Board Message, Spring 2023

Spring is here

Spring is technically well underway, even though there has been an initial “failure to launch.” According to experts, your patience will be rewarded with the best Superbloom event in recent history. It’s time to get out there on one of the many hiking trails throughout Somersett. Speaking of trails, our rotating maintenance schedule and slurry seal will focus on trails this summer, which should refresh those trails that are paved.

Fire risk reduction

We’re also due for a bumper crop of weeds and tall grasses which will present a greater fire hazard this year. Remember to maintain defensible space around your home and if you’d like to expand that effort onto common area behind or next to your home, submit the Defensible Space form to the office and you’re good to go (email soa@somerset.org to get a form). Somersett has over 3,000 acres of grass and scrubland and each year the Association focuses our efforts and budget on the highest-risk areas. It doesn’t mean we cut weeds behind all homes. Your efforts augment ours.

Thanks to a matching grant from the U.S. Forest Service, the money spent on wildfire risk reduction in Somersett and Sierra Canyon will nearly triple for the next five years. This will eventually expand our fire-control efforts including the construction of six new fire breaks, machine and handthinning over hundreds of acres, biomass hauling, and the creation of evacuation plans. Funds will also be directed to education to reduce fire risks and increase readiness and will include 1-2 professional administrators of the program. We expect that by June or July, the grant contract will be ready to sign after which fire expenditures from our budget will be matched with grant funds. Before that we will work preemptively on the highest risks using our own budget since getting an early start on the fire season is imperative.

Summer means green landscaping

Another major effort is underway this spring which is the completion of our WeatherTRAK irrigation system. Mainline smart valves were installed prior to the re-pressurization of the system for the growing season. This is an integral and ongoing part of our progress toward modernization and greater efficiency. The result will be better control of our irrigation, and less water waste.

New gate controllers

You might have noticed the PacStates trucks parked at one of the gates recently. Some of the new gate controllers are now online and the rest are scheduled to come online shortly. As this system rolls out, watch for instructions and details on the new features and how to activate your entry devices, including your smartphone. Some private streets are due for maintenance this year including slurry seal. Those will be announced soon. The City of Reno maintains Somersett parkway and other public streets.

And now a couple of reminders

Are you new to Somersett? Something about the look and feel of this community brought you here and we are thrilled that you decided to join us. People often tell us that the greatest thing about Somersett is its neighbors. We hope you have met yours. Some neighborhoods have even organized block parties to bring neighbors together. Just a reminder that much of the magic that makes Somersett a unique and enjoyable experience is because we maintain certain standards and rules.

Those requirements are not always obvious, and a gentle reminder is sometimes needed, especially in the newer neighborhoods. The Somersett lighting policy (see section 1.3 of the Aesthetic Guidelines) is specific and all outside lights need AGC approval (as does any outside modification or landscape change). Up lights are not allowed, meaning no up lights or decorative lighting up your landscaping and trees. Spots and floodlights are also not allowed. Lights on your house exterior should be shielded so the bulbs do not shine outwards onto adjacent properties. Bulbs should be a maximum of 200 lumens and should have a color temperature of less than 2,500 degrees Kelvin (warm white). Please look at what you have on your property and make the needed adjustments. Not all production homes have approved lighting and as we seek better compliance, we will find ways to help homeowners comply with a minimum of effort or inconvenience. Compliance activities will be stepped up this summer. Before then let us know how we can help. Your neighbors are appreciative of your efforts to achieve compliance and lighting is always a big concern.

Activities shift into high gear

Summer will be here soon, and preparations are underway to kick our activities into high gear. The snack bar at the pool will be run internally this year under a dedicated seasonal food manager with the goal of increasing the food quality and service. This is a reversal from the past two years when our operations were outsourced. With new options and talent, plans are constantly evolving to meet your expectations. Order something delicious at the pool this year and let us know what you think.

Keep an eye on your calendar for upcoming community events including the return of some favorites as well as new events. Sparkling Wines, Paella, and Jazz is coming to the TCTC soon. Concerts on the Green will return. Three community garage sales. We will also have expanded instructor-led group activities this year including golf and pool clinics as well as tennis if we find an instructor.

Summer is the active season in Somersett. Make plans to enjoy your club and the many events and activities this year.

Cheers,

The Somersett Board

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.

Spring Garage Sale

Saturday, May 6, 7 am-3 pm

The first community-wide sale of the year is on Saturday, May 6, and we expect to have well over 100 homes taking part. Look for a digital map of participating homes on the home page of www.Somersett.org starting on Monday, May 1. Be sure to scroll around the map - some addresses have listed some of the top items they are selling.

Up next: The summer sale is on July 29 and the fall sale is on Oct. 7.

Kentucky Derby Viewing Party

Saturday, May 6, 2:30-5 pm

Club members only

And they’re off! It may be the “most exciting two minutes in sports,’’ but let’s face it, Kentucky Derby parties are about more than the race itself. It’s a chance to put on a fancy hat (ladies), break out a bow tie (gents), sip mint juleps, and cheer for your favorite horse! We will watch the race on the big-screen TVs in the Canyon View Room. Bring an appetizer to share and your beverage of choice. We will provide cutlery, plates, and glasses. This event is free, but registration is required. Check the Events Calendar on Somersett.org for a registration link. This event is not open to Sierra Canyon residents.

Kids’ Movie Night

Friday, May 12, 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.

Sparkling Wine, Paella, and Jazz

Saturday, May 20, 6-9 pm

On the patio behind the Club at Town Center (weather permitting) or in the Canyon View room.

Join us for this effervescent party featuring sparkling wine, tapas, 3 authentic paellas, dessert, and a live jazz band.

Chef Tim Meevasin was classically trained in Spain and will present three beautiful paellas in his supersized pans: Seafood Mixta, Classic Valencia (chicken and sausage), and Vegan Wild Mushroom Paellas. You are welcome to try all three! Chef Tim and his sous will prepare the tapas on-site and serve them personally. Chef Tim loves to interact with his guests, and he invites you to watch him prepare his masterpieces!

Be sure to come to this event in something that sparkles. It will be an evening to remember!

Tickets: $70 - check the Events Calendar on Somersett.org for a ticket link.

Open to: All Somersett residents, including those who live in Sierra Canyon. Adults only, please.

Plant Sale & Fundraiser

Saturday, May 20, 10 am to noon

At Somersett West Park

The SOA’s Community Garden Committee will sell tomatoes and other plants to raise money for the Community Garden at Somersett West Park. Plants are chosen for their ability to thrive in Northwest Reno’s short growing season and sometimes unpredictable climate. Last year our gardeners sold out so be sure to get there early!

Blood Drive

Saturday, May 27, 10 am-2 pm Did you know that by donating blood, you can save up to three lives? And on May 27, you can donate right here in Somersett when the Vitalant Bloodmobile parks in the Club at Town Center lot. Those who donate will receive a free health screening, provided by Vitalant. To sign up, call 775-329-6451.

Summer Kick Off

Monday, May 29, 8:30 am-8:30 pm Mark your calendar to help us kick off summer at Somersett! Here’s the schedule (subject to change):

8:30 am: Closest-to-the-Hole Contest on the Canyon Nine (open to Sierra Canyon residents)

10 am: Pool opens

10:30 am: Pickleball Round Robin

12-4 pm: Phatman & Robin & Phriends performs (poolside)

4-7:30 pm: Whitewater performs (poolside)

5 pm: Adult Happy Hour Social with drinks and snacks in the Canyon View Room.

Also: Kids’ challenges with prizes, and MORE!

Please note: This event is open to Club members only except where noted. No guests are permitted.

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Country Club Golf Shop Hours

May

Community Driving Range Hours

May

Country Club First Tee Times

Closed Monday

June 7:30 am Tuesday-Friday

7 am Saturday and Sunday;

Closed Monday