May 13, 2026
Dear Residents,
Subject: Update on RW Residents’ access to the FH Gate
Dear Residents,
Per our promise, the Foundation has reviewed the updated access rules proposed by The Islands for the Fort Hamer gate, received this week.
Key points:
• The Islands declined to use the updated software and gate system at the OTR gate, which would have been funded by the Foundation.
• Instead, The Islands elected to procure cameras, software, and related equipment at their own cost. Their gates will now be integrated into the system.
• The current plan for The Islands’ gate system includes cameras at the traffic circle within The Islands, the front gate, and gates compatible with their system. The system uses Proptia software and will operate in a manner similar to the OTR gate.
• The Islands require certain personal resident information (including email address and phone number) to enter and exit through the FH gates. This information is intended to support communication with residents and, in the future, to identify residents and issue violation notices, if applicable.
• Fee and access options:
o A fee of $25 per car allows access to the Resident gates as currently configured.
o If you choose not to pay $25, you must use the Guest gate. The $25 fee is charged each time you change vehicles.
o If you decide not to provide personal identifying information, access to the Fort Hamer entrance/exit will be unavailable as of May 31, 2026.
• It is not yet clear whether guests or vendors associated with The Islands will be required to provide this information. However, guests and vendors of other River Wilderness residents will not be permitted to use these gates under current practice.
• The requirements align with broad language in The Islands’ declarations as written by the developer. This point was reviewed with the Foundation HOA attorney. The Islands have been asked to share communications with the entire community via flyers or other methods only after providing the Master Foundation with a copy of the proposed information to ensure accuracy.
• If you have questions about data security or the process, please direct them to Chelsea Kelleher (Islands CAM) at RIV1SLE@Ciramail.com. Chelsea can also be reached by phone at 941-231-0050 x5003. A fillable pdf registration form is attached that may be filled out and emailed to the above email address.
RW Registration Form Fort Hamer Gate
Next steps:
• The Foundation will continue to monitor the implementation and provide updates as they become available.
• Please rely on official communications from The Islands and the Foundation for any changes to access procedures or data requirements. Thank you for your attention and cooperation as we navigate these changes together.
Regards,
River Wilderness of Bradenton Foundation
