The recent wildfires in Los Angeles remind us of the importance of being prepared for emergencies. While disasters can be unsettling, The Villages Golf and Country Club is proactively addressing your concerns and working diligently to enhance community safety.
Key Actions Underway:
- Emergency Preparedness Transition: The Emergency Preparedness Committee (EPC) is transitioning under the General Manager’s Office to strengthen its structure and capabilities. This effort, guided by the newly formed Emergency Preparedness Transition Committee (EPTC), is working to tailor our program for our unique community. The Villages Team will also be adding a dedicated Emergency Preparedness Coordinator to lead these efforts.
- Enhanced Safety Measures: Our Public Safety and Public Works teams hold keys to all emergency gates, ensuring rapid response during evacuations. Additionally, San Jose Fire Department, specifically Engine 11, has access to these gates, allowing for swift coordination. Any evacuation would be coordinate by the San Jose Police and Fire Departments.
- Planning and Coordination: The EPTC is in the discovery phase, collaborating with city, state, and federal agencies while learning from other communities’ emergency programs. The final recommendations for an Integrated Emergency Plan are on track for presentation to the Club Board by March.
- Resident Communication and Education: The Communications Team is working closely with Emergency Preparedness volunteers to provide updates at Resident Orientations, Member events and through The Villager Online. The next orientation is scheduled for January 15, offering a chance to ask questions and learn more.
Evacuation Planning: Villagers’ safety is our top priority. The current evacuation routes are located on the member portal under public safety – fire safety and emergency operations plan tab or https://member.thevillagesgcc.com/static/fire-safety-and-emergency-operations/. In the event of an evacuation, clear procedures are being reworked to unlock secondary gates and notify Villagers swiftly. While no plan can guarantee absolute safety, these measures aim to minimize risks and ensure an organized response.
How You Can Stay Informed: We encourage all residents to stay connected by attending orientations, reading updates in The Villager Online, and reaching out to key contacts:
- GM Theresa Ostrander: tostrander@the-villages.com
- Director of Public Safety Matt Hidalgo: mhidalgo@the-villages.com
Together, we can foster a safer, more resilient community. Thank you for your continued trust and engagement as we work to protect The Villages and all who call it home
