Bear Valley takes steps to improve gate security

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Efforts to improve gate security are underway in Bear Valley Springs.

The gated community currently uses windshield stickers to allow property owners through the gate, and the Bear Valley Springs Association issues amenity cards to residents.

But new RFID-enabled amenity cards will serve a dual purpose. A radio frequency from the card will allow access through the community’s gate and the use of recreational amenities.

According to a new item published on the website of the Bear Valley Community Services District, the stickers were not always effective.

Earlier this month, the Bear Valley Police Department reported the arrest of two people on suspicion of mail theft and said they had accessed the community because they bought a used car that still had a BVS sticker on it.

The new RFID card access is expected to improve security.

“The move towards the new amenity cards means a big boost in safety,” the BVCSD said. “Since we started implementing new systems at the gatehouse, we’ve seen mail theft drop by a whopping 74 percent! By fully switching to the new amenity cards, we expect an even greater reduction in mail theft. This means a more secure community for us all.”

BVS residents must obtain their new amenity cards by July 31.

After that date, windshield stickers and old amenity cards will no longer be valid for entry.

Cards are available at the BVSA administrative office. For more information, call 661-821-5537 (extension 222 or 211) or send an email to jenniferw@bvsa.org.