Too many 'gated' communities?

GAINESVILLE - The Gainesville City Council is to take up two more rezoning requests for gated communities at its first meeting of the new year January 2. But one council member is not sure so many such developments are such a good idea.

The planning and appeals board has recommended approval for residential condos off Thompson Bridge Road and town homes at Enota Avenue and Yonah Avenue.

But, councilwoman Ruth Bruner asks "Is Gainesville residential development becoming exclusive? That's what's bothering me. I understand the security need but I don't like the feeling of being excluded from so many gated areas."

City Manager Bryan Shuler said Gainesville can provide gated communities in the city with public services except street maintenance since gated streets are not public.

"Any street that's gated cannot be a public street so it has to be privately maintained," Shuler said.