Rosemount’s growth is supported by the strategic planning and investments we make in our roads, utilities, and other important infrastructure. Recent efforts include the Akron Avenue South and Aspen Avenue extensions, which improve connections for both residents and businesses. In addition to our internal planning, our Public Works Department works closely with our state and county partners to implement traffic enhancements designed to improve traffic flow and safety in Rosemount.
This summer, MnDOT will begin construction on a roundabout on Highway 3 and 142nd Street, at the entrance of Rosemount High School. In addition, staff is working diligently with our Dakota County partners on planning efforts for a roundabout at Akron and Connemara, as well as plans for a traffic signal at
Biscayne and County Road 42 – in preparation for the new Rosemount Middle School coming in 2027.
That, in addition to our annual street improvement project and District 196 building projects, will mean you will be seeing a lot of construction vehicles on our streets this summer. While we understand road construction projects cause temporary inconvenience, the long-term benefits of these efforts will be seen in improved safety, accessibility, and better traffic flow.
With the number of changes and inter-agency projects taking place in Rosemount’s future, we’ve created a web page that pulls together resources from each lead agency so that you can easily find information, check on the status of projects, review detours and learn which agency to contact with questions.
Stay informed on road and transportation projects happening now and those that are being planned for the future! Visit rosemountmn. gov/construction or use the QR code provided.
After a long wait, we are thrilled to show off our new Police and Public Works Campus to the community! ALL are invited on Sunday, June 1st from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. to take a peek inside this incredible facility. Official remarks will take place at 1 p.m. Enjoy refreshments and activities including campus tours and a scavenger hunt for kids. Watch for more details at rosemountmn.gov/PDPW
CONNECT WITH US
How Development Pays for Infrastructure in Rosemount
As Rosemount grows, so does the conversation around new development. Whether it’s a new neighborhood, business, or a wish for your favorite restaurant to open nearby, one common question we hear is: Who pays for all of this?
The short answer: development pays for itself.
When developers propose a new subdivision, commercial building, or industrial site, they are responsible for building and funding the infrastructure needed to support it—including water, sewer, roads, and power. These improvements must meet city specifications and are paid for by the developer, not by existing utility customers or property taxpayers.
In addition to directly constructing infrastructure for their specific site, developers also pay development fees that support larger, citywide systems. These include:
• Trunk area charges for regional water, sewer, and stormwater system expansions
• Water, sewer, and stormwater access charges (WAC, SAC, STAC) based on expected demand
• Park dedication fees for construction of new parks and amenities or land for park improvements
These fees help fund critical upgrades like oversizing pipes, adding lift stations, water towers, wells, and expanding utility networks to support future growth—not just one project.
In some cases, the City may also share costs with a developer to build infrastructure earlier than expected. These strategic partnerships allow Rosemount to guide growth and prepare areas for future development without relying on existing utility customer rates or property tax revenues.
This “pay-as-you-grow” model helps Rosemount stay financially responsible, protect current residents from infrastructure cost burdens, and maintain high-quality utility services. As developments are completed, they also contribute to the city’s tax base— supporting essential services like public safety, parks, and community development.
In short, growth in Rosemount is planned, paid for by those who create it, and built to support a well-connected and resilient community.
For more information on how development happens, visit rosemountmn. gov/progress. To learn about new and upcoming developments in Rosemount, visit rosemountmn.gov/development
Construction of new utility systems beneath Akron Avenue.
Keep Yard Projects Out of Easements
Almost all yards have easements. An easement is an area on private property with restrictions on what property owners can do. Most easements allow the City or utility companies to gain access in order to inspect and maintain utilities and ensure proper flow of stormwater runoff. Firepits, sheds, garden boxes, play structures, trampolines, trees, and other yard projects placed in easements can block access and cause maintenance delays that lead to flooding, property damage, and even injuries. Keep easements free of obstructions. You can learn more about easements by visiting the Frequently Asked Questions page on the city website, or by using the QR code seen here.
Understanding Code Enforcement
Rosemount’s Code Enforcement program ensures that properties follow zoning and maintenance standards, known as City Codes. These rules reflect community expectations and help maintain neighborhood pride, safety, and property values. The City’s goal is to improve quality of life through education and awareness. Our approach utilizes an education focused Sequential Enforcement Program and a complaint-based enforcement.
Each spring through early fall, the City selects one neighborhood for
inspections.
MEMORIAL DAY: REMEMBER AND HONOR EVENT
Monday, May 26
11:00 a.m.
Central Park
Join local elected officials and representatives from the Rosemount Legion and Rosemount VFW in honoring the fallen soldiers of Rosemount in a special ceremony. Please bring a lawn chair or blanket if you prefer to sit.
Every neighborhood is reviewed roughly once every seven years. Homeowners in the selected area receive a letter explaining the process and common code violations. Two weeks later, inspections begin. If a property is out of compliance, a notice will be left with details and a timeline for correction.
In addition to the seasonal program, residents can report concerns any time. These complaint-based inspections happen citywide and are handled as issues arise throughout the year. Learn more at rosemountmn.gov/code.
block-by-block property
A private fence was placed over the top of a manhole, preventing access to this essential utility.
MANHOLE
ANNUAL Hydrant Flushing = Discolored Water
Nearly 1,700 city-owned fire hydrants are flushed annually each spring. This process helps clear mineral deposits from the water mains and ensures that each hydrant is in peak condition in case of emergency. Occasionally, flushing causes discolored water to appear from your faucets. If this happens, we encourage you to run the water in all taps in the home until the water is clear again. Avoid doing laundry until the water runs clear for several minutes. If you continue to have issues with discolored or strong-smelling water, please call our Public Works department at 651-322-2022 or use our online Report an Issue tool.
REPORTING Illegal Dumping and Spills
If you see spills or illegal dumping, we want to hear about it. For emergencies that are immediate threats to life or property or after-hours spills that are flowing, call 9-1-1. For non-emergencies during business hours, call Rosemount Public Works at 651-3222022 or use our online reporting tools.
Storm drains in the street drain to neighborhood lakes, ponds, and wetlands; the water does not get treated first. Look for these signs of dumping and spills:
• Pipes with flowing water when it has not recently rained
• Unexplained stains on the curb
• Sanitary sewage (wastewater that looks like it should have been flushed down a toilet)
Seeking Wetland Monitoring Volunteers
The Wetland Health Evaluation Program (WHEP) seeks volunteers to monitor wetlands this summer. You could be part of this important citizen science program! WHEP volunteers work as a team to monitor five wetlands for vegetation, bugs, and other small critters from May through July. The time commitment is about 20 hours total for the entire summer; equipment and free training are provided. More information is available at mnwhep.org
GREEN Rebates
Rosemount Stormwater Rebate
Property owners who install approved water quality improvement projects (e.g. raingardens, buffers, rain barrels, native plant gardens) can a receive a one-time rebate on their Rosemount utility bill through the Stormwater Rebate program. Rebates range from $20-$500 and cannot exceed 50% of total qualifying costs.
Water Efficiency Rebates
You can save money without sacrificing performance. Residents can apply to receive a one-time rebate on their water bill by installing replacement WaterSense toilets, Energy Star washing machines and dishwashers, WaterSense irrigation controllers, or by having an irrigation system audit. Rebates range from $50-$200 and cannot exceed 50% of pretax costs.
Funding is limited and restrictions apply! Apply early and find more ways to save at rosemountmn.gov/rebates
Celebrating Volunteers in Rosemount
The Rosemount City Council offers its commendation and gratitude to citizens who donate their energy and time to improve the quality of life in our community. Rosemount volunteers contributed over 16,000 hours in 2024! We celebrated their efforts at an annual celebration.
Whether you’d like to help care for your city by adopting a park, street, or drain, contribute to the success of our signature events, or lend a hand at a local service organization there are plenty of opportunities to make a difference in Rosemount through volunteering. Check out our website for more details on how to get started: rosemountmn.gov/volunteer.
WATERING RESTRICTIONS IN EFFECT
MAY 1 – AUGUST 31
To conserve water and limit the impacts of drought, Rosemount follows odd-even watering rules based on your house number. No watering allowed between noon and 6 p.m. daily. New sod or landscaping may be watered outside these hours for 30 days after installation.
Did you know?
Summer water use in Rosemount is 3-4 times higher than winter, mostly due to lawn and garden watering. This puts strain on our systems and can worsen the impact of drought.
Try these simple ways to save water and protect your lawn: Water less: Lawns only need 1 inch of water per week.
• Water deeply (6–8”) but less often to encourage drought tolerance.
• Check rainfall totals or use a smart irrigation sensor to avoid overwatering.
Fix leaks: 1 broken sprinkler can waste 1,000+ gallons/hour.
Mow high: Set mower height to 3”. Taller grass grows deeper roots for a healthier, stronger lawn.
WATER QUALITY Report
Water is a highly regulated resource, and the City of Rosemount is dedicated to providing clean and safe drinking water to all residents. The City issues an annual Water Quality Report to keep you informed.
The 2024 Water Quality Report is available and can be viewed and printed from our website at: rosemountmn.gov/ waterquality .
If you wish to receive a printed copy, please contact the Public Works Department at 651-322-2022.
Introducing Tara Allen Police Records Supervisor
Tara and her husband moved to Rosemount just over a year ago and quickly connected with the city’s welcoming, growing community. Originally from southeastern Minnesota, she earned her bachelor’s degree from Iowa State University and began her career as a computer programmer before shifting to law enforcement.
She spent nearly 20 years in the Records Department at the Mankato Police Department and later joined the Support Staff at Inver Grove Heights PD, where she continued to build her skills and contribute to department operations.
Tara enjoys exploring local parks with her husband in the warmer months. In winter, she turns to books and puzzles, while her husband heads out ice fishing. They’re active in their church, involved in community volunteering, and dedicated fans of all Minnesota sports teams.
Proud aunt to nine nieces and nephews, Tara brings experience, dedication, and a positive spirit to the Rosemount Police Department. We’re excited to have her on the team!
What is a Crime Analyst?
A Crime Analyst collects and evaluates crime data to identify trends and support proactive policing and community safety. Using local, state, and federal databases—along with academic research— they create reports, maps, and visual tools to guide resource deployment, support investigations, and aid prosecutions.
Crime Analysts work closely with police staff, regional partners, and other agencies. They assist with major investigations, share intelligence, and play an active role in social media. Their work is key to effective crime prevention and response.
We’re excited to welcome Megan Rengstorf as Rosemount’s new Crime Analyst. Megan earned her bachelor’s degree from Mankato State University, and holds a Master’s in Criminology from the University of Minnesota Duluth.
Her professional journey has spanned several agencies across the country, including Minneapolis, where she supported public safety and crime prevention through data-driven analysis. Megan is also an avid gardener and photographer. We’re glad to have her on the team and look forward to her contributions to the Rosemount community.
K-9 Kennel Selection
The Rosemount Police Department has selected Jerry Petraitis of Aspen Creek Kennels to lead its first-ever canine program. After a thorough evaluation process—including interviews, trainer observations, and program comparisons—Aspen Creek was chosen for its expertise, reputation, and tailored approach.
Aspen Creek Kennels specializes in sporting breeds and trains dogs in narcotics and bomb detection, gunpowder identification, and tracking. Their programs are customized to fit each handler and department, ensuring every canine team is trained for its specific role.
The kennel has earned national and international recognition, partnering with top organizations like Johns Hopkins University, the U.S. Marine Corps, Army Special Forces, TSA, Homeland Security, and major police departments. Their dogs have served at high-profile events such as the Super Bowl, World Series, The Masters, and large concerts.
With Aspen Creek’s proven track record, Rosemount’s new canine program is off to a strong start.
Los Angeles Police Department with their K9s, trained by Aspen Creek Kennels.
Hosting a Block Party?
Block parties are a wonderful way for neighbors to connect and add to Rosemount’s hometown feel. These ‘special events’ are allowed in Rosemount on low-volume resident streets, dead-end streets, or cul-de-sacs. No thoroughfares or collector streets may be used. To host a block party, a resident or group of residents must fill out a special event application online.
Applications must be turned in at least five business days in advance. If the special event is approved, barricades can be delivered to the applicant’s address (by request) and should be returned to the same location for pick up following the event. There is no fee for a special event permit. To apply, visit our website and search keywords: event permit
Follow your recycling
If you follow your recycling in Dakota County, you won’t have to go very far. The materials are sorted by people and machines at local recycling facilities and sent to different companies that turn them into new products. Many of these companies are based right here in Minnesota, turning recyclables into new cracker and cereal boxes, durable decking and fencing, food and beverage bottles, and more. To keep this process running smoothly, it is important to put the right items in your home recycling.
Put these items loose in your home recycling (no plastic bags):
Paper
• Newspaper and inserts
• Magazines and catalogs
• Mail and office papers
Cardboard
• Corrugated cardboard
• Paperboard (e.g., cracker boxes) Cartons
• Milk and juice cartons
• Soup, broth, and wine cartons
• Juice boxes
Metal cans
• Aluminum, tin, and steel cans
Glass bottles and jars
Plastic bottles, containers, and jugs
• Containers numbered 1, 2 or 5
• Soda, juice, and water bottles
• Milk and juice jugs
• Margarine, cottage cheese, and other tubs and lids
• Laundry detergent bottles and jugs
• Clear berry and produce containers
Make sure bottles, jars, and containers are empty and dry before recycling. They don’t have to be perfect — just free of most residue, like food and liquids. Leave caps on containers and flatten boxes. Leave out plastic bags, batteries, black plastic, food, and things that can tangle around moving machines. If you’re wondering about a specific item, use the online Recycling Guide at dakotacounty.us, search recycling guide
Partially funded by Dakota County and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.
Paul Essler, Heidi Freske, Tami Klimpel, Paul Theisen
City Administrator: Logan Martin
PARK PROJECT UPDATES:
Join us for an Open House
The Central Park footprint is growing, and we want you to help us reimagine the future of this prime gathering space in Rosemount! With increased acreage and the potential to repurpose some of the structures left behind by our Public Works department, we have a chance to improve the park to better serve as a place of pride for festivities and community connection.
When:
Thursday, June 12, 6:30 p.m.
Where:
Steeple Center, Room 200
Can’t make it? Check out the details on our Park Project Updates page and watch for future opportunities to give feedback throughout the summer.
