Building a Better Somersett... Part of building a better Somersett

means improving our finances, maintaining our assets and amenities, bringing the community together, and creating a welcoming environment for our residents. Those endeavors saw huge success over the past year and efforts are ongoing. Yet when it comes to building a better Somersett, this is the easy part.

What really makes Somersett the premier master-planned community in Northern Nevada are our residents. Regardless of diverse demographics, we are pleasantly surprised at the intellect and kindness of our residents which create a friendly and welcoming environment. That feeling is prevalent, now more than ever. We’re all in this together, and we all pitch in.

A recent success story: It turns out that getting out and removing snow is a great way to meet your neighbors. And while the machinery is fired up and throwing snow, many residents in Somersett also cleared their neighbor’s driveways and sidewalks - without being asked, and without pay. We are all united by the common challenge of a big snowstorm, and grateful for neighbors who go the extra mile. It speaks volumes about someone’s character. We all benefit and are all brought together when we all pitch in.

Recently the Board was asked to rule on the use of assessments to fund paid instructors at fitness classes. It’s a tough decision because while we want to support these activities and promote wellness and comradery, the real issue is whether it’s proper to use homeowner assessment dollars for the benefit of one program but not others. After deliberation, the Board decided to allocate the existing fitness budget across a variety of activities at the TCTC, which was one of the requirements specified for the proper use of assessments. This means limited paid instruction for not only fitness classes, but also for swimming, tennis, golf, and pickleball. We’ll revisit this and check in with you when next year’s budget is formulated. Nonetheless, options are plentiful when we consider the entire community, and when we all pitch in.

The SOA is you. It operates according to rules which are specified in the CC&Rs. Just like the Constitution, this is a living document that can be changed and amended at any time, subject to approval by an affirmative vote of a majority of homeowners, (voting or not.) That’s a tall order since voter turnout in local elections is typically just 15-27% of registered voters. Nevertheless, the considerable task of updating our CC&Rs is now underway in committee and we are grateful for the efforts of those who have volunteered to spearhead this effort. The proposed amendments will be rolled out over the rest of the year, where homeowners will be wellinformed and have the chance to consider and debate each change well before the final vote is made later this summer or fall. We move forward together when we make time to vote, participate, and when we all pitch in.

To the good people living in Somersett, thank you for contributing to this amazing culture we have grown and nurtured in this community. Truly you are our greatest resource. Make the effort to be kind to your neighbors because kindness is returned, and this benefits all. Also, please be considerate of those who work in your service. They are dedicated to excellence and handle the diverse needs of over 3,500 homes. This requires special effort and patience from everyone. In Somersett we’re all on the same team because we all pitch in.

Onward!

Mark Capalongan SOA Board Community Relations

Unless otherwise noted, these events are open to all Somersett residents, including those who live in Sierra Canyon. For more information, go to www.somersett.org.

Kids’ Movie Night

Friday, March 10, 5:30-8:30 pm

$15/child; ages 5-12

Club members only

Your child will enjoy pizza while watching a family-friendly movie with their friends. They are welcome to dress in PJs and bring a pillow and a comfy blanket!

This event is not open to Sierra Canyon residents.

St. Patrick’s Day Potluck Adult Social

Friday, March 17, 6-9 pm

Join us for this St. Patrick’s Day Potluck, celebrating all things Irish. Wear your green and bring a dish to share and a beverage of your choice. We will have a live band. Admission is free, but registration is required.

Karaoke Night Adult Social

Saturday, March 25, 6:30-9 pm