⸻

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can we add speed bumps in the neighborhood?

Speed bumps have been discussed many times over the years. Because our roads are public town roads, installing speed bumps is extremely challenging. The Town of Oyster Bay generally does not allow them, especially due to:

    •    Snow plowing concerns (plows cannot safely anticipate or navigate bumps)

    •    Maintenance and liability issues

    •    Emergency vehicle access

Past attempts to request speed bumps have been denied for these reasons.

⸻

2. Can we put gates at all three entrances?

In theory, yes — but in practice, it is very difficult, very costly, and fundamentally changes the nature of our community.

To install gates:

    •    The roads would need to be privatized, meaning they no longer belong to the Town

    •    The community would need to take on responsibility for all road repairs, snow removal, lighting, drainage, and maintenance

    •    We would need to form a formal HOA, with mandatory dues and legal obligations

This process requires extensive legal work, resident approval, and ongoing expenses far beyond our current Civic Association structure.

⸻

3. What is the difference between a Civic Association and an HOA?

The most important difference is voluntary vs. mandatory:

Civic Association (what Gates Ridge has now):

    •    Completely voluntary

    •    Annual dues are optional

    •    The organization focuses on beautification, communication, security enhancements, community events, and entrance/lighting upkeep

    •    Roads remain public and maintained by the Town

Homeowners Association (HOA):

    •    Mandatory membership and mandatory dues

    •    The HOA governs rules, restrictions, enforcement, and property standards

    •    The HOA must handle road maintenance, snow plowing, repairs, lighting, etc.

    •    Provides the legal framework required to add gates or private infrastructure

Our current Civic Association allows flexibility and community involvement without the higher costs and obligations of a formal HOA.

⸻

4. How are Civic Association dues used?

Our dues (currently $100 per household) fund all neighborhood enhancements, including:

    •    Maintenance and landscaping at all entrances

    •    Lighting, signage, and seasonal plantings

    •    Safety and security improvements

    •    Community events and communication tools

Since membership is voluntary, participation directly impacts what we can accomplish each year.

⸻

5. Why do we track “paid/not paid” for each address?

We maintain a simple internal list to track which homes have paid dues in the current year.

This:

    •    Helps us budget responsibly

    •    Ensures we avoid double-billing

    •    Keeps long-term records for financial continuity

No personal information (names, birthdays, SSNs, etc.) is collected or shared.

⸻

6. How can I get involved or volunteer?

We have a growing group of neighbors who want to help, and we welcome more! You can volunteer for:

    •    Beautification

    •    Communication/WhatsApp coordination

    •    Social or holiday events

    •    Safety initiatives

Just let us know your interests — even small help goes a long way.

⸻

7. How does the Civic Association communicate?

We use a combination of:

    •    Email updates (voluntary list)

    •    Periodic notices

    •    A voluntary WhatsApp group (joining shares your phone number with others in the chat)

    •    Community signs at entrances

We aim to make communication even stronger in 2026.

⸻

8. How do I share ideas, concerns, or questions?

You can reach out anytime by email or through the website. We encourage residents of all ages and backgrounds — retirees, young families, empty nesters, and long-time neighbors — to share suggestions.

Your feedback guides what projects we take on.