Recreation department staff

[Duke-SRT]

I understand the recreation department is having problems maintaining staff to man our recreation centers, as a result the managers of the rec centers are required to fill in for any vacancies that occur. I understand that this is a part of their job, however, recently it is really getting out of hand with managers having to consistently work 6 or 7 days a week. The rec department is unwilling to increase wages for their part time employees that would even equal the starting pay of “fast food” restaurants in the area. I think it is more important to maintain the excellent service at our rec centers than spending our money on unnecessary things such as replacing flowers every few months at every traffic circle and major intersection in the villages? Aesthetics are nice but our amenity fees would be better spent maintaining staff than on frequent landscaping changes.

[njbchbum]

snipped
I think it is more important to maintain the excellent service at our rec centers than spending our money on unnecessary things such as replacing flowers every few months at every traffic circle and major intersection in the villages? Aesthetics are nice but our amenity fees would be better spent maintaining staff than on frequent landscaping changes.

Do you want to bet that some residents prefer the flowers over the Rec Ctrs - especially the folks who do not use Rec Ctrs, pools, pickleball courts, etc,? Amenities and their fees are what you make of them.

[vintageogauge]

I understand the recreation department is having problems maintaining staff to man our recreation centers, as a result the managers of the rec centers are required to fill in for any vacancies that occur. I understand that this is a part of their job, however, recently it is really getting out of hand with managers having to consistently work 6 or 7 days a week. The rec department is unwilling to increase wages for their part time employees that would even equal the starting pay of “fast food” restaurants in the area. I think it is more important to maintain the excellent service at our rec centers than spending our money on unnecessary things such as replacing flowers every few months at every traffic circle and major intersection in the villages? Aesthetics are nice but our amenity fees would be better spent maintaining staff than on frequent landscaping changes.

I could be wrong but I don't believe our amenity fees pay for the rec. centers employees or the flowers.

[Papa_lecki]

I understand the recreation department is having problems maintaining staff to man our recreation centers, as a result the managers of the rec centers are required to fill in for any vacancies that occur. I understand that this is a part of their job, however, recently it is really getting out of hand with managers having to consistently work 6 or 7 days a week. The rec department is unwilling to increase wages for their part time employees that would even equal the starting pay of “fast food” restaurants in the area. I think it is more important to maintain the excellent service at our rec centers than spending our money on unnecessary things such as replacing flowers every few months at every traffic circle and major intersection in the villages? Aesthetics are nice but our amenity fees would be better spent maintaining staff than on frequent landscaping changes.

I’m tired of the recreation department using amenity fees to pay for tennis courts maintenance - they should spend it on the executive courses.

See how that works - there are 150,000/200,000 individuals who pay amenity fees - they all have different priorities.

[LAFwUs]

...

[retiredguy123]

I was surprised to find out that the rec centers and other Villages buildings still use a lot of incandescent light bulbs instead of LED bulbs, which are much more energy efficient. Also, when light bulbs need to be replaced, they hire a licensed electrician under contract to change them. It seems to me that they could hire a staff member to do this and save a lot of money.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

Do you want to bet that some residents prefer the flowers over the Rec Ctrs - especially the folks who do not use Rec Ctrs, pools, pickleball courts, etc,? Amenities and their fees are what you make of them.as far as what fees pay for what and don’t care , but I fall into the group that cares more about how things look,I don’t golf , don’t use any courts or pools and have only been in a rec center to vote , I do love to walk , ride my bike and run around the beauty of this place

[Marathon Man]

I’m tired of the recreation department using amenity fees to pay for tennis courts maintenance - they should spend it on the executive courses.

See how that works - there are 150,000/200,000 individuals who pay amenity fees - they all have different priorities.

Well said.

[Stu from NYC]

I was surprised to find out that the rec centers and other Villages buildings still use a lot of incandescent light bulbs instead of LED bulbs, which are much more energy efficient. Also, when light bulbs need to be replaced, they hire a licensed electrician under contract to change them. It seems to me that they could hire a staff member to do this and save a lot of money.

Wonder why they do this. For some fixtures need to get up on a tall ladder and can see where you might want to hire a more experienced person but an electrician seems like overkill.

Than again we have several 10 ft ceilings and silly me bought a 6 ft ladder when we moved here and realized that aint going to work.

[tophcfa]

I understand the recreation department is having problems maintaining staff to man our recreation centers, as a result the managers of the rec centers are required to fill in for any vacancies that occur. I understand that this is a part of their job, however, recently it is really getting out of hand with managers having to consistently work 6 or 7 days a week. The rec department is unwilling to increase wages for their part time employees that would even equal the starting pay of “fast food” restaurants in the area. I think it is more important to maintain the excellent service at our rec centers than spending our money on unnecessary things such as replacing flowers every few months at every traffic circle and major intersection in the villages? Aesthetics are nice but our amenity fees would be better spent maintaining staff than on frequent landscaping changes.

Agree that something needs to be done. The staff at Laurel Manor almost never gets the swim lanes in for the scheduled lap swim time in the evenings. When I call and ask why they say it’s a busy time of the day and they are short staffed. I would much prefer to have a lane to swim in than look at flowers.

[Topspinmo]

I’m tired of the recreation department using amenity fees to pay for tennis courts maintenance - they should spend it on the executive courses.

See how that works - there are 150,000/200,000 individuals who pay amenity fees - they all have different priorities.

What tennis court maintenance? I prefer the millions in amenities replacing sand in sand traps. After all that were most golfers hit ball anyway. See how that works :)

[Topspinmo]

I understand the recreation department is having problems maintaining staff to man our recreation centers, as a result the managers of the rec centers are required to fill in for any vacancies that occur. I understand that this is a part of their job, however, recently it is really getting out of hand with managers having to consistently work 6 or 7 days a week. The rec department is unwilling to increase wages for their part time employees that would even equal the starting pay of “fast food” restaurants in the area. I think it is more important to maintain the excellent service at our rec centers than spending our money on unnecessary things such as replacing flowers every few months at every traffic circle and major intersection in the villages? Aesthetics are nice but our amenity fees would be better spent maintaining staff than on frequent landscaping changes.

I sure like any well managed federal government facilities. To many managers and not enough peon’s.

[Bill14564]

There are job openings on districtgov.org for any who feel the situation is intolerable and want to be part of the solution. Whatever the compensation may be, it is greater than what we are getting paid to admire the problem.

[biker1]

I believe the rec center employees are paid by the amenity fee and the flowers on the roundabouts are paid by the maintenance fee, a line item on your November tax bill. Someone please correct if this is not true.

I could be wrong but I don't believe our amenity fees pay for the rec. centers employees or the flowers.

[Papa_lecki]

Wonder why they do this. For some fixtures need to get up on a tall ladder and can see where you might want to hire a more experienced person but an electrician seems like overkill.

Than again we have several 10 ft ceilings and silly me bought a 6 ft ladder when we moved here and realized that aint going to work.

I guess the thought of having a senior citizen on a ladder doesn’t make the worker’s comp insurers very happy. Get a few accidents, the premiums tend to rise

Also, I bet the volume of work for the electrician is so high, there’s a fixed price to change light bulbs.

[Bogie Shooter]

Many, many posters on this thread need to go to the whiners club meeting.
I knew the would eventually show with their complaining………:clap2:

[Veiragirl]

You are so right! I worked for Rohan for 3 months . The Morse family does'nt seem to be " in touch" with the Villagers and the Rec Center staff. We pay our eminity fees every month. Rec Center staffing problems are not our responsibilty. I find it amazing that the Morse family will not increase the saleries and hire more help. Gimme a break . We Villagers don't do it for the money. I made a whopping $8.87 an hour.We love the life here and want it to continue.

[golfing eagles]

Wonder why they do this. For some fixtures need to get up on a tall ladder and can see where you might want to hire a more experienced person but an electrician seems like overkill.

Than again we have several 10 ft ceilings and silly me bought a 6 ft ladder when we moved here and realized that aint going to work.

You mean you're less than 4 feet tall???????:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Papa_lecki]

What tennis court maintenance? I prefer the millions in amenities replacing sand in sand traps. After all that were most golfers hit ball anyway. See how that works :)

You only need a ball repair tool for all the greens you hit.

[Papa_lecki]

You are so right! I worked for Rohan for 3 months . The Morse family does'nt seem to be " in touch" with the Villagers and the Rec Center staff. We pay our eminity fees every month. Rec Center staffing problems are not our responsibilty. I find it amazing that the Morse family will not increase the saleries and hire more help. Gimme a break . We Villagers don't do it for the money. I made a whopping $8.87 an hour.We love the life here and want it to continue.

The Morse family has NOTHING to do with the hourly rate of Rec Center staff.
The Morse family does seem to pay well enough to continue to build massive numbers of houses every year.

[Stu from NYC]

You mean you're less than 4 feet tall???????:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

Hahahaha

[thevillages2013]

Wonder why they do this. For some fixtures need to get up on a tall ladder and can see where you might want to hire a more experienced person but an electrician seems like overkill.

Than again we have several 10 ft ceilings and silly me bought a 6 ft ladder when we moved here and realized that aint going to work.

Want me to show you how to stand on that top rung? The next one down would get you there. :bigbow: Seriously I am an idiot but I do that regularly with a 4’ ladder. I have a six foot step ladder and the folding gorilla ladder but like I said ( I don’t recommend this) (DONT TRY THIS AT HOME) I’m an idiot. The four footer is just easier to maneuver and I’m like a mountain goat hard to knock over. Probably famous last words :pray:

[westernrider75]

Unfortunately they pay less than McDonalds does.

[Rwirish]

I love the flowers.

[merrymini]

The Morse family has not made any correct decisions about this place. I am certain that they are referring to posters here to set them right.

[skoenig]

I’m tired of the recreation department using amenity fees to pay for tennis courts maintenance - they should spend it on the executive courses.

See how that works - there are 150,000/200,000 individuals who pay amenity fees - they all have different priorities.

All of the amenities here need maintenance. I enjoy playing both golf & tennis. One shouldn’t be sacrificed for the other.

[jedalton]

same problem at golf courses

[mkjelenbaas]

I understand the recreation department is having problems maintaining staff to man our recreation centers, as a result the managers of the rec centers are required to fill in for any vacancies that occur. I understand that this is a part of their job, however, recently it is really getting out of hand with managers having to consistently work 6 or 7 days a week. The rec department is unwilling to increase wages for their part time employees that would even equal the starting pay of “fast food” restaurants in the area. I think it is more important to maintain the excellent service at our rec centers than spending our money on unnecessary things such as replacing flowers every few months at every traffic circle and major intersection in the villages? Aesthetics are nice but our amenity fees would be better spent maintaining staff than on frequent landscaping changes.
It looks like you will get a lot of feedback from people that know nothing about the using money collected from our fees!!

[mydavid]

I understand the recreation department is having problems maintaining staff to man our recreation centers, as a result the managers of the rec centers are required to fill in for any vacancies that occur. I understand that this is a part of their job, however, recently it is really getting out of hand with managers having to consistently work 6 or 7 days a week. The rec department is unwilling to increase wages for their part time employees that would even equal the starting pay of “fast food” restaurants in the area. I think it is more important to maintain the excellent service at our rec centers than spending our money on unnecessary things such as replacing flowers every few months at every traffic circle and major intersection in the villages? Aesthetics are nice but our amenity fees would be better spent maintaining staff than on frequent landscaping changes. I've always have been impressed how well they maintain the common areas, keep up the good work.:welcome:

[Papa_lecki]

All of the amenities here need maintenance. I enjoy playing both golf & tennis. One shouldn’t be sacrificed for the other.

That’s exactly the point I was making.

[ThirdOfFive]

I understand the recreation department is having problems maintaining staff to man our recreation centers, as a result the managers of the rec centers are required to fill in for any vacancies that occur. I understand that this is a part of their job, however, recently it is really getting out of hand with managers having to consistently work 6 or 7 days a week. The rec department is unwilling to increase wages for their part time employees that would even equal the starting pay of “fast food” restaurants in the area. I think it is more important to maintain the excellent service at our rec centers than spending our money on unnecessary things such as replacing flowers every few months at every traffic circle and major intersection in the villages? Aesthetics are nice but our amenity fees would be better spent maintaining staff than on frequent landscaping changes.
Everything mentioned in this thread, plus a lot more, are all parts of the package. Sure, some things, services, landscaping, etc. might not be up to the standard we as individuals would like it to be, but there are 150,000 (?) of us here and I doubt there is any group of people harder to please than senior citizens.

The point has been made several times that the Morse family has built something unique and beautiful in this place called The Villages. I came here because of the whole package and have not been displeased in any way. Kudos to them and their creation.

[Captainpd]

I was surprised to find out that the rec centers and other Villages buildings still use a lot of incandescent light bulbs instead of LED bulbs, which are much more energy efficient. Also, when light bulbs need to be replaced, they hire a licensed electrician under contract to change them. It seems to me that they could hire a staff member to do this and save a lot of money.

So you want a 65+ person hauling around a 10' ladder?. And then climbing up said ladder to change a bulb.??? When is the last time you preformed this feat.?.

[YvonneandScott]

My hubs who is retired military and very fit who (still does same exercise he did in military) is 59 and tons of experience and worked as a GS employee in federal system after service has applied to jobs and never heard a word from anyone. My point is I do not think they are motivated to get people hired. Bc if they were they would at least call for an interview, do something. So no sympathy from me for not getting people on board. A good hiring system that has an employee shortage would have a contact system to get people on board!

[Waltdisney4life]

Villages should have their own winery since there’s so much mining



Villages should have their own winery with all the whining going on all the time!

[MartinSE]

I see a lot of "they won't hire" said one way or the other. Unemployment is at almost historic low levels (3.6%) and every company is struggling to find "low end" employees. Combine that with the inflation and it just isn't worth it for low-end employees to work for the low wages so many of these jobs pay. Either the low wages need to do away (our amenity fees go up) or we all struggle through this cycle of inflation. The thing is I don't recall prices of most things going back down all the way after any other cycle ends. So, I expect we need to look forward to/prepare for higher amenity fees next year.

I honestly don't know who pays for the rec centers budget, if it is part of the amenity fee then if you have a problem with how something is being done, that is up to your Community Development District.

I know it is all great fun to constantly blame the devs but sometimes it is not them.

Personally, I think the devs have done something no one has ever done before, creating a place like this that 20 years later looks brand new. That is no small feat. Most senior communities I visited before coming here look run down after less than a decade. The CDD idea of turning over management of the district to the residents is a great idea and allows the devs to focus on what they do best, building and selling 400 homes per month.

[Chi-Town]

I am happy that The Villages is far from a build out.

[4557Spahr]

At $12 an hour retired people aren’t going to be attracted. Once they take the 2 day a week job they realize the shortage is serious because they keep begging them to work 5. My friends who work there say if they wanted to work full time they’d have kept their real jobs. We could stop the gate guards and just use the button and cards. Move the employees to the rec centers. Bottom line is $12 and begging people to work more isn’t cutting it.

[MartinSE]

At $12 an hour retired people aren’t going to be attracted. Once they take the 2 day a week job they realize the shortage is serious because they keep begging them to work 5. My friends who work there say if they wanted to work full time they’d have kept their real jobs. We could stop the gate guards and just use the button and cards. Move the employees to the rec centers. Bottom line is $12 and begging people to work more isn’t cutting it.

True.

[golfing eagles]

I see a lot of "they won't hire" said one way or the other. Unemployment is at almost historic low levels (3.6%) and every company is struggling to find "low end" employees. Combine that with the inflation and it just isn't worth it for low-end employees to work for the low wages so many of these jobs pay. Either the low wages need to do away (our amenity fees go up) or we all struggle through this cycle of inflation. The thing is I don't recall prices of most things going back down all the way after any other cycle ends. So, I expect we need to look forward to/prepare for higher amenity fees next year.

I honestly don't know who pays for the rec centers budget, if it is part of the amenity fee then if you have a problem with how something is being done, that is up to your Community Development District.

I know it is all great fun to constantly blame the devs but sometimes it is not them.

Personally, I think the devs have done something no one has ever done before, creating a place like this that 20 years later looks brand new. That is no small feat. Most senior communities I visited before coming here look run down after less than a decade. The CDD idea of turning over management of the district to the residents is a great idea and allows the devs to focus on what they do best, building and selling 400 homes per month.

Don't let your favorite philosophy cloud your judgement about "historically low unemployment" Look at workforce participation. Last number I saw was that 5.4 million Americans said they will NEVER return to work because they are afraid of COVID. Hopefully they will eventually get educated enough to change their minds, but for now they seriously skew that unemployment statistic.

[Hockey dude]

You are so right! I worked for Rohan for 3 months . The Morse family does'nt seem to be " in touch" with the Villagers and the Rec Center staff. We pay our eminity fees every month. Rec Center staffing problems are not our responsibilty. I find it amazing that the Morse family will not increase the saleries and hire more help. Gimme a break . We Villagers don't do it for the money. I made a whopping $8.87 an hour.We love the life here and want it to continue.
I believe the hourly wages are set by one of The Districts and their yearly budget planning.

The “Morse family” may have nothing to do with it.

I’ve been here for 3 years and still trying to get a handle on all the different levels of government and how they are funded.

[Mushkie]

Agree that something needs to be done. The staff at Laurel Manor almost never gets the swim lanes in for the scheduled lap swim time in the evenings. When I call and ask why they say it’s a busy time of the day and they are short staffed. I would much prefer to have a lane to swim in than look at flowers.

I used to be on a Olympic prep swim team and learned:

1). One can swim WITHOUT swim lanes and we typically had MULTIPLE swimmers in each lane, self divided by speed. If one is in the fastest lane and gets swam over, they automatically moved to the next lane that was for swimmers that are a little slower.

2). Put the lane lines in yourself. It’s not hard and you can consider it your “volunteer opportunity” to give back!!

I just can’t fathom the amount of time and NEGATIVE energy Villagers invest in bad mouthing The Villages and The Developers. All other community, whether 55+ or all ages, don’t come close to what The Villages has to offer.

And just a few example of how much The Developer cares and loves the Villagers:

1). The Developer made a commitment to make sure there is a fire station within 2 miles of every Villager- they built the stations paid OUT OF THEIR OWN POCKETS.

2). The Developer soooo wants Villagers to have the BEST experience and HAPPIEST/HEALTHIEST retirement - they invested with their own money - a charter school system and building a 2nd one- PLUS a new Village like Support Community to attract the best business owners and employees to serve US!!!

3). The Developer didn’t layoff or fire any employee during the “election infection”PLANNEDemic. They not only kept everyone, paid everyone and provided health insurance, retirement benefits, THEY HIRED EVEN MORE PEOPLE - built homes, amenities and did maintenance over the last 2+ years when MOST other businesses- laid off, cut hours, pulled back or STOPPED. The Developer took all the risk and ALL OF US BENEFITED- The Developer not only helped Villagers but the surrounding communities (restaurants, housekeepers, landscapers so their employees could pay their rents or buy homes, feed their families) and all over the country and world- suppliers of windows, appliances, building equipment, plumbing supplies, etc.

I could go on and on about how wonderful The Villages and The Developers are. PERFECT - no… but as a mature ADULT with common sense- I know no place or person is perfect.

[PennBF]

How many have observed the parking lot at Laurel Manor. It is one of the most popular centers in The Villages and the employee's are almost always being pushed to keep all happy. The fact that in rare cases a "swim lane" is late in being installed is rather an indication as to how busy the staff is as they all try to do their best. I have used the center many times and really appreciated the terrific support they give to the guests. When you run into an employee of the center be sure to say Thanks for their support.:bigbow:

[golfing eagles]

I used to be on a Olympic prep swim team and learned:

1). One can swim WITHOUT swim lanes and we typically had MULTIPLE swimmers in each lane, self divided by speed. If one is in the fastest lane and gets swam over, they automatically moved to the next lane that was for swimmers that are a little slower.

2). Put the lane lines in yourself. It’s not hard and you can consider it your “volunteer opportunity” to give back!!

I just can’t fathom the amount of time and NEGATIVE energy Villagers invest in bad mouthing The Villages and The Developers. All other community, whether 55+ or all ages, don’t come close to what The Villages has to offer.

And just a few example of how much The Developer cares and loves the Villagers:

1). The Developer made a commitment to make sure there is a fire station within 2 miles of every Villager- they built the stations paid OUT OF THEIR OWN POCKETS.

2). The Developer soooo wants Villagers to have the BEST experience and HAPPIEST/HEALTHIEST retirement - they invested with their own money - a charter school system and building a 2nd one- PLUS a new Village like Support Community to attract the best business owners and employees to serve US!!!

3). The Developer didn’t layoff or fire any employee during the “election infection”PLANNEDemic. They not only kept everyone, paid everyone and provided health insurance, retirement benefits, THEY HIRED EVEN MORE PEOPLE - built homes, amenities and did maintenance over the last 2+ years when MOST other businesses- laid off, cut hours, pulled back or STOPPED. The Developer took all the risk and ALL OF US BENEFITED- The Developer not only helped Villagers but the surrounding communities (restaurants, housekeepers, landscapers so their employees could pay their rents or buy homes, feed their families) and all over the country and world- suppliers of windows, appliances, building equipment, plumbing supplies, etc.

I could go on and on about how wonderful The Villages and The Developers are. PERFECT - no… but as a mature ADULT with common sense- I know no place or person is perfect.

While I tend to agree, I have to ask: Are you related to Graciegirl????:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[YeOldeCurmudgeon]

I'm surprised no one has suggested that they ought to pay people a reasonable wage as a solution.

[Bill14564]

I'm surprised no one has suggested that they ought to pay people a reasonable wage as a solution.

?? Posts 1, 17, 23, and 37 all mentioned low wages.

What is a reasonable wage? What is the correct hourly rate for checking IDs at the pool or putting in the swim-lane markers or setting up tables and chairs or handing out guest passes?

At least one post has suggested part of the problem may be with the hiring process. My personal experience leads me to believe it isn't working as smoothly as it should.

[champion6]

<snip> 1). The Developer made a commitment to make sure there is a fire station within 2 miles of every Villager- they built the stations paid OUT OF THEIR OWN POCKETS. <snjp>While I agree with the rest of your post, this statement is incorrect. The district government is responsible - this means you and me.

For example, a story from the online news site:
Jan. 13, 2019

"Villages officials this week will look at prices for a fire station upgrade needed due to the addition of a massive senior living facility on County Road 466.

"The multi-story Elan Buena Vista senior living facility has put more demand on Station 40 located on Parr Drive. The station will need to be equipped with a ladder truck, which requires an additional 3,212 square feet at the building for a total of 6,500 square feet. The ladder truck is needed in case of a fire at the multi-story facility.

"In October, the Villages District Office put out a request for proposals for the project and four contractors responded. Mark Cook Builders Inc. has offered to take on the project for $1.339 million. In addition to the lowest price, Mark Cook Builders received the highest score from the committee that reviewed all four proposals.

"The Sumter Landing Community Development District Board of Supervisors will review the proposal when it meets at 10 a.m. Thursday at the District Office at Lake Sumter Landing.

"The Project Wide Advisory Committee discussed the fire station this past November, and raised concerns about the appearance that amenity money would be used to pay for upgraded fire service for private enterprise."

[tophcfa]

I used to be on a Olympic prep swim team and learned:

1). One can swim WITHOUT swim lanes and we typically had MULTIPLE swimmers in each lane, self divided by speed. If one is in the fastest lane and gets swam over, they automatically moved to the next lane that was for swimmers that are a little slower.

2). Put the lane lines in yourself. It’s not hard and you can consider it your “volunteer opportunity” to give back!

Good for you, back in the day I swam in the Junior Olympics and was projected to represent our country in backstroke and the Individual Melody when I was old enough. I ultimately gave it up because my passions at the time were basketball and skiing and they conflicted with swimming (plus there was this guy named Mark Spitz who was way better than me). I know a little bit about swimming.

Responding to your above points:

1) Your suggestion partially works for an organized and well coached swim team, but not for senior citizens swimming in a free for all. First, swimming without lanes is very difficult for a backstroker who can’t follow the lines on the bottom of the pool, especially in an outdoor pool (you can’t follow a line created by the ceiling panels). Also, without lanes swimmers would be colliding with the water walkers that use any portion of the pool that is lane less (and sometimes invade the lanes). Many seniors refuse to share a lane with a single swimmer, let alone multiple swimmers. I always invite someone waiting to share the lane I am in (notice I don’t say my lane), but the favor is rarely reciprocated. Some older and more frail seniors are afraid to share a lane with someone like me, who is long and strong and occasionally makes contact swimming backstroke, so I understand their need for space.

2) If I got paid for all the times I have volunteered to put in the lanes and swim flags (or volunteered to help a recreation department employee), current gas and food prices wouldn’t bother me nearly as much. I even keep my own properly sized ratcheting tool in my swim bag so I can tighten the lanes once installed. Last winter I got reprimanded twice by recreation department staff for installing the lanes myself and was told it is not allowed. So now when the pool schedule says “lap swim”, I have no option but to call the recreation center when they are not installed.

[MartinSE]

I'm surprised no one has suggested that they ought to pay people a reasonable wage as a solution.

I kind of did that, but also added the caveat that paying higher salaries will result in higher amenity fees. I expect that would result in numerous "complaints"

Personally, I am all for higher salaries. No fixed amount to suggest, just what the market will bear.

[Dantes]

They only pay $10-$11 per hour go to McDonald’s and make 18

[retiredguy123]

They only pay $10-$11 per hour go to McDonald’s and make 18
Most people who work at the rec centers are basically retired, and they have no interest in working at McDonald's.

[Oldragbagger]

I see a lot of "they won't hire" said one way or the other. Unemployment is at almost historic low levels (3.6%) and every company is struggling to find "low end" employees. Combine that with the inflation and it just isn't worth it for low-end employees to work for the low wages so many of these jobs pay. Either the low wages need to do away (our amenity fees go up) or we all struggle through this cycle of inflation. The thing is I don't recall prices of most things going back down all the way after any other cycle ends. So, I expect we need to look forward to/prepare for higher amenity fees next year.

I honestly don't know who pays for the rec centers budget, if it is part of the amenity fee then if you have a problem with how something is being done, that is up to your Community Development District.

I know it is all great fun to constantly blame the devs but sometimes it is not them.

Personally, I think the devs have done something no one has ever done before, creating a place like this that 20 years later looks brand new. That is no small feat. Most senior communities I visited before coming here look run down after less than a decade. The CDD idea of turning over management of the district to the residents is a great idea and allows the devs to focus on what they do best, building and selling 400 homes per month.

If they turned management over to residents we would probably be looking to move. Prior to moving here we lived in a gorgeous planned community in Venice, Florida. When we moved in it was still being run by the developer and a professional management company because it wasn’t completely built out. The place was gorgeous, pristine, and the HOA was reasonable (although higher than what we pay here for an amenities fee.) after about a year and a half building was complete and the HOA was turned over to the residents. Eighteen months later we were out of there. Constant in-fighting amongst board members, they really couldn’t agree on the color of ****e. Things started to deteriorate almost immediately in the common areas. This resulted in some injuries in the clubhouse area that resulted in liability suits causing our fees to skyrocket. We are still on their email list and just received an email last week that they are having a recall vote on one of the board members because he spent unauthorized funds, signed an agreement with a contractor without a vote, and verbally abused a homeowner who spoke out against him at a meeting. We have heard similar horror stories from friends who live in other planned communities with resident run HOAs.

The developers are responsible for the beauty and wonderful amenities we see around us. When we came here (just this year) we looked around us and were amazed at what they have built, and how well it works. We have lived in 13 different states (including Hawaii) and have traveled extensively over our lives and I can honestly say we have never seen a place like this. It is exceptional in every way and it didn’t become that way because of bad decisions made by the developers. They have a vested interest in maintaining this place as the beautiful oasis it is because it sells homes for them and they have plans to sell lots more homes. I say, let them keep doing what they have done so beautifully up to now.

I agree with a previous poster that said that seniors are an extremely difficult group to please. I hear that from people in the outside community as well. A lot of resentment because they say we want everything for nothing and aren’t very nice when we don’t get it. I am saddened that we have garnered that reputation among our neighbors but from the complaints that seem endless about a myriad of things that, not only seem trivial a lot of times, also are things that most people in this country could only dream of but for so many here just aren’t “good enough.”

As for the complaints I see about the amenities fees…..look around you, so many amenities it would take a year to do something at each one of them. That community I mentioned previously had a clubhouse with a small fitness center and one pool. Their HOA fee this year is $359 a month. Property taxes are just as high also.

We may still be in the honeymoon phase, but there is no place else we’d rather be. And if someone else knows of another place that offers as much, runs better, is more beautiful, and costs the same or less, then they should probably go there, and let the rest of us know about it too.

[schwarz]

At $12 an hour retired people aren’t going to be attracted. Once they take the 2 day a week job they realize the shortage is serious because they keep begging them to work 5. My friends who work there say if they wanted to work full time they’d have kept their real jobs. We could stop the gate guards and just use the button and cards. Move the employees to the rec centers. Bottom line is $12 and begging people to work more isn’t cutting it.

I have been an Recreation assistant for over three years and still make less than $11. Starting pay is $10

[joelfmi]

I could be wrong but I don't believe our amenity fees pay for the rec. centers employees or the flowers. Thanks for transparency

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

If they turned management over to residents we would probably be looking to move. Prior to moving here we lived in a gorgeous planned community in Venice, Florida. When we moved in it was still being run by the developer and a professional management company because it wasn’t completely built out. The place was gorgeous, pristine, and the HOA was reasonable (although higher than what we pay here for an amenities fee.) after about a year and a half building was complete and the HOA was turned over to the residents. Eighteen months later we were out of there. Constant in-fighting amongst board members, they really couldn’t agree on the color of ****e. Things started to deteriorate almost immediately in the common areas. This resulted in some injuries in the clubhouse area that resulted in liability suits causing our fees to skyrocket. We are still on their email list and just received an email last week that they are having a recall vote on one of the board members because he spent unauthorized funds, signed an agreement with a contractor without a vote, and verbally abused a homeowner who spoke out against him at a meeting. We have heard similar horror stories from friends who live in other planned communities with resident run HOAs.

The developers are responsible for the beauty and wonderful amenities we see around us. When we came here (just this year) we looked around us and were amazed at what they have built, and how well it works. We have lived in 13 different states (including Hawaii) and have traveled extensively over our lives and I can honestly say we have never seen a place like this. It is exceptional in every way and it didn’t become that way because of bad decisions made by the developers. They have a vested interest in maintaining this place as the beautiful oasis it is because it sells homes for them and they have plans to sell lots more homes. I say, let them keep doing what they have done so beautifully up to now.

I agree with a previous poster that said that seniors are an extremely difficult group to please. I hear that from people in the outside community as well. A lot of resentment because they say we want everything for nothing and aren’t very nice when we don’t get it. I am saddened that we have garnered that reputation among our neighbors but from the complaints that seem endless about a myriad of things that, not only seem trivial a lot of times, also are things that most people in this country could only dream of but for so many here just aren’t “good enough.”

As for the complaints I see about the amenities fees…..look around you, so many amenities it would take a year to do something at each one of them. That community I mentioned previously had a clubhouse with a small fitness center and one pool. Their HOA fee this year is $359 a month. Property taxes are just as high also.

We may still be in the honeymoon phase, but there is no place else we’d rather be. And if someone else knows of another place that offers as much, runs better, is more beautiful, and costs the same or less, then they should probably go there, and let the rest of us know about it too. your story about the infighting reminded me of a story about my mother , they had moved into a condo building after selling home in Boston , my mother went to a meeting and brought cookies with her, she came back upset and telling my father she couldn’t believe all the pleasant people she had met in building could be so mean to each other. I’ve been in a building where it’s a fight to get little things done because some people feel there not going to be around for all the changes and resist doing it , same thing here , lots of people don’t want to spend money to keep up everything , I wish the developer was always in charge there would be no need for clipboard ladies

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Regarding pay at the Villages rec center: Most people working are retirees on social security. If they make too much money, their social security checks are reduced. If you work at the Country Clubs, you get a discount at the pro-shop (I don't know if that's a discount all employees get, but the ones at the CCs get it).

Also anyone who isn't old enough yet for Medicare (which is anyone under 65 years old) will pay significantly more money for health insurance premiums if they work, compared to if they don't work. Unless the company offers insurance. But if they want to be semi-retired, they won't be working full-time jobs that offer benefits. So again - you earn less, you make a few bucks, grocery money mostly - which makes it easier to enjoy the Villages lifestyle but doesn't cost you extra in insurance premiums.

Higher pay could actually drive some folks away from jobs at the Villages rec centers because of that.

[Bill14564]

I could be wrong but I don't believe our amenity fees pay for the rec. centers employees or the flowers.

Looking at the budgets for the SLCDD (SLAD & PWAC) and the CDD10:

- CDD10 receives only Maintenance income (no Amenity fees) and has landscaping expenses
- PWAC receives only Maintenance income from the CDDs (no Amenity fees) and has landscaping expenses
- The bulk of the SLAD income comes from Amenity fees and pays for Community Watch Services, Recreation Services, and landscaping

So it appears that Recreation employees are paid from Amenity fees while landscaping is paid from both Amenity fees and Maintenance assessments.

[MartinSE]

If they turned management over to residents we would probably be looking to move. Prior to moving here we lived in a gorgeous planned community in Venice, Florida. When we moved in it was still being run by the developer and a professional management company because it wasn’t completely built out. The place was gorgeous, pristine, and the HOA was reasonable (although higher than what we pay here for an amenities fee.) after about a year and a half building was complete and the HOA was turned over to the residents. Eighteen months later we were out of there. Constant in-fighting amongst board members, they really couldn’t agree on the color of ****e. Things started to deteriorate almost immediately in the common areas. This resulted in some injuries in the clubhouse area that resulted in liability suits causing our fees to skyrocket. We are still on their email list and just received an email last week that they are having a recall vote on one of the board members because he spent unauthorized funds, signed an agreement with a contractor without a vote, and verbally abused a homeowner who spoke out against him at a meeting. We have heard similar horror stories from friends who live in other planned communities with resident run HOAs.

The developers are responsible for the beauty and wonderful amenities we see around us. When we came here (just this year) we looked around us and were amazed at what they have built, and how well it works. We have lived in 13 different states (including Hawaii) and have traveled extensively over our lives and I can honestly say we have never seen a place like this. It is exceptional in every way and it didn’t become that way because of bad decisions made by the developers. They have a vested interest in maintaining this place as the beautiful oasis it is because it sells homes for them and they have plans to sell lots more homes. I say, let them keep doing what they have done so beautifully up to now.

I agree with a previous poster that said that seniors are an extremely difficult group to please. I hear that from people in the outside community as well. A lot of resentment because they say we want everything for nothing and aren’t very nice when we don’t get it. I am saddened that we have garnered that reputation among our neighbors but from the complaints that seem endless about a myriad of things that, not only seem trivial a lot of times, also are things that most people in this country could only dream of but for so many here just aren’t “good enough.”

As for the complaints I see about the amenities fees…..look around you, so many amenities it would take a year to do something at each one of them. That community I mentioned previously had a clubhouse with a small fitness center and one pool. Their HOA fee this year is $359 a month. Property taxes are just as high also.

We may still be in the honeymoon phase, but there is no place else we’d rather be. And if someone else knows of another place that offers as much, runs better, is more beautiful, and costs the same or less, then they should probably go there, and let the rest of us know about it too.


Actually, as soon as the area is sold out the developers turn control of the area over to the Community Development District (sort of a "homeowners association). That is the way it has been for over 20 years now. And it works great here - as you can see.

I don't know if the rec centers are run/controlled by the devs or not. Someone smarter than me can explain that. If I had to guess I would guess that our amenity fee covers the rec centers. but I just don't know (or care).

[Oldragbagger]

Actually, as soon as the area is sold out the developers turn control of the area over to the Community Development District (sort of a "homeowners association). That is the way it has been for over 20 years now. And it works great here - as you can see.

I don't know if the rec centers are run/controlled by the devs or not. Someone smarter than me can explain that. If I had to guess I would guess that our amenity fee covers the rec centers. but I just don't know (or care).


Who runs the CDD’s? And if that is the case then why is almost every complaint I see directed at the developers?

You would think, from some of the comments on this and other social media sites, that the Morse family themselves plant the flowers and clean the rec center bathrooms and are responsible for all other issues here in TV. Either they are running things in some way, or they aren’t. Which is it?

[Bogie Shooter]

Who runs the CDD’s?

Government - The Villages, Florida - 55+ Active Adult Retirement Community Website (https://www.talkofthevillages.com/government/)

What is CDD Orientation?
CDD Orientation is our “Introduction to your Special Purpose Local Government” informational program. You will learn how the Districts operate and learn other important community information about the people, services, and other supporting entities that help make The Villages a premier community.
No sign-ups or fees are required for this presentation. Sessions are held the 2nd and 4th Thursday at 10:00 a.m. at the District Office located at 984 Old Mill Run in Lake Sumter Landing.

Also lot of info here….
Village Community Development Districts (http://Www.districtgov.org)

[Shortie]

I work at a rec center. The reason that I applied for the job was to have more things to do while being retired. We work 10 to 15 days a month (5 to 7 hour shifts). That still gives me time to play golf and pickleball. The pay is absolutely secondary. I don't want to sit in the house and watch TV between 8 and 5. If you are interested in a job, contact HR.

[Pgcacace]

The flowers are such an added beauty for the general public and residents. I agree that they don’t need to change them out so often.

[schwarz]

Regarding pay at the Villages rec center: Most people working are retirees on social security. If they make too much money, their social security checks are reduced. If you work at the Country Clubs, you get a discount at the pro-shop (I don't know if that's a discount all employees get, but the ones at the CCs get it).

Also anyone who isn't old enough yet for Medicare (which is anyone under 65 years old) will pay significantly more money for health insurance premiums if they work, compared to if they don't work. Unless the company offers insurance. But if they want to be semi-retired, they won't be working full-time jobs that offer benefits. So again - you earn less, you make a few bucks, grocery money mostly - which makes it easier to enjoy the Villages lifestyle but doesn't cost you extra in insurance premiums.

Higher pay could actually drive some folks away from jobs at the Villages rec centers because of that.

The large majority of RAs in the Village are over 75 and certainly can earn as much as they want without paying back to SS. Is your point that they should be paid less so they don't make too much money?. Working in the larger Recreation centers has few if any perks. Most of us do it, in part to give back to the Villagers, but also as something to do.
Being home 24/7 quickly got tiring for me. I enjoy going in to work a few days a week. The physical work can at times be hard. After parties having to put away dozens of tables, perhaps hundreds of chairs, perhaps audi and visual equipment and more. What staff shortage does is put more demands on the remaining staff members. Improving the hourly rate would certainly help with staff retention and perhaps attract other part time retirees to the job and away from Publix, Sam's Club and others.

[Oldragbagger]

The large majority of RAs in the Village are over 75 and certainly can earn as much as they want without paying back to SS. Is your point that they should be paid less so they don't make too much money?. Working in the larger Recreation centers has few if any perks. Most of us do it, in part to give back to the Villagers, but also as something to do.
Being home 24/7 quickly got tiring for me. I enjoy going in to work a few days a week. The physical work can at times be hard. After parties having to put away dozens of tables, perhaps hundreds of chairs, perhaps audi and visual equipment and more. What staff shortage does is put more demands on the remaining staff members. Improving the hourly rate would certainly help with staff retention and perhaps attract other part time retirees to the job and away from Publix, Sam's Club and others.

I am rehabbing a shoulder right now, but I might like to give this a shot in the future. Sounds like a good thing to do for the community, the wallet, and for a little socialization to boot.

[Oldragbagger]

Government - The Villages, Florida - 55+ Active Adult Retirement Community Website (https://www.talkofthevillages.com/government/)

What is CDD Orientation?
CDD Orientation is our “Introduction to your Special Purpose Local Government” informational program. You will learn how the Districts operate and learn other important community information about the people, services, and other supporting entities that help make The Villages a premier community.
No sign-ups or fees are required for this presentation. Sessions are held the 2nd and 4th Thursday at 10:00 a.m. at the District Office located at 984 Old Mill Run in Lake Sumter Landing.

Also lot of info here….
Village Community Development Districts (http://Www.districtgov.org)

Thank you, I do have one on my schedule for this month.

[jimjamuser]

I understand the recreation department is having problems maintaining staff to man our recreation centers, as a result the managers of the rec centers are required to fill in for any vacancies that occur. I understand that this is a part of their job, however, recently it is really getting out of hand with managers having to consistently work 6 or 7 days a week. The rec department is unwilling to increase wages for their part time employees that would even equal the starting pay of “fast food” restaurants in the area. I think it is more important to maintain the excellent service at our rec centers than spending our money on unnecessary things such as replacing flowers every few months at every traffic circle and major intersection in the villages? Aesthetics are nice but our amenity fees would be better spent maintaining staff than on frequent landscaping changes.
Very true, Good thread! often T V Land is more about form than function.

[MartinSE]

Who runs the CDD’s? And if that is the case then why is almost every complaint I see directed at the developers?

You would think, from some of the comments on this and other social media sites, that the Morse family themselves plant the flowers and clean the rec center bathrooms and are responsible for all other issues here in TV. Either they are running things in some way, or they aren’t. Which is it?

The board has 5 members and they are elected by the residents of that area.

Frequently people complain on here about the "greedy" developers. It is normally just expressing frustration or anger over something they disagree with. Frequently they do not know who is actually responsbile:

Here is a link to the webpage that explains it and provides answers to frequently asked questions:

VCDD FAQs (https://districtgov.org/faq.aspx)

[Veiragirl]

I understand the recreation department is having problems maintaining staff to man our recreation centers, as a result the managers of the rec centers are required to fill in for any vacancies that occur. I understand that this is a part of their job, however, recently it is really getting out of hand with managers having to consistently work 6 or 7 days a week. The rec department is unwilling to increase wages for their part time employees that would even equal the starting pay of “fast food” restaurants in the area. I think it is more important to maintain the excellent service at our rec centers than spending our money on unnecessary things such as replacing flowers every few months at every traffic circle and major intersection in the villages? Aesthetics are nice but our amenity fees would be better spent maintaining staff than on frequent landscaping changes. I worked for Rohan for 3 months. Too physical for me. But let me assure you NO ONE is working for the money at the Rec Centers. The flowers are BEAUTIFUL. It sets the Villages apart!!

[BlueStarAirlines]

My hubs who is retired military and very fit who (still does same exercise he did in military) is 59 and tons of experience and worked as a GS employee in federal system after service has applied to jobs and never heard a word from anyone. My point is I do not think they are motivated to get people hired. Bc if they were they would at least call for an interview, do something. So no sympathy from me for not getting people on board. A good hiring system that has an employee shortage would have a contact system to get people on board!

Regardless of our extensive career history, there is no incentive for ANYONE to hire someone older than 55 for a career position. Most would stick around for a few years and then retire again. There are literally tens of thousands of us military\GS employees here, so this isn't something unfamiliar. I would argue it actually disincentivizes the hiring for the more professional open position since they know we don't care about the 401k, health benefits, or the charter school. We don't "need" the job, so more of a flight risk!

Just looking at the openings for TV and the districts.... Security at the town square has openings at $10 and community watch has some for a little bit more. If your desire in working is to give back to the community or have a little extra spending money there are a lot of openings.

[Bilyclub]

The board has 5 members and they are elected by the residents of that area.

Frequently people complain on here about the "greedy" developers. It is normally just expressing frustration or anger over something they disagree with. Frequently they do not know who is actually responsbile:

Here is a link to the webpage that explains it and provides answers to frequently asked questions:

VCDD FAQs (https://districtgov.org/faq.aspx)

Most of the responsibility South of 466, lies with the Sumter Landing CDD whose members are appointed by the developer. The PWAC makes recommendations to the SLCDD.

Village Community Development Districts (https://www.districtgov.org/committees/pwac.aspx)

[HoosierPa]

Good point. Many would prefer flowers

[Duke-SRT]

Rec department starts at $10 an hour! And by the way this thread has nothing to do with the developer, I agree Harold Schwartz and Gary Morse created a wonderful place to live. (the current generation not so much) Our Amenity fees pay for both the flowers and the Rec Dept and several other things. The VCDD oks a budget which all the different departments submit (this thread refers to the recreation department), also I was bringing the problem of lack of recreation personnel forward not the maintenance of facilities. I worry that we may see Rec centers periodically closing due to lack of staff.

[biker1]

Yes, $10/hour is the current minimum wage. It will increase by $1/hour on September 30 every year until it reaches $15/hour in 2026.

Rec department starts at $10 an hour! And by the way this thread has nothing to do with the developer, I agree Harold Schwartz and Gary Morse created a wonderful place to live. (the current generation not so much) Our Amenity fees pay for both the flowers and the Rec Dept and several other things. The VCDD oks a budget which all the different departments submit (this thread refers to the recreation department), also I was bringing the problem of lack of recreation personnel forward not the maintenance of facilities. I worry that we may see Rec centers periodically closing due to lack of staff.