See you in 2022! As always, security is here to help when you need us. Remember to lock your doors and set your alarm when you leave your home. Report any suspicious person or activity to security at (561) 627-1600. For an emergency dial 911. See something say something. Together we can make a difference.
Security Director’s Report – October 2021
With two months remaining in the year, I just wanted to provide you all with a glimpse of the major crime so far in PGA. Currently we have nine reported vehicle burglaries, one burglary of a business, two residential burglaries, two stolen vehicles and six acts of vandalism. If these numbers remain the same or even shift slightly, we are on track to see another year in the decline of major crimes within PGA National.
As you all know even during a pandemic, the criminal element is still active in our community. By working together and looking out for each other. We can continue to curtail the presence of that criminal element.
As always, security is here to help. Remember to lock your doors and set your alarm when you leave your home. Report any suspicious person or activity to security at 627-1600. For an emergency dial 911. See something say something. Together we can make a difference.
Property Manager’s Report – August 2021
HAPPY SUMMER!
Seems like we are back to “normal” with afternoon rainstorms. Let’s hope that we only get rain storms and the “H” word doesn’t strike! Hurricane season is June 1st through November 30th. Here on the website we have information regarding what to do before, during and after a storm.
Remember, in PGA National, plain metal hurricane panels and plywood may only be installed at the issuance of a Hurricane Warning (not a Watch) and must be removed within 7 days after the storm passes or the “all clear” is given. Accordion shutters, clear panels and factory finished panels that match the color of the house can be installed through hurricane season.
PAVING: Northern Palm Beach County Improvement District has begun paving Avenue of the Champions (the main road). It is suggested that other routes be used while this work is on-going. The work should go quickly but pending rain or other delays, an October completion date has been posted. A new crosswalk will be installed across Fairway Drive, closest to the ellipse (sometimes called the circle). Plans include a button for pedestrians so that a flasher will alert drivers that a pedestrian is crossing. A new crosswalk has also been added near the Championship Drive (Eagleton entry) which is at the bottom of the golf course overpass. Please use care! As with all crossings, drivers should yield to pedestrians.
SLOW DOWN: The Palm Beach Gardens Police Department has been asked to assist with traffic enforcement. The speed limit on the main roads in PGA National is 25 mph except on Ave of the Masters and the central portion of Ryder Cup Blvd where it is 35 mph. There are lots of pets, wildlife, walkers, joggers, bicyclists, etc. sharing the roads and sidewalks. Motorized equipment is not permitted on the sidewalks. Remember what I keep telling you: We all learned to be courteous and share by the first grade so make your Momma proud: Be nice and if you ride a bike on the walkway, alert those you are coming up behind. If you are driving, be patient: We want you to arrive safely. Besides, if you get a ticket, someone is going to yell at you (the traffic magistrate, your spouse, your parents?) Okay, so you’ll yell at me because we all know everything is my fault, right?
YOU OWE – YOU OWE, SO OFF TO WORK I GO: Well, that may not be exactly how the song went but you understand. I have to send you letters when the payment is late. The $765.00 annual assessment to PGA POA was due July 1st and if you haven’t paid, interest has now begun accruing. The Board cannot waive the interest penalties so if there is any reason why you cannot pay the assessment right away, it’s important that you contact the POA office. Reminder notices will be mailed in the next couple of weeks.
OKAY – GOT YOUR MONEY, WHERE’S THE STUFF? I’ve mentioned the plans for the playground equipment. In the 20 years that the existing equipment has been there, the prices have gone up…a lot. The Board didn’t want to replace the equipment with something that looked like it was inexpensive and, of course, number one priority was that the equipment be safe. It has taken some time to get the designs done and the costs approved and we are finally ready to move forward. Your patience is appreciated and I think you’ll be happy with the result.
I’ve also mentioned plans for the “ellipse” (formally called the circle although it never was a circle). I’ve hinted at Pallo and I’ve told you an artist was hired. I will continue to hold out until all the preliminary work is done, then the Board will be sharing all the info and photos. Of course, everyone will have their own ideas and opinions but I think the Board of Governors, and especially the artist, did a good job finding a piece that symbolizes unity of all the people who live in the community and also represents not only the golf that PGA National is known for but also incorporates tennis, croquet, pickleball, etc. That’s all I’m saying!
Have a happy month!
Bicycles !
BICYCLES
Drivers may believe that bicycles riding single file are unlawfully impeding traffic – they are not. That law only applies to motor vehicles (ref 316.183(5)). In PGA National, bicycles must share the street or ride on the sidewalk so excerpts have been taken from the Florida Statues.
316.2065 can be viewed in its entirety at www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes.
The following information was taken from this site:
If there is no lane marked for bicycles, any cyclist traveling on the road at less than the normal speed of traffic should ride as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway except when passing another bicycle; when preparing for a left turn at an intersection or into a private road or drive; when necessary to avoid a conflict such as an object or situation that makes it unsafe to continue along the right hand curb or edge.
Bicyclists may not ride more than two abreast except on paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles. Persons riding two abreast may not impede traffic when traveling at less than the normal speed of traffic.
Every bicycle being used between sunset and sunrise must have a lamp on the front with a white light visible from at least 500 feet to the front and a lamp and reflector on the rear each with a red light visible from a distance of 600 feet to the rear. A bicycle or its rider may have additional lights or reflectors in addition to those required.
In PGA there are no bicycle lanes. 316.2065(9) states, “A person propelling a vehicle by human power upon and along a sidewalk, or across a roadway upon and along a crosswalk, has all the rights and duties applicable to a pedestrian under the same circumstances.” and Section 10 states that a person riding on a sidewalk or across a roadway upon and along a crosswalk, shall yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian and shall give an audible signal before overtaking and passing such pedestrian.
Please be courteous. Please be patient. Please abide by the above laws.
Security Director’s Report – January 2020
It seems like the more technology invades our lives. The more we must do to safeguard ourselves in order to enjoy the benefits of it. Criminals are becoming ever so crafty and using the same technology we enjoy, to commit crimes against us. One of the crime trends that seems to be on a rise is keyless car thefts.
Keyless car theft is where the signal from your key fob is captured by someone standing outside your home using a signal capturing device. The device transmits the signal to somebody else standing by your car. This tricks your car into thinking the key is near it, which will disable your factory alarm, unlock the doors and allow for the “push button” ignition to be started. I know, if it isn’t one thing it’s another.
Like any crime of opportunity, criminals are depending on our assistance. The success of this crime depends on the location of your key fob. Based on some of the articles I’ve read and news videos. There are a few simple steps that you can take to prevent this occurrence. Such as keeping your keys away from the front door and windows of your home. Placing your keys in a signal blocking pouch aka Faraday Bag or utilizing a wheel lock. I’m sure there are more steps you can take to not become a victim of this crime, but these steps seemed to be a common method of prevention.
As your security provider, we are always ready to lend a hand and together we can make a difference. Never hesitate to call security at 561-627-1600, if you see something, say something. Report all suspicious people and activities. Remember to close your garage door when not in use and always set your alarm when you leave your home.
One last thing. If your bar code is more then five years old or looks a little worn and faded, head over to the POA Office for a replacement. This will save you time at the gate.
Security Director’s Report – December 2019
I would like to wish everyone a happy and safe holiday season.
Remember to submit a Property Check form if you have plans to travel out of town. Make sure all your doors and windows are secure when you leave your home. Your peace of mind is what’s important.
As your security provider, we are always ready to lend a hand and together we can make a difference. Never hesitate to call security at (561) 627-1600.
If you see something, say something. Report all suspicious people and activities. Remember to close your garage door when not in use and always set your alarm when you leave your home.
Happy Holiday Season from Allied Universal!!!
Security Director’s Report – November 2019
As you all know, PGA National is vastly unique compared to the surrounding gated communities. Not being a 24-hour gated community makes us susceptible to the threat of crime. Criminals are actively seeking communities to target. Groups of thieves are traveling from other counties to commit residential and vehicle burglaries. In the past two months, we’ve had one vehicle stolen and one home burglarized within PGA National.
This isn’t an attempt to scare anyone, but rather a time to remind you that crime does happen here. So far this year we have experienced eleven residential burglaries and several vehicle burglaries in our commercial areas. When criminals are canvassing an area in search of their next target, open garage doors and leaving valuables in plain sight in your vehicles increases your chances of becoming the victim of a crime.
As homeowners and board members there are a few counter measures that you can subscribe to that will increase the level of safety in your community as well as at your home. Surveillance systems are one of the biggest deterrence to crime and a great asset to a community. Installing cameras that will capture vehicles entering and exiting your community along with signage, will greatly reduce the likelihood of your community becoming the next target of criminals. Communities could also install cameras around the pool area that would monitor activity throughout the community. Installing a home security camera system is another great idea. These added tools could greatly assist the police department with their investigation.
Your peace of mind is what’s important and the previously mentioned measures can help immensely. As your security provider, we are always ready to lend a hand and together we can make a difference. Never hesitate to call security at 561-627-1600, if you see something, say something. Report all suspicious people and activities. Remember to close your garage door when not in use and always set your alarm and lock your doors when you leave your home.
Property Manager’s Report – October 2019
THOSE “D” NAMES!
As soon as I found out that storm name started with a “D” I knew we should be concerned. But someone was looking out for South Florida! Our thoughts and prayers go to those who were not so fortunate.
Thank you to all the residents who took action early to secure their property. I drove through all communities a few days before we were expecting the storm and found that most residents and their associations had taken the necessary action to secure personal items and install storm protection. A big thank you to your Board members and property manager for their efforts in contacting owners and preparing common areas. It was a good “test run” for all of us.
As a reminder, Plywood and plain (unfinished) metal panels may only be installed at the issuance of a Hurricane Warning and must be removed no later than seven days after the storm passes or the ‘all clear’ is given. As of this writing, there are still homes with metal panels and/or plywood over windows so if you are one of them, please make arrangements to immediately remove the panels or wood to avoid fines or other enforcement action.
MONEY, HONEY
Wanted to give you a quick reminder that if you haven’t sent your payment to PGA POA, you are very late and the account is about to be referred to collection. The annual assessment is due each year on July 1st. Final reminders are currently being mailed and any unpaid accounts will be referred to collection by November 1st so if you aren’t sure whether you owe PGA POA just give us a call at 561-627-2800 and we will let you know.
In addition to the regular maintenance expenses, the POA has “Long Range” plans that are budgeted over several years. The irrigation pumps are quite dated and before beginning plans for landscape enhancements in Masters Park, the ‘ellipse’ (f/k/a the traffic circle) or PGA Blvd frontage, the irrigation pumps all need to be replaced. Work on the first three pumps is beginning immediately and when complete, the system will be fully automated so that if there is a broken line or any other malfunction, a text alert is sent. Gone will be the days of running a zone to see whether coverage is proper.
Before the major re-landscaping projects begin along the PGA Blvd frontage or the ellipse, the POA will provide renderings and information to all residents. These projects are still a couple years away due to the approvals required and infrastructure needed before the improvements are noticeable, but work is beginning!
A CHANGE TO GATE ACCESS
PGA POA only has access control after 9:pm but The Island, Preston and the Eagleton/Championship communities have access control 24/7. We recently discovered that the access system has the ability to text you an alert when your guest arrives at the gate, provided that your cell phone is listed on your contact sheet. You can “opt out” of this service at www.gateaccess.net where you will need your 5-digit access code and user name (main contact phone number) to log in. At the bottom under “Contact info” there is a place to disable the service. If you don’t know your access code, come by the POA office with a photo ID and we will provide you with your code.
To keep the data in the gate access system accurate, please go to the gate-access.net site and if any changes are needed, call the POA so we can update the records. Also, if your license plate number has changed, please remember to let us know.
HALLOWEEN
It’s almost that time for Ghosties and Ghoulies and things that go bump in the night. It is often a time of mischief so if you see suspicious activity on Halloween or anytime, call PGA Security (51-6274-1600). October 31st falls on a Thursday so the POA staff will be dressed appropriately for the fun and, of course, there is candy in the lobby to stop by for a laugh and something sweet. You’re never too old to enjoy your childhood!
Security Director’s Report – October 2019
We got lucky and Hurricane Dorian spared us, but remember we are in hurricane season which does not end until December 1st. As a reminder making early preparations is a key to being ready for any impending storm. Early preparedness also increases your peace of mind during a storm. While stocking up on water, food, and other storm supplies. Agencies like the National Hurricane Center, Solid Waste Authority or websites like www.ready.gov/hurricane offer additional safety information and tips. The more information you have, the more prepared you will be.
Also, if you have travel plans, be sure to submit a “Property Check” form so that security can check your residence while you are away. As your security provider, we are always ready to lend a hand. Together we can make a difference, never hesitate to call security at 561-627-1600. Report all suspicious people and activities. Remember to close your garage door when not in use and always set your alarm when you leave your home.
Security Director’s Report – June 2019
Well it’s Summertime again, so let the summertime fun begin. The kids are out of school, time for weekends at the beach, fishing trips and family vacations. As you head out to enjoy yourself and have fun in the sun. Here are a few things to think about.
If your plans include going away this summer, now is a good time to make sure your phone numbers and emergency contact information are up to date in the ABDI system. You can contact the POA Office for assistance at 627-2800. Also, remember to pick up and submit a “Property Check” form. Security will conduct a weekly property check of your home while you are away. Property Check forms can be obtained and drop off at any gatehouse. You can also fill out the form online at www.gateaccess.net
Another good idea to think about is the installation of some sort of surveillance system. Whether it’s a popular doorbell camera or a full home security system, your peace of mind is what’s important. Also, before you leave make sure that all your doors and windows are secured. Remember to set your alarm.
As always you are encouraged to never hesitate to report all suspicious vehicles, person(s), or activity to security at 627-1600. Any information on the person(s) involved or vehicle description will be helpful. The smallest piece of information may be the biggest part of the solution.