To the Editor:
I live in Community Development District 8 and I disagree with my supervisors who recently affirmed their unwavering support for the anonymous complaint system to enforce community standards.
In particular, I object to the assertion “…data shows that anonymous complaints are more effective.” If one defines “effective” as “results in the complaint being upheld” I guess the system as currently practiced is effective.
However, if one defines “effective” as “results in the complaint receiving a reasonable and fair (to all parties) outcome” I submit the current practice is not effective. Most of us who do not have access to the specifics of the hundreds of complaints reviewed monthly. However, common sense would dictate that many of the complaints are motivated by frictional or hostile personal relationships. If you are upset about your neighbor’s live oak blocking your view, attain some personal satisfaction by filing an anonymous complaint about some petty discrepancy in his/her flower garden. Result – complaint upheld. System effective. All Americans have the Constitutional right to face our accuser. Have we forfeited that right here in The Villages?
Robin deTurk
Village of St. James
