High-resolution gate cameras are up and running and have already had an impact beyond catching gate crashers.
District manager Janet Tutt told members of the Community Development District 1 board Friday that the cameras recently disputed a motorcyclist’s claim that a gate caused him to crash.
The motorcyclist demanded that The Villages pay for his motorcycle repairs and new clothing.
“The video showed he was nowhere near the gate,” Tutt said. “Really, the risk avoidance is huge when it comes to the fiscal impact.”
The cameras, which also have been installed at exit gates, help recover the $250 cost of broken gates by identifying the responsible vehicles, Tutt said. Fiber optic connections now cover all gates north of County Road 466.
Tutt said law enforcement regularly review the videos with Community Watch members.
You can see footage from one of the cameras at the link below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gxM6SxZ8hxY&feature=youtu.be
“The day’s going to come when you see somebody apprehended as a result of the gate project,” said Carl Bell, who repesents District 1 on the Amenity Authority Committee.
CDD 1 chairwoman Ellen Cora said security is a top issue in the district and that the enhanced gate cameras will make residents feel safer.
