The City of Summerset held its regular commission meeting on October 17, 2024, where key updates were provided by the Blackhawk Volunteer Fire Department and discussions centered around community needs and survey results.

Chief Kurt Klender of the Blackhawk Volunteer Fire Department presented an update on the department's activities and challenges. He reported that the department currently has 22 volunteer firefighters, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a strong volunteer base to respond to emergencies, particularly during the busy wildland fire season. Klender highlighted the department's efforts to improve its ISO rating, which affects insurance premiums for residents. The department is aiming to improve its rating from a 5 to a 4, which could lead to lower insurance costs for the community. Klender also mentioned the department's involvement in various training programs and partnerships with other fire departments to enhance their capabilities.

In addition to the fire department update, the commission discussed the results of a recent community survey. The survey indicated that residents feel positively about living in Summerset but identified gaps in essential services, particularly in childcare and healthcare. The survey results revealed a strong sense of community, with residents expressing a desire for more local businesses and resources. The commission acknowledged the need for improved shopping variety and community facilities, particularly for youth activities.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to address the concerns raised in the survey and to explore potential developments that could enhance community resources. The commission plans to follow up on these discussions in future meetings, aiming to create actionable plans based on resident feedback.