The Access Control Committee has had several meetings in the past few weeks. The Committee consists of myself, Chuck Marklin, Randy Doi, Mike Williamson, Claude Crass, and BJ Locke. One of the subjects that has been brought up was that we should limit the back gate for residents use only. This could be done by reinstalling a card reader that would allow residents with transponders or clickers to exit. All other traffic would be required to use the U.S. 41 exit gate. The Committee has also had discussions regarding closing the back gate at night, however, we understand that there are some Punta Gorda Ordinances which may not allow this to occur on a permanent basis.

We are looking into installing surveillance cameras at both the front and back entrance and exit gates. Our Committee has already met with two vendors and are scheduled to meet with at least two others to obtain quotes. I just want to remind everyone that this would not be an end-all to our burglary problems as it has not been established how the perpetrators are entering the community. The Committee is well aware of resident concerns regarding the burglaries and welcomes any suggestions from the community for improvement. 

Speeding and not observing the stop signs is occurring on a daily basis and as our winter residents are still here and our streets are as busy as ever, we are encouraging everyone to look at their speedometer and obey Stop Signs. Unfortunately, these problems have taken a back seat because of the rash of daytime burglaries. Both the police department and Charlotte County Sheriff’s department are conducting ride throughs on a daily basis. You’ve probably noticed the Punta Gorda Police golf cart parked at the front gate which is also used by their officers for patrol. Additionally, some of Committee members and our guards have been using our maintenance golf cart to patrol the streets at various times of the day.

The access control personnel and committee members have been receiving numerous calls from residents about things that are out of the ordinary and we appreciate their vigil. It has been suggested that a Neighborhood Watch Program, in cooperation with the Punta Gorda Police Department, be reestablished. This would be an entirely different Committee and anybody who is interested, please contact the POA President.

Jay Huber

Committee Chair

3/9/09