Help Share the Legal Burden of a Community Effort

Division 8 homeowners came together to protect something that has long defined Somerset — our smooth ridgelines, territorial views, and the character that supports our property values.

After the Covenant Review Committee approved a remodel more than seven feet higher than neighboring homes — disrupting an established ridgeline and blocking portions of existing views — many residents felt our covenants were not being interpreted in a way that reflected decades of community understanding. In response, 112 Division 8 homeowners signed the Third Amendment to clarify height limits and protect view lines.

Despite overwhelming neighborhood support, the amendment was challenged in court. The lawsuit did not name the 112 supporters. It singled out one neighbor — Charlie Bofferding — and required him to defend the amendment personally.

The court ultimately ruled the amendment invalid on technical legal grounds. However, the broader issue of protecting Somerset’s character remains active, and community discussion and work on this topic continue.

What does not continue quietly is the financial burden.

Because Charlie was personally named in the lawsuit, he has been required to carry the entire legal defense cost himself — expenses that now could exceed $100,000.

This fundraiser exists for one reason:

If this was a community effort, the cost should not fall on one individual.

If you believe in protecting our neighborhood’s character and supporting those willing to stand up for it, please consider contributing. Every donation helps share the load and demonstrates that Division 8 stands together.

Thank you for your support.