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Flathue: Residents just wanted token gesture

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I appreciated David Wieland’s explanation (“No legal obligation for refunds,” Sun City West Independent, Sept. 30, 2020) regarding assessment refunds due to facilities closures.

He gave a very lengthy explanation as to the legal aspects of no refunds for lack of services during closures of recreation centers due to COVID-19. His analogy to the insurance industry was an excellent example.

I was one of many who wrote to the board and gave my reasons for refunds. My letter was well composed and courteously written; however, to no avail.

Let me tell you what happened to me. My insurance company gave me a small refund and it was directly due to the virus. Their reasoning was that many people were financially affected and were driving less and the company felt it was the “right” thing to do. They didn’t have to do that and it came as a delightful surprise. Other companies were also offering help during these troubling times.

I believe that what most people wanted from the board was an “in-kind” type of gesture due to lack of services — just a small refund of $75 or $50 or even just $25.

Since buildings were closed, less electricity was used, less water, etc., so lower bills were incurred. It was about kindness during an unexpected and unprecedented event that hopefully never happens again. The board chose to not address all the letters received by giving a small refund. Disappointing, to say the least.

Linda S. Flathau

Sun City West