Gates and cameras - good or evil?

[skarra]

Can someone please summarize the pros and cons of the gates and most importantly the security cameras?

I believe the cameras are only there to record license plates which seems a good security feature - of course there will be those that have privacy concerns.

I would love to hear everyone's opinions - are the cameras good or evil?

[Topspinmo]

Entering public roads so not privacy concerns. The gates are there to somewhat control traffic so golf carts can get across streets so they say. Either gates or big speed bumps other wise lot more golf cart vehicle accidents I would imagine? Most don’t like speed bumps do to suspension wear problems constantly crossing over them.

[fdpaq0580]

Gates and cameras = good.

On another note, how about cameras monitoring the entrances at RBs? That would be an eye opener. 😃😬😲

[Bogie Shooter]

Can someone please summarize the pros and cons of the gates and most importantly the security cameras?

I believe the cameras are only there to record license plates which seems a good security feature - of course there will be those that have privacy concerns.

I would love to hear everyone's opinions - are the cameras good or evil?

topspin sums it up very well. If you want more do a search………

[CarlR33]

You forgot to add the gate cards to the discussion, LOL. I do not see the good of spending money on the gate guard (person), the card access thing and so on. Yes, in some places they stop the speed demons against the speeding golf carts at those dangerous intersections, supposedly. The security cameras should (in theory) take care of the above if monitored from an operations center by the same people with access to the gate arms (being replaced often, LOL)?
https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/do-we-really-need-gate-cards-349148/?highlight=Gates

[Altavia]

Damaging a gate earns a nice letter and bill for $250 from the Villages.

[asianthree]

Damaging a gate earns a nice letter and bill for $250 from the Villages.

Few years ago waiting for exit gate to open, 3 times stopping half way then dropping back down. Fourth time, it shuttered, stopped then swung inwards falling in front of my car.

It was 4am, car behind me was CW, got out, he took a pick and moved the gate. I did ask if it fell on my car what would have happened. He laughed said even with me as a witness, I would probably get the “letter” and $250 bill.

Moral of the story, Don rush the gate if it falls on your car, the repair is on you.

[Rustyboy]

Gates and cameras are a good thing!

[USOTR]

Gates and cameras are a good thing.. What criminal is going to want to have his/her picture taken and a photo of their license plate.

[BillY41]

The camera creates a record of all vehicles entering TV. Not that there is a crime problem but the cameras are good to help apprehend a miscreant. The gates are a waste many Villagers don't produce their card but rather go through the visitor gate. The gate does reduce speed but a speed bump has the same effect and is cheaper.

[C4Boston]

Can someone please summarize the pros and cons of the gates and most importantly the security cameras?

I believe the cameras are only there to record license plates which seems a good security feature - of course there will be those that have privacy concerns.

I would love to hear everyone's opinions - are the cameras good or evil?

100% for gates. Although not tight security they do deter. Several crimes have been solved due to cameras. Being retired I am never in such a hurry that I can not pause at a gate.

[MrFlorida]

+ gates and cameras

[skarra]

What about PRIVACY? Any issues?

[ElDiabloJoe]

What about PRIVACY? Any issues?

PRIVACY?? That is totally, 100% moot. It is well established law for many decades that there is NO reasonable expectation of privacy in public. That includes, you, your car, your license plate, etc.

That is why law enforcement can run as many license plates as they want without reasonable suspicion or probable cause, that is why celebrities can be photographed by paparazzi, that is why magazine covers don't have to blur the faces of people in the background of photographs, etc.

IF you want reasonable expectation of privacy outdoors, YOU have to put up a fence, a sunshade cover, be in your backyard, etc. to argue that your expectation of privacy is reasonable.

There is a truth in American law, "The eye cannot commit a trespass." You can look wherever you d@mn well please, and so can anyone else. The reason stalking, peeping, etc. is illegal is because people inside their own homes DO have a reasonable expectation of privacy generally. Same with dressing rooms and public restrooms.

There are exceptions. For example, if you get undressed with the lights on in front of a window with no window coverings and are clearly visible from the sidewalk in front of the house, you cannot expect privacy either. At least not reasonably.

When we get into discussing drones and flying them in such a way they can see into fenced back yards, etc., then we are going down an entirely different path than you driving on a public roadway.

[Bilyclub]

The camera creates a record of all vehicles entering TV. Not that there is a crime problem but the cameras are good to help apprehend a miscreant. The gates are a waste many Villagers don't produce their card but rather go through the visitor gate. The gate does reduce speed but a speed bump has the same effect and is cheaper.

The theory in play with the gates is that both gates will be down at the same time every now and then to let at least one cart get across. Wish the gate attendants would be more attentive to the carts trying to get across.
Speed bumps won’t totally stop a car.

[Bay Kid]

Gates are good, especially to help protect golf cart crossings from cars. Cameras are good to help catch crooks and gate crashers.

[Taltarzac725]

Something needs to slow down all the speeders here in the Villages. Almost every car and golf cart is going well over 20 MPH on residential streets . My golf cart only reaches 19.9 MPH but almost every other golf cart zips on by . I do get behind someone going 12 MPH once in a while. And then these turkeys in a hurry rush by both of us .

[tophcfa]

Gates are very useful as they help stagger automobile traffic at busy intersections, where both cars and golf carts are required to commingle. That being said, gates that are controlled by gate attendants are only as useful as the gate attendants awareness and responsiveness to the current traffic situation. Below is a picture of a very long and dangerous golf cart traffic backup at the gate on Morse just north of 466. I took the picture from my golf cart a couple days ago and the picture doesn’t show the true scope of the problem as there are about another 20 golf carts backed up behind me. The absolutely clueless gate attendant had their back turned to the very long golf cart backup behind them and had manually overridden the gates keeping them open, allowing a non-stop flow of auto traffic through so no golf carts could cross to the multi modal path. The situation would have been much safer with no gate attendant, so the passing automobile traffic would have had to use either a gate card or the little red button to open the gate, providing an opportunity for cars and golf carts to alternate through the busy intersection. The gate attendant working when that picture was taken should be fired for creating such a dangerous situation. If a gate attendant can’t be aware of the current traffic situation, and act accordingly to mitigate a risky situation, what good are they?

[Taltarzac725]

Gates are very useful as they help stagger automobile traffic at busy intersections, where both cars and golf carts are required to commingle. That being said, gates that are controlled by gate attendants are only as useful as the gate attendants awareness and responsiveness to the current traffic situation. Below is a picture of a very long and dangerous golf cart traffic backup at the gate on Morse just north of 466. I took the picture from my golf cart a couple days ago and the picture doesn’t show the true scope of the problem as there are about another 20 golf carts backed up behind me. The absolutely clueless gate attendant had their back turned to the very long golf cart backup behind them and had manually overridden the gates keeping them open, allowing a non-stop flow of auto traffic through so no golf carts could cross to the multi modal path. The situation would have been much safer with no gate attendant, so the passing automobile traffic would have had to use either a gate card or the little red button to open the gate, providing an opportunity for cars and golf carts to alternate through the busy intersection. The gate attendant working when that picture was taken should be fired for creating such a dangerous situation. If a gate attendant can’t be aware of the current traffic situation, and act accordingly to mitigate a risky situation, what good are they?

What a mess.

[fdpaq0580]

What a mess.

Like 40 lbs of manure in a 10 lbs sack. Too many people causes too much crowding, causing too much stress, too much anxiety, causing too much frustration, causing too much anger, causing aggressive behavior, causing confrontation, causing..... Well, I think most can see where this is going.
Have a nice day, if you can. Be careful. Be safe. 🙏

[Marathon Man]

Gates are very useful as they help stagger automobile traffic at busy intersections, where both cars and golf carts are required to commingle. That being said, gates that are controlled by gate attendants are only as useful as the gate attendants awareness and responsiveness to the current traffic situation. Below is a picture of a very long and dangerous golf cart traffic backup at the gate on Morse just north of 466. I took the picture from my golf cart a couple days ago and the picture doesn’t show the true scope of the problem as there are about another 20 golf carts backed up behind me. The absolutely clueless gate attendant had their back turned to the very long golf cart backup behind them and had manually overridden the gates keeping them open, allowing a non-stop flow of auto traffic through so no golf carts could cross to the multi modal path. The situation would have been much safer with no gate attendant, so the passing automobile traffic would have had to use either a gate card or the little red button to open the gate, providing an opportunity for cars and golf carts to alternate through the busy intersection. The gate attendant working when that picture was taken should be fired for creating such a dangerous situation. If a gate attendant can’t be aware of the current traffic situation, and act accordingly to mitigate a risky situation, what good are they?

Glad I don't live up there and rarely travel on that road.

[Bill14564]

Gates are very useful as they help stagger automobile traffic at busy intersections, where both cars and golf carts are required to commingle. That being said, gates that are controlled by gate attendants are only as useful as the gate attendants awareness and responsiveness to the current traffic situation. Below is a picture of a very long and dangerous golf cart traffic backup at the gate on Morse just north of 466. I took the picture from my golf cart a couple days ago and the picture doesn’t show the true scope of the problem as there are about another 20 golf carts backed up behind me. The absolutely clueless gate attendant had their back turned to the very long golf cart backup behind them and had manually overridden the gates keeping them open, allowing a non-stop flow of auto traffic through so no golf carts could cross to the multi modal path. The situation would have been much safer with no gate attendant, so the passing automobile traffic would have had to use either a gate card or the little red button to open the gate, providing an opportunity for cars and golf carts to alternate through the busy intersection. The gate attendant working when that picture was taken should be fired for creating such a dangerous situation. If a gate attendant can’t be aware of the current traffic situation, and act accordingly to mitigate a risky situation, what good are they?

If you haven't already, you might send a note to customer service and/or community watch to make them aware of the situation. I have done this a couple of times for a similar issue at a different gate and it seemed to make a difference... at least for a little while.

[fdpaq0580]

Gates are very useful as they help stagger automobile traffic at busy intersections, where both cars and golf carts are required to commingle. That being said, gates that are controlled by gate attendants are only as useful as the gate attendants awareness and responsiveness to the current traffic situation. Below is a picture of a very long and dangerous golf cart traffic backup at the gate on Morse just north of 466. I took the picture from my golf cart a couple days ago and the picture doesn’t show the true scope of the problem as there are about another 20 golf carts backed up behind me. The absolutely clueless gate attendant had their back turned to the very long golf cart backup behind them and had manually overridden the gates keeping them open, allowing a non-stop flow of auto traffic through so no golf carts could cross to the multi modal path. The situation would have been much safer with no gate attendant, so the passing automobile traffic would have had to use either a gate card or the little red button to open the gate, providing an opportunity for cars and golf carts to alternate through the busy intersection. The gate attendant working when that picture was taken should be fired for creating such a dangerous situation. If a gate attendant can’t be aware of the current traffic situation, and act accordingly to mitigate a risky situation, what good are they?

Maybe it was open for a funeral procession? Evacuation?
Just trying to help. 😶

[asianthree]

Maybe it was open for a funeral procession? Evacuation?
Just trying to help. ������

When was the last time one watched a funeral procession anywhere in TV.

That cart crossing back up was just as bad in 2012 when we looked at couple houses in that exact area. We liked the golf view, but watching the cart frogger crossing for 5 minutes, we didn’t think we had enough life insurance, to buy a home there. Much less have our parents live there and try to cross

[fdpaq0580]

When was the last time one watched a funeral procession anywhere in TV.

That cart crossing back up was just as bad in 2012 when we looked at couple houses in that exact area. We liked the golf view, but watching the cart frogger crossing for 5 minutes, we didn’t think we had enough life insurance, to buy a home there. Much less have our parents live there and try to cross

Loved Frogger. Spent a lot of time in the water. 😀😁

[DonH57]

It always intrigued me to hear people whine and complain about the gates after moving into the villages. Did the villages install them after people purchased their home? Were they there when they were looking at homes? Do the gates suddenly move slower since people bought here. Sorry. I don't get it.:shrug:

[CarlR33]

Was the above picture simply normal traffic backup or was this a cart parade? The latter would not be considered normal traffic and the poor attendant did owe a welcome home wave to everyone entering so that may have been the hold up :duck:?

[tophcfa]

Maybe it was open for a funeral procession? Evacuation?
Just trying to help. 😶

Was the above picture simply normal traffic backup or was this a cart parade? The latter would not be considered normal traffic and the poor attendant did owe a welcome home wave to everyone entering so that may have been the hold up :duck:?

None of the above, just a typical Monday afternoon about 2:30 PM heading south on Morse going toward Lake Sumter Landing. The golf cart backup was unusually long because the gate attendant was absolutely clueless and not doing their job. It’s beyond logic why the attendant manually overrode the gates and had them both open while waiving cars through so tightly that no golf carts could cross the intersection. The attendant made absolutely no effort to turn their head around and see the huge backup he/she was causing. Fortunately, some guy in a pickup truck observed the backup and stopped in front of the crossover, blocking auto traffic behind him, and waived a bunch of golf carts through which at least shorten the backup.

[Hape2Bhr]

Was the above picture simply normal traffic backup or was this a cart parade? The latter would not be considered normal traffic and the poor attendant did owe a welcome home wave to everyone entering so that may have been the hold up :duck:?

Gatekeepers there are required to be at least 85 years old and often can let 2 vehicles pass for every vehicle using a card. :cus:

[catballou]

I was told that the "gate keepers" are only to be concerned with the traffic flow of vehicles in the gate lanes and not the golf carts. If there was no gate person, cars will back up across 466, which they sometimes do anyway. Certain times of day I use Buena Vista . A little longer, but how scary is the Sumter bridge on a weekend afternoon when renters don't know what lane to veer"in and out" of!!!!!

[fdpaq0580]

It always intrigued me to hear people whine and complain about the gates after moving into the villages. Did the villages install them after people purchased their home? Were they there when they were looking at homes? Do the gates suddenly move slower since people bought here. Sorry. I don't get it.:shrug:

After buying here, entitlement sets in. Gate guards should know us and open the gate before we have to use our cards. Everyone should drive at our pace and stay out of our way and give way to us. What ever our mode of travel, we have the right-of-way. We can park anywhere and in any manner we choose. And we can take our pets to use any yard to pee and poo on and rake up the grass with their claws. We are "Villagers"! We are entitled!

[Pugchief]

None of the above, just a typical Monday afternoon about 2:30 PM heading south on Morse going toward Lake Sumter Landing. The golf cart backup was unusually long because the gate attendant was absolutely clueless and not doing their job. It’s beyond logic why the attendant manually overrode the gates and had them both open while waiving cars through so tightly that no golf carts could cross the intersection. The attendant made absolutely no effort to turn their head around and see the huge backup he/she was causing. Fortunately, some guy in a pickup truck observed the backup and stopped in front of the crossover, blocking auto traffic behind him, and waived a bunch of golf carts through which at least shorten the backup.

It was my understanding that cars always have the right of way over golf carts. If that is true, I'm not sure why you think they should have gate-stopped vehicular traffic to allow golf carts to cross.

[Bill14564]

It was my understanding that cars always have the right of way over golf carts. If that is true, I'm not sure why you think they should have gate-stopped vehicular traffic to allow golf carts to cross.

Perhaps because this is a golf cart community, the gates serve to slows down or separate the cars to make crossing safer, and if something isn’t done then someone will get hurt.

There’s a difference between stopping cars for minutes to allow carts to cross and allowing the gates to come down between vehicles to serve their purpose.

At this point, perhaps removing the attendant and relying on the readers and red buttons is the right way to go.

[tophcfa]

Perhaps because this is a golf cart community, the gates serve to slows down or separate the cars to make crossing safer, and if something isn’t done then someone will get hurt.

There’s a difference between stopping cars for minutes to allow carts to cross and allowing the gates to come down between vehicles to serve their purpose.

At this point, perhaps removing the attendant and relying on the readers and red buttons is the right way to go.

Correct, and to verify the point, right after the gate is a sign that says you are in a golf cart community.

[dewilson58]

It was my understanding that cars always have the right of way over golf carts. If that is true, I'm not sure why you think they should have gate-stopped vehicular traffic to allow golf carts to cross.

Ur understanding is not correct.
Couple examples:
a) In a residental neighborhood, speed limit is 25 mph, no "cart lane"......golf cart and car have the same rights.
b) Cart in cart path going straight, car wants to turn right in front of cart, car must yield.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

You forgot to add the gate cards to the discussion, LOL. I do not see the good of spending money on the gate guard (person), the card access thing and so on. Yes, in some places they stop the speed demons against the speeding golf carts at those dangerous intersections, supposedly. The security cameras should (in theory) take care of the above if monitored from an operations center by the same people with access to the gate arms (being replaced often, LOL)?
https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/do-we-really-need-gate-cards-349148/?highlight=Gates

There are two lanes for many gated entries; a visitor's and a resident's lane. Each lane has a gate. Visitors enter to the left, residents to the right. Sometimes they switch it up but that's what the paintmark indicates on the road as you approach the gate, so most people will comply.

The problem lies when a car arrives at the gate to their lane at the same time. If the person on the right wants to turn left on a side-street after the gate, OR the person on the left wants to turn right on a side-street after the gate, OR the two lanes merge into one after the gate, SOMETHING has to happen to ensure that the two cars don't collide when their gates go up.

And so - gate guards, and gate passes.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

It always intrigued me to hear people whine and complain about the gates after moving into the villages. Did the villages install them after people purchased their home? Were they there when they were looking at homes? Do the gates suddenly move slower since people bought here. Sorry. I don't get it.:shrug:

No idea. I've been here for six years and the concept of gates, gate guards, gate cards, red buttons - is fine by me. I think it works great to pace traffic, and having gate guards at strategic gates also helps assure brand new visitors that they're going in the right direction (or helps them turn around if they're not).

[shaw8700@outlook.com]

We’re 100% in favor of the gates/attendants. We go out a lot in our golf cart and the gates allow us to proceed in the neighborhood entry points.

[Kelevision]

Can someone please summarize the pros and cons of the gates and most importantly the security cameras?

I believe the cameras are only there to record license plates which seems a good security feature - of course there will be those that have privacy concerns.

I would love to hear everyone's opinions - are the cameras good or evil?

I just got a speeding ticket in the mail from a camera in Leesburg on a small street for going 35 in a 25. They sent me 2 different angles of my car. Cameras are literally everywhere.

[mtdjed]

Gates and cameras = good.

On another note, how about cameras monitoring the entrances at RBs? That would be an eye opener. 😃😬😲

That could be a great idea but even cover the entire roundabout. But then who pays for the cameras and repair. The county who owns the roads. Then there would be lawyer requests for video for evidence in M$ civil suits. Maybe that decision might backfire.

Regarding gate cameras you do get info of who enters and leaves and times. Could possibly serve value of discouraging some amateur bad guys. Every thing I have heard has been that it IDs those who damage gates.

[tophcfa]

It was my understanding that cars always have the right of way over golf carts. If that is true, I'm not sure why you think they should have gate-stopped vehicular traffic to allow golf carts to cross.

OK, let’s assume that’s correct. Then why the hell do the gates exist besides slowing down cars enough to snap a picture of the license plate?

[J1ceasar]

Somebody with al the stolen car and a face mask

[J1ceasar]

Supposedly tavaris raised $2 million dollars the first month, there were speed cameras now at every school zone.

I bet nobody will speed anymore after they get their ticket



I just got a speeding ticket in the mail from a camera in Leesburg on a small street for going 35 in a 25. They sent me 2 different angles of my car. Cameras are literally everywhere.

[Jerry F2]

You are allowed (first amendment) to take pictures or film anything you can see with your eyes, from common ground like a sidewalk.
Looking on Utube / internet you will see people trying to stop or call the police on someone taking pictures outside their store, church or business. If you are out in public there is no expectation of privacy from anyone with a camera. As long as that person is not on your property, they are free, in this free country to film anything and anyone.

[MandoMan]

Can someone please summarize the pros and cons of the gates and most importantly the security cameras?

I believe the cameras are only there to record license plates which seems a good security feature - of course there will be those that have privacy concerns.

I would love to hear everyone's opinions - are the cameras good or evil?

What we need is machines that automatically give speeding tickets to speeders on Morse and Buena Vista. These are found in many cities around the world.

[Rocksnap]

Entering public roads so not privacy concerns. The gates are there to somewhat control traffic so golf carts can get across streets so they say. Either gates or big speed bumps other wise lot more golf cart vehicle accidents I would imagine? Most don’t like speed bumps do to suspension wear problems constantly crossing over them.

Suspension wear problems from going over speed bumps! Might as well add tires to that wear list. The extra pavement the tires need to go up/over/down the bump. I can feel my car riding lower from the loss of rubber. Brake pads too, having to brake again. Engine wear from needing to accelerate to the bump, then brake.

[Eg_cruz]

Can someone please summarize the pros and cons of the gates and most importantly the security cameras?

I believe the cameras are only there to record license plates which seems a good security feature - of course there will be those that have privacy concerns.

I would love to hear everyone's opinions - are the cameras good or evil?
Many years ago the gate cameras help find 3 people that killed a lady
So cameras good

[golfing eagles]

Something needs to slow down all the speeders here in the Villages. Almost every car and golf cart is going well over 20 MPH on residential streets . My golf cart only reaches 19.9 MPH but almost every other golf cart zips on by . I do get behind someone going 12 MPH once in a while. And then these turkeys in a hurry rush by both of us .

When someone passes me, whether in a car or cart, I don't get my undies in a bunch like some people. The person going faster than me is no bother---he comes from behind, passes, and then is gone. It is the SLOW driver that causes more problems---on an MMP you can get stuck behind the bozo for a long time, and he creates a greater hazard than so-called speeders as everyone scrambles to get by him.

[fredpotts]

I was told that it will record someone that is coming into the area that shouldn't be there. the gate arm itself is a bit of pain due to people who wants to ride your shirt tail through it so they don't have to stick their flabby arm out to open the gate. I was on my motorcycle when a golf cart went around me causing me to put on my brakes and the gate arm almost hit me in the head.

[golfing eagles]

It was my understanding that cars always have the right of way over golf carts. If that is true, I'm not sure why you think they should have gate-stopped vehicular traffic to allow golf carts to cross.

Not always, but most of the time. But at gate crossing, carts have a STOP sign, cars once through the gates do not.

[golfing eagles]

What we need is machines that automatically give speeding tickets to speeders on Morse and Buena Vista. These are found in many cities around the world.

Jawohl, mein Fuhrer! Be careful what you wish for and the extent of policing powers you want to cede to the state

[airstreamingypsy]

What about PRIVACY? Any issues?

No. If you're not doing something illegal, why would privacy matter?

[golfing eagles]

No. If you're not doing something illegal, why would privacy matter?

Doesn't matter. The law states that an individual has no expectation of privacy when out in public.

[Switter]

I like the gates. Without them, I think there would be a lot more accidents and some of them could be pretty serious because golf carts would get broadsided. It's still possible even with the gates but by that time a car has come to a complete stop and is only beginning to pick up speed. When I'm out bike riding and I come to a gate where the incoming arm is missing and they only have a stop sign, I've seen multiple instances where people don't stop. To make matters worse, the gate building obstructs your view. Lastly, the gate arm being down is a good indicator that you probably have time to cross.

As for the cameras, I don't really have an opinion. I know they are used to determine who broke a gate so that person can be billed for the cost of fixing it. I guess they could also be used to determine who's at fault if there is an accident at the gate.

[Altavia]

Adding Gates are part of the "charm" of the Villages and give some illusion of security to those unaware of the button ;-)

[DonH57]

After buying here, entitlement sets in. Gate guards should know us and open the gate before we have to use our cards. Everyone should drive at our pace and stay out of our way and give way to us. What ever our mode of travel, we have the right-of-way. We can park anywhere and in any manner we choose. And we can take our pets to use any yard to pee and poo on and rake up the grass with their claws. We are "Villagers"! We are entitled!

Oh. Yes. How could I forget. I guess I need reprogrammed!:a20:

[golfing eagles]

After buying here, entitlement sets in. Gate guards should know us and open the gate before we have to use our cards. Everyone should drive at our pace and stay out of our way and give way to us. What ever our mode of travel, we have the right-of-way. We can park anywhere and in any manner we choose. And we can take our pets to use any yard to pee and poo on and rake up the grass with their claws. We are "Villagers"! We are entitled!

Great, all-inclusive post. It managed to hit upon gates, gate guards, gate cards, slow drivers, speeders, right of way, parking, and dog poop. You should have included roundabouts for completeness.

[Wilson02852]

Here we go again. TV annual what is reading for gates question. Should we require an explanation be given to all individuals at the closing of a home purchase in TV?

[Daddymac]

Can someone please summarize the pros and cons of the gates and most importantly the security cameras?

I believe the cameras are only there to record license plates which seems a good security feature - of course there will be those that have privacy concerns.

I would love to hear everyone's opinions - are the cameras good or evil?

You can NOT expect privacy in public.. People can film you all day, as long as we’re not in your face and harassing you.. JUST THE LAW..".

[HORNET]

Many non- Villagers use The Villages as a short cut, if it wasn’t for gates there would be high speed on out streets and roads

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Gates are very useful as they help stagger automobile traffic at busy intersections, where both cars and golf carts are required to commingle. That being said, gates that are controlled by gate attendants are only as useful as the gate attendants awareness and responsiveness to the current traffic situation. Below is a picture of a very long and dangerous golf cart traffic backup at the gate on Morse just north of 466. I took the picture from my golf cart a couple days ago and the picture doesn’t show the true scope of the problem as there are about another 20 golf carts backed up behind me. The absolutely clueless gate attendant had their back turned to the very long golf cart backup behind them and had manually overridden the gates keeping them open, allowing a non-stop flow of auto traffic through so no golf carts could cross to the multi modal path. The situation would have been much safer with no gate attendant, so the passing automobile traffic would have had to use either a gate card or the little red button to open the gate, providing an opportunity for cars and golf carts to alternate through the busy intersection. The gate attendant working when that picture was taken should be fired for creating such a dangerous situation. If a gate attendant can’t be aware of the current traffic situation, and act accordingly to mitigate a risky situation, what good are they?

I've never seen it that backed up. What a mess, indeed! The only reason I can even think of for it to be like that, is if the gate guard had to go to the bathroom, and lifted the gates ASSUMING people would do what they're supposed to do, and obey the STOP SIGNS placed prominently in front of the gate on their way in from 466.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

When someone passes me, whether in a car or cart, I don't get my undies in a bunch like some people. The person going faster than me is no bother---he comes from behind, passes, and then is gone. It is the SLOW driver that causes more problems---on an MMP you can get stuck behind the bozo for a long time, and he creates a greater hazard than so-called speeders as everyone scrambles to get by him.

Yup. I have my foot to the floor on my golf cart for as long as possible, because I don't ever want to be "that driver" leading a pack of rabid speeding geezers behind me.

Sadly for them, my cart can barely hit 20mph, so the result is still a line of rabid speeding geezers obeying the speed limit.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Not always, but most of the time. But at gate crossing, carts have a STOP sign, cars once through the gates do not.

Please come to the Boone Gate and explain this to everyone in cars LEAVING the Historic Section, from West Boone, crossing Paradise and -not- stopping for people who have come through the gate from 441 and are planning on taking a left.

You will do us all a great service.

Thanks.

[darkim]

As with any form of protection ... its better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it.

[fdpaq0580]

I just got a speeding ticket in the mail from a camera in Leesburg on a small street for going 35 in a 25. They sent me 2 different angles of my car. Cameras are literally everywhere.

So, who do you think is to blame for you getting the ticket?

[fdpaq0580]

When someone passes me, whether in a car or cart, I don't get my undies in a bunch like some people. The person going faster than me is no bother---he comes from behind, passes, and then is gone. It is the SLOW driver that causes more problems---on an MMP you can get stuck behind the bozo for a long time, and he creates a greater hazard than so-called speeders as everyone scrambles to get by him.

Baloney. If other drivers can get by you, then you can just as easily get by carts slower than you. If you get po'd at drivers slower than you, what makes you think drivers faster than you don't get equally as po'd at you for blocking their way. "Bozo" is just a matter of perspective, IMhO.

[fdpaq0580]

I was told that it will record someone that is coming into the area that shouldn't be there. the gate arm itself is a bit of pain due to people who wants to ride your shirt tail through it so they don't have to stick their flabby arm out to open the gate. I was on my motorcycle when a golf cart went around me causing me to put on my brakes and the gate arm almost hit me in the head.

Tailgaters need to be shot and their bodies used as speed bumps. (No! I'm not over reacting! Well, maybe just a little bit.)

[fdpaq0580]

Jawohl, mein Fuhrer! Be careful what you wish for and the extent of policing powers you want to cede to the state

Put Gort in charge.

[fdpaq0580]

Great, all-inclusive post. It managed to hit upon gates, gate guards, gate cards, slow drivers, speeders, right of way, parking, and dog poop. You should have included roundabouts for completeness.

CRAP! I knew I forgot something! 🤬

Is it too late to try and edit that post? 😢

[fdpaq0580]

Here we go again. TV annual what is reading for gates question. Should we require an explanation be given to all individuals at the closing of a home purchase in TV?

Then what would we complain about here?

[fdpaq0580]

Many non- Villagers use The Villages as a short cut, if it wasn’t for gates there would be high speed on out streets and roads

Still is. They are only slowed a bit at entry.

[fdpaq0580]

Yup. I have my foot to the floor on my golf cart for as long as possible, because I don't ever want to be "that driver" leading a pack of rabid speeding geezers behind me.

Sadly for them, my cart can barely hit 20mph, so the result is still a line of rabid speeding geezers obeying the speed limit.

IF this wasn't sarcasm, you would be wasting fuel.

[fdpaq0580]

Please come to the Boone Gate and explain this to everyone in cars LEAVING the Historic Section, from West Boone, crossing Paradise and -not- stopping for people who have come through the gate from 441 and are planning on taking a left.

You will do us all a great service.

Thanks.

Special case.

[fdpaq0580]

As with any form of protection ... its better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it.

That is genius! Can I use that argument? I'm trying to get my wife to let me buy a flamethrower for protection from the neighbors chihuahuas. 🤬

[golfing eagles]

Baloney. If other drivers can get by you, then you can just as easily get by carts slower than you. If you get po'd at drivers slower than you, what makes you think drivers faster than you don't get equally as po'd at you for blocking their way. "Bozo" is just a matter of perspective, IMhO.

Except there’s another factor, and that’s the speed limit. I couldn’t care less about holding up a cart that wants to go 27 when I’m going 20. I do care about the cart ahead of me going 12

[VAtoFLA]

Except there’s another factor, and that’s the speed limit. I couldn’t care less about holding up a cart that wants to go 27 when I’m going 20. I do care about the cart ahead of me going 12

You're not the police. Taking it on yourself to block faster traffic is contributing to the dangerous situation you presumably want to control. You don't cause it, the speeder does, but you are explicitly contributing in your response.

[golfing eagles]

You're not the police. Taking it on yourself to block faster traffic is contributing to the dangerous situation you presumably want to control. You don't cause it, the speeder does, but you are explicitly contributing in your response.

You missed the point entirely. I am not blocking traffic or acting as the police by driving on a MMP at 20 mph. We are not talking about multilane highways and cars where you can move right if someone wants to pass, in fact the law obligates you to move over. We are talking about golf carts on MMPs, and if they are capable of exceeding 20 mph they are considered a LSV, and the owner can be subject to a citation for an unregistered motor vehicle. I have no intention of modifying my cart so that it is ILLEGAL, so somebody is happier speeding down the MMP, nor am I under any obligation to pull over on a MMP when I am going 20 mph to let the other type of BOZO pass. If you can safely pass, go for it, I don't care. But I am under no legal obligation whatsoever to accommodate YOU. In your scenario, I would need to break the law myself in order to not "explicitly contribute".

[VAtoFLA]

You missed the point entirely. I am not blocking traffic or acting as the police by driving on a MMP at 20 mph. We are not talking about multilane highways and cars where you can move right if someone wants to pass, in fact the law obligates you to move over. We are talking about golf carts on MMPs, and if they are capable of exceeding 20 mph they are considered a LSV, and the owner can be subject to a citation for an unregistered motor vehicle. I have no intention of modifying my cart so that it is ILLEGAL, so somebody is happier speeding down the MMP, nor am I under any obligation to pull over on a MMP when I am going 20 mph to let the other type of BOZO pass. If you can safely pass, go for it, I don't care. But I am under no legal obligation whatsoever to accommodate YOU. In your scenario, I would need to break the law myself in order to not "explicitly contribute".

Nor is the person going 12 MPH obligated to pull over. (or just move as far right as they can, or waive you on after a stop at an intersection)

I agree that you are within the law and within your rights. Sticking to that is contributing to a situation that may one day cause harm to you. I certainly hope that it does not.

Carts don't need to be modified to go over 20 MPH. My 2 (from Golf Cars of the Villages) go 23 and 24 MPH without any modification.

I personally, would just slow down to your 20 MPH, but if someone came up on me while I was going my full speed and was going faster and clearly wanted to pass, I would make it as easy as I could to allow them to pass and then they and their chosen appetite for risk is away from me.

[golfing eagles]

Nor is the person going 12 MPH obligated to pull over. (or just move as far right as they can, or waive you on after a stop at an intersection)

I agree that you are within the law and within your rights. Sticking to that is contributing to a situation that may one day cause harm to you. I certainly hope that it does not.

Carts don't need to be modified to go over 20 MPH. My 2 (from Golf Cars of the Villages) go 23 and 24 MPH without any modification.

I personally, would just slow down to your 20 MPH, but if someone came up on me while I was going my full speed and was going faster and clearly wanted to pass, I would make it as easy as I could to allow them to pass and then they and their chosen appetite for risk is away from me.

I don’t see how you can equate a cart going 20 with one going 12, 40% below the speed limit. That’s like equating a car going 70 on an interstate with one going 42. Clearly there is a huge difference in the “hazard” value

[Bay Kid]

I always wave the carter's in a hurry on by. I'm trying to enjoy the ride.

[VAtoFLA]

I don’t see how you can equate a cart going 20 with one going 12, 40% below the speed limit. That’s like equating a car going 70 on an interstate with one going 42. Clearly there is a huge difference in the “hazard” value

What I'm equating is that neither are doing anything illegal and both have someone behind them going faster and intending to get by either with or without the blessing of the slower vehicle.

You do you, but I allow faster traffic to pass me regardless of my speed and I do it for myself as much as for them.

[golfing eagles]

What I'm equating is that neither are doing anything illegal and both have someone behind them going faster and intending to get by either with or without the blessing of the slower vehicle.

You do you, but I allow faster traffic to pass me regardless of my speed and I do it for myself as much as for them.

If you read my first post, I stated I let them go by as well. But there are times that is not practical, and I won't violate the law to accommodate them. They can just wait until it is safe to pass.

[VAtoFLA]

Then we're of one mind sir. Sorry I missed that piece.

[fdpaq0580]

I always wave the carter's in a hurry on by. I'm trying to enjoy the ride.

WARNING!
Any time you wave, you are directing traffic and IF an accident should occur you can be held liable.
If you alter your driving other drivers have no idea what you are doing or why. For safety, maintain speed, direction, lane so the other driver can make their decision on static conditions and adjust accordingly.

[ElDiabloJoe]

WARNING!
Any time you wave, you are directing traffic and IF an accident should occur you can be held liable.
If you alter your driving other drivers have no idea what you are doing or why. For safety, maintain speed, direction, lane so the other driver can make their decision on static conditions and adjust accordingly.
I agree with you. When you wave traffic around you, you are assuming a mantle of liability by essentially telling the person behind you "it's okay (safe) to go around me." That may or may not be the case, but either way I'll be damned if I'm gonna get stuck holding that bag of crap. The guy/lady behind me can make their own decision whether they can safely pass or not. If they're wrong, they get to hold that bottomless crapbag all by themselves without my help.

[fdpaq0580]

I don’t see how you can equate a cart going 20 with one going 12, 40% below the speed limit. That’s like equating a car going 70 on an interstate with one going 42. Clearly there is a huge difference in the “hazard” value

Note: On some interstates, there is a minimum legal speed limit of 45 mph. Most other roads only have a maximum speed limit, but no minimum.
In the boundaries of The Villages, only maximum speed limits are posted. Cars/carts can legally and safely travel at speeds below the posted maximum limit.

Neither cars nor carts are intended to be driven " pedal to the metal ". To do so causes excess wear and tear and wastes fuel.

[Bill14564]

Note: On some interstates, there is a minimum legal speed limit of 45 mph. Most other roads only have a maximum speed limit, but no minimum.
In the boundaries of The Villages, only maximum speed limits are posted. Cars/carts can legally and safely travel at speeds below the posted maximum limit.

Neither cars nor carts are intended to be driven " pedal to the metal ". To do so causes excess wear and tear and wastes fuel.

Well actually..... Since the cart has a governor limiting the speed, it can be driven "pedal to the metal" without causing excessive wear and tear.

[golfing eagles]

Note: On some interstates, there is a minimum legal speed limit of 45 mph. Most other roads only have a maximum speed limit, but no minimum.
In the boundaries of The Villages, only maximum speed limits are posted. Cars/carts can legally and safely travel at speeds below the posted maximum limit.

Neither cars nor carts are intended to be driven " pedal to the metal ". To do so causes excess wear and tear and wastes fuel.

I like wasting fuel---in my internal combustion engine. It also increases my carbon footprint and supports a $trillion+ industry. I just wish they'd bring back flying A and Sinclair gas stations, but at least there are still places where I can "trust my car to the man that wears the star"

[fdpaq0580]

Well actually..... Since the cart has a governor limiting the speed, it can be driven "pedal to the metal" without causing excessive wear and tear.

I'll take your word on that for your cart and for electric. All I know is my Yamaha can hold top speed (19.9) without having my foot on the floor. If I stomp on the gas pedal, I get more noise and vibration and exhaust fumes that smell of unburned fuel, but speed doesn't change.

[Bill14564]

I'll take your word on that for your cart and for electric. All I know is my Yamaha can hold top speed (19.9) without having my foot on the floor. If I stomp on the gas pedal, I get more noise and vibration and exhaust fumes that smell of unburned fuel, but speed doesn't change.

Very little information to go on but possibly:

1. That's not the way it works. The governor on the gas engines controls throttle position so stomping on the pedal would make no difference.

2. You are referring to accelerating to gain speed, not running at speed. During acceleration the engine works harder and revs higher which could result in vibration and likely results in exhaust fumes.

3. Your cart is in need of repair. If stomping on the pedal while running at top speed results in noise, vibration, and fumes then it means it is not being limited by the governor, more fuel is being fed to the engine, the engine is trying to drive the cart faster, but for some reason the cart isn't accelerating. There could be many causes for this so you might want to speak with a mechanic.

[fdpaq0580]

Very little information to go on but possibly:

1. That's not the way it works. The governor on the gas engines controls throttle position so stomping on the pedal would make no difference.

2. You are referring to accelerating to gain speed, not running at speed. During acceleration the engine works harder and revs higher which could result in vibration and likely results in exhaust fumes.

3. Your cart is in need of repair. If stomping on the pedal while running at top speed results in noise, vibration, and fumes then it means it is not being limited by the governor, more fuel is being fed to the engine, the engine is trying to drive the cart faster, but for some reason the cart isn't accelerating. There could be many causes for this so you might want to speak with a mechanic.

I bow to your superior knowledge. All I know is that when I reach 20 mph my pedal still has some "wiggle room". I get a sound like the engine is is trying to process more fuel, but can't. Kind of like running with the choke on. Under normal conditions I drive with a light foot. No jack rabbit starts, no hard braking, no sudden changes. Under normal condition cart runs fine. She's due for her annual service.

[BPRICE1234]

Can someone please summarize the pros and cons of the gates and most importantly the security cameras?

I believe the cameras are only there to record license plates which seems a good security feature - of course there will be those that have privacy concerns.

I would love to hear everyone's opinions - are the cameras good or evil?
The gates are a joke, fake sense of security. I have asked to have only one gate at a time open but that seems to be the same level as curing cancer. Citrus grove gate at Sawgrass is so dangerous. The offset between visitor and resident makes it so you can't see who is going but for sure, the first out will floor it to beat the other. We'll the cart path crossing is right there and some cars are up to 25mph because they want to be first. See for yourself.

[fdpaq0580]

The gates are a joke, fake sense of security. I have asked to have only one gate at a time open but that seems to be the same level as curing cancer. Citrus grove gate at Sawgrass is so dangerous. The offset between visitor and resident makes it so you can't see who is going but for sure, the first out will floor it to beat the other. We'll the cart path crossing is right there and some cars are up to 25mph because they want to be first. See for yourself.

Many are dangerous for the reasons mentioned. Generally, the visitors gate entry button sits farther back from the gate then the resident's gate card reader. Therefore the visitor can open their gate before the resident, who may have actually arrived first. Visitors, (like contractors), and even aggressive residents will then stomp on the gas to get ahead of the resident gate vehicle, making hard to see carts trying to get across in peril for their lives. Where there are two entry gates, only one gate at a time should activate. Perhaps then the desire to drag race through the entrance gates might not be so great. But, I won't hold my breath.

[JMintzer]

The gates are a joke, fake sense of security. I have asked to have only one gate at a time open but that seems to be the same level as curing cancer. Citrus grove gate at Sawgrass is so dangerous. The offset between visitor and resident makes it so you can't see who is going but for sure, the first out will floor it to beat the other. We'll the cart path crossing is right there and some cars are up to 25mph because they want to be first. See for yourself.

They have nothing to do with security (except for the cameras that capture license plates). They are there for traffic control (which has been explained countless times).