Question for villagers on their thoughts

[ohiosbestus]

While eating in Lake Sumter, there was a new golf cart that was labeled Sumter Co. Sheriff on the sides of the cart. I am just wandering if Sumter Co. is going to start patrolling the multi-modal paths that villagers use for getting to their destinations. If this is a plan what do villagers think of this. Opinions please.

[villagetinker]

I am good with it, way too many carts going way too fast, IMHO. I am retired, our cart goes 20 MPH, we have no need to go faster.

[GrumpyOldMan]

Well, the first question that comes to my mind is, is it "really" a sheriff's vehicle. If so, then I am all in favor of it, it would save money and provide a more "involved" approach Mayberry RafD like, cops on bicycles in some cities.

[Velvet]

While eating in Lake Sumter, there was a new golf cart that was labeled Sumter Co. Sheriff on the sides of the cart. I am just wandering if Sumter Co. is going to start patrolling the multi-modal paths that villagers use for getting to their destinations. If this is a plan what do villagers think of this. Opinions please.

Do you have a picture of that golf cart? I bet there is probably no other place in the world where a sherif patrols in golf carts.

[SIRE1]

As far as patrolling the Multi Modal paths, I don't think that is what it is for. As I recall reading on this forum, the Multi Modal paths that are not along the side of the street (like a bike lane) are considered on Private property and not under the jurisdiction of Sumter County police for speed controls. The police can only enforce traffic rules when a cart is on one of the public streets. I could be wrong (and probably am) about the private vs public property argument, but that is what I've read on this forum. I have seen a Sumter County police golf cart in the squares in the past, but as I recall it was here for one of the town square parades.

[graciegirl]

While eating in Lake Sumter, there was a new golf cart that was labeled Sumter Co. Sheriff on the sides of the cart. I am just wandering if Sumter Co. is going to start patrolling the multi-modal paths that villagers use for getting to their destinations. If this is a plan what do villagers think of this. Opinions please.

The sheriff can do what ever he is allowed to do to protect and serve us. I am all in for that.

[JoMar]

The Sumter County Sheriff was on The Villages Newcomers YouTube channel earlier this week. He stated they don't enforce golf cart violations unless it's a DUI...so speeding is now ok I guess.

[Papa_lecki]

I’ve seen the Sheriff in a golf cart last September, not new. It surprised me too

Multi Modal are private property, not under their jurisdiction.

[thelegges]

The cart has been around for awhile sitting at the square. They also have a atomic car in full decal uniform.

[jack.hunter00@yahoo.com]

They have been for years, just not on a regular basis

[jack.hunter00@yahoo.com]

Every cart path leads to a street

[NYCAROL]

I was stopped at the square by a shierff golf cart because I had blue undercarriage lights and was told blue was reserved for police. They have a shed near the lighthouse where they Park their golf cart. Haven't seen it in years.

[gypsycaravan]

I agree. Many travel much too fast and even more of the cart drivers totally ignore stop and yield signs.

[billlaur]

nobody can have blue lights..WOW

[glsatterlee]

Here are the rules, so that you don’t get into trouble:

1. Be 14yearsoroldertodriveagolfcar
2. Drive on neighborhood streets, marked roadside lanes, and multi-modal paths
3. Obey all traffic laws, signs and signals
4. Golf cars are subject to Florida's open alcoholic container laws
5. Speed not to exceed 20mph
6. Use hand and turn signals
7. Yield to automobiles
8. Come to a full stop at stop signs
9. Never enter a roundabout in a golfcar
10. Golf cars are prohibited from roadways with posted speeds of 35mph or more
1. Provideaseatforeachperson/pet
2. Secure children and pets
3. Keeppassengersseatedingolfcar
4. Keep arms and legs inside golf car
5. Enter traffic lane safely before turning left
6. Beawareofvehiclesturningright (across the golf car lane)
7. Maintaingolfcaraccordingto manufacturer's recommendations
8. Do not text/phone while driving
9. Limitpassingslowergolfcars
10. Pull off the path when you need to stop
RuLES OF THE RoAD
SAFETY TIPS
BEFORE You DRIVE
Make sure the horn, brakes and lights work. Check back-up alarm, tire pressure and applicable gauges. Before backing up, look behind and see that all is clear.
Ifyou have any landscaping or property management concerns while traveling throughout The Villages community, please call the District Customer Service Center at (352) 753-4508.
~Ci\11~·
Community Development Districts Village Community Development Districts (http://www.DistrictGov.org)

[tsmall22204]

Golf carts are used on certain military bases as security vehicles with red lights.

[J1ceasar]

In several islands where no cars allowed .

[J1ceasar]

???Horns

[netbum]

Do you have a picture of that golf cart? I bet there is probably no other place in the world where a sherif patrols in golf carts.

Pleasure Island, off the southeastern coast of NC, has golf cart police. We are a golf cart island 🏝 😊

[ChicagoNative]

Glad to see there is at least a vague awareness of Atomic carts. One of our neighbors has one and has told tale of busybodies shouting at him to get his “car” off the paths. Hopefully, as they become more popular this will no longer be an issue.

[Don5154]

While eating in Lake Sumter, there was a new golf cart that was labeled Sumter Co. Sheriff on the sides of the cart. I am just wandering if Sumter Co. is going to start patrolling the multi-modal paths that villagers use for getting to their destinations. If this is a plan what do villagers think of this. Opinions please.

Nothing new....Sheriff’s department has had golf carts for years. Seen them many times.

[Girlcopper]

Do you have a picture of that golf cart? I bet there is probably no other place in the world where a sherif patrols in golf carts.
Wrong. Cops patrol in golf carts, 4 wheelers, bicycles etc depending on the area. Nothing new there at all

[Girlcopper]

While eating in Lake Sumter, there was a new golf cart that was labeled Sumter Co. Sheriff on the sides of the cart. I am just wandering if Sumter Co. is going to start patrolling the multi-modal paths that villagers use for getting to their destinations. If this is a plan what do villagers think of this. Opinions please.
You should have asked the cop what it was being used for

[jimkerr]

They only enforce DUI on golf carts and you can’t have an open container either.

[kayak]

About 5 years ago at The Villages Outdoor Expo, Lieutenant Siemer of the Sumter County Sheriff Department did a workshop on bicycle safety. In that workshop someone asked why doesn't the sheriff's department have a golf cart? He said they did have one but it would only go 17 MPH so they do not use it for patrol but use it for special events.

I guess the Atomic cart came later.

Yes, the multimodal paths are private property. They will enforce DUI and official regulation size stop signs on the MMP's.

[kirk123]

The sheriff can do what ever he is allowed to do to protect and serve us. I am all in for that.

I agree to have safety in the Villages.

[davephan]

nobody can have blue lights..WOW

That’s nothing new. In most, maybe all states, red and blue lights are reserved for the law enforcement vehicle. The government snow plowing vehicles in Minnesota are allowed to have both amber and blue lights. All other vehicles with accessory warning lights I’ve seen in Minnesota have amber colored lights. I’ve only seen amber colored lights on the non government vehicles in Florida.

Those blue decorative light will need to be turned off or changed to a legal color.

[LG999]

I like it. I like to see cops around. Makes me feel safe.

[mr kibbles]

i agree the fuzz has no right to be on the paths ---

[ThirdOfFive]

They only enforce DUI on golf carts and you can’t have an open container either.
I walk a lot on those multi-modal paths. I've observed that there is no shortage of those one-serving liquor bottles on and in the grass alongside the paths as well as the occasional (and sometimes not so occasional) empty beer can. Apparently that "no open container" rule is not taken quite as seriously by some Villagers as by others.

[OhioBuckeye]

I am good with it, way too many carts going way too fast, IMHO. I am retired, our cart goes 20 MPH, we have no need to go faster.

I agree with you totally. Never could figure out what the hurry was. We’re retired, we have all day to get home to lay on the couch. Or to get to their tee time, just leave sooner.

[DonH57]

While eating in Lake Sumter, there was a new golf cart that was labeled Sumter Co. Sheriff on the sides of the cart. I am just wandering if Sumter Co. is going to start patrolling the multi-modal paths that villagers use for getting to their destinations. If this is a plan what do villagers think of this. Opinions please.

If they did start doing that they'll need a whole fleet of them with the capability to easily do 30 MPH to catch them violators!:1rotfl:

[Chi-Town]

Do you have a picture of that golf cart? I bet there is probably no other place in the world where a sherif patrols in golf carts.

Here it is:

[bigjohnny19]

Several years ago at Spanish Springs I remember seeing a Lady Lake Police Office riding around the square on a Segway.

[Indydealmaker]

I’ve seen the Sheriff in a golf cart last September, not new. It surprised me too

Multi Modal are private property, not under their jurisdiction.

Multi- modals fall under the designation of Public Access. Law enforcement can enter and enforce safety related laws.

[PugMom]

Glad to see there is at least a vague awareness of Atomic carts. One of our neighbors has one and has told tale of busybodies shouting at him to get his “car” off the paths. Hopefully, as they become more popular this will no longer be an issue.

i've seen those, & have to admit, i didnt think they were allowed on the path. i try not to be a busybody, lol, but it did look odd

[PugMom]

[QUOTE=Chi-Town;1974846]Here it is:[/QU

i'm sure this helps the officer reach places cars can't go. :popcorn:

[blueash]

I was stopped at the square by a shierff golf cart because I had blue undercarriage lights and was told blue was reserved for police. They have a shed near the lighthouse where they Park their golf cart. Haven't seen it in years.

The law seems to only prohibit flashing or rotating blue lights. If your undercarriage lights did not flash or rotate the officer was, I believe, wrong. If they did flash, he was right. Here is the statute [my bold]:

843.081 Prohibited use of certain lights; penalty.—
(1) The Legislature finds and declares that Florida’s citizens are vulnerable to becoming the victims of criminal acts through the illegal use of blue lights by the criminal elements. It is the intent of the Legislature to reduce this vulnerability to injury and loss of life and property by prohibiting the use of certain blue lights by any person other than an authorized law enforcement officer.
(2) It is unlawful for a person to use in or on any nongovernmentally owned vehicle or vessel any flashing or rotating blue light unless such person is a law enforcement officer employed by a federal, state, county, or city law enforcement agency or is a person appointed by the Governor pursuant to chapter 354.

[34gunner]

Also remember to turn off turn signals.Rules

[Bellavita]

We have owned since 2006 never saw a Sherriff on the golf cart Path

While eating in Lake Sumter, there was a new golf cart that was labeled Sumter Co. Sheriff on the sides of the cart. I am just wandering if Sumter Co. is going to start patrolling the multi-modal paths that villagers use for getting to their destinations. If this is a plan what do villagers think of this. Opinions please.

[CommonSense]

The Sumter County Sheriff was on The Villages Newcomers YouTube channel earlier this week. He stated they don't enforce golf cart violations unless it's a DUI...so speeding is now ok I guess.
He did not say he doesn't enforce speeding, he said his biggest problem with golf carts is DUI drivers.

[Joycrafish@gmail.com]

Between 15-18 years ago, the Villages Homeowners Association purchased a golf cart for Spanish Springs and Lake Sumter Landing, for the purpose of the police in Lady Lake and Deputies in Lake Sumter to be seen around squares during entertainment times (especially). Hopefully the Sheriff's Dept. has pulled out the cart and using it for the purpose it was given to them for but I do imagine that they have upgraded those carts by now.

[Cherylhfl]

I think it’s great, about time.

[DaleDivine]

Here are the rules, so that you don’t get into trouble:

1. Be 14yearsoroldertodriveagolfcar
2. Drive on neighborhood streets, marked roadside lanes, and multi-modal paths
3. Obey all traffic laws, signs and signals
4. Golf cars are subject to Florida's open alcoholic container laws
5. Speed not to exceed 20mph
6. Use hand and turn signals
7. Yield to automobiles
8. Come to a full stop at stop signs
9. Never enter a roundabout in a golfcar
10. Golf cars are prohibited from roadways with posted speeds of 35mph or more
1. Provideaseatforeachperson/pet
2. Secure children and pets
3. Keeppassengersseatedingolfcar
4. Keep arms and legs inside golf car
5. Enter traffic lane safely before turning left
6. Beawareofvehiclesturningright (across the golf car lane)
7. Maintaingolfcaraccordingto manufacturer's recommendations
8. Do not text/phone while driving
9. Limitpassingslowergolfcars
10. Pull off the path when you need to stop
RuLES OF THE RoAD
SAFETY TIPS
BEFORE You DRIVE
Make sure the horn, brakes and lights work. Check back-up alarm, tire pressure and applicable gauges. Before backing up, look behind and see that all is clear.
Ifyou have any landscaping or property management concerns while traveling throughout The Villages community, please call the District Customer Service Center at (352) 753-4508.
~Ci\11~·
Community Development Districts Village Community Development Districts (http://www.DistrictGov.org)

You are wrong about #9 and #10..
Street legal carts can go in roundabouts.
And they are allowed on streets with a speed limit of 35mph or less.
:welcome::ohdear::ohdear:

[DaleDivine]

Multi- modals fall under the designation of Public Access. Law enforcement can enter and enforce safety related laws.

They only enforce DUI and erratic driving on MMP's.

And my neighbor got a ticket for doing 24MPH in his golf cart on Stillwater. Judge threw it out.
:bigbow::bigbow:

[CFrance]

They only enforce DUI and erratic driving on MMP's.

And my neighbor got a ticket for doing 24MPH in his golf cart on Stillwater. Judge threw it out.
:bigbow::bigbow:
Wow, that's a change in procedure. I wonder if Covid or overcrowding of the courts had anything to do with that. My friend got a ticket for speeding in her golf cart (24 mph downhill). It's not a speeding ticket. It was a ticket for operating an unlicensed golf cart as a car without proper registration. She had to go to court (don't show up in shorts or they won't let you in), pay fines and court costs of over $300, walk down the street and stand in line at another gvt. office to pay the fine. Then she had to provide proof that she had her golf cart modified to not go over 19.9 or whatever the legal speed limit is. And I know others who went through the same thing.


I wonder if your friend was spinning a story, or if things have really changed.

[DavidStockhausen]

It’s not an Atomic, it’s a Crown air conditioned cart.

iCloud (https://share.icloud.com/photos/01eNN4jNVOwZwClnzihaVHiQA)

[DavidStockhausen]

While eating in Lake Sumter, there was a new golf cart that was labeled Sumter Co. Sheriff on the sides of the cart. I am just wandering if Sumter Co. is going to start patrolling the multi-modal paths that villagers use for getting to their destinations. If this is a plan what do villagers think of this. Opinions please.

iCloud (https://share.icloud.com/photos/01eNN4jNVOwZwClnzihaVHiQA)

[DavidStockhausen]

Glad to see there is at least a vague awareness of Atomic carts. One of our neighbors has one and has told tale of busybodies shouting at him to get his “car” off the paths. Hopefully, as they become more popular this will no longer be an issue.

iCloud (https://share.icloud.com/photos/01eNN4jNVOwZwClnzihaVHiQA)

[davephan]

Here it is:



It looks like the Sheriff's Golf Cart has AC and plenty of room to lockup the law breakers and haul them off to jail, like grandpa and grandma driving drunk in their golf carts, being a menace to everyone near them.

[kcrazorbackfan]

While eating in Lake Sumter, there was a new golf cart that was labeled Sumter Co. Sheriff on the sides of the cart. I am just wandering if Sumter Co. is going to start patrolling the multi-modal paths that villagers use for getting to their destinations. If this is a plan what do villagers think of this. Opinions please.

I hope they do; maybe they can start telling some of the walkers, on the MMP’s before daylight, to start wearing hi-vis clothing.

[loweglor]

I think it would be a good idea for them to patrol, there seems to be a lot of DUI and speeding going on. It just doesn't seem right to have as many cart accidents as we've had lately and deaths........ in a golf cart??

[Girlcopper]

nobody can have blue lights..WOW
Why is that surprising? I guess you havent read up on Florida driving laws for decades

[Girlcopper]

Multi- modals fall under the designation of Public Access. Law enforcement can enter and enforce safety related laws.
Its private property with public access. Not enforceable by cops

[holmesperdue]

And if you are taking a drive for fun and not maintaining a normal speed, be aware of carts piling up behind you and pull over to let the group pass rather than making each of them pass you individually..

[DavidStockhausen]

That’s a Crown Cart, not Atomic.

[Bay Kid]

I was stopped at the square by a shierff golf cart because I had blue undercarriage lights and was told blue was reserved for police. They have a shed near the lighthouse where they Park their golf cart. Haven't seen it in years.

Doesn't seem right for someone/group to own a color used on a golf cart. Maybe a flashing light, but not a color.

[giorgio1948]

The cart has been around for awhile sitting at the square. They also have a atomic car in full decal uniform.
What's next. drones? Give me a break.

[bmit16]

While eating in Lake Sumter, there was a new golf cart that was labeled Sumter Co. Sheriff on the sides of the cart. I am just wandering if Sumter Co. is going to start patrolling the multi-modal paths that villagers use for getting to their destinations. If this is a plan what do villagers think of this. Opinions please.

As a retired police officer, I can tell you that golf carts are used frequently by departments in congested areas and special events. The carts make it easier for officers to respond to situations faster than walking or trying to get a full size vehicle through traffic or crowds. The squares seem like the perfect venue for this type of vehicle to be used to traverse quickly to situations while being able to also carry extra specialized equipment.

[ChicagoNative]

Believe it or not, this is a golf car. We’re in the process of making it street legal, and I fully anticipate getting yelled and/or cursed at by all the friendly neighbors when we take it out on the paths. :boxing2:

[tonycirocco@me.com]

i agree the fuzz has no right to be on the paths ---

"Fuzz?"

[Fenster]

Thanks

[kcrazorbackfan]

"Fuzz?"

I can only imagine where that person is from…..

[DAVES]

My two cents worth-for free.
Law without enforcement builds loss of respect for law. Yet, we all, including me think
they should stop others-not me I am perfect.

The officer patrolling in a golf cart. In court, yes, your honor I was in my patrol, GOLF CART and I clocked a Villager doing 25 and not using a turn signal. A TV series?

If wondering, my golf cart is set at 20 mph.

[Wyseguy]

I was stopped at the square by a shierff golf cart because I had blue undercarriage lights and was told blue was reserved for police. They have a shed near the lighthouse where they Park their golf cart. Haven't seen it in years.

Florida LAw:
Red lights may not be visible from the front of the car
Blue colored lights are prohibited on any part of the vehicle
All lights on the rear of the vehicle must be red
License plate illumination must be white
Flashing lights are prohibited

[UpNorth]

Wow, that's a change in procedure. I wonder if Covid or overcrowding of the courts had anything to do with that. My friend got a ticket for speeding in her golf cart (24 mph downhill). It's not a speeding ticket. It was a ticket for operating an unlicensed golf cart as a car without proper registration. She had to go to court (don't show up in shorts or they won't let you in), pay fines and court costs of over $300, walk down the street and stand in line at another gvt. office to pay the fine. Then she had to provide proof that she had her golf cart modified to not go over 19.9 or whatever the legal speed limit is. And I know others who went through the same thing.


I wonder if your friend was spinning a story, or if things have really changed.


They could raise a lot of money just by ticketing these jacked-up, unregistered motor vehicles that pass you when you're going 20mph. Annoying and dangerous.

[golfing eagles]

They could raise a lot of money just by ticketing these jacked-up, unregistered motor vehicles that pass you when you're going 20mph. Annoying and dangerous.

My cart is set to 20 mph, so I don't have a dog in this fight----

However, why are you "annoyed" if you get passed???
Do you think it is always dangerous to pass???
If you are going 20 and encounter a cart ahead of you going 12, do you pass it???
If so, are you "annoying" that person, or are they "annoying" you???
If you are going 70 on the turnpike, are you "annoyed" when you get passed---I hope not since 95% of the other vehicles on the road will be passing you, so you would be in a constant state of "annoyance"
And finally please, please tell me you are NOT the person who posted they intentionally drive 30 on 466 in the left lane when there are 3 lanes and the speed limit is 45 because THEY felt that was fast enough. Please don't be that person

[ChicagoNative]

While some may find that “what’s your hurry, we’re all retired”, or who intentionally drive slow on roads or paths fits their plan, I shake my head at those who think they’ve been given some divine right to determine everyone else’s pace of life.

[Topspinmo]

I would imagine cart used to patrol around squares?

[UpNorth]

My cart is set to 20 mph, so I don't have a dog in this fight----

However, why are you "annoyed" if you get passed???
Do you think it is always dangerous to pass???
If you are going 20 and encounter a cart ahead of you going 12, do you pass it???
If so, are you "annoying" that person, or are they "annoying" you???
If you are going 70 on the turnpike, are you "annoyed" when you get passed---I hope not since 95% of the other vehicles on the road will be passing you, so you would be in a constant state of "annoyance"
And finally please, please tell me you are NOT the person who posted they intentionally drive 30 on 466 in the left lane when there are 3 lanes and the speed limit is 45 because THEY felt that was fast enough. Please don't be that person

Go 20mph, they come out of nowhere, drive up to your bumper then crawl around you going 1mph faster. Pretty annoying, if you ask me. Why can't they just go 20mph like everyone else. Yes, I do pass carts going 12mph. I had a rental cart once that couldn't go 12mph. No reason to be annoyed if you are that slow.

[golfing eagles]

Go 20mph, they come out of nowhere, drive up to your bumper then crawl around you going 1mph faster. Pretty annoying, if you ask me. Why can't they just go 20mph like everyone else. Yes, I do pass carts going 12mph. I had a rental cart once that couldn't go 12mph. No reason to be annoyed if you are that slow.

Because neither you nor I get to dictate to them?????

[UpNorth]

Because neither you nor I get to dictate to them?????

So I guess you are in favor of more illegal golf carts on our streets.

[golfing eagles]

So I guess you are in favor of more illegal golf carts on our streets.

You mean carts that go 21 or 22???? Couldn't care less, so yes, bring them on. WHO CARES???? Unless you believe a cart is safe and indestructible at 19.9, but turns into a death trap which should require the owner to be sentenced to death by slow torture at 20.1, in which case you are a ________(fill in the blank)

[UpNorth]

You mean carts that go 21 or 22???? Couldn't care less, so yes, bring them on. WHO CARES???? Unless you believe a cart is safe and indestructible at 19.9, but turns into a death trap which should require the owner to be sentenced to death by slow torture at 20.1, in which case you are a ________(fill in the blank)

(responsible citizen)

[BobnBev]

I am good with it, way too many carts going way too fast, IMHO. I am retired, our cart goes 20 MPH, we have no need to go faster.

What he said.:coolsmiley:

[golfing eagles]

(responsible citizen)

No, that blank was reserved for derogatory terms only, since believing the premise stated would make you a __________ (try again):1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[UpNorth]

No, that blank was reserved for derogatory terms only, since believing the premise stated would make you a __________ (try again):1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

Keep baiting.... the moderator is watching. ..:duck:

[golfing eagles]

Keep baiting.... the moderator is watching. ..:duck:

As they should---but I haven't posted anything that would come close to interesting them on this thread.

My point is simple, so most should understand it: A golf cat doing 20.1 is no more dangerous than one going 19.9, and that applies to those going 21 or 22 as well, so I DON"T CARE if they pass me. I also fail to understand why some golf cart drivers get so p1$$3d off if they get passed

Likewise , a car going 40 on BV is no more dangerous than going 35. Alcohol and texting are the main problems there. And likewise , I don't care if I get passed when I'm going 35. WHY DO YOU????

[UpNorth]

As they should---but I haven't posted anything that would come close to interesting them on this thread.

My point is simple, so most should understand it: A golf cat doing 20.1 is no more dangerous than one going 19.9, and that applies to those going 21 or 22 as well, so I DON"T CARE if they pass me. I also fail to understand why some golf cart drivers get so p1$$3d off if they get passed

Likewise , a car going 40 on BV is no more dangerous than going 35. Alcohol and texting are the main problems there. And likewise , I don't care if I get passed when I'm going 35. WHY DO YOU????


Actually I don't care what you think. And nether do most people.,:1rotfl:

[golfing eagles]

Actually I don't care what you think. And nether do most people.,:1rotfl:

Well, so far people have liked what I've posted 5,124 times, or about 20 times as often as you. and BTW, the is an "i" in neither

[UpNorth]

Well, so far people have liked what I've posted 5,124 times, or about 20 times as often as you. and BTW, the is an "i" in neither

Sounds like you've had a very exciting life. You must be proud of your great following.
I have better things to do than to troll every conversation on these boards. :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[golfing eagles]

Sounds like you've had a very exciting life. You must be proud of your great following.
I have better things to do than to troll every conversation on these boards. :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

apparently not:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl: