s divisiveness which is being examined and not lampshades. The responsibility of these reports belongs to community watch or a designated team so the guidelines are applied equitably.

I don't believe we will ever see your suggestion implemented. Besides the obvious expense of hiring a team to look for infractions, I believe the larger issue is the potential for selective enforcement and the subsequent legal ramifications. With the current complaint driven system, I do not believe there is any potential for selective enforcement as long as Community Standards investigates and enforces the deed restrictions with all complaints. With your suggestion, any infractions that were missed (and there are 62,000 homes in The Villages that would need to be continuously monitored) could be the basis of a subsequent claim of selective enforcement. I have seen this happen.

[xcaligirl]

We all have CC&R's, however, some opt to think they rules do not apply to them. If everyone followed the rules, there would be no problems to report. Also, perhaps Community Standard could go through the neighborhoods and check on violations and speak to the owner.

[Martian]

I don't believe we will ever see your suggestion implemented. Besides the obvious expense of hiring a team to look for infractions, I believe the larger issue is the potential for selective enforcement and the subsequent legal ramifications. With the current complaint driven system, I do not believe there is any potential for selective enforcement as long as Community Standards investigates and enforces the deed restrictions with all complaints. With your suggestion, any infractions that were missed (and there are 62,000 homes in The Villages that would need to be continuously monitored) could be the basis of a subsequent claim of selective enforcement. I have seen this happen.

Oh, it's worse than that. If TV took responsibility (or the districts, or who ever) then they would have to setup yet another entire department to handle explaining why some things are NOT in breach of the rules. Because someone is going to be ****ed that their neighbor is "getting away with breaking the rules".

As it is they only have to do that on the reported cases.

[xcaligirl]

Perhaps they lived by the "rules".

[xcaligirl]

I don't believe we will ever see your suggestion implemented. Besides the obvious expense of hiring a team to look for infractions, I believe the larger issue is the potential for selective enforcement and the subsequent legal ramifications. With the current complaint driven system, I do not believe there is any potential for selective enforcement as long as Community Standards investigates and enforces the deed restrictions with all complaints. With your suggestion, any infractions that were missed (and there are 62,000 homes in The Villages that would need to be continuously monitored) could be the basis of a subsequent claim of selective enforcement. I have seen this happen.
I agree with you. Owners sign documents along with 'understanding the CC&R's' when they purchase a house but soon forget and think they are exempt from everything and do as they please. And then the people who report the yards looking like they are in foreclosure and the "horrible neighbors".

[Martian]

Perhaps they lived by the "rules".

I assume then you believe the rules are so clearly written that there would never be any disputes?

As far as I know if that were possible there would be NO lawyers anywhere.

It is almost impossible to write rules/laws that are not disputed, or that can be clearly applied.

In addition, there are "exceptions" granted, from what I understand. And someone has to make the decision what exceptions are to be granted.

If only life were black and white, sadly there are grays.

[Lynrrt]

with turning in folks with deed restriction violations.

Seems to me folks moved here in large part because of those deed restrictions. And since most are not enforced unless they are reported I'd think those who make it their duty to help enforce restrictions would be thanked.

Perhaps those who complain of those who help enforce the restrictions are those who break the simple to understand even by a 7 year old rules are upset.

Perhaps those who don't appreciate the folks who don't want our neighborhoods looking like a trailer park filled with degenerates are part of the problem.

Perhaps they just don't like people doing what is right and proper.

My take? Those who complain and continually post about those who keep the villages looking nice are usually in violation of more than one deed restriction.

Keep up the good work in reporting violations!!! If you don't like them you can always move to San Fran or L.A. or Seattle. You'd like it there. No restrictions at all. Watch where you step.

The restrictions are simple and easy to follow. All of them have a purpose. If you don't see the purpose perhaps it's because of the narrow view you take.
Well said! Thank you.

[coconutmama]

If you don't live in the neighborhood and the people who actually live there have no problem with what their neighbor has in their yard, why is it any of your business?

Totally agree with this post. Additionally, the law of the land is that we all have the right to face our accusers. This should be above any covenants we signed to keep our neighborhoods "pristine". Change the process!

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I would imagine lots of folks have smiled at that dog. He is still there. :)

...and now it's been brought to the attention of everyone who reads this forum. Which means if the "woman who goes around neighborhoods with a clipboard to identify homes that violate the restrictions" reads this forum, she now knows of another place she can complain about and get the statue removed.

Such a shame we encourage people to mind the business of other peoples' neighborhoods.

[FenneyFanatic]

If you follow the rules you agreed to when you bought a home here, no one would ever have anything to report. That seems easy to understand.

[biker1]

Totally agree with this post. Additionally, the law of the land is that we all have the right to face our accusers. This should be above any covenants we signed to keep our neighborhoods "pristine". Change the process!

I believe the right to face your accusers applies to criminal prosecutions and not civil cases.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I don't believe we will ever see your suggestion implemented. Besides the obvious expense of hiring a team to look for infractions, I believe the larger issue is the potential for selective enforcement and the subsequent legal ramifications. With the current complaint driven system, I do not believe there is any potential for selective enforcement as long as Community Standards investigates and enforces the deed restrictions with all complaints. With your suggestion, any infractions that were missed (and there are 62,000 homes in The Villages that would need to be continuously monitored) could be the basis of a subsequent claim of selective enforcement. I have seen this happen.

There already IS selective enforcement. Infractions of violations are ONLY enforced if someone complains. So you can have a peeing dog statue on your lawn for 20 years, while your next door neighbor gets infracted when his landscaper misses a square foot of grass that grows to 5 inches instead of the maximum 4 inches allowed, because that square foot is around the flagpole that the guy down the street doesn't like.

Community standards will go to check out the flagpole, and measure the grass, and say "oh yes indeedy, you are a violator alright, shame on you!" and walk right past that peeing dog statue next door on the way back to their golf cart, smile at the statue, and drive on. Because no one reported a complaint against it.

[Win1894]

I don't know anyone who move to TV because of the deed restrictions. They moved here for many reasons but the deed restrictions were not one of them. For the most part excepted them as a good thing and part of a neat and orderly society. Clearly, some folks need to chill a bit regarding them. Descretion is in order here. On one hand you have zee polizie who take any deed infractions personally, and on the other hand those who clearly just push the lawn ornament thing too far (as an example). I suspect this will never change. One thing I do think is that anonymous report should stop. It's creepy and underhanded in a free and open society. If there is something you feel is a significant violation, have the courage to stand up and be heard.

[Shoresands]

I don't live in TV. Thought once of buying. Liked idea of courtyard villa with no maintenance rock. Looks like most Villas are that way. But read a new owner had someone complain and cost a fortune to remove and sod. Villages Realty touts no maintenance yards in their advertisements. What's with that? Promoting violations? Am I wrong? If so, wonder how many folks yelling follow the rules have "no maintenance yards." Not ALL HOA rules make sense, band together and fight for changes that make sense. The American way!

[biker1]

I assume you have never lived in a deed restricted community. Selective enforcement refers to when the enforcement arm of the deed restrictions does not apply the deed restrictions uniformly and can be the legal basis for a homeowner not having to comply with a violation that others have not been previously forced to comply with. Reporting of infractions, and this is important, can be from a complaint driven system or can be monitored by the enforcement arm itself. In The Villages, it is complaint driven and I believe this effectively removes any possibility of selective enforcement (as long as the complaints are investigated and violations are uniformly dealt with). Otherwise, it would take a large organization to continually monitor The Villages' homes for any and all infractions and anything they miss could be the basis for a legal claim of selective enforcement. In The Villages, I have never heard of a claim of selective enforcement and I believe the reason for this is the fact that the enforcement arm (Community Standards) is not responsible for reporting. This was, in my opinion, a very wise decision.

There already IS selective enforcement. Infractions of violations are ONLY enforced if someone complains. So you can have a peeing dog statue on your lawn for 20 years, while your next door neighbor gets infracted when his landscaper misses a square foot of grass that grows to 5 inches instead of the maximum 4 inches allowed, because that square foot is around the flagpole that the guy down the street doesn't like.

Community standards will go to check out the flagpole, and measure the grass, and say "oh yes indeedy, you are a violator alright, shame on you!" and walk right past that peeing dog statue next door on the way back to their golf cart, smile at the statue, and drive on. Because no one reported a complaint against it.

[WayneDuo]

Every HOA enforces the associations rules. All of the associations where I have lived, whether they be for a condo, or a home, had rules that each condo/home owner agreed to follow. The document they usually had was often called the association bylaws. The enforcement procedures were anonymous in each of the associations, as they are here in the villages. The anonymous reporting was sometimes done by a neighbor [or a snitch] or by a board member. In either case you received the notorious letter about the problem and requiring resolution by a certain date. One of the 1st reactions after reading the HOA violation letter usually is "who reported me?" or "who reported this problem" and HOA members never find out because sharing the info could lead to bad blood or violence. Americans including villagers have problems with drugs, alcohol and guns and who noes what could happen if someone knew their neighbor reported them a few times for having weeds in their lawn, or not cutting the lawn or not replacing old mulch or something else cosmetic in the property.

The villages is a very large HOA and this system works to a certain degree. One case where the system fails is with all the complainers who agree to the system when they sign closing docs and move in, and then when they are reported they feel they should be exempt from legal docs they signed.

[merrymini]

Exactly. One of the reasons we moved into this place was the way it looked and knowing people could not put anything they wanted in the front of their home. Otherwise all kinds of junk would appear. However, if there is an infraction, it should cover any house within 200 feet and be applied equally to everyone.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I assume you have never lived in a deed restricted community. Selective enforcement refers to when the enforcement arm of the deed restrictions does not apply the deed restrictions uniformly and can be the legal basis for a homeowner not having to comply with a violation that others have not been previously forced to comply with. Reporting of infractions, and this is important, can be from a complaint driven system or can be monitored by the enforcement arm itself. In The Villages, it is complaint driven and I believe this effectively removes any possibility of selective enforcement (as long as the complaints are investigated and violations are uniformly dealt with). Otherwise, it would take a large organization to continually monitor The Villages' homes for any and all infractions and anything they miss could be the basis for a legal claim of selective enforcement. In The Villages, I have never heard of a claim of selective enforcement.

I lived in a condo complex with an HOA, and we had deed restrictions.

If you want it to be up to the complainer to complain, then it is the responsibility of the Community Standards to MAKE that complaint, if they see a violation while they're in the process of investigating another violation.

If I am a Community Standards officer, visiting 1313 Mockingbird Lane for violation of the grey peeling paint on their front door, and I see a plastic pink flamingo on the front lawn of their neighbor when I park my golf cart in front of the neighbor's house, then it is my responsibility to point out to the guy at 1311 Mockingbird Land that he needs to get rid of his pink flamingo.

If I CHOOSE not to complain about what is right in front of me, then I am selectively enforcing the rules.

[JoMar]

Convicted sex offenders, felonious care givers, drug dealers, ex-cons, chop shops, and adult children losers of every stripe living with parents get a free pass... but if someone places a small lawn ornament in their front yard which neighbors live with in peace and enjoy for years but an out of the neighborhood troll looking to cause trouble spots...look out!

Apples and oranges again

[HimandMe]

There are snitches, yes rats, there are those who just live and let live and there are those who would only report something if it is a gross or harmful violation for the protection of all....and in their own neighborhood. If someone routinely goes out of their way to make sure “others get it right”, covertly or overtly they are disliked sometimes hated. No one likes a snitch even the snitch if he is snitched on doing something untoward.

[biker1]

I believe you have failed to understand the nuance of how infractions are monitored. I doubt Community Standards wants to be in the business of monitoring infractions because it opens the flood gates for claims of selective enforcement. You can make claims as to what you believe Community Standards should be doing but it really doesn't matter. They are obviously doing what they have been instructed to do and I suspect there is solid legal advice behind their mission for the reason I already stated. As far as I can tell, they uniformly apply the deed restrictions under the reporting system they have chosen to implement.

I lived in a condo complex with an HOA, and we had deed restrictions.

If you want it to be up to the complainer to complain, then it is the responsibility of the Community Standards to MAKE that complaint, if they see a violation while they're in the process of investigating another violation.

If I am a Community Standards officer, visiting 1313 Mockingbird Lane for violation of the grey peeling paint on their front door, and I see a plastic pink flamingo on the front lawn of their neighbor when I park my golf cart in front of the neighbor's house, then it is my responsibility to point out to the guy at 1311 Mockingbird Land that he needs to get rid of his pink flamingo.

If I CHOOSE not to complain about what is right in front of me, then I am selectively enforcing the rules.

[2newyorkers]

Why is this person reporting violations when she does not live in the Village? Do you really think it is because she cares about the violations? Don't you feel it is because it gives her a feeling of self importance? She is not correcting an injustice, she is being a tattle tale.

[JoMar]

I moved here nine months ago. I don’t have a clue what the restrictions are? So, I guess I couldn’t report anyone since I would not have any idea what to report? That said, I believe common sense is in order. If someone has a small pelican ornament in their front yard who cares? Now if someone has 20 lawn ornaments in their front yard, then certainly that’s a different thing. I’m too busy enjoying my new life in the villages to be looking for things to report. Again, I’m not even sure what I would report? Yes maybe I need to find out what the restrictions are

You purchased here and didn't know what you were buying into? Really?

[Martian]

You purchased here and didn't know what you were buying into? Really?


Okay, so why would anyone have an issue...

Maybe for things like:

Section 2: No business - PERIOD FULL STOP. Nothing ambiguous here, easy to enforce, just ask the owners of TOTV who were reported for violating this one and had to either shut it down or relocate it's "offices". And BTW if any of you are trading stocks online from your laptop at home (late at night with the lights turned off in your closet so no one can see you and report you) with the intent of making a profit, you are in violation and should turn yourselves in, since we know you didn't move here with the intent of violating the rules.

Section 3: Seriously, nothing "noxious or offensive"? Seriously? Uh, defining offensive will be an entire thread in and of itself. Personally I find anything orange to be offensive, and I am sure you will all agree with that, right? I did have a former wife that considered anything Purple offensive, but I did say she was a "former" wife, and that pretty much explains that...

But, then I am sure everyone agrees with me on what offensive means and so there will be no problems enforcing this.

Section 6: What a wealth of humor we have here. This one section has spawned numerous threads in TOTV all by itself. I am sure the committee that wrote it spent a significant amount of time getting the meaning exactly and clearly defined...

Lets start with only 2 goldfish are allowed. PERIOD - FULL STOP AGAIN. Anyone with more than two gold fish in their TV home should be persecuted (or prosecuted, I can't keep the two straight.) Also, I do hope you had your two goldfish neutered - we wouldn't want a couple hundred little goldfishlings spawning unexpectedly - against the rules. Oh, hmm, does a pregnant goldfish count as one goldfish or a hundred goldfish? A single goldfish would not need to be neutered, obviously, unless you let it have its goldfish friends of the opposite sex over on occasion, then appropriate chaperoning is recommended, or having it neutered is strongly suggested.

If you have any poultry you are in direct violation of section 6 - PERIOD FULL STOP - uh well, unless the poultry are birds, in which case two of them are permitted, uh well, unless you also have a Goldfish, then you have to get rid of a bird or the fish. I mean after all - RULES ARE RULES!

Why on earth would you want to move to The Villages knowing that you have two gold fish and a parakeet which is in direct violation of the RULES. Heavens forbid!

And btw, any of you who happen to have dogs, I hope you don't let anyone catch those dogs running around loose inside your house, since it is clearly stated in section 6 of THE RULES that all such pets shall be kept on a leash - PERIOD FULL STOP - NO EXCEPTIONS are defined and therefore no exceptions are permitted.

And for those of you who were lulled into thinking you could at least take your dogs to the off leash dog parks for them to get some exercise running and playing with the other dogs. You should pay close attention to Section 6 which clearly does not provide for any exceptions to the RULES - "such pets" (dogs are part of the animal kingdom defined as pets) shall be kept on a leash. So, sorry, you must keep your pet leashed at all times, even at the off leash dog park.

And speaking of leashes, you better have those gold fish leashed, or else because you know - RULES ARE RULES and the rules clearly and specifically define gold fish as "pets" and the owners of such "pets" are required to keep them on leash(es).

Yep, I agree why would anyone move here knowing they were going to be in violation of THE RULES, because well, all together now - RULES ARE RULES!

Seems pretty simple to me. But, if not, we can continue through the other sections which provide as least as much amusement as these three.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I believe you have failed to understand the nuance of how infractions are monitored. I doubt Community Standards wants to be in the business of monitoring infractions because it opens the flood gates for claims of selective enforcement. You can make claims as to what you believe Community Standards should be doing but it really doesn't matter. They are obviously doing what they have been instructed to do and I suspect there is solid legal advice behind their mission for the reason I already stated. As far as I can tell, they uniformly apply the deed restrictions under the reporting system they have chosen to implement.

So, you think that any resident of any part of the Villages is doing everyone a favor by going around neighborhoods she doesn't live in, with the intention of collecting a list of addresses with violations to turn in to Community Standards.

And in the same breath, you think that an individual working for Community Standards, who is also a resident of any part of the Villages, whose job it is to check out these lists of violations, should NOT submit their own complaints when they see violations that aren't on those lists.

It's important and helpful if one person does it, but it's also important and helpful if someone else doesn't do it.

I "fine" that hypocritical.

[Sbrothnj]

There is a difference between something that violates a restriction and something that is offensive or improper. Or something that truly detracts from property values. From the people I know, they didn't move here to patrol neighborhoods, particularly not their own, in order to make an issue of a non-issue for the sake of feeling important. In fact, I doubt most people move here for the deed restrictions, as someone mentioned above. I've stayed away from HOA developments up until now, specifically for that reason, and realtors around the country will tell you that that is a primary reason people dont want to live in those developments. Not because they want to live like slobs or dont appreciate neatness, but because there are limits on how much people will allow others to dictate how they live. (Hong Kong?). I have no infringements on my home, but i did hesitate to buy here because of that. I, like so many others, buy here because of the lifestyle, the golf, the pickleball, the shows, the activities AND the overall beauty of the place, particularly the public areas. I cringe at the thought of people who dont have lives to live, finding street patrols satisfying when there is so much else here to enjoy. The new state law that allows gardening in the front lawns must be giving them sleepless nights. (I know its being contested). Anyway, i hope Moral1 and GracieGirl are following the responses and choose to leave their neighbors in peace.

[HimandMe]

When we bought our house (third one here) I asked the man who showed it to us the day we moved in about putting my little stone Dalmatian dog out front. He, who works in a upper position for TV said, go ahead. If a neighbor is a tattle tale you may have to put it under the eaves. The villages doesn’t go around inspecting such little things and only very hesitantly say anything unless there is a complaint. I put the dog out beside the fire hydrant for years but he needed paint so he is now gone. None of my neighbors objected or had a hissy fit over him. I guess I was lucky to move into a reasonable area. It was far from having junk vehicles in the yard.

[biker1]

Please feel free to argue with someone else and don’t put words in my mouth as you have no idea what I think. I am only explaining how things work and the probable reason why things are the way they are. You seem to be totally oblivious to the nuts and bolts of actually enforcing deed restrictions in a large community and the limited options that are available. I am sorry this is not Camelot. Perhaps you should have researched The Villages in more detail. Have a nice day.


So, you think that any resident of any part of the Villages is doing everyone a favor by going around neighborhoods she doesn't live in, with the intention of collecting a list of addresses with violations to turn in to Community Standards.

And in the same breath, you think that an individual working for Community Standards, who is also a resident of any part of the Villages, whose job it is to check out these lists of violations, should NOT submit their own complaints when they see violations that aren't on those lists.

It's important and helpful if one person does it, but it's also important and helpful if someone else doesn't do it.

I "fine" that hypocritical.

[Reasons]

It seems there is always someone who thinks it is their job to control everyone else. "What you are speaks so loudly I can not here what you say", Ralph Waldo Emerson

[Michael Charles]

with turning in folks with deed restriction violations.

Perhaps those who don't appreciate the folks who don't want our neighborhoods looking like a trailer park filled with degenerates are part of the problem.

Shame on you and your stereotypical comment about trailer parks. Your attitude towards them is shameful. There are degenerates in every community and especially in every income group just look at the recent news about filthy rich people who sexually assaulted others. Imagine that someone in a million dollar home right next door to you doing things that only degenerates" do. I'm certain that their neighbors are in total shock.

Please turn me in for having a 8" ceramic turtle in my flower bed.

[Jeffryolseth]

Perhaps if you were aware that anyone can register a complaint you would feel differently. Yes, anyone, whether they are an owner or not can make a complaint. Imagine if you fired a vendor and they could retaliate by making an anonymous complaint causing you to have to make a change?

[Ingenuity]

I guess I have caring neighbors here in Fenny and elsewhere in the Southern Oaks area. If there is someone "out of compliance" we go over there and ask if they need help. Finger pointing does not lead to a cohesive neighborhood. There are people here that need a boost sometimes. I know my friend did and neighbors helped with his yard, asked him to dinner, helped w/meals. They still check in and I visit every weekend. One may move here w/great intentions, but sickness and/or emergencies happen. I will be moving back soon to help, but I thank these people for their caring, not complaining.

[ron32162]

:boom:Deed restrictions are in place and accepted by everyone who moves in The Villages when you buy a home here. Property values are saved and rise in value because of these restrictions. If you are so proud of your home made glass bottle tree or your statues or your personal art work or your cactus garden or your trailor park reflectors lining your front yard or your 3 ft fish planter with flowers growing out of its mouth just put it out in your back yard so you can lounge all day on your barca lounger chair viewing your bad taste thru your sliding glass door but please put a nice thick hedge up first so your rear neighbors do not have to look at it.

[Martian]

:boom:Deed restrictions are in place and accepted by everyone who moves in The Villages when you buy a home here. Property values are saved and rise in value because of these restrictions. If you are so proud of your home made glass bottle tree or your statues or your personal art work or your cactus garden or your trailor park reflectors lining your front yard or your 3 ft fish planter with flowers growing out of its mouth just put it out in your back yard so you can lounge all day on your barca lounger chair viewing your bad taste thru your sliding glass door but please put a nice thick hedge up first so your rear neighbors do not have to look at it.

I see and how many gold fish can I have if I promise to keep them on a leash?

Edit: In case you think I am just being silly, the deed restrictions specifically state I can have only 2 goldfish and they must be kept on leashes at all times.

[Martian]

I guess I have caring neighbors here in Fenny and elsewhere in the Southern Oaks area. If there is someone "out of compliance" we go over there and ask if they need help. Finger pointing does not lead to a cohesive neighborhood. There are people here that need a boost sometimes. I know my friend did and neighbors helped with his yard, asked him to dinner, helped w/meals. They still check in and I visit every weekend. One may move here w/great intentions, but sickness and/or emergencies happen. I will be moving back soon to help, but I thank these people for their caring, not complaining.

Excellent post!

:bigbow:

[bandksheaffer]

For all of the people complaining and calling out "rats".

Stop being childish idiots.

If I drive thru your neighborhood and your weeds are two feet high, I'm reporting you.

There are a lot of hoods that I drive thru to either get to a club, rec center, golf course etc. If I see a violation, :boom: reported.

[OhioBuckeye]

I can only tell you how it affects me and that it reminds me of Nazi Germany and how neighbors turned in neighbors. I don’t mind the restrictions but I don’t like the snitching.
Well I have to agree with you. We moved from the Villages after 8 yrs. but not for that reason. Where we live now it’s just like you said it was there only worse. Here they they email you or text you & curse you. The sad thing here about the people they only pick certain words out of your complaint & don’t quote exactly what you say. Most people complain just because they want you to Respond. Hope it works out!

[Martian]

I agree calling people idiots, that you only know via the internet is a way to win friends and influence people. But, then somehow I don't think the point of your post was either. So, this is not a discussion of differing views, simply a black board where people can post their opinions and make fun of other people.

[PennBF]

You have options. If you don't like the rules. MOVE..You came here knowing the rules. No one is holding you here and you have the option of leaving. If you want pink birds in plastic on your lawn or want to advertise you are a Christian by lawn oraments (I am a christian but that is between me and my god), and if you don't believe God did a good job by giving us beautiful flowers and green grass and great green growth then for god's sake move to somewhere where you can mess up God's work and admire awful commercially made things. Even to the extent of fake flowers which is a low point in ruining the wonderful community we live in. Again, please leave us to our beautiful Villages and Deed Restrictions meant to keep it that way and enjoy the outside "plastic" world. :ho:

[MrsPhil]

The biggest problem with the reporting of so-called violations is that more often than not it is by people who "troll"; that is, they don't live in the neighborhood but find their jollies looking for offenses. You seem to think every "offense" is leading toward trailer trash when, in fact, the offense sometimes is a beautiful lawn ornament that enhances a yard. Sometimes it is a necessity for a disabled person who wasn't aware that adding a few bricks to the side of his driveway for safety's sake was a big deal. Sometimes a homeowner is in distress and it would be so much kinder for those trollers to stop and see if assistance in yard work is needed. And sometimes it is a vindictive person who makes things up! (Yes, this happened to a friend of mine.) From the many "violations" I have read about, they are petty things which could easily be taken care of by neighbors talking to each other. If it isn't your neighborhood, it isn't your business; if it is your neighborhood, then how about taking The Villages mantra into account: "Florida's Friendliest Hometown". Make it so.

[Martian]

You have options. If you don't like the rules. MOVE..You came here knowing the rules. No one is holding you here and you have the option of leaving. If you want pink birds in plastic on your lawn or want to advertise you are a Christian by lawn oraments (I am a christian but that is between me and my god), and if you don't believe God did a good job by giving us beautiful flowers and green grass and great green growth then for god's sake move to somewhere where you can mess up God's work and admire awful commercially made things. Even to the extent of fake flowers which is a low point in ruining the wonderful community we live in. Again, please leave us to our beautiful Villages and Deed Restrictions meant to keep it that way and enjoy the outside "plastic" world. :ho:

So, if I understand you post correctly, you don't really care if or how the rules are enforced. Most of your post is about what you think is objectionable and you should not have to enjoy seeing it.

I draw that conclusion because most of your post is about what you don't like, not about the deed restrictions and/or their enforcement.

[skip0358]

I agree with a lot of the Posts however, If I get turned in and they come out and inspect and tell me mine is not in compliance but there are other houses on the same block with the same violation and you hear well we didn't get a complaint on theirs only yours that's just not right. In all honesty there are MANY homes in TV that are not in compliance with one thing or another be it curbing side yard clearance, the raised curbing by many garages with the less then the required clearance, planting hedges in the Utility right aways, hedge heights etc. etc. as far as the White Cross I was informed mine in my rear yard had to go. Now I don't even face a roadway so tell me how someone spotted that! Another thing how can I rear yard that faces a roadway look like a jungle with you name in it but I front yard can't. Same roads!

[roob1]

Who cares who reported or how the violation is reported? Who cares if people find their jollies reporting? Who cares if it is not the reporters business? The issue is the violation.

You are projecting blame or blame-shifting. If there was no violation, there would be no trolls to blame, no bad reporting system to blame. If the report was made-up, nothing happens.

Why not examine your own motivation to violate, or the motivation of others who violate?

The biggest problem with the reporting of so-called violations is that more often than not it is by people who "troll"; that is, they don't live in the neighborhood but find their jollies looking for offenses. You seem to think every "offense" is leading toward trailer trash when, in fact, the offense sometimes is a beautiful lawn ornament that enhances a yard. Sometimes it is a necessity for a disabled person who wasn't aware that adding a few bricks to the side of his driveway for safety's sake was a big deal. Sometimes a homeowner is in distress and it would be so much kinder for those trollers to stop and see if assistance in yard work is needed. And sometimes it is a vindictive person who makes things up! (Yes, this happened to a friend of mine.) From the many "violations" I have read about, they are petty things which could easily be taken care of by neighbors talking to each other. If it isn't your neighborhood, it isn't your business; if it is your neighborhood, then how about taking The Villages mantra into account: "Florida's Friendliest Hometown". Make it so.

[Martian]

I agree with a lot of the Posts however, If I get turned in and they come out and inspect and tell me mine is not in compliance but there are other houses on the same block with the same violation and you hear well we didn't get a complaint on theirs only yours that's just not right. In all honesty there are MANY homes in TV that are not in compliance with one thing or another be it curbing side yard clearance, the raised curbing by many garages with the less then the required clearance, planting hedges in the Utility right aways, hedge heights etc. etc. as far as the White Cross I was informed mine in my rear yard had to go. Now I don't even face a roadway so tell me how someone spotted that! Another thing how can I rear yard that faces a roadway look like a jungle with you name in it but I front yard can't. Same roads!

Very good points that address several of the problems with code compliance. Especially concerning selective enforcement.

But, then you know, RULES are RULES! :)

[Barefoot]

... a couple of nicely placed ones actually could 'increase' the value the values of surrounding homes. A nicely appropriated home appeals to people, called curb value.

Also, what's wrong with a few lawn decorations in the front of the house?

Tasteful is in the eye of the beholder. Do you think it's OK to put a stuffed fox or a large Budda in the front yard? That's exactly why there are deed restrictions.

If you follow the rules you agreed to when you bought a home here, no one would ever have anything to report. That seems easy to understand.

:agree:

[larrycox8ball@gmail.com]

Agree. These bad people are REAL problems. Minor landscaping violations are of very little consequence, if any.

[Velvet]

Well, may I say the new areas seem a bit bland. The landscaping hasn’t grown in yet. The older areas are beautifully as they are - whatever has been done in the past seems to be working. Just saying.

[Byte1]

I am having hard time figuring out how most of the rules I read in my neighborhood being violated will suddenly lead to my neighborhood becoming trailer park trash.

My home is in violation at this very moment and I have only been here 3 days! OMG! The Internet service provider had to run a bright orange cable from the junction box out front along my neighbors yard, around the back of my house and back up to the front side where it goes into my house. They had to do this because the junction box is on the wrong side of my drive way, and it's a RULE that they can not put it under my drive way without permission. So, my neighbor was fine with them putting this ugly cable on the ground for 2 or 3 days while they get permission to put it under my driveway.

I guess I have now personally made all the houses in the villages loose at a least 10% of their market value by letting the company install this monstrosity.

It appears to me that by making it a complaint driven system the rules are designed/intended to be interpreted by the neighbors as far as how strict or not they want their neighborhood to be. And I agree with the post above, if you don't live in my neighborhood, how is my having a pottery frog (or a long orange wire) in my front yard affecting your quality of life or the resale value of your property?

I guess it is just the same as the grammar NAZIs online. Those people that feel compelled to ignore the meaning of a post and focus on the missing comma... I mean, BUT BUT BUT ITS THE RULE!

:thumbup::agree:

[Byte1]

Tasteful is in the eye of the beholder. Do you think it's OK to put a stuffed fox or a large Budda in the front yard? That's exactly why there are deed restrictions.



:agree:

I don't have a problem with the fox or the Budda. How my neighbor personalizes their yard is their preference, NOT mine. I find it very immature that anyone finds fault with what others do, and think that some need to grow up and quit being the kid that snitches on his sister (or brother) just to make trouble. And that is ALL it is, just someone wishing to make trouble. Most complaints are not even from the neighbors.
By the way, some deed restrictions demand that you get prior approval before modifying ANY landscaping, to include any new gardens and shrub planting. Those that complain are the ones with the problems, and I do not believe it has anything to do with how someone decorates their homes. It's likely just how the Villages did not live up to their expectation of Utopia that they thought they were moving into.
If you mind your own business you will find that you AND your neighbors will live a happier, more enjoyable stay in The Villages.

[JoMar]

Interesting that the posters who are complaining about the need to have all of us step up to what we agreed to are mostly new arrivals, either to TOTV or The Villages (determined by the number of posts). Why is that?

[manaboutown]

The biggest problem with the reporting of so-called violations is that more often than not it is by people who "troll"; that is, they don't live in the neighborhood but find their jollies looking for offenses. You seem to think every "offense" is leading toward trailer trash when, in fact, the offense sometimes is a beautiful lawn ornament that enhances a yard. Sometimes it is a necessity for a disabled person who wasn't aware that adding a few bricks to the side of his driveway for safety's sake was a big deal. Sometimes a homeowner is in distress and it would be so much kinder for those trollers to stop and see if assistance in yard work is needed. And sometimes it is a vindictive person who makes things up! (Yes, this happened to a friend of mine.) From the many "violations" I have read about, they are petty things which could easily be taken care of by neighbors talking to each other. If it isn't your neighborhood, it isn't your business; if it is your neighborhood, then how about taking The Villages mantra into account: "Florida's Friendliest Hometown". Make it so.

Well said! :agree::agree::agree:

[Martian]

Interesting that the posters who are complaining about the need to have all of us step up to what we agreed to are mostly new arrivals, either to TOTV or The Villages (determined by the number of posts). Why is that?

I expect most of the old timers are tired of the topic.

[Marathon Man]

I don't have a problem with the fox or the Budda. How my neighbor personalizes their yard is their preference, NOT mine. I find it very immature that anyone finds fault with what others do, and think that some need to grow up and quit being the kid that snitches on his sister (or brother) just to make trouble. And that is ALL it is, just someone wishing to make trouble. Most complaints are not even from the neighbors.
By the way, some deed restrictions demand that you get prior approval before modifying ANY landscaping, to include any new gardens and shrub planting. Those that complain are the ones with the problems, and I do not believe it has anything to do with how someone decorates their homes. It's likely just how the Villages did not live up to their expectation of Utopia that they thought they were moving into.
If you mind your own business you will find that you AND your neighbors will live a happier, more enjoyable stay in The Villages.

I agree that many here need to grow up and become an adult.

An adult follows rules. An adult's signature on a contract has meaning. An adult does not blame others when he gets caught doing something they promised not to do. An adult does not become angry when they are told they broke a rule, and look for someone to be angry at. An adult does not insist that he should be allowed to do something simply because he wants to. An adult leads by example and teaches his children and grandchildren that rules are needed and important.

I could go on, but you get the idea.

[Martian]

I agree that many here need to grow up and become an adult.

An adult follows rules. An adult's signature on a contract has meaning. An adult does not blame others when he gets caught doing something they promised not to do. An adult does not become angry when they are told they broke a rule, and look for someone to be angry at. An adult does not insist that he should be allowed to do something simply because he wants to. An adult leads by example and teaches his children and grandchildren that rules are needed and important.

I could go on, but you get the idea.

Just wondering. Can you show me any cases of people on this thread getting upset because they "got caught" breaking the rules? I have spoken to many neighbors in my short time here and very few have "been caught", but those that did mostly laughed about it and said, "oh well".

Oh, and just to nit pick, in 40 years of working at numerous companies (contractor) I can not think of a single "adult" that didn't steal pencils, paper pads, etc. I can not think of a single employee that did not steal from the employer by using his company laptop to browse the internet (except a few in top secret labs, where the computers did not have access to the internet).

Shall we take a look at what percentage of ADULTS have driven for more than 30 years and have NO traffic violations?

I am not sure what world you like in, but I expect MOST adults don't follow the RULES.

[rrb48310]

So this is EXACTLY why making it complaint driven is a "C.S." way of structuring it. Every other association in deed restricted communities has association people doing drive by inspections and reporting. The Villages, in their cowardly practice of abdicating this responsibility, encourages neighborhood feuds by their practice. If there is blame to be laid, let's lay it where it belongs! The Villages! I was 100% stunned when I heard this shortly after moving in. Oh go ahead and tell me to move since I refuse to drink the kool-aid!!! Oh and by the way, no one is suggesting neighbors be sent to a concentration camp. Those using a Nazi analogy have a complete disrespect for those that suffered under them, and sound like spoiled ANTIFA flakes.

chilout
A little angry, but I mostly agree The Villages/governing body needs to do the inspecting and enforcing. I read in another thread, that after someone moved in (and made no changes) got a letter telling them they were not in compliance. The governing body needs to keep everything in compliance, there can’t be “if it’s ok with your neighbors it’s ok” type of enforcement. Neighbors change, so if everyone on a block does the same thing for years and one new neighbor moves in and doesn’t like it and then reports everyone, they’re not Nazi’s, but it does cause ill feelings and keeps us creating threads like this one. Maybe the millions of miles that the Community Watch drives could help in enforcement, they see it all.

[fitnessrs@aol.com]

I would not say that just because people don't report neighbors for code violations that they don't have a problem with them. They just don't want to be the one that reports their neighbor. There is a difference.

[fitnessrs@aol.com]

I agree 100% that the community watch staff should be reporting all code violations. It should not be left to the neighbors to report them. That way it will be consistently enforced all over the villages.

[FenneyFanatic]

Has it occurred to anyone that the bulk of these complaints are coming from neighbors who want to remain anonymous? Oh wait...that's the point of the whole system!! That is likely where the myth of the wandering complainants comes from..

[Serenoa]

I agree that many here need to grow up and become an adult.

An adult follows rules. An adult's signature on a contract has meaning. An adult does not blame others when he gets caught doing something they promised not to do. An adult does not become angry when they are told they broke a rule, and look for someone to be angry at. An adult does not insist that he should be allowed to do something simply because he wants to. An adult leads by example and teaches his children and grandchildren that rules are needed and important.

I could go on, but you get the idea.

:bigbow::bigbow::bigbow:

Just FOLLOW THE RULES. Problem solved.

[roob1]

The number of posts does not necessarily reflect when a person arrived to TV or began using TOTV. Many here may have huge number of posts, mostly consisting of "I agree" or a single emoticon. These do not move the discussion forward, and are close to worthless. Some members comment on almost every thread.

Interesting that the posters who are complaining about the need to have all of us step up to what we agreed to are mostly new arrivals, either to TOTV or The Villages (determined by the number of posts). Why is that?

[Two Bills]

I see and how many gold fish can I have if I promise to keep them on a leash?

Edit: In case you think I am just being silly, the deed restrictions specifically state I can have only 2 goldfish and they must be kept on leashes at all times.

But are each of the Goldfish under or over 40lbs?

[Barefoot]

I agree that many here need to grow up and become an adult.
An adult follows rules. An adult's signature on a contract has meaning. An adult does not blame others when he gets caught doing something they promised not to do. An adult does not become angry when they are told they broke a rule, and look for someone to be angry at. An adult does not insist that he should be allowed to do something simply because he wants to.
It's not important how the violation of deed restrictions is reported.
If there was no violation of deed restrictions, blame would not be necessary.

[coffeebean]

I see and how many gold fish can I have if I promise to keep them on a leash?

Edit: In case you think I am just being silly, the deed restrictions specifically state I can have only 2 goldfish and they must be kept on leashes at all times.

This is quite enlightening. I never realized we are not allowed to have an aquarium in our homes. The fact there is a limit to two fish? That is ludicrous. Keeping fish on a leash? That must be an error.

[Martian]

But are each of the Goldfish under or over 40lbs?

I hope they are under, but my covenants do not apply any size restrictions on the "pets".

[coffeebean]

I guess I have caring neighbors here in Fenny and elsewhere in the Southern Oaks area. If there is someone "out of compliance" we go over there and ask if they need help. Finger pointing does not lead to a cohesive neighborhood. There are people here that need a boost sometimes. I know my friend did and neighbors helped with his yard, asked him to dinner, helped w/meals. They still check in and I visit every weekend. One may move here w/great intentions, but sickness and/or emergencies happen. I will be moving back soon to help, but I thank these people for their caring, not complaining.
I'm confused by this statement. I understand all about caring neighbors and neighbors helping neighbors. But......why would anyone offer help to a neighbor who has put a lawn ornament in their yard? What am I missing here?

[Barefoot]

***

[lakegage]

Get a life. people! You agreed to the restrictions when you bought into The Villages. Now be a responsible adult and live up to your agreement.

[Martian]

This is quite enlightening. I never realized we are not allowed to have an aquarium in our homes. The fact there is a limit to two fish? That is ludicrous. Keeping fish on a leash? That must be an error.

In an earlier post I included a screen shot of the covenant for our district (12) but the wording is almost identical in all of them.

It describes what are allowable pets, what are not allowable pets, and how many pets you can have. I am CERTAIN the intent is to only allow 2 dogs, however, the wording is very clear and specific - it says there will be no more than 2 of the pets - which includes the fish. It also say that the owner is required to keep the "pets" on a leash, again obviously referring to dogs (maybe cats?) but that is not what it says. It says fish are pets and pets have to be kept on a leash.

My purpose in posting it, and repeating it, is that people keep saying that we should follow the rules, and if we don't follow the rules we are just stupid (name calling always works well in public discussions). Well then I suggest everyone should follow the rules. Keep your gold fish on a leash and don't have more than 2 of any mixture of pets. Don't do any investing in the stock market or selling or renting of multiple properties for a profit at home, etc, etc, etc.

Pretty silly isn't it. The covenants are all like that. People may "think" they know what they are agreeing to, but the wording is so poor that it is completely open to interpretation.

My opinion is that the covenants describe an intent, which is to keep TV beautiful for everyone to enjoy and benefit from. They provide guidelines only. And any complaint is investigated and the incident is evaluated to determine if it abides by the intent or not. If it is in violation of the rule they can (and do) grant exceptions.

All the fluster and bluster is not moving things forward, since they are proposing that we follow the exact letter of the rules, while those rules are so poorly written they can not in all reality be followed.

[Bogie Shooter]

Sorry, but this is old news.

[Martian]

Sorry, but this is old news.

Completely agree, the entire thread is old news. But, some things get better as they age :)

(At least I keep telling myself that)

[coffeebean]

I have spoken to many neighbors in my short time here and very few have "been caught", but those that did mostly laughed about it and said, "oh well".

About a year ago, hubby and I were taking a walk in our neighborhood. We came across a home with really beautiful landscaping and the homeowner happened to be outside. We commented how beautiful his landscape was and he thanked us.

Then.......the RANT happened. He told us he was reported for his landscape wall being too close to the property line. He was informed he had to have it removed. Believe me...he was not laughing.

[Martian]

About a year ago, hubby and I were taking a walk in our neighborhood. We came across a home with really beautiful landscaping and the homeowner happened to be outside. We commented how beautiful his landscape was and he thanked us.

Then.......the RANT happened. He told us he was reported for his landscape wall being too close to the property line. He was informed he had to have it removed. Believe me...he was not laughing.

Well, mine was one, and that is one. We have what another 161,998 to check with?

[Martian]

I have a serious question to ask (most of my posts are not serious, if you haven't noticed).

How many of you "Rules are Rules" types have called the police and reported a friend who had one too many beers and was driving home?

[jim32]

To me, it's a case of what is a real issue and what is not and who is doing the reporting. If my neighbor put up several 20 foot high pink flamingos in his/her front yard, that's one thing - it should be removed as it certainly violates "community standards" and is an eyesore. However, if a neighbor 3 doors down on my cul-de-sac places an inconspicuous small white cross in honor of her husband who passed while living in The Villages (which is an actual happening), that's quite another. The small cross is not an eyesore; it is barely noticeable among some shrubs in the yard and should be allowed to remain.

Personally, I also have a problem with people reporting anonymously; it's one thing for people living close to those displaying whatever it is they are complaining about and possibly affecting the value of their home or making it difficult to sell, but quite another for people/trolls who ride around just looking for things to complain about when it does not concern them at all. Things are rarely black and white; if they were, we would not need the architectural review committee.

[rjn5656]

I agree. I moved here because I liked the deed restrictions. Saying that, if I have a neighbor who doesn't follow them, I have the courage to address it with them. I don't need anyone from other neighborhoods riding around a school kid to see what they are going to catch. Get a life people.

[Martian]

I was speaking with my neighbors across the street and the topic turned to my driveway painting that is starting today. They asked if I had gotten ARC approval yet, and I said I had not yet, because I submitted everything and ARC wanted a copy of my deed. I just closed 3 days ago and don't have the deed yet. I told them that today the contractor was only going to do those parts not visible from the street - the garage, lanai, etc. and the Driveway would wait until I had approval. I said I was tempted to go ahead anyway, because I spoke to them when I sent is the application with photos of the designs etc, and they said they didn't see any problems, except they needed the deed before they normally would approve it.

My neighbor then asked what kind of design we were getting, and I said we decided on a pair of pole dancers outlined in flashing red LEDs...

They laughed.

[Velvet]

Can I ask, if you want a reminder of someone passing why not have the cross inside? Is it to let everyone else know? The thing is a cross is a religious symbol, and so it brings up emotions in those who are Christian and those who are not.

[Martian]

I agree. I moved here because I liked the deed restrictions. Saying that, if I have a neighbor who doesn't follow them, I have the courage to address it with them. I don't need anyone from other neighborhoods riding around a school kid to see what they are going to catch. Get a life people.

:coolsmiley:

[biker1]

I believe the “inside the house” restrictions are enforced by the Developer and not Community Standards. I dont’t believe the Developer does much enforcement. I think you are OK with lots of goldfish.

I see and how many gold fish can I have if I promise to keep them on a leash?

Edit: In case you think I am just being silly, the deed restrictions specifically state I can have only 2 goldfish and they must be kept on leashes at all times.

[Martian]

I believe the “inside the house” restrictions are enforced by the Developer and not Community Standards. I dont’t believe the Developer does much enforcement. I think you are OK with lots of goldfish.

:1rotfl::clap2::1rotfl:

But, but, but... The rules boss, the rules!

[hrenner]

Sounds like someone who wants to break the rules or fells above the rules

[yankygrl]

It isn't the complaint it is the anonymous system and "trolls" who may or may not live in that neighborhood, or even The Villages.

[Villageswimmer]

Has it occurred to anyone that the bulk of these complaints are coming from neighbors who want to remain anonymous? Oh wait...that's the point of the whole system!! That is likely where the myth of the wandering complainants comes from..


I, too, believe these people with clipboards is a myth. I’ve seen ZERO evidence to substantiate this.

[claytocl]

Trailer parks aren’t what they used to be, honey.

[CWGUY]

:icon_wink:I'm getting a kick out of this thread like everyone else.:a040: Even if it is like DEJA VU all over again. Here we are at almost 140 posts and it just dawned on me...... :confused:isn't there an unwritten site rule that states you have to have deflated the airbed and made sure the ink is dry on your sales contract before you start campaigning to change the deed restrictions you agreed too? :oops:

[EdFNJ]

What really gets me is the people who snitch and don’t even live in the neighborhood where the violation is.

Really the little white crosses and the beautiful bird ornaments bothers people or detracts from the neighborhood. Little white crosses grow into 8 foot tall crosses made with 2x4's and lit up with a spotlight in the middle of a lawn for 4+ months of every year. It's not the crosses it's the idea that if "A" is ok then "B" is too or is she can do it so can I. A lawn display is a lawn display whether it's a cross or a peeing dog or a 6 inch high bird which all violate what we chose to agree to when we bought here.

I really don't get it. It has nothing to do with religion or patriotism (in the case of flags). There are no "shades of gray" with this it's simply allowed or not and here it is not and we ALL agreed that it is NOT when we moved in here and signed the papers.

[Martian]

:icon_wink:I'm getting a kick out of this thread like everyone else.:a040: Even if it is like DEJA VU all over again. Here we are at almost 140 posts and it just dawned on me...... :confused:isn't there an unwritten site rule that states you have to have deflated the airbed and made sure the ink is dry on your sales contract before you start campaigning to change the deed restrictions you agreed too? :oops:

Interesting question, can you point to the person that wants to change the covenants we agreed to? I am sure you didn't just make the up.

[Villageswimmer]

Interesting that the posters who are complaining about the need to have all of us step up to what we agreed to are mostly new arrivals, either to TOTV or The Villages (determined by the number of posts). Why is that?


Interesting indeed.

Wait. How would the clipboard woman (according to legend, it’s always a woman) in the golf cart get south of 44 to stir up all this angst?

Kinda like Santa. “She’s” everywhere.

Or, is she a convenient scapegoat?

[Martian]

I really don't get it. It has nothing to do with religion or patriotism (in the case of flags). There are no "shades of gray" with this it's simply allowed or not and here it is not and we ALL agreed that it is NOT when we moved in here and signed the papers.

Well, section 4 of my covenants say "Lawn ornaments are prohibited, except for seasonal displays"

So, basically it says you can put out a set of lawn ornament for every season... I think there are four seasons, and between them they make up the whole year...

Seriously, everyone is acting like this is all clear cut legal agreement, and the language in them would be laughed out of any court. I am NOT saying I disagree with them (I mentioned earlier I am waiting to paint my driveway so that I am in fact in compliance.) I am just saying, things are not all black and white like it is being made out here.

[PennBF]

What I posted is what is in violation of the Deed Restrictions. Why is it necessary to try to justify everything by failed judgement and faulty logic. I can say what I think but I can't help you understand it I see there are those who make the person who reports the violation of the Deed Restriction as the "bad person" and the one violating the Villages rules as the "victim"So the Cop who stops a person who is speeding is bad and the one speeding is a victim. It is truly scary that we have some people who believe this "junk" and preach this to our children. We then wonder why they have little respect for the laws. To add fuel to the fire we make "dope" legal and screw up their minds. And were the "older generation" and should be educating our children and respecting the laws. Is this the first evidence the general IQ has fallen and continues to fall. Sure as heck looks like it?? :ho:

[Chi-Town]

You know a couple of pink flamingos being OK'd opens the door for their ancestors

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190909/0a686478f13f2633394d4fb4d0f3e8e5.jpg

Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk

[Martian]

You know a couple of pink flamingos being OK'd opens the door for their ancestors

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190909/0a686478f13f2633394d4fb4d0f3e8e5.jpg

Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk

Oh No! "Dinosaurs That Ate The Villages", coming to a theater near you!

And with that I think I am out of this thread, it is just flapping in the breeze... so to speak. It's been real, see you in the next thread.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

You have options. If you don't like the rules. MOVE..You came here knowing the rules. No one is holding you here and you have the option of leaving. If you want pink birds in plastic on your lawn or want to advertise you are a Christian by lawn oraments (I am a christian but that is between me and my god), and if you don't believe God did a good job by giving us beautiful flowers and green grass and great green growth then for god's sake move to somewhere where you can mess up God's work and admire awful commercially made things. Even to the extent of fake flowers which is a low point in ruining the wonderful community we live in. Again, please leave us to our beautiful Villages and Deed Restrictions meant to keep it that way and enjoy the outside "plastic" world. :ho:

Erm, god didn't have anything to do with the grass, or the flowers. The land didn't look anything remotely like it does now, until the developers plowed what god really DID create, destroyed it, removed it, and created something that was never meant to grow here. Wilderness is made by god. Lawns are made by landscapers.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

The biggest problem with the reporting of so-called violations is that more often than not it is by people who "troll"; that is, they don't live in the neighborhood but find their jollies looking for offenses. You seem to think every "offense" is leading toward trailer trash when, in fact, the offense sometimes is a beautiful lawn ornament that enhances a yard. Sometimes it is a necessity for a disabled person who wasn't aware that adding a few bricks to the side of his driveway for safety's sake was a big deal. Sometimes a homeowner is in distress and it would be so much kinder for those trollers to stop and see if assistance in yard work is needed. And sometimes it is a vindictive person who makes things up! (Yes, this happened to a friend of mine.) From the many "violations" I have read about, they are petty things which could easily be taken care of by neighbors talking to each other. If it isn't your neighborhood, it isn't your business; if it is your neighborhood, then how about taking The Villages mantra into account: "Florida's Friendliest Hometown". Make it so.

A novel idea, but sadly there are a few people who just get some kind of perverted thrill out of seeking flaws in everyone else. That is probably their own greatest flaw, but I'm guessing only one of many - which is why they spend so much time and effort seeking out the flaws of everyone else.

[EdFNJ]

Well, section 4 of my covenants say "Lawn ornaments are prohibited, except for seasonal displays"

So, basically it says you can put out a set of lawn ornament for every season... I think there are four seasons, and between them they make up the whole year...

Seriously, everyone is acting like this is all clear cut legal agreement, and the language in them would be laughed out of any court. I am NOT saying I disagree with them (I mentioned earlier I am waiting to paint my driveway so that I am in fact in compliance.) I am just saying, things are not all black and white like it is being made out here.

Interesting. What district are you in? Ours exactly (not basically) in district 6 says 30 DAYS which isn't quite forever based on "4 seasons.":

■ 2.15b Lawn ornaments are prohibited, except for seasons displays not exceeding a thirty (30) day duration.

Not quite sure what is a "seasons display". Strange terminology. My guess is (and it is admittedly poorly written and unclear) their intent was for major holidays but that wouldn't stand up in court. What is a major holiday for one may not be for another.

[Number 10 GI]

Interesting indeed.

Wait. How would the clipboard woman (according to legend, it’s always a woman) in the golf cart get south of 44 to stir up all this angst?

Kinda like Santa. “She’s” everywhere.

Or, is she a convenient scapegoat?

I must have missed the post saying she was seen south of 44. With all the posts on this and the other 2 threads it is very possible some one said she was.

[Number 10 GI]

My yard is in compliance with the codes so I'm not worried about someone reporting me. One of the reasons we like it here is because of the codes that keep the neighborhoods looking good. My problem is with the anonymous reporting. In my 72 years of life working in civilian and military organizations, the best way to ruin morale and cohesiveness is to have an unknown snitch ratting out people. It builds distrust and suspicion and makes the environment a distasteful place to work or live in. Seeing as how The Villages has set this system in place it belies the motto of the "Friendliest City".

[Rose Haverlack]

I think we should be apprised of people who "turn us in" because we should be able to face our accusers. For those people who are against the little white crosses, get real! Too many have been turned in for that "infraction" and it's silly. If it offends someone because s/he has no religious belief, why should those who do practice a faith be subjected to the others' hedonistic ways?

[Rose Haverlack]

I agree with several of the comments. If your own neighborhood people aren't offended by what's in your yard, why should TROLLS play the role of judge of the universe? What about adult children (40 + , 50+ years old) living with parents. A visit is nice; a forever stay is not why we moved here. Why must we all be exposed to degenerates, ill-bred people who should be living on their own rather than with elderly parents. It's time for these folks to get a life!

[PennBF]

You can't make this stuff up. Now with some posters God has nothing to do with grass and flowers, etc. Regardless how bad they sound some have to say something even if they are without substance so they make things up. These are people actually influencing the our children. :ohdear:

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I think we should be apprised of people who "turn us in" because we should be able to face our accusers. For those people who are against the little white crosses, get real! Too many have been turned in for that "infraction" and it's silly. If it offends someone because s/he has no religious belief, why should those who do practice a faith be subjected to the others' hedonistic ways?

I don't like them, and they make me uncomfortable. But I'm not going to file a formal complaint about them, unless I start seeing it become a trend in the neighborhood. A house here and there with one is just something I'll learn to accept as just some weird southern christian trend. It isn't a "thing" where I'm from. But those crosses ARE against the rules. They're against the rules, you know this when you move in, so if you choose to break the rules, you should accept that someone might object enough to complain formally about it. You can think it's stupid, and I might even agree with you if it's placed tastefully, and not made to be some kind of "in your face statement." But rules are rules. There are areas in the Villages where you're ALLOWED to put these things. If it's that big a deal to you, you should move to one of those areas.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

My yard is in compliance with the codes so I'm not worried about someone reporting me. One of the reasons we like it here is because of the codes that keep the neighborhoods looking good. My problem is with the anonymous reporting. In my 72 years of life working in civilian and military organizations, the best way to ruin morale and cohesiveness is to have an unknown snitch ratting out people. It builds distrust and suspicion and makes the environment a distasteful place to work or live in. Seeing as how The Villages has set this system in place it belies the motto of the "Friendliest City".

That's my objection. Not to reporting violations - people shouldn't knowingly violate the rules. Some rules are vague, some make no sense (see posts by Martian, who quotes actual nonsensical rules about pets), and some aren't typically "intentionally" violated (letting grass grow an inch too long because your landscaper was sick that week, for example).

The objection on my end is to the anonymity. There's zero accountability on the part of the person making the complaint, if the Community Standards doesn't have to record who that person is.

[Northwoods]

I agree that many here need to grow up and become an adult.

An adult follows rules. An adult's signature on a contract has meaning. An adult does not blame others when he gets caught doing something they promised not to do. An adult does not become angry when they are told they broke a rule, and look for someone to be angry at. An adult does not insist that he should be allowed to do something simply because he wants to. An adult leads by example and teaches his children and grandchildren that rules are needed and important.

I could go on, but you get the idea.
Totally agree!!! You choose to move here. You sign a contact. But for some people they decide they don't like some parts of the contract... so they should be able to ignore them. I have a neighbor that has a 6 foot lawn ornament in their front yard. I guess... based on some comments, I should just let things go. Even though I don't have any lawn ornaments in my front lawn because I know it's against the rules. And I think the 6 ft. lawn ornament is hideous. But I guess I should just suck it up...

[roob1]

Why does one need accountability when he/she reports a POSSIBLE infraction? After all, he/she is not the final determiner that a violation occurred, Community Standards is.

If CS had a record of the complainer, then what? Would the offender confronting the reporter result in anything positive?

[/QUOTE]The objection on my end is to the anonymity. There's zero accountability on the part of the person making the complaint, if the Community Standards doesn't have to record who that person is.[/QUOTE]

[Marathon Man]

Those that don't like annoymous reports - The best way to end that practice is to get rid of all violations. No violations, no complaints.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Why does one need accountability when he/she reports a POSSIBLE infraction? After all, he/she is not the final determiner that a violation occurred, Community Standards is.

If CS had a record of the complainer, then what? Would the offender confronting the reporter result in anything positive?

The objection on my end is to the anonymity. There's zero accountability on the part of the person making the complaint, if the Community Standards doesn't have to record who that person is.

I've gone into detail and given several examples over the last 15 pages of this thread, and of two previous threads on similar topics. But sure, here it is again:

There are people in this world who are not nice. They are petty and vindictive. This is a given and the Villages are not exempt from this.

Community Standards will investigate ALL complaints against a property.

Here's a new example, because this seems just so fitting and obvious:

Mr. Jones had a little ornamental statue on his front garden bed. Nothing tacky, just a simple little terra cotta bridge, three feet long, half a foot wide, curving over a winding stream made of blue river-rock. It had been there for the past 10 years, and he took good care of the garden bed, growing beautiful flowers and low-growing shrubbery with a few stepping stones leading to and from the little bridge.

Miss Smith was rebuffed by Mr. Jones when she found out he was a widow and wanted to hook up with him. Miss Smith was a petty, nasty woman, and reported Mr. Jones for the violation of the bridge. Not because she felt it shouldn't be there, but because she had a personal problem with Mr. Jones, and she was somewhat unhinged.

So CS came and made him move the decoration. He did - he put it under the eaves in a different flower bed. CS signed off on it and were satisfied.

Miss Smith, thinking she was going to create a lot of trouble for Mr. Jones, became even more unhinged, and decided she would take it out on CS. It was their fault, afterall, for not making Mr. Jones remove the entire decoration from his property.

So Miss Smith started reporting all kinds of violations in various neighborhoods. She just made them up, because she wanted CS to suffer. She wanted them to have to work harder than necessary over nothing at all, because she felt they didn't work hard enough on helping her "get back at" Mr. Jones for not wanting to date her.

And since she didn't have to give her name or address, there was nothing CS could do about it. They had to inconvenience themselves and look into every single non-existing violation.

That is just ONE example of one thing that COULD happen, if it hasn't already happened. I know of one situation that isn't the same, but is similar, in my own neighborhood in OB. Contrary to popular belief, there ARE restrictions in the historic area. They're very much more relaxed than the rest of the Villages but they do exist, and you can be in violation of them, and CS will infract you if you are. There are people who have personal scores to settle against neighbors, and will take it out on each other by using CS as their weapon.

And if CS doesn't do what the neighbor thinks should be done, they'll take it out on CS.

CS has no recourse, because it is an anonymous complaint system.

[George Hart]

Good morning. Might anyone Have any updates on the lofts at Brownwood ? I'm a High school teacher in NY and am looking forward to relocating to the Villages in the near future. In addition, I visited brownwood for a week this summer and loved it. Thank you. George

[graciegirl]

That's my objection. Not to reporting violations - people shouldn't knowingly violate the rules. Some rules are vague, some make no sense (see posts by Martian, who quotes actual nonsensical rules about pets), and some aren't typically "intentionally" violated (letting grass grow an inch too long because your landscaper was sick that week, for example).

The objection on my end is to the anonymity. There's zero accountability on the part of the person making the complaint, if the Community Standards doesn't have to record who that person is.

The older areas, east and north of 441/27 have very few deed restrictions. If someone reports something that is NOT a deed restriction anywhere in The Villages, than nothing happens.

If someone reports something that is restricted, a notice is given the homeowner and if the homeowner doesn't comply, they are fined. They are given a warning first. If someone reports something that has been given permission, nothing happens. Rarely does grass too long ever become an deed restriction. Usually only when a home is abandoned or owned by a lending institution. It really makes more sense once a person has seen how it works for a year or two.

Most of us think that the restrictions are good, we were aware of the deed restrictions before we moved here and think they are helpful in keeping the area looking nice and keeping property values up. Some are used to telling people things directly something unpleasant to hear and some are not. I think that anonymity keeps things a little more comfortable at neighborhood gatherings.

Just like anything else if we don't hire a staff to do it is costs less money and that keeps all costs down. Again, I say that none of us have perfect taste. Less is more. We can adorn our home indoors.

Deed restrictions are good for the continued beauty of this place and some things need reporting.

Ugly Garden Ornaments (https://www.pinterest.com/AJBService/ugly-garden-ornaments/)

[eyc234]

:ohdear:Just wondering. Can you show me any cases of people on this thread getting upset because they "got caught" breaking the rules? I have spoken to many neighbors in my short time here and very few have "been caught", but those that did mostly laughed about it and said, "oh well".

Oh, and just to nit pick, in 40 years of working at numerous companies (contractor) I can not think of a single "adult" that didn't steal pencils, paper pads, etc. I can not think of a single employee that did not steal from the employer by using his company laptop to browse the internet (except a few in top secret labs, where the computers did not have access to the internet).

Shall we take a look at what percentage of ADULTS have driven for more than 30 years and have NO traffic violations?

I am not sure what world you like in, but I expect MOST adults don't follow the RULES.


:ohdear: Well was talking with the boss and we remember discussions that went something to the effect if all the other kids jumped off the cliff would you? These thought processes are part of what is wrong with todays society. People pick and choose what laws/rules they want to obey or ignore. Just because others do it does not make it right or should be acceptable. If you start picking what laws/rules you want to follow/obey I choose to take $10 out of all Villagers into my account monthly.

As for rules in TV, you bought here, you new the rules, so live within them. Understand that the restrictions may not be administered 100% across the board but do we really want that? It would make for a whole lot of shrubbery trimming and removal, as well as seeing sights we do not want to see in backyards and a huge loss of privacy in some cases. As for statuary & yard art, if you are reported remove it for a few days and then put it back. If you do this enough times either the trolls will get tired & go away or they will have a heart attack from getting so mad/frustrated. As for the crosses paint them green and call them a plant stake. If you do not think restrictions are needed drive thru some of the unrestricted developments and get very scared by the nome villages, holiday lights up year round and more religious statues than the Vatican. These types of things are exactly why there are restrictions & rules.

[goodhnds]

An American flag or cross will hardly turn this into a trailer park. I understand the rules but let respect and common sense prevail.

[Kerry Azz]

I am that guy that normally never make an anonymous complaint, so when a contractor decided to dump his drywall mud and paint down the sewer I went over to talk to him and didn’t have a chance, I told community watch about
what had happened gave them his plate number and informed them I had no desire to remain anonymous. The owner showed up-after he left and was shocked when he learned what this idiot did. Hopefully the villages will keep him from working here in the future.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

:ohdear:


:ohdear: Well was talking with the boss and we remember discussions that went something to the effect if all the other kids jumped off the cliff would you? These thought processes are part of what is wrong with todays society. People pick and choose what laws/rules they want to obey or ignore. Just because others do it does not make it right or should be acceptable. If you start picking what laws/rules you want to follow/obey I choose to take $10 out of all Villagers into my account monthly.

As for rules in TV, you bought here, you new the rules, so live within them. Understand that the restrictions may not be administered 100% across the board but do we really want that? It would make for a whole lot of shrubbery trimming and removal, as well as seeing sights we do not want to see in backyards and a huge loss of privacy in some cases. As for statuary & yard art, if you are reported remove it for a few days and then put it back. If you do this enough times either the trolls will get tired & go away or they will have a heart attack from getting so mad/frustrated. As for the crosses paint them green and call them a plant stake. If you do not think restrictions are needed drive thru some of the unrestricted developments and get very scared by the nome villages, holiday lights up year round and more religious statues than the Vatican. These types of things are exactly why there are restrictions & rules.

This is the problem that pro-restriction people have with homeowners, and anti-restriction people have with restrictions. The answer to the question you ask in the bold/underlined is - YES. Yes, we want restrictions enforced evenly and uniformly. If it's a bad restriction, then change the restriction. If it's a good restriction, then enforce it among ALL homeowners who are in violation of those restrictions. Not just the ones that have had someone complain about it.

As we are seeing here on this forum, and in other online sources (not just "that other news site" but on other non-Villages fora that have threads about the Villages)...

it IS an issue. The fact that this is a complaint-driven system - is the problem. Someone can have something that they never knew was a violation, for years. Maybe the property even came with it. Like a widened driveway, or extra landscaping, or an oversized awning over the front yard. No one complains about it, they bought it that way, and so they just assumed everything was hunky dory.

Fast forward 12 years and a new neighbor moves in, wants to do the same thing and is told they can't. They want to know why they can't, when their neighbor did? CS has to check it out, they find the neighbor has been in violation of this for the past 12 years, and forces the neighbor to pay someone to dig up the extra slice of driveway, or gut the garden, or remove and replace the awning. Even though it was like that when they bought it and no one brought it up for 12 years.

Either it should be enforced across all properties that have these restrictions, or it shouldn't be enforceable at all.

[PennBF]

Come on!! None of this is rocket science. There are rules and follow them or move. You knew when you signed up to buy so
you are being just another trouble maker and God knows we don't need you if you are going to disregard the rules. The white crosses are just another form of advertising your religion and you could buy an ad on "Talk of the Villages" if you want to advertise. It is clear the ones who violate the rules are hypocritical as they knew them when they moved in. :ohdear:

[ColdNoMore]

I think we should be apprised of people who "turn us in" because we should be able to face our accusers. For those people who are against the little white crosses, get real! Too many have been turned in for that "infraction" and it's silly. If it offends someone because s/he has no religious belief, why should those who do practice a faith be subjected to the others' hedonistic ways?

Just out of curiosity, and for all the others with your same point of view, exactly what actions would you take and what exactly does "face your accuser" mean...once you knew who it was that turned you in?

Intimidation?

Retribution?

???

[ColdNoMore]

I think we should be apprised of people who "turn us in" because we should be able to face our accusers. For those people who are against the little white crosses, get real! Too many have been turned in for that "infraction" and it's silly. If it offends someone because s/he has no religious belief, why should those who do practice a faith be subjected to the others' hedonistic ways?

What type(s) of (illegal) yard ornaments, represents that the homeowner follows..."hedonistic ways?" :D

By definition, shouldn't someone who displays a white cross to proclaim they are a Christian...at least try to follow the tenets described thereof?

I can't help but notice, a lot of downright 'un-Christian' reactions and posts...toward anyone who is against white crosses on lawns.

Is it just me that finds this...highly hypocritical? :shrug:

[Mikeod]

An American flag or cross will hardly turn this into a trailer park. I understand the rules but let respect and common sense prevail.

Respect. Maybe the problem would be lessened by people respecting their agreement to abide by the deed restrictions as shown by their signature on the purchase documents. My residence is in compliance and, by chance, it was not and was reported by someone, the blame would be mine alone. And certainly not the person who reported it.

I’ve read some hypothetical situations posted in opposition to the anonymous reporting system but what they really do is support homeowners adhering to the deed restrictions. It’s not the system, it’s people failing to honor the commitment they accepted by purchasing here.

[FenneyFanatic]

:clap2:Respect. Maybe the problem would be lessened by people respecting their agreement to abide by the deed restrictions as shown by their signature on the purchase documents. My residence is in compliance and, by chance, it was not and was reported by someone, the blame would be mine alone. And certainly not the person who reported it.

I’ve read some hypothetical situations posted in opposition to the anonymous reporting system but what they really do is support homeowners adhering to the deed restrictions. It’s not the system, it’s people failing to honor the commitment they accepted by purchasing here.

[NavyVet]

True (and funny) story: First bought in Woodbury in 2003, new neighborhood. Restrictions/compliance was really strict back then. Community Standards/watch whatever drove around checking for "Violators". Garden gazing balls were very popular then, saw them everywhere including other neighborhoods and villages. So I bought one and put it IN my garden surrounded by shrubs and flowers. It was not on my lawn. A couple weeks go by and I come home to an official warning ticket on front door knob. Oops. BTW, I am a rule following type of person. Apparently can't have a gazing ball in the garden. Okay fine, I moved gazing ball to rear yard against lanai where it lived for several years. No problem. Our yard backed up to a fence.
It gets 'better'. We had a company do a screened in front porch with door, etc. All ARC approved of course. During the work, we had to get everything off our porch and out of their way. We had a plain white cement/concrete statue of a dog holding a basket of flowers. It was extremely heavy. We TEMPORARILY moved it to the corner of our sidewalk until it could go back to living ON OUR PORCH. The SAME DAY the porch was completed and workers had left, someone stopped their white truck, came up to our door and gave me a verbal 'warning' that the statue can not be out there. I was like come on, really? I explained why it was out there for ONE FREAKING DAY, that I couldn't pick it up and carry it myself, and my husband would deal with it when he got home. If the guy couldn't wait until hubby was home, he was more than welcome to put it on the porch himself. Jeez!
THAT, my friends, is the definition of OVERZEALOUS rules enforcers in TV! LOL!
I realize it takes all kinds, people are different, but I have always minded my own business and I appreciate people who do the same.
Extremism either way is not a good thing. If everyone used common sense and lived by the Golden Rule, we'd ALL be better off. Have a peaceful day!

[Skunky1]

Well put!

[Velvet]

Would it have made a difference if you say put a blanket on the dog statue to indicate it was being moved?

Did the warning give you a time frame to comply with the warning?

[coffeebean]

Little white crosses grow into 8 foot tall crosses made with 2x4's and lit up with a spotlight in the middle of a lawn for 4+ months of every year.

Are you referring to Christmas time? That is not 4+ months of the years. More like the month of December. I don't know what you are getting at.

[Velvet]

I think someone was trying to get at the idea if you have an illegal ornament, add a Christmas bow to it, then change it to a Valentine heart, then add Easter eggs etc etc throughout the year.

We had a family on a street I once lived on (not in TV) that had a life style statue of holy Mary, two 8 foot blue Smurfs and a very large blown up Santa all year long.

[coffeebean]

Well, section 4 of my covenants say "Lawn ornaments are prohibited, except for seasonal displays"

So, basically it says you can put out a set of lawn ornament for every season... I think there are four seasons, and between them they make up the whole year...



WOW.....good catch. I always thought of seasonal displays as Christmas time only. Never dawned on me that we could display lawn ornaments for Summer, Spring and Fall. Hmmm. Something to think about.

I don't have the rules in front of me but, (correct me if I'm wrong here); I have always been under the impression the Christmas displays must be down by the first week in January. No?

So.........given that time frame for Christmas displays, when do the Summer, Spring and Fall displays have to be down by? See what I'm getting at?

[coffeebean]

You know a couple of pink flamingos being OK'd opens the door for their ancestors

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190909/0a686478f13f2633394d4fb4d0f3e8e5.jpg

Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk

Is this for real? Yikes!!!

[perrjojo]

with turning in folks with deed restriction violations.

Seems to me folks moved here in large part because of those deed restrictions. And since most are not enforced unless they are reported I'd think those who make it their duty to help enforce restrictions would be thanked.

Perhaps those who complain of those who help enforce the restrictions are those who break the simple to understand even by a 7 year old rules are upset.

Perhaps those who don't appreciate the folks who don't want our neighborhoods looking like a trailer park filled with degenerates are part of the problem.

Perhaps they just don't like people doing what is right and proper.

My take? Those who complain and continually post about those who keep the villages looking nice are usually in violation of more than one deed restriction.

Keep up the good work in reporting violations!!! If you don't like them you can always move to San Fran or L.A. or Seattle. You'd like it there. No restrictions at all. Watch where you step.

The restrictions are simple and easy to follow. All of them have a purpose. If you don't see the purpose perhaps it's because of the narrow view you take.
I agree with you 100%. The reason the complaint system is complaint driven is because having someone driving around and reporting every violation would be expensive. As large as TV is it would take a large department to deal with all of the violations and we would pay for this via increase amenity fees. I lived in a neighborhood of only 1300 homes and the expense of having someone deal with violations was costly.

[coffeebean]

Totally agree!!! You choose to move here. You sign a contact. But for some people they decide they don't like some parts of the contract... so they should be able to ignore them. I have a neighbor that has a 6 foot lawn ornament in their front yard. I guess... based on some comments, I should just let things go. Even though I don't have any lawn ornaments in my front lawn because I know it's against the rules. And I think the 6 ft. lawn ornament is hideous. But I guess I should just suck it up...

6' tall lawn ornament? Why is this neighbor pushing the envelope that far? You can't be serious. I have never reported any infraction I have seen and I am opposed to all those little white crosses. Having said that......I would report a 6' lawn ornament in a heartbeat! I would not put up with that. Sorry.

Just wondering.... is it a dinosaur?

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I agree with you 100%. The reason the complaint system is complaint driven is because having someone driving around and reporting every violation would be expensive. As large as TV is it would take a large department to deal with all of the violations and we would pay for this via increase amenity fees. I lived in a neighborhood of only 1300 homes and the expense of having someone deal with violations was costly.

Obviously it's not expensive at all, if you have so many willing and eager volunteers already doing it for free. Make them official Volunteer Compliance Officers, tell them it's now their actual responsibility, they get coffee and donuts when they turn their report in at the end of their shift, and problem solved.

Of course that means everyone will know who they are. But if they are sincere in their need to ensure that the entirety of the Villages is in compliance with each area's respective deed restrictions, they should have no problem identifying themselves. They could even get fancy hats and a special marker on their golf cart to indicate that they're "on duty."

[champion6]

Obviously it's not expensive at all, if you have so many willing and eager volunteers already doing it for free. Make them official Volunteer Compliance Officers, tell them it's now their actual responsibility, they get coffee and donuts when they turn their report in at the end of their shift, and problem solved.

Of course that means everyone will know who they are. But if they are sincere in their need to ensure that the entirety of the Villages is in compliance with each area's respective deed restrictions, they should have no problem identifying themselves. They could even get fancy hats and a special marker on their golf cart to indicate that they're "on duty."The Gmone Police

[graciegirl]

Obviously it's not expensive at all, if you have so many willing and eager volunteers already doing it for free. Make them official Volunteer Compliance Officers, tell them it's now their actual responsibility, they get coffee and donuts when they turn their report in at the end of their shift, and problem solved.

Of course that means everyone will know who they are. But if they are sincere in their need to ensure that the entirety of the Villages is in compliance with each area's respective deed restrictions, they should have no problem identifying themselves. They could even get fancy hats and a special marker on their golf cart to indicate that they're "on duty."

BUT. If is isn't broken. Don't fix it. If someone is not in compliance they can be reported. Granted there are a few folks who have driven around reporting people not in their neighborhoods but that is not common at all. Most people see something overdone, too big, too bright, too much and pick up the phone. I have lived here for more than a dozen years and have reported things four times. The first time we were snow birds and came back to find a new neighbor had put a lot of schlocky things in her front yard. You know like stuff around a tree that looks trashy?

There are very few things that can be reported in the historical section. Most everything is allowed.

[geofitz13]

On another site, there was a plainly stated threat to the anonymous complainer. "Don't get mad, get even." This is exactly why complaints should be anonymous. However, as someone previously stated, Community Standards should require the name of the complainant, not to be disclosed, but to be monitored, to see if these are frivolous or targeted.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

On another site, there was a plainly stated threat to the anonymous complainer. "Don't get mad, get even." This is exactly why complaints should be anonymous. However, as someone previously stated, Community Standards should require the name of the complainant, not to be disclosed, but to be monitored, to see if these are frivolous or targeted.

:bigbow: You nailed it.

[karostay]

Break a rule your a public Fool...Simple

[DAVES]

with turning in folks with deed restriction violations.

Seems to me folks moved here in large part because of those deed restrictions. And since most are not enforced unless they are reported I'd think those who make it their duty to help enforce restrictions would be thanked.

Perhaps those who complain of those who help enforce the restrictions are those who break the simple to understand even by a 7 year old rules are upset.

Perhaps those who don't appreciate the folks who don't want our neighborhoods looking like a trailer park filled with degenerates are part of the problem.

Perhaps they just don't like people doing what is right and proper.

My take? Those who complain and continually post about those who keep the villages looking nice are usually in violation of more than one deed restriction.

Keep up the good work in reporting violations!!! If you don't like them you can always move to San Fran or L.A. or Seattle. You'd like it there. No restrictions at all. Watch where you step.

The restrictions are simple and easy to follow. All of them have a purpose. If you don't see the purpose perhaps it's because of the narrow view you take.

It is an interesting issue with no perfect answer. I expect if people choose to they could find a violation on anyone's property. I've never had anyone complain about me. I do freely admit that was someone to complain about me it would not be at all difficult to discover who it is and to start a violation war.

We all seem to think, we are perfect. If, one of your neighbors chose to do it, do you water on the correct day? Do you always pick up after your dog? Is that you mutt barking? Is that your dog illegaly running about with no leash?
Is that your guests blocking my drive? Is that you stopping in the middle of the street to gossip? Is that you parking with your car facing the wrong way? Is that you running your motorcycle with no muffler? If, you think, I'm sure you can find something that you are doing that is a violation?

Current issues that people are posting about-crosses. I would like to believe the right thing to do would be to talk to a neighbor. Sadly we all know there is zero chance that would end well. The same thing is true about political flags, or banners. Heck the same thing is true of sports stuff. Oh there is that guy that illegally expanded his driveway.

So, as I stated, I do the best I can to be a good neighbor. I would not be at all happy if I discovered I had been reported for anything.

People are people. For better and for worse, the Villages is congested not farm country. I recall reading about an island in North Carolina a decent home, five acres and a wild horse herd for a million bucks. Your own kingdom. I have no idea about taxes. I have no idea about cable TV service. Oh and your neighbor. He is looking to buy a boat right now.

[DAVES]

BUT. It is broken. If it weren't, there wouldn't be multiple threads, each with multiple pages, about the subject, in multiple fora around the internet.

The stuff around my tree in my back yard in my unrestricted neighborhood in my northern new england town is absolutely irrelevant, and you bringing it up in this thread is pretty trashy behavior.

What happens in the older section of the Villages is not representative of the Villages as a whole. We are not isolated, we have friends, and even relatives who live in more restricted sections of the Villages. Our lives are impacted by the restrictions, even though our specific neighborhoods might not have the same ones.

Years ago I met this guy who lives in Germany. He lives in a castle and is married to a duchess. If , I recall they have over 20 acres. He and a neighbor are fighting over a huge tree that is over the property line. As i recall, he told me if it stays for another 20 years it is grandfathered in.

My point, people are people anywhere and everywhere. Nothing is ever perfect. No solution is perfect. Here, if you see a violation it is your choice to or not to report it. You need to decide if it is really important. You need to expect, it is very unlikely that a person you report will say thanks for letting me know. Unlike the choices made in other planed communities we do not have people patrolling and looking for violations. Another not perfect answer to human problems.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Years ago I met this guy who lives in Germany. He lives in a castle and is married to a duchess. If , I recall they have over 20 acres. He and a neighbor are fighting over a huge tree that is over the property line. As i recall, he told me if it stays for another 20 years it is grandfathered in.

My point, people are people anywhere and everywhere. Nothing is ever perfect. No solution is perfect. Here, if you see a violation it is your choice to or not to report it. You need to decide if it is really important. You need to expect, it is very unlikely that a person you report will say thanks for letting me know. Unlike the choices made in other planed communities we do not have people patrolling and looking for violations. Another not perfect answer to human problems.

The idea of grandfathering in things is actually not bad. As long as it doesn't violate actual LAW...if it's just a deed restriction -

For example (totally hypothetical) if someone puts pavers along the edge of their driveway leading to their front door, and those pavers weren't ever approved and no application was ever submitted - and the home was then sold 4 years later, and no one complained about it til 4 years after that...

Well, 8 years have gone by since the pavers were installed. And 4 years have gone by since the people who put the pavers in have ceased to even own that property.

It's a safe bet that you could grandfather that walkway in and say "y'know what, that's fine, no worries, but hey current homeowner, just be aware that if you want to change it, you WILL need to get approval first."

[Shambles]

I'm all for enforcement of the deed restrictions. It's one of the reasons I chose The Villages. I can understand wanting to remain anonymous when making a complaint about violations and not having face possible, unwarranted retribution. I've seen several posts suggesting that the Neighborhood Watch be trained to assume this responsibility and that makes sense to me. They're already riding around all the neighborhoods and, if it were their job, it wouldn't be taken as personally.

[graciegirl]

BUT. It is broken. If it weren't, there wouldn't be multiple threads, each with multiple pages, about the subject, in multiple fora around the internet.

The stuff around my tree in my back yard in my unrestricted neighborhood in my northern new england town is absolutely irrelevant, and you bringing it up in this thread is pretty trashy behavior.

What happens in the older section of the Villages is not representative of the Villages as a whole. We are not isolated, we have friends, and even relatives who live in more restricted sections of the Villages. Our lives are impacted by the restrictions, even though our specific neighborhoods might not have the same ones.

There is always much ado about nothing in all of the FORUMS around here because we like to debate and we have plenty of time to do so.

[biker1]

I doubt you would ever see this happen. First of all, it isn't their job and their job is unlikely to change. Secondly, I doubt that either the Developer or the CDDs wants to be in the violation reporting business for the legal reason associated with selective enforcement that I had outlined earlier. As far as I can tell, the current system works well. It would be unreasonable to expect that there would be zero infractions and that clearly isn't the goal. A vehicle is in place to address any egregious issues. Unfortunately, some people wish to obsess over a few outliers of people behaving badly. Some people are always looking for solutions to imaginary problems. Of course, if everyone followed the deed restrictions there would be nothing to report. Ooops, got to go, I have a tee time.

I'm all for enforcement of the deed restrictions. It's one of the reasons I chose The Villages. I can understand wanting to remain anonymous when making a complaint about violations and not having face possible, unwarranted retribution. I've seen several posts suggesting that the Neighborhood Watch be trained to assume this responsibility and that makes sense to me. They're already riding around all the neighborhoods and, if it were their job, it wouldn't be taken as personally.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I'm all for enforcement of the deed restrictions. It's one of the reasons I chose The Villages. I can understand wanting to remain anonymous when making a complaint about violations and not having face possible, unwarranted retribution. I've seen several posts suggesting that the Neighborhood Watch be trained to assume this responsibility and that makes sense to me. They're already riding around all the neighborhoods and, if it were their job, it wouldn't be taken as personally.

That was the point I was making with my idea that there are people who do this anyway, they might as well become official. It was in response to someone who was concerned that adding these official positions as paid employment would be very expensive to the community. We have people who already do this and don't get paid. So why not encourage them by making them official volunteers?

[sleepingdog]

If your going to ride all day looking for violations Put your name on the objection . or else don't say anything

[Martian]

I know, I know, I said I was leaving, but, but...

It seems this thread is still going round and round. And the basic premise is someone is breaking the rules, and they should be held to account for it.

But, then no one answered my previous question, "Anyone here ever call the police to report a friend that was driving home and had had too much to drink"? Alcohol is involved in over 80,000 deaths every year. Often those deaths are innocent by standers, children playing in their front yards and yet no one reports a neighbored for that.

But concrete frogs and flamingos, OMG!

[Chatbrat]

The lady with a clip board is not a myth, I saw her and followed her, witnessed her stopping in front of several houses in Tamarind Grove-she stopped in front of a house that had small white crosses, the others had small lawn ornaments , some had small American flags held vertically by lawn frames--I stopped her and asked "what's she was doing"--she said, "she was on a scavenger hunt"
She was driving an older deep red golf cart, with a big black square on the rear and a white swim noodle in the back shaped like an "A"

[Martian]

The lady with a clip board is not a myth, I saw her and followed her, witnessed her stopping in front of several houses in Tamarind Grove-she stopped in front of a house that had small white crosses, the others had small lawn ornaments , some had small American flags held vertically by lawn frames--I stopped her and asked "what's she was doing"--she said, "she was on a scavenger hunt"
She was driving an older deep red golf cart, with a big black square on the rear and a white swim noodle in the back shaped like an "A"

I thought white swim noodles in golf carts was against the rules.