Access to The Villages

[jricci13]

I realize that the Town Squares are open to the general public and the businesses thrive on their patronage. Yesterday I went down to the St. Patrick's events and it was so packed I couldn't get a beer!
I'm all about lots of people and having fun. But I found out from a couple of young girls that they accessed the square using The Villages Golf Cart trails. I was surprised since they had told me that their parents do no live in the Villages. When I asked them how they got on The Villages trails they said that their parents and other people that lived in the same community had cards to swipe. I also saw another couple on a golf cart that I know does not own property in the Villages.
I'm not trying to be a "downer", but it sort of rubbed me the wrong way that they could use our trails so easily when I could have got a bigger house for less money where they live! I could just live over there and not have to contribute to the upkeep of trails and bridges etc. A huge reason why I bought in The Villages was to have access to the trails. Isn't there something that can be done to monitor this better! New passes...checking pass numbers...anyone agree?

[Marathon Man]

This has been discussed of this forum several times. You can do a search and re-visit the conversations if you wish.

[CWGUY]

This has been discussed of this forum several times. You can do a search and re-visit the conversations if you wish.

:ohdear: If you search using "GATE CARDS", please take notice of all the posters that think it is o.k. to clone gate cards and even discuss which equipment to use and where to buy it. :oops:

[Mortal1]

You do not need a gate card to get through any gate...simply push the button. so this makes me doubt the validity of the post.

while it may bother you that a few outsiders use the MMP's it is a very small amount and nothing that really impacts the crowds at the town squares. and if you did live off site and used a cart to access the villages MMP's you would be libel for trespassing. is it worth the chance?

[Byte1]

You do not need to pass through a gate to get to the squares. Any golf cart, bicycle, etc. can use the MMPs without having to go through a gate, and anyone can use the squares.

[jricci13]

You do not need a gate card to get through any gate...simply push the button. so this makes me doubt the validity of the post.

while it may bother you that a few outsiders use the MMP's it is a very small amount and nothing that really impacts the crowds at the town squares. and if you did live off site and used a cart to access the villages MMP's you would be libel for trespassing. is it worth the chance?

You do need a card to get through the gate that takes you to Walmart.

[jricci13]

You do not need a gate card to get through any gate...simply push the button. so this makes me doubt the validity of the post.

while it may bother you that a few outsiders use the MMP's it is a very small amount and nothing that really impacts the crowds at the town squares. and if you did live off site and used a cart to access the villages MMP's you would be libel for trespassing. is it worth the chance?

You do need a card to get through the gate that takes you to Walmart!

[jricci13]

You do not need to pass through a gate to get to the squares. Any golf cart, bicycle, etc. can use the MMPs without having to go through a gate, and anyone can use the squares.

The gate that takes you to Walmart requires a card to open...let them walk then!

[tophcfa]

You do not need a gate card to get through any gate...simply push the button. so this makes me doubt the validity of the post.

while it may bother you that a few outsiders use the MMP's it is a very small amount and nothing that really impacts the crowds at the town squares. and if you did live off site and used a cart to access the villages MMP's you would be libel for trespassing. is it worth the chance?

Wrong, the gate in question that non Villagers use to get into the Villages and onto the MMP’s does NOT have a red button. The only way to open the gate, without breaking it, is with a gate card. The gates with red buttons are either already inside the bubble or are on roads that don’t allow golf cart traffic. That being said, street legal golf carts from outside the bubble can enter the Villages from gates with red buttons.

[CWGUY]

Wrong, the gate in question that non Villagers use to get into the Villages and onto the MMP’s does NOT have a red button. The only way to open the gate, without breaking it, is with a gate card. The gates with red buttons are either already inside the bubble or are on roads that don’t allow golf cart traffic. That being said, street legal golf carts from outside the bubble can enter the Villages from gates with red buttons.

:confused: Can they legally do that? I can't figure out how but haven't given it a lot of thought. :)

[billethkid]

Access to any streets in TV is no different than any other subdivision/development...walking....golf carting or family car.

Just like any other non-gated development!!!

[Bilyclub]

Access to any streets in TV is no different than any other subdivision/development...walking....golf carting or family car.

Just like any other non-gated development!!!

But they are using the MMP's from lakeside landings to get to the squares which would be trespassing.

[Stu from NYC]

Anybody can just drive into the villages so much ado about nothing.

[CWGUY]

But they are using the MMP's from lakeside landings to get to the squares which would be trespassing. I agree!

:) Like I said..... I don't think there is a legal way for non-residents to get to are MMP by cart from outside The Villages.

[CWGUY]

Anybody can just drive into the villages so much ado about nothing.

:ohdear: OP was talking CARTS!

[rustyp]

How is this idea to keep residents happy while not impacting the merchants with any type of outsider banning.

Convert the Rialto theater into a resident only club complete with restaurant, bar, and entertainment. Perhaps live entertainment three times per day. One would need to show Villages ID to enter. A guest could accompany a resident with a valid rec center guest pass. It could be Taco Mac's north without the movies. Would also eliminate the pink plywood nightmare that seems to be a permanent part of downtown SS decor.

[Velvet]

We tried going to the squares a few time each year, had a hard time finding a place to park the cart. Even if we found a place to park, over crowding all over the place. We don’t even think of going to the squares any more.

[Stu from NYC]

We tried going to the squares a few time each year, had a hard time finding a place to park the cart. Even if we found a place to park, over crowding all over the place. We don’t even think of going to the squares any more.

When the snowbirds fly north for the summer squares not so crowded. Better when sawgrass finally opens.

And this is not a complaint about snowbirds we deal with the crowds

[Carla B]

How is this idea to keep residents happy while not impacting the merchants with any type of outsider banning.

Convert the Rialto theater into a resident only club complete with restaurant, bar, and entertainment. Perhaps live entertainment three times per day. One would need to show Villages ID to enter. A guest could accompany a resident with a valid rec center guest pass. It could be Taco Mac's north without the movies. Would also eliminate the pink plywood nightmare that seems to be a permanent part of downtown SS decor.

Kind of like the sorely missed Katie Belle's!

[Papa_lecki]

We tried going to the squares a few time each year, had a hard time finding a place to park the cart. Even if we found a place to park, over crowding all over the place. We don’t even think of going to the squares any more.

“No one goes to the squares anymore, they’re too crowded”

Yogi Berra

[davem4616]

I am disappointed that so many of the retailers that were in the squares five years ago have left....because there wasn't enough foot traffic

I'm all for the squares being open to the public....it brings me joy to see some local resident's little kids dancing it up and having a good time at the squares (reminds me of my grandkids)

I think to myself that maybe some of the so called 'nonpaying' people actually work in The Villages, maybe they staff the medical offices, wait on tables, wait on us in the retail stores, mow the lawns, are the electricians or plumbers we all use....or maybe this free entertainment is all that they hard working people can afford

The Squares are open to the public...oh, so maybe we might have to walk a distance from the parking lot...hello we need the exercise

I'll bet every single one of us have brought our kids and grandkids to 'da squares' to show it off...if not, then friends that came to visit...they've never spent a dime on amenity fees either...so what's the issue

how silly to complain that a small about of people that may live outside TV, and would like to have a little enjoyment, and are well behaved, are crowding us out...and that heaven forbid people that don't live in TV and pay the amenity fee are somehow able to access the fun in the squares if they don't pay amenity fees

If we didn't have these wonderful people that live outside TV that mow the lawns, provide every form of service we can think of....TV wouldn't be the great bubble that it is

To those that take issue...I say 'get a life' learn how to share....you're running out of runway pal, so use your good china, buy the expensive shoes, go on the trips...drink the more expensive wine...

life is short

[Bogie Shooter]

I am disappointed that so many of the retailers that were in the squares five years ago have left....because there wasn't enough foot traffic

I'm all for the squares being open to the public....it brings me joy to see some local resident's little kids dancing it up and having a good time at the squares (reminds me of my grandkids)

I think to myself that maybe some of the so called 'nonpaying' people actually work in The Villages, maybe they staff the medical offices, wait on tables, wait on us in the retail stores, mow the lawns, are the electricians or plumbers we all use....or maybe this free entertainment is all that they hard working people can afford

The Squares are open to the public...oh, so maybe we might have to walk a distance from the parking lot...hello we need the exercise

I'll bet every single one of us have brought our kids and grandkids to 'da squares' to show it off...if not, then friends that came to visit...they've never spent a dime on amenity fees either...so what's the issue

how silly to complain that a small about of people that may live outside TV, and would like to have a little enjoyment, and are well behaved, are crowding us out...and that heaven forbid people that don't live in TV and pay the amenity fee are somehow able to access the fun in the squares if they don't pay amenity fees

If we didn't have these wonderful people that live outside TV that mow the lawns, provide every form of service we can think of....TV wouldn't be the great bubble that it is

To those that take issue...I say 'get a life' learn how to share....you're running out of runway pal, so use your good china, buy the expensive shoes, go on the trips...drink the more expensive wine...

life is short

Well said summary that should conclude this thread.:)

[billethkid]

:BigApplause::BigApplause:I am disappointed that so many of the retailers that were in the squares five years ago have left....because there wasn't enough foot traffic

I'm all for the squares being open to the public....it brings me joy to see some local resident's little kids dancing it up and having a good time at the squares (reminds me of my grandkids)

I think to myself that maybe some of the so called 'nonpaying' people actually work in The Villages, maybe they staff the medical offices, wait on tables, wait on us in the retail stores, mow the lawns, are the electricians or plumbers we all use....or maybe this free entertainment is all that they hard working people can afford

The Squares are open to the public...oh, so maybe we might have to walk a distance from the parking lot...hello we need the exercise

I'll bet every single one of us have brought our kids and grandkids to 'da squares' to show it off...if not, then friends that came to visit...they've never spent a dime on amenity fees either...so what's the issue

how silly to complain that a small about of people that may live outside TV, and would like to have a little enjoyment, and are well behaved, are crowding us out...and that heaven forbid people that don't live in TV and pay the amenity fee are somehow able to access the fun in the squares if they don't pay amenity fees

If we didn't have these wonderful people that live outside TV that mow the lawns, provide every form of service we can think of....TV wouldn't be the great bubble that it is

To those that take issue...I say 'get a life' learn how to share....you're running out of runway pal, so use your good china, buy the expensive shoes, go on the trips...drink the more expensive wine...

life is short

Very well stated!

:BigApplause::BigApplause:

[BigSteph]

I agree with most of what you just stated. HOWEVER, it is a good distance from the singular and original point of this thread.

I want the world to be happy. I don't have to ensure that it is. I'll do my part, but it is not my heavy load to bear.

What the original poster was stating is that it is concerning to him, and probably others, that we may have people (numerous or few, we don't clearly know) that use the amenities afforded paved pathways to traverse The Villages. The road are fair game, but he is contending that the MMP's are not.

Many of the adjacent communities have real gates that I cannot traverse, but they can traverse The Villages.

I'm sure, if I could cross their barriers, which I can't, they wouldn't want me using their amenities. The gates (without red buttons) are a clear indication that I am not welcome.

I think I captured the gist of the Original Poster's vibe on the matter. If not, I can take the criticism.

I don't mind the locals at the squares -- I find it refreshing to see different ages and I hope they spend money to keep the renters happy -- yet it doesn't matter what I think anyway, they are welcome by the developer and renters, regardless of my feelings.





I am disappointed that so many of the retailers that were in the squares five years ago have left....because there wasn't enough foot traffic

I'm all for the squares being open to the public....it brings me joy to see some local resident's little kids dancing it up and having a good time at the squares (reminds me of my grandkids)

I think to myself that maybe some of the so called 'nonpaying' people actually work in The Villages, maybe they staff the medical offices, wait on tables, wait on us in the retail stores, mow the lawns, are the electricians or plumbers we all use....or maybe this free entertainment is all that they hard working people can afford

The Squares are open to the public...oh, so maybe we might have to walk a distance from the parking lot...hello we need the exercise

I'll bet every single one of us have brought our kids and grandkids to 'da squares' to show it off...if not, then friends that came to visit...they've never spent a dime on amenity fees either...so what's the issue

how silly to complain that a small about of people that may live outside TV, and would like to have a little enjoyment, and are well behaved, are crowding us out...and that heaven forbid people that don't live in TV and pay the amenity fee are somehow able to access the fun in the squares if they don't pay amenity fees

If we didn't have these wonderful people that live outside TV that mow the lawns, provide every form of service we can think of....TV wouldn't be the great bubble that it is

To those that take issue...I say 'get a life' learn how to share....you're running out of runway pal, so use your good china, buy the expensive shoes, go on the trips...drink the more expensive wine...

life is short

[affald]

How is this idea to keep residents happy while not impacting the merchants with any type of outsider banning.

Convert the Rialto theater into a resident only club complete with restaurant, bar, and entertainment. Perhaps live entertainment three times per day. One would need to show Villages ID to enter. A guest could accompany a resident with a valid rec center guest pass. It could be Taco Mac's north without the movies. Would also eliminate the pink plywood nightmare that seems to be a permanent part of downtown SS decor.


That's a great idea. With regard to the OP. These was a group from stonecrest in the parade, and none of their golf carts that I saw were street legal. There needs to be a different card system for that "walmart" gate.

[VApeople]

We tried going to the squares a few time each year, had a hard time finding a place to park the cart.

You did not try very hard. We drive our car to the squares and easily find a space in the numerous and huge parking lots.

[Velvet]

You did not try very hard. We drive our car to the squares and easily find a space in the numerous and huge parking lots.

Well we did find parking, but then everyplace around the squares was full. I am all for the workers enjoying themselves. It’s the crowds I don’t like. If I wanted to stand in line for music it would be at the 60 band concert in Golden Gate Park in San Francisco. Or for The Kennedy Centre in NY etc.

When I came to visit my parents in TV decades ago, the square was filled with Villagers and never over crowded. It was less commercial and dedicated to actually entertaining the residents. Times have changed…I guess I have not.

[rustyp]

I am disappointed that so many of the retailers that were in the squares five years ago have left....because there wasn't enough foot traffic

I'm all for the squares being open to the public....it brings me joy to see some local resident's little kids dancing it up and having a good time at the squares (reminds me of my grandkids)

I think to myself that maybe some of the so called 'nonpaying' people actually work in The Villages, maybe they staff the medical offices, wait on tables, wait on us in the retail stores, mow the lawns, are the electricians or plumbers we all use....or maybe this free entertainment is all that they hard working people can afford

The Squares are open to the public...oh, so maybe we might have to walk a distance from the parking lot...hello we need the exercise

I'll bet every single one of us have brought our kids and grandkids to 'da squares' to show it off...if not, then friends that came to visit...they've never spent a dime on amenity fees either...so what's the issue

how silly to complain that a small about of people that may live outside TV, and would like to have a little enjoyment, and are well behaved, are crowding us out...and that heaven forbid people that don't live in TV and pay the amenity fee are somehow able to access the fun in the squares if they don't pay amenity fees

If we didn't have these wonderful people that live outside TV that mow the lawns, provide every form of service we can think of....TV wouldn't be the great bubble that it is

To those that take issue...I say 'get a life' learn how to share....you're running out of runway pal, so use your good china, buy the expensive shoes, go on the trips...drink the more expensive wine...

life is short

Let's put a roof over this airport.

[Michael G.]

if you did live off site and used a cart to access the villages MMP's you would be libel for trespassing. is it worth the chance?

Ya Right........ "Libel for trespassing"????
What planet are you from?

[Michael G.]

You do need a card to get through the gate that takes you to Walmart.

A group we talk to from Stonecrest came through the Walmart gate and over the Orange Blossom bridge to get to the squares.

How could this happen when we pay for those trails?

[yabbadu]

But they are using the MMP's from lakeside landings to get to the squares which would be trespassing.


Silly Comment!

[mulligan]

Won't be enforced.

[rustyp]

A group we talk to from Stonecrest came through the Walmart gate and over the Orange Blossom bridge to get to the squares.

How could this happen when we pay for those trails?


Some low life sold them access cards - before any of you write the next sentence there is no button for access at the "Walmart gate".

[Stu from NYC]

Well we did find parking, but then everyplace around the squares was full. I am all for the workers enjoying themselves. It’s the crowds I don’t like. If I wanted to stand in line for music it would be at the 60 band concert in Golden Gate Park in San Francisco. Or for The Kennedy Centre in NY etc.

When I came to visit my parents in TV decades ago, the square was filled with Villagers and never over crowded. It was less commercial and dedicated to actually entertaining the residents. Times have changed…I guess I have not.

I almost never find parking around the square figure have to park and walk a bit. No big deal for me but drop off my wife. Not a big deal.

[Flyers999]

It's my understanding that the entertainment at the squares 365 days a year is partially paid for by the local governments, which comes out of our real estate/sales taxes, etc.
8-10 years ago, the acts that they hired for the squares were not as good, or should I say consistent, than they are today. I remember, back then, sometimes the entertainment would be a disc jockey spinning tunes. I hardly ever see that these days, there is always a musical group with at least three members.
It makes sense for the local govs to "pitch in" since they are an unique attraction for the area. Wife & I don't attend any more, except when any youngins visit.

[mtdjed]

The squares were designed to be crowded and they provide plenty of free parking. The Villages is open to public traffic as are all of our roads. The MMPs are available to all visitors. There are no signs excluding visitors. There is no requirement for guest passes to use MMPs. If I have a guest, they can drive my golf cart on the paths. There are multiple sites that will rent carts to visitors. There are no MMP police. A visitor could bring his cart in on a trailer and ride MMPs all day.

So, it seems that the issue is limited to a few folks who are not Villagers who have found a way to enter the Villages thru a gate with no button. I went thru the Walmart gate one time and upon reentry found my gate card would not work. Waited for next traveler who gladly assisted me on reentry. How many people do we think "illegally "go thru these gates to crowd The Villages every night? 10, 50, 100? By car 100, 500, 1000? Someone implied that if they knew this could happen, they would have bought a house outside The Villages for less money. Well, it happens, and prices are high. Now is your chance.

[DaleDivine]

It's my understanding that the entertainment at the squares 365 days a year is partially paid for by the local governments, which comes out of our real estate/sales taxes, etc.
8-10 years ago, the acts that they hired for the squares were not as good, or should I say consistent, than they are today. I remember, back then, sometimes the entertainment would be a disc jockey spinning tunes. I never see that these days, there is always a musical group with at least three members.
It makes sense for the local govs to "pitch in" since they are an unique attraction for the area. Wife & I don't attend any more, except when any youngins visit.

Have you never seen or heard of SCOOTER THE DJ? He was at Brownwood on St. Patrick's day.
The times I have seen him he has always been alone not with a couple of other members.
:ho:

[Bogie Shooter]

Well we did find parking, but then everyplace around the squares was full. I am all for the workers enjoying themselves. It’s the crowds I don’t like. If I wanted to stand in line for music it would be at the 60 band concert in Golden Gate Park in San Francisco. Or for The Kennedy Centre in NY etc.

When I came to visit my parents in TV decades ago, the square was filled with Villagers and never over crowded. It was less commercial and dedicated to actually entertaining the residents. Times have changed…I guess I have not.

We’re they wearing signs, so you could tell they were villagers ?How silly of a statement.

[Bogie Shooter]

Have you never seen or heard of SCOOTER THE DJ? He was at SS on St. Patrick's day.
The times I have seen him he has always been alone not with a couple of other members.
:ho::boom:
Boom not appropriate! Scooter is the exception. There were others early on.

[CWGUY]

Have you never seen or heard of SCOOTER THE DJ? He was at SS on St. Patrick's day.
The times I have seen him he has always been alone not with a couple of other members.
:ho::boom:

:1rotfl: Actually, he was at Brownwood Paddock Square.

[DaleDivine]

Boom not appropriate! Scooter is the exception. There were others early on.

Sorry about the BOOM. I didn't mean to offend you so I edited it and removed it.
Don't want to be put in timeout again.
:coolsmiley:

[dewilson58]

Sorry about the BOOM. I didn't mean to offend you so I edited it and removed it.
Don't want to be put in timeout again.
:coolsmiley:

Timeout is always fun.

:boom:

:boom:

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

You do not need a gate card to get through any gate...simply push the button. so this makes me doubt the validity of the post.

while it may bother you that a few outsiders use the MMP's it is a very small amount and nothing that really impacts the crowds at the town squares. and if you did live off site and used a cart to access the villages MMP's you would be libel for trespassing. is it worth the chance?

You do need a gate card to get through the gate on the "historic" side of the Villages, that connects to the medical centers, Lowe's, Walmart, etc. That path also leads to Stonecrest on the other end, and they have acquired (purchased or simply been given) gate cards by Villagers. I wouldn't doubt it if they've also been using the "cheats" posted here by so many helpful people to ensure that they, people who don't pay amenities here, get access to all the trails we, people who DO pay amenities, have to pay for.

[Velvet]

We’re they wearing signs, so you could tell they were villagers ?How silly of a statement.

Those days my uncle knew most of them. So did Mr.Shwartz.

[Nucky]

It might be aggravating but there is no way its ever going to stop.

Occasionally I am asked by someone at the Historic Gate if they can borrow my card. I no speaky da english. Just keep on moving.

[Velvet]

My hubby would ask for their Villager’s ID, then help them out with the gate card.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I might be aggravating but there is no way its ever going to stop.

Occasionally I am asked by someone at the Historic Gate if they can borrow my card. I no speaky da english. Just keep on moving.

I ask them for their ID. Villagers' ID or drivers license. If their address is on a street I'm familiar with I let them through with a curt "be grateful it was me who let you in, instead of a dozen people who didn't." If they say they don't have it, I tell them to go home and get it - and while they're at it, get their gate card. If they're trying to come IN, and they don't have an ID showing they live here, I refuse to let them in.

One guy tried to give me money to thank me for letting him in after I verified that he had a valid ID proving he lived in the Villages. I just told him next time bring his damned gate card.

[thevillages2013]

I realize that the Town Squares are open to the general public and the businesses thrive on their patronage. Yesterday I went down to the St. Patrick's events and it was so packed I couldn't get a beer!
I'm all about lots of people and having fun. But I found out from a couple of young girls that they accessed the square using The Villages Golf Cart trails. I was surprised since they had told me that their parents do no live in the Villages. When I asked them how they got on The Villages trails they said that their parents and other people that lived in the same community had cards to swipe. I also saw another couple on a golf cart that I know does not own property in the Villages.
I'm not trying to be a "downer", but it sort of rubbed me the wrong way that they could use our trails so easily when I could have got a bigger house for less money where they live! I could just live over there and not have to contribute to the upkeep of trails and bridges etc. A huge reason why I bought in The Villages was to have access to the trails. Isn't there something that can be done to monitor this better! New passes...checking pass numbers...anyone agree?

Did you ever get a beer? Just asking about the important stuff!

[thevillages2013]

“No one goes to the squares anymore, they’re too crowded”

Yogi Berra

Hell yes! Now this is good content! Baseball season is right around the corner!

[Bill14564]

I might be aggravating but there is no way its ever going to stop.

Occasionally I am asked by someone at the Historic Gate if they can borrow my card. I no speaky da english. Just keep on moving.

You need the card to get out through that gate too, right?

If they are trying to get in then how did they get out without a card?
if they are trying to get out then how do they expect to get back in without a card?

Seems fishy even if they do produce a Villagers ID.

[spark291@comcast.net]

A group we talk to from Stonecrest came through the Walmart gate and over the Orange Blossom bridge to get to the squares.

How could this happen when we pay for those trails?

it shouldnt happen what can be done! so many ppl here enjoying all the outdoor amenities from stonecrest using the walmart path , even our previous realtor told us about it . Needs to stop

[BigSteph]

They could have community watch sit at the gate and ask for identification a few times a week.

There may be technology to identify if a card has been suspected of being copied -- i.e., used over and over again in the same direction (indicating more than 1 card) or numerous times in a certain period -- still possible, but improbable.



When I see a police officer on the side of the road, I slow down.


it shouldnt happen what can be done! so many ppl here enjoying all the outdoor amenities from stonecrest using the walmart path , even our previous realtor told us about it . Needs to stop

[Stu from NYC]

They could have community watch sit at the gate and ask for identification a few times a week.

There may be technology to identify if a card has been suspected of being copied -- i.e., used over and over again in the same direction (indicating more than 1 card) or numerous times in a certain period -- still possible, but improbable.



When I see a police officer on the side of the road, I slow down.

Community watch does many things but getting into an altercation aint one of them

[Bill14564]

it shouldnt happen what can be done! so many ppl here enjoying all the outdoor amenities from stonecrest using the walmart path , even our previous realtor told us about it . Needs to stop

How many is "so many?" Ten people per day, 100 people per day? How big is the actual problem?

Sure, even one is too many, but how much are you willing to pay to keep that one out? The Walmart path could be blocked off but I believe that was tried once and was very unpopular. A large amount could be paid to modify the software at the gates but even if it worked it would slow the gates down and would likely keep some legitimate users out. Community Watch personnel could be placed at every outdoor amenity the entire time it is open to check IDs but that would get expensive and it would make it feel like we are constantly being watched.

If "outsiders" are streaming through the gates and overrunning the pools and pickleball courts then something needs to be done. Are there really "so many" people doing that?

[rustyp]

The non Village people coming over in their golf cart through the Paradise gate know they are doing wrong. They can't get in the gate unless they have an illegal card or BS some resident they forgot their gate key. Get in your car and come to the squares - perfectly legal. Do it in your golf cart you are a total low life knowingly and willfully abusing the system.

[Michael G.]

Get in your car and come to the squares - perfectly legal. Do it in your golf cart you are a total low life knowingly and willfully abusing the system.

This conversion is stupid, because there's no legal way to control it.

Outsiders coming to TV, take your car, and not your golfcart, simple as that.

If we villagers do business outside the compound, we should do the same.

IMHO all golfcart paths should end where TV limits ends, a no brainer.

[rustyp]

The non Village people coming over in their golf cart through the Paradise gate know they are doing wrong. They can't get in the gate unless they have an illegal card or BS some resident they forgot their gate key. Get in your car and come to the squares - perfectly legal. Do it in your golf cart you are a total low life knowingly and willfully abusing the system.

This conversion is stupid, because there's no legal way to control it.

Outsiders coming to TV, take your car, and not your golfcart, simple as that.

If we villagers do business outside the compound, we should do the same.

IMHO all golfcart paths should end where TV limits ends, a no brainer.


You edited out the most important part of my post "the Paradise gate". This gate is solely on The Villages private property and by entering it with an illegal gate pass or under false premises is trespassing. Last I knew trespassing was against the law. FYI you can be trespassed out of the town squares by the developer and arrested. Has happened many times in the past.

[Michael G.]

You edited out the most important part of my post "the Paradise gate". This gate is solely on The Villages private property and by entering it with an illegal gate pass or under false premises is trespassing. Last I knew trespassing was against the law. FYI you can be trespassed out of the town squares by the developer and arrested. Has happened many times in the past.

Like I stated:
IMHO all golfcart paths should end where TV limits ends, a no brainer.

That Paradise gate shouldn't be there if it leads anywhere off TV limits like Lowes or soon to open BJ's.

[Bilyclub]

Like I stated:
IMHO all golfcart paths should end where TV limits ends, a no brainer.

That Paradise gate shouldn't be there if it leads anywhere off TV limits like Lowes or soon to open BJ's.

Other developments are allowed to do crazier things, like cross 441/27 in a cart.

Did you know Spruce Creek residents can cross 441 at SE176th St legally, that is the entrance to Spruce Creek. They can then make a right on SE 112th Court Road (the road on the back side of Sonic Drive-in) which will take them to Walmart and from Walmart you know the rest.

[Nucky]

I ask them for their ID. Villagers' ID or drivers license. If their address is on a street I'm familiar with I let them through with a curt "be grateful it was me who let you in, instead of a dozen people who didn't." If they say they don't have it, I tell them to go home and get it - and while they're at it, get their gate card. If they're trying to come IN, and they don't have an ID showing they live here, I refuse to let them in.

One guy tried to give me money to thank me for letting him in after I verified that he had a valid ID proving he lived in the Villages. I just told him next time bring his damned gate card.

I get it. I think that works nicely for you. For me, that's a no-go. I have shown up to that gate with no card twice because we gave the card to our kids and I forgot. I went home and waited till later to use the gate. Personally, I would never ask for someone's card.

[Michael G.]

Did you know Spruce Creek residents can cross 441 at SE176th St legally, that is the entrance to Spruce Creek. They can then make a right on SE 112th Court Road (the road on the back side of Sonic Drive-in) which will take them to Walmart and from Walmart you know the rest.

Spruce Creek is not TV's

[Bogie Shooter]

Spruce Creek is not TV's

:what:
Isn’t that the point? Non villagers coming in…………

[coralway]

5 pages of comments - all this because the OP couldn't get a beer.

[mtdjed]

Asking for Villagers ID is crazy stuff. That's asking for trouble. We are not border guards. Welcome your neighbors. If they come by car, they are welcome but if they come by cart, they are trespassers?????

[Velvet]

Asking for Villagers ID is crazy stuff. That's asking for trouble. We are not border guards. Welcome your neighbors. If they come by car, they are welcome but if they come by cart, they are trespassers?????

If you don’t want me to ask for your villager ID, then don’t ask me to let you use MY gate pass. It’s that simple.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

How many is "so many?" Ten people per day, 100 people per day? How big is the actual problem?

Sure, even one is too many, but how much are you willing to pay to keep that one out? The Walmart path could be blocked off but I believe that was tried once and was very unpopular. A large amount could be paid to modify the software at the gates but even if it worked it would slow the gates down and would likely keep some legitimate users out. Community Watch personnel could be placed at every outdoor amenity the entire time it is open to check IDs but that would get expensive and it would make it feel like we are constantly being watched.

If "outsiders" are streaming through the gates and overrunning the pools and pickleball courts then something needs to be done. Are there really "so many" people doing that?

The Rec department has employees who are supposed to do spot checks already. And - I've lived in my area for two years and have NEVER seen any rec center employee check my ID at the amenity pools.

So - we don't need community watch. We just need for the rec center administrators to make sure their employees are actually doing these spot checks.

And the other day I was at a country club pool and listened to two people standing next to me. One wanted to BUY the other one's guest pass. He said he could join, but it was soooo expensive and why spend all that money when he could help this other guy out and save himself some coin at the same time?

The guy was bold enough to say it loudly enough for me to hear the entire thing without my hearing aids on. Makes me wonder how many -other- people are cheating the system. If no one pays for membership, then they have to raise the prices to cover the costs - or reduce the quality, or fire a waiter - we had ONE waitress for the entire country club pool the whole 5 hours I was there. They promised they'd have more workers during the spring break week and they never brought anyone else in.

Selling gate cards, encouraging people to bypass the gate system, publishing here phone numbers and names of people who can rig your golf cart so it can get through that Walmart gate even if you don't live in the Villages...

The other thread talks about how people were raised in the 1950's and 1960's. I guess some of them mean they were raised to cheat, and justify their behavior by pretending that they earned the right to do so. So much for moral fibre.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Asking for Villagers ID is crazy stuff. That's asking for trouble. We are not border guards. Welcome your neighbors. If they come by car, they are welcome but if they come by cart, they are trespassers?????

The MMPs are amenities paid for in part by our amenities fee. Non-Villagers don't pay that fee. They are not entitled to access of those MMPs. Cars can't drive on the MMPs legally at all. So yes - cars are absolutely welcome into the Villages, on the public roads, which are legally accessible to the public, and paid for by county taxes.

Golf carts cannot legally cross 441, 44, 466, and 466a. They also cannot legally drive on Buena Vista Blvd, most (not all) of Morse Blvd, or El Camino Real. There is one spot somewhere at Spruce Creek, a whole other community north of the Villages, that has been granted an exemption by their county to cross 441 at one very specific crossroad. The only way people from Spruce Creek and Stonecrest can get to the Villages by GOLF CART is to illegally access a Villages golf cart path (not an MMP) via a gate pass that they're not entitled to possess. Once they get through that gate, they then have access to every MMP in the Villages. That they don't pay for. That we DO pay for.

We have enough traffic trouble during snowbird season. We don't need people who aren't supposed to be on those paths at all adding to the congestion.

[Bilyclub]

Spruce Creek is not TV's

Your post stated that Villagers should not drive carts outside of TV. I was pointing out that other developments have access to areas outside of their boundaries.

[mtdjed]

I ask them for their ID. Villagers' ID or drivers license. If their address is on a street I'm familiar with I let them through with a curt "be grateful it was me who let you in, instead of a dozen people who didn't." If they say they don't have it, I tell them to go home and get it - and while they're at it, get their gate card. If they're trying to come IN, and they don't have an ID showing they live here, I refuse to let them in.

One guy tried to give me money to thank me for letting him in after I verified that he had a valid ID proving he lived in the Villages. I just told him next time bring his damned gate card.

The MMPs are amenities paid for in part by our amenities fee. Non-Villagers don't pay that fee. They are not entitled to access of those MMPs. Cars can't drive on the MMPs legally at all. So yes - cars are absolutely welcome into the Villages, on the public roads, which are legally accessible to the public, and paid for by county taxes.

Golf carts cannot legally cross 441, 44, 466, and 466a. They also cannot legally drive on Buena Vista Blvd, most (not all) of Morse Blvd, or El Camino Real. There is one spot somewhere at Spruce Creek, a whole other community north of the Villages, that has been granted an exemption by their county to cross 441 at one very specific crossroad. The only way people from Spruce Creek and Stonecrest can get to the Villages by GOLF CART is to illegally access a Villages golf cart path (not an MMP) via a gate pass that they're not entitled to possess. Once they get through that gate, they then have access to every MMP in the Villages. That they don't pay for. That we DO pay for.

We have enough traffic trouble during snowbird season. We don't need people who aren't supposed to be on those paths at all adding to the congestion.

Non Villagers are using MMPs daily. 1000's of Visitors have access to legally use MMPs without guest Village IDs. There is no control of who uses these MMPs other than defined by type of Multi Modal and not who you are. If I were a passer by who stopped at The Villages and decided to rent a golf cart or ride my bike on a MMP there is nothing to stop me. If I happened to have a golf cart on a trailer, I could unload it in The Villages and ride the MMP's. I could store it in The Villages and use it whenever I wanted.
So, the thought that we pay for the MMP's and therefore only we can use is valid.

The valid part is the use of the so-called Walmart Gate . And I seriously doubt if that gate is being used by hordes of visitors. Then I question why that gate exists at all. Probably for the convenience of Villagers who desire access to medical, dining and shopping without use of cars. What of folks on the other side who might need access to medical, religious, and shopping?

[Topspinmo]

You do not need a gate card to get through any gate...simply push the button. so this makes me doubt the validity of the post.

while it may bother you that a few outsiders use the MMP's it is a very small amount and nothing that really impacts the crowds at the town squares. and if you did live off site and used a cart to access the villages MMP's you would be libel for trespassing. is it worth the chance?

Talking about gate on historical side, there no button on that gate. Far as I know that the only gate that you have to have card reader. They installed wall few years back when outrage started , then replaced it with metal gate.

[Topspinmo]

The MMPs are amenities paid for in part by our amenities fee. Non-Villagers don't pay that fee. They are not entitled to access of those MMPs. Cars can't drive on the MMPs legally at all. So yes - cars are absolutely welcome into the Villages, on the public roads, which are legally accessible to the public, and paid for by county taxes.

Golf carts cannot legally cross 441, 44, 466, and 466a. They also cannot legally drive on Buena Vista Blvd, most (not all) of Morse Blvd, or El Camino Real. There is one spot somewhere at Spruce Creek, a whole other community north of the Villages, that has been granted an exemption by their county to cross 441 at one very specific crossroad. The only way people from Spruce Creek and Stonecrest can get to the Villages by GOLF CART is to illegally access a Villages golf cart path (not an MMP) via a gate pass that they're not entitled to possess. Once they get through that gate, they then have access to every MMP in the Villages. That they don't pay for. That we DO pay for.

We have enough traffic trouble during snowbird season. We don't need people who aren't supposed to be on those paths at all adding to the congestion.


Wrong, carts cross 466 and 441 legally (cross el Camino Reno and north end down from Walmart on 441.)

[Topspinmo]

The Rec department has employees who are supposed to do spot checks already. And - I've lived in my area for two years and have NEVER seen any rec center employee check my ID at the amenity pools.

So - we don't need community watch. We just need for the rec center administrators to make sure their employees are actually doing these spot checks.

And the other day I was at a country club pool and listened to two people standing next to me. One wanted to BUY the other one's guest pass. He said he could join, but it was soooo expensive and why spend all that money when he could help this other guy out and save himself some coin at the same time?

The guy was bold enough to say it loudly enough for me to hear the entire thing without my hearing aids on. Makes me wonder how many -other- people are cheating the system. If no one pays for membership, then they have to raise the prices to cover the costs - or reduce the quality, or fire a waiter - we had ONE waitress for the entire country club pool the whole 5 hours I was there. They promised they'd have more workers during the spring break week and they never brought anyone else in.

Selling gate cards, encouraging people to bypass the gate system, publishing here phone numbers and names of people who can rig your golf cart so it can get through that Walmart gate even if you don't live in the Villages...

The other thread talks about how people were raised in the 1950's and 1960's. I guess some of them mean they were raised to cheat, and justify their behavior by pretending that they earned the right to do so. So much for moral fibre.

And you tied that all together especially 50s and 60s part, Got it figured out don’t you.

[Topspinmo]

5 pages of comments - all this because the OP couldn't get a beer.

Hey, crutches are important.:)

[Topspinmo]

Spruce Creek is not TV's

You’re correct true gated community.

[Topspinmo]

I ask them for their ID. Villagers' ID or drivers license. If their address is on a street I'm familiar with I let them through with a curt "be grateful it was me who let you in, instead of a dozen people who didn't." If they say they don't have it, I tell them to go home and get it - and while they're at it, get their gate card. If they're trying to come IN, and they don't have an ID showing they live here, I refuse to let them in.

One guy tried to give me money to thank me for letting him in after I verified that he had a valid ID proving he lived in the Villages. I just told him next time bring his damned gate card.

Did you ask him out he got out?

[mtdjed]

Amazing to me how many want to so jealously guard our border just because we paid to be Villagers. Perhaps we could find some unused surplus Border walls to keep the trespassers out. Just think of the Walled Sovereign Community of The Villages - Florida's Most Friendly Hometown.

:welcome: 🚫

[ChicagoNative]

Amazing to me how many want to so jealously guard our border just because we paid to be Villagers. Perhaps we could find some unused surplus Border walls to keep the trespassers out. Just think of the Walled Sovereign Community of The Villages - Florida's Most Friendly Hometown.

:welcome: ������

Hah! Maybe a big red “V” tattoo on one’s forehead should be required to help keep out all the riff-raff!

And how bout that wing nut drone guy….can we get his drones to make sure the unwashed stay off the MMP?

Btw, what is this “historic” section people speak of. Isn’t that the trailer park? Do you REALLY want trailer park people coming into the Villages? So, NOKD. :boxing2:

[Bogie Shooter]

Hah! Maybe a big red “V” tattoo on one’s forehead should be required to help keep out all the riff-raff!

And how bout that wing nut drone guy….can we get his drones to make sure the unwashed stay off the MMP?

Btw, what is this “historic” section people speak of. Isn’t that the trailer park? Do you REALLY want trailer park people coming into the Villages? So, NOKD. :boxing2:

The 'historic" section is The Villages. Hey, what do you mean "trailer park people"?
If you are trolling with this post....you got me. If you are serious....shame on you.

[ChicagoNative]

The 'historic" section is The Villages. Hey, what do you mean "trailer park people"?
If you are trolling with this post....you got me. If you are serious....shame on you.

Looks like I got you.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

You do not need a gate card to get through any gate...simply push the button. so this makes me doubt the validity of the post.

while it may bother you that a few outsiders use the MMP's it is a very small amount and nothing that really impacts the crowds at the town squares. and if you did live off site and used a cart to access the villages MMP's you would be libel for trespassing. is it worth the chance?

You do need a card to get through the gate that connects the historic district with the Medical Center, Lowes, Aldi and Walmart area.

That is one of the only ways that I know of to get golf carts into The Villages. It may also be possible that residents of Stonecrest can cross 27/441 in their golf carts and somehow come in that way. I've heard rumors to that affect but I'm not sure that they're true.

[PennBF]

Let's get real. The Residents pay the bills for the Squares but are getting to be the lesser of the users. With all of the apartments being built outside of the Villages and these renters or owners using the Villages assets without contributing to the costs makes the Residents payers just plain "suckers". Getting into the Villages property is very easy so the thefts go on. Think of the fact that the Villages (Developer, et al) have developed a formula that makes the cost of Sumter Landing greater for the residents than the Business's that get the benefits of the outsiders using the area. This is a fact! Now the outside users of the Squares are starting to prevent the residents from using or enjoying the squares. We use to enjoy the Sumter Landing Square but it is so infused with outside attendance that we no longer go to the entertainment. It is now a scene of drunks, and non residents that the only enjoyment is to drive through and watch the drunks and mob scenes: The residents are "suckers" who don't pay attention to what they are getting and therefore deserve what they get!

[Bill14564]

Let's get real. The Residents pay the bills for the Squares but are getting to be the lesser of the users. With all of the apartments being built outside of the Villages and these renters or owners using the Villages assets without contributing to the costs makes the Residents payers just plain "suckers". Getting into the Villages property is very easy so the thefts go on. Think of the fact that the Villages (Developer, et al) have developed a formula that makes the cost of Sumter Landing greater for the residents than the Business's that get the benefits of the outsiders using the area. This is a fact! Now the outside users of the Squares are starting to prevent the residents from using or enjoying the squares. We use to enjoy the Sumter Landing Square but it is so infused with outside attendance that we no longer go to the entertainment. It is now a scene of drunks, and non residents that the only enjoyment is to drive through and watch the drunks and mob scenes: The residents are "suckers" who don't pay attention to what they are getting and therefore deserve what they get!

What is the secret to identifying the "outsiders," is there a mark on their forehead or a special way they carry themselves? I'd like to get the same discounts on my property taxes that pay for the squares or on beer at the huts or food in the restaurants that you say the "outsiders" get.

Haven't seen the drunks or the mobs... I guess I'm one of the "suckers." I'll have to pay more attention and stop being distracted by the performers on the stage.

[Michael G.]

That "Walmart gate" people refer to, I was told to me, that the blacktop golf cart path leading to Walmart was funded
by the Stonecrest people with funding from a golf outing a year or so ago.

Anyone hear that also?

[Bill14564]

That "Walmart gate" people refer to, I was told to me, that the blacktop golf cart path leading to Walmart was funded
by the Stonecrest people with funding from a golf outing a year or so ago.

Anyone hear that also?

The "Walmart gate" out of the Villages is not near the Walmart store. Perhaps there is a separate blacktop golf cart path since the Villages gate has been discussed for well over a year.

[rustyp]

That "Walmart gate" people refer to, I was told to me, that the blacktop golf cart path leading to Walmart was funded
by the Stonecrest people with funding from a golf outing a year or so ago.

Anyone hear that also?

I know the answer to this but first what does the blacktop path have to do with entering The Villages via the Paradise gate which for the upteen time is not accessable without a resident key card (no button).

[Bogie Shooter]

Let's get real. The Residents pay the bills for the Squares but are getting to be the lesser of the users. With all of the apartments being built outside of the Villages and these renters or owners using the Villages assets without contributing to the costs makes the Residents payers just plain "suckers". Getting into the Villages property is very easy so the thefts go on. Think of the fact that the Villages (Developer, et al) have developed a formula that makes the cost of Sumter Landing greater for the residents than the Business's that get the benefits of the outsiders using the area. This is a fact! Now the outside users of the Squares are starting to prevent the residents from using or enjoying the squares. We use to enjoy the Sumter Landing Square but it is so infused with outside attendance that we no longer go to the entertainment. It is now a scene of drunks, and non residents that the only enjoyment is to drive through and watch the drunks and mob scenes: The residents are "suckers" who don't pay attention to what they are getting and therefore deserve what they get!

Not sure how residents are paying for the Squares.
Entertainment is funded by tourism grants from Sumter County & funds from business's at the squares.

[Velvet]

What is the secret to identifying the "outsiders," is there a mark on their forehead or a special way they carry themselves? I'd like to get the same discounts on my property taxes that pay for the squares or on beer at the huts or food in the restaurants that you say the "outsiders" get.

Haven't seen the drunks or the mobs... I guess I'm one of the "suckers." I'll have to pay more attention and stop being distracted by the performers on the stage.

You mean, non-resident Villagers as outsiders. Pretty easy to tell. They are younger etc. The problem for me is not that they are there sharing the fun, the problem is overcrowding in general. We can go to Orlando for that and I do.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

You do need a card to get through the gate that connects the historic district with the Medical Center, Lowes, Aldi and Walmart area.

That is one of the only ways that I know of to get golf carts into The Villages. It may also be possible that residents of Stonecrest can cross 27/441 in their golf carts and somehow come in that way. I've heard rumors to that affect but I'm not sure that they're true.

They can, and some of them do. They'll wait at the gate and tell the next cart to show up that their card doesn't work, or that they left their card home and just want to get home. And many Villagers, being eager to be helpful and generally trusting of strangers, will happily let them in.

Some of them, like me and Nucky, will ask them to show some ID to prove that they actually live in the villages.

There were some arrests near the Lowe's parking lot last year of golf cart thieves. They'd drive the cart out that gate by pretending they left their card home. And someone would let them just drive right on out, and load the cart onto a flatbed. They stole several carts before they were finally caught.

[DonH57]

That "Walmart gate" people refer to, I was told to me, that the blacktop golf cart path leading to Walmart was funded
by the Stonecrest people with funding from a golf outing a year or so ago.

Anyone hear that also?

In fact the blacktop path you speak of was pretty much funded by Stonecrest and residents from the community directly across Stonecrest to get to Aldi's, Lowes, medical offices and restaurants there. So, yes, pretty much everyone benefits from it.

[ThirdOfFive]

Why all the hoo-ha?

Dunno about the rest of y'all but seeing a winsome young lass or handsome lad in the sea of crabby old geezers is a welcome sight.

[Velvet]

Why all the hoo-ha?

Dunno about the rest of y'all but seeing a winsome young lass or handsome lad in the sea of crabby old geezers is a welcome sight.

You are kidding, right?

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

In fact the blacktop path you speak of was pretty much funded by Stonecrest and residents from the community directly across Stonecrest to get to Aldi's, Lowes, medical offices and restaurants there. So, yes, pretty much everyone benefits from it.

At some point, they felt this entitled them to come through to the Villages and use the 50+ square miles of MMPs that Villages pay to maintain through our own fees. A barricade was erected at the location of the Paradise gate, preventing anyone from coming or going through it. Eventually, that barricade was taken down and replace with a gate with no button. You must use a card if you want to drive a golf cart in or out of that gate.

Some Stonecrest folks have bypassed that requirement by purchasing gate cards from uncaring, or possibly ignorant Villages residents. And some, as I mentioned up-thread, will simply lie to whoever else is at the gate and claim that they lost their card, in the hopes that they can scam their way through. The Villages Paradise gate is PRIVATE property. That little section of path leading from that gate onto Paradise Drive is PRIVATE property. Stonecrest residents are not entitled to use it. The only way they can, is to lie, or to intentionally cheat everyone else.

[44Apple]

In general, I'm all for limiting who can enter the Villages, for more than one reason. Including that it might lessen some of the thefts and other crimes that go on.

[Cajulian]

it shouldnt happen what can be done! so many ppl here enjoying all the outdoor amenities from stonecrest using the walmart path , even our previous realtor told us about it . Needs to stop

It seems a bit hypocritical that hundreds of Villages residents use the paved cart path from Aldi’s to Walmart that is paved by Stonecrest people, paid for by Stonecrest, and mowed each week by Stonecrrst people. Should A gate be put up to stop Villagers use of this path. NO! Stonecrest is neighborly and doesn’t whine about use by Villagers. They consider it is good for everyone.

Stop whining about trivial things.

[Flyers999]

I think most Stonecresters are getting passes from a friend in the villages. It's easy for a villager to legally obtain an extra gate pass.
And in my opinion, it depends on where they are going. If they're going to play a championship course, come on in. If they're going to an executive course , they should be arrested, tried and executed. If they're going to a square, I'm OK with this because, as I mentioned, the entertainers performing at the squares are paid for partially by county taxes, so technically the good residents of Stonecrest are paying for it.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I think most Stonecresters are getting passes from a friend in the villages. It's easy for a villager to legally obtain an extra gate pass.
And in my opinion, it depends on where they are going. If they're going to play a championship course, come on in. If they're going to an executive course , they should be arrested, tried and executed. If they're going to a square, I'm OK with this because, as I mentioned, the entertainers performing at the squares are paid for partially by county taxes, so technically the good residents of Stonecrest are paying for it.

They're using the amenities because they know the pools are under (or completely un-) staffed. They BUY guest passes from Villages residents using IDs from "up north" to get them. They're also using "guest passes" that they BUY from country club members to use the Country Club pools.

Not a conspiracy, it's actually a thing.

[PennBF]

I can only explain how you are being subject to abuse financially but I can't help you to understand it! If you decide to take the time to actually determine what this means you may want to look into how the costs of maintaining Sumter Landing are allocated, the impact to residents when they pay for the infrastructure for the usage of these non-residents, and the merchants don't pay a fair share even though they get the advantage of revenue associated with this group. This is only addressing Lake Sumter and it is happening in a number of financial goings on in The Villages. If you are going to encourage more non residents to come to the Village's without contributing to the costs it is obvious you don't understand the impacts and facts of your misled opinions. I would encourage you to study the issues associated with these action and then make an informed opinion as to the direction we are going.

[Bill14564]

I can only explain how you are being subject to abuse financially but I can't help you to understand it! If you decide to take the time to actually determine what this means you may want to look into how the costs of maintaining Sumter Landing are allocated, the impact to residents when they pay for the infrastructure for the usage of these non-residents, and the merchants don't pay a fair share even though they get the advantage of revenue associated with this group. This is only addressing Lake Sumter and it is happening in a number of financial goings on in The Villages. If you are going to encourage more non residents to come to the Village's without contributing to the costs it is obvious you don't understand the impacts and facts of your misled opinions. I would encourage you to study the issues associated with these action and then make an informed opinion as to the direction we are going.

Ahhh, so you are concerned about the wear and tear on the sidewalks.

Was at LSL again last night - enjoyed the music and the dancing. Which part of the square has the drunks and the mobs? I missed them again. We were some of the youngest in the square (other than the toddlers of course) so maybe you counted us as some of the outsiders.

Does the funding algorithm favor the few businesses over the thousands of homes and can that be interpreted as the businesses not paying their "fair share?" Absolutely, but that isn't new and that isn't unique to the Villages. I have been paying for schools since I've owned a home and never had one child in them. I've been paying for maintenance on hundreds of miles of roads that support businesses but that I will never travel. Paying a little less than $2,000/year to support three venues that I enjoy regularly (with more on the way) seems like a deal to me.

[PennBF]

As I said I can explain the problem BUT I can't help you understand it! :ohdear:

[Velvet]

As I said I can explain the problem BUT I can't help you understand it! :ohdear:

That is such a great quote, I hope you don’t mind if I borrow it some time?

[Bill14564]

As I said I can explain the problem BUT I can't help you understand it! :ohdear:

:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Laker14]

Let's get real. The Residents pay the bills for the Squares but are getting to be the lesser of the users. With all of the apartments being built outside of the Villages and these renters or owners using the Villages assets without contributing to the costs makes the Residents payers just plain "suckers". Getting into the Villages property is very easy so the thefts go on. Think of the fact that the Villages (Developer, et al) have developed a formula that makes the cost of Sumter Landing greater for the residents than the Business's that get the benefits of the outsiders using the area. This is a fact! Now the outside users of the Squares are starting to prevent the residents from using or enjoying the squares. We use to enjoy the Sumter Landing Square but it is so infused with outside attendance that we no longer go to the entertainment. It is now a scene of drunks, and non residents that the only enjoyment is to drive through and watch the drunks and mob scenes: The residents are "suckers" who don't pay attention to what they are getting and therefore deserve what they get!

As I said I can explain the problem BUT I can't help you understand it! :ohdear:

OK, let's look closely at your "explanation".

1. "The Residents pay the bills for the Squares"...Really? I think this statement requires a bit more explanation. What do you mean by "the bills for the Squares"? The developer owns and charges rent for the commercial space, and the entertainment is paid for by a variety of means. Are you talking about maintenance and upkeep of the actual square? Perhaps you could be more specific about exactly what, and how, the residents of TV pay for "The Squares".

2."Now the outside users of the Squares are starting to prevent the residents from using or enjoying the squares. We use to enjoy the Sumter Landing Square but it is so infused with outside attendance that we no longer go to the entertainment. It is now a scene of drunks, and non residents that the only enjoyment is to drive through and watch the drunks and mob scene"...
Anyone who read this statement, and believed it without ever having been to a square to listen to the music would imagine a scene with people stumbling around drunk, similar to our college Spring Break days. I have never seen one person doing this. And "non-residents"? Since they first built Sumter Landing, how many fold has the Villages grown? Of course there are more people at the Square now than when there were only 50,000 residents. There are 130,000 or so now. And the squares have always been open to non-residents. They don't need to buy gate passes to come and listen to the music. And how can you tell a non-resident from a resident?

I don't think you've explained why it's a problem for me. You've described a scenario that doesn't exist, and you've made statements that require more explanation before they can be evaluated for relevance and accuracy. Perhaps you can start with a deeper explanation of how the squares are funded?

[ThirdOfFive]

OK, let's look closely at your "explanation".

1. "The Residents pay the bills for the Squares"...Really? I think this statement requires a bit more explanation. What do you mean by "the bills for the Squares"? The developer owns and charges rent for the commercial space, and the entertainment is paid for by a variety of means. Are you talking about maintenance and upkeep of the actual square? Perhaps you could be more specific about exactly what, and how, the residents of TV pay for "The Squares".

2."Now the outside users of the Squares are starting to prevent the residents from using or enjoying the squares. We use to enjoy the Sumter Landing Square but it is so infused with outside attendance that we no longer go to the entertainment. It is now a scene of drunks, and non residents that the only enjoyment is to drive through and watch the drunks and mob scene"...
Anyone who read this statement, and believed it without ever having been to a square to listen to the music would imagine a scene with people stumbling around drunk, similar to our college Spring Break days. I have never seen one person doing this. And "non-residents"? Since they first built Sumter Landing, how many fold has the Villages grown? Of course there are more people at the Square now than when there were only 50,000 residents. There are 130,000 or so now. And the squares have always been open to non-residents. They don't need to buy gate passes to come and listen to the music. And how can you tell a non-resident from a resident?

I don't think you've explained why it's a problem for me. You've described a scenario that doesn't exist, and you've made statements that require more explanation before they can be evaluated for relevance and accuracy. Perhaps you can start with a deeper explanation of how the squares are funded?
We don't go to the squares for entertainment very much but in all honesty, though crowded particularly during high snowbird season, the people don't appear to be particularly unruly. Oh, there's the occasional loud drunk but nothing more, and probably a lot less, than you'd see at any equivalent gathering of non-village folks in a scenario where booze is available.

Even petty crime seems to be nonexistent during square entertainment times. We park our cart usually well away from the entertainment and have left items such as sunglasses, jackets, etc. inside in plain view, and have return to find them undisturbed. I certainly wouldn't do that at, say, Wal-Mart, but it doesn't seem to be a problem at the squares.

[golfing eagles]

It seems a bit hypocritical that hundreds of Villages residents use the paved cart path from Aldi’s to Walmart that is paved by Stonecrest people, paid for by Stonecrest, and mowed each week by Stonecrrst people. Should A gate be put up to stop Villagers use of this path. NO! Stonecrest is neighborly and doesn’t whine about use by Villagers. They consider it is good for everyone.

Stop whining about trivial things.

Question: Is that path on Stonecrest property?????? I doubt it, which leads to the question of why they would pay for it (other than to increase the convenience for Stonecrest residents and possibly provide a backdoor entry to TV). Wasn't there a small development by Doggie Do Run Run that blatantly advertised that their residents could get on Villages property and use our amenities?????

[PennBF]

The question(s) being raised is pretty much an indication that some don't want to do the hard work and I repeat that I can explain the problem but cannot help them to understand it :ho:

[Laker14]

The question(s) being raised is pretty much an indication that some don't want to do the hard work and I repeat that I can explain the problem but cannot help them to understand it :ho:
So, you have done the "hard work" of figuring out exactly how, and by whom, the squares are funded, but you don't wish to share that information in order to support your claim that it's funded "mostly by the residents"?
I think I smell horse pucky.