Q: Is the center available for our date and time?
A: Just call the office, our rental manager, at 941-955-4597 or send an email on the "Contact Us" tab.

Q: Can you accommodate our type of event and number of guests?
A: Our facility is very versatile and can handle almost any kind of event. The Fire Marshall sets our capacity at 136 when using tables and chairs.

Q: May we come in early to prepare for our event?
A: This will depend upon the schedule for the facility as there may be an event PRIOR to your event and AFTER your event. There may be additional charges, depending on availability of the venue.

Q: What is included in the rental fee?
A: The quoted rental fee is generally for the use of the facility and covers the use of the Creek Side Room and our kitchen facility. We provide a limited number of tables and chairs.

Q: Is there adequate parking?
A: There is parking for approximately 100-125 automobiles.

Q: Are there restrictions or rules we need to know about?
A: Yes. Most are common sense rules, but we will discuss them all during your personal interview, and they will be included in the contract, of which you will receive a copy. If you have specific concerns, please call our rental manager at 941-955-4597 or send an email using the "Contact Us" tab.

Q: Do you have any testimonials/recommendations from previous renters?
A: Yes. Please see the "Testimonials" tab.

Q: Can you refer us to other vendors, such as florists, photographers, caterers, rental companies, etc.?
A: Yes. We are always happy to assist with all your needs. Check out the well- known vendors on the "Favorite Vendors" tab.

Q: How much notice do we need to give you?
A: Dates can fill up rapidly. We are generally booking about a year ahead. You should contact us as soon as you have a date in mind. You will then visit the Center at your convenience, and you will complete a rental agreement and bring your deposit.

Q: What is the fee?
A: We will discuss our rental fees with you by phone or email; they depend upon your individual needs, days of the week required, hours, etc.

Q: How much of a deposit do you require to hold the date for us?
A: We require a refundable security deposit of $350.00, due with the writing of the contract/rental agreement.  This deposit holds your date/time on our calendar. The security deposit is refundable following your event if you leave our facility in good condition.

Q: When is the balance due?
A: The final payment for your venue rental is due 30 days prior to your event.

 When is the office open for us to come in to see the venue and to sign the contract?

A: Office hours are limited during the week days but you can hit the "Contact Us" tab, send us a note and we can meet you most any time. 

We look forward to hearing from you.

Why join?

South Gate is a community of 2000+ homes with borders of Beneva Road and Tamaimi Trail (East and West), and Hyde Park and Bee Ridge (North and South).

The South Gate Community Association (SGCA) was founded and incorporated as a not-for-profit voluntary association in 1956. Community assets include a beautiful property on the circle at Tuttle Avenue and Siesta Drive.  The five acre property is on the shore of Phillippi Creek and includes a historic Victor Lundy Community Center and swimming pool.  The Community Center uses include: South Gate Community Sponsored Events and a public rental venue for: Weddings and Receptions, Anniversary Parties, Celebrations, Meetings and Worship Services.  The pool is open during Spring through Fall and available to South Gate Community Association members at a nominal seasonal fee.

All monies raised by the South Gate Community Association go back into the community "to beautify said South Gate, and for the purpose of promoting social and recreational gatherings for its members, their families and friends, and toward the end of cementing a good fellowship and a social cooperative spirit in this community."

The above quote from our 1956 community charter drives our mission at the South Gate Community Association and the allocation of funds raised.  The funds raised through the voluntary memberships, pool memberships and event rentals go to maintain the assets (building, property and pool) maintaining community value (deed restriction enforcement and community beautification) and social activities.