Letter: Retirees behind gates contribute greatly
David Lauderdale’s column on Feb. 12 about gated communities and the planning process underway to identify the future of Hilton Head Island needs another view. I am a 16-year retiree, live in a gated community and want to offer some thoughts for the planners.
Our security guards do not carry guns. They smile instead of pat down guests, and provide safety, including emergency situations. By the way, no crime!
I am on the board of two major nonprofits, attend and support the orchestra, World Affairs Council, Operation R&R and our gated community endowment that gives tens of thousands of dollars to worthy causes each year. My neighbors work at VIM, Life Long Learning, Bargain Box, Children’s Center, ATAX committee, etc. I eat in restaurants outside the gate at least twice a week. I love the community, and worry about issues including Pope Avenue, the aging population, the arts center and new venue, and many more.
Planners: When you plan for the millennials, keep us retirees hiding behind gates who got here the old fashioned way in mind.
Robert Rutherford
Hilton Head Island
This story was originally published February 19, 2016 at 11:03 AM with the headline "Letter: Retirees behind gates contribute greatly."