Rosemount City News: Summer 2024

Page 1


SUMMER 2024

Survey Says…

The City recently partnered with Polco to administer the National Community Survey (NCS) and we’re pleased to share the results! This is the third time since 2018 we’ve conducted a statistically significant survey with NCS, allowing us to track progress in key areas. This survey also benchmarks the City against similarly sized cities nationwide, providing important insights into how we stack up next to other communities. The full survey is available at rosemountmn.gov/survey We invited 2,949 homes to participate, spread equally throughout the City. The results were overwhelmingly positive.

access, park systems, and recreational amenities. Our utility network and street maintenance practices also received high marks, with a strong level of trust in the water and sewer services that we provide.

96%

EXCELLENT/GOOD RATING

Key findings include 96% of respondents citing Rosemount as an excellent or good place to live and 92% rating the overall quality of life as excellent or good. One of the driving forces behind quality of life is a feeling of safety, which 95% of residents labeled as excellent or good - much higher than our peer cities.

Parks and Recreation amenities received stellar rankings in categories such as trail

2024 Election Reminders

We also received valuable feedback in areas needing improvement. Residents continue to express a strong desire for more shopping opportunities and a greater variety of business establishments, as well as the need for traffic controls to handle the City’s growth. The City Council is keenly aware of these needs and prioritizes them in our annual strategic plan. Providing amenities such as Life Time, coupled with increased housing density in the Akron/ Hwy 42 corridor, is already paying dividends in recruiting new businesses - as evidenced by the conversations we’re having with interested retailers in that area. These are establishments we’re confident you’ll enjoy, and we look forward to additional announcements coming soon. Thank you, Rosemount, for your feedback and support, it’s crucial for our continuous improvement and growth.

For details on registering to vote, where to vote, or how to request an absentee ballot, please visit our website at rosemountmn.gov/ elections or contact City Clerk, at cityclerk@rosemountmn.gov or 651-322-2003.

See more about your election and the Election Calendar on page 3.

Become an election judge – serve your community & get paid! Election Judges work as a team to run a polling place on Election Day. As an election judge you can cycle through various roles throughout the day: open/ close the polls, greet voters, help voters register, check in, and more! Even students (16 years or older on Election Day) can apply and get paid or earn volunteer hours.

To apply:

CONNECT WITH US

Lead Service Lines: Your Participation is Critical

We need your help to meet Federal EPA requirements for a nationwide Lead/Copper Service Line inventory. Currently, about 1/3 of surveys have been completed in Rosemount. If you live in a home that was built before 1985, we need your assistance. If you have a private well, or live in a home built after 1985, you may disregard this notice.

To complete the survey, visit rosemountmn.gov/ serviceline for instructions. You will need to take a photo and upload it to your chosen device. If you are struggling with the survey and photo requirements, please enlist the help of a family member or neighbor.

@cityofrosemount

If you need additional help, you may visit City Hall and a staff member will assist you. Please bring a photo of the service line on your cellphone. If you do not have a phone with a camera feature, you may contact Rosemount Public Works to set up an appointment for a staff member to visit your home. Email pwadmn@rosemountmn.gov or call 651-322-2022.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this important matter!

Being a Good Neighbor

As Rosemount resident, you play a vital role in shaping our community’s social and cultural atmosphere.

A research study conducted by Rutgers University found that having little to no contact with neighbors resulted in an overall decline of mental and emotional well-being over time. Building connections with your neighbors not only creates a reliable support system, but it can also lead to lasting friendships. Here are some tips on how to be a good neighbor:

• Introduce yourself to your neighbors or invite them over for a cook-out

• Be mindful of your furry friends

• Ask an elderly neighbor if there is a house chore you can help with

• Lend a helping hand or offer a favor

• Maintain your curb appeal and cleanliness outside of your home

• Be mindful of noise levels in early or late hours

• Throw a neighborhood block party

• If you live in an HOA or condo association, take time to review the community rules

• Coordinate a playdate with neighboring parents

• Handle conflict peacefully, and communicate with kindness and respect Being a good neighbor is contagious and helps create a safe, caring community that enriches everyone’s life. Our City’s code enforcement division is meant to educate and engage residents, promoting consideration for your neighbors to preserve the hometown feel Rosemount is known for. To learn more about how code enforcement can help you become a great neighbor, visit our new Code Enforcement webpage. Search keyword Code Enforcement or use the QR code provided.

Service

2024 Election Calendar

Primary Election: August 13, 2024

• Absentee voting begins June 28. Vote absentee, in person at Rosemount City Hall, or vote by mail Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Direct balloting (voters place ballot directly into tabulator) begins July 26 at City Hall. Direct balloting is available weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with extended hours available on Saturday, August 10 (9 a.m. - 3 p.m.) and Monday, August 12 (8 a.m. - 5 p.m.).

As we embark on the journey toward the 2024 election, we want to take the opportunity for you to get to know the people behind the roles, individuals who are deeply committed to democracy and passionate about public service. I am your City Clerk, Erin Fasbender, and I’ve had the honor and privilege of serving Rosemount since 2016. Over the years, I’ve navigated the complexities of election management, faced numerous challenges (i.e., administering a presidential election during a pandemic), and celebrated many successes!

Joining me is Sarah Ostroviak, our new Deputy City Clerk, who assisted with her first election in

CHILDREN: 4

General Election: November 5, 2024

• Absentee voting begins September 20. Vote absentee, in person at Rosemount City Hall, or vote by mail Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

• Direct balloting (voters place ballot directly into tabulator) begins October 18 at City Hall. Direct balloting is available weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with extended hours available on Saturday, October 26 (9 a.m. - 3 p.m.); Saturday, November 2 (9 a.m. - 3 p.m.); Sunday, November 3 (9 a.m. - 3 p.m.); and Monday, November 4 (8 a.m. - 5 p.m.)

Get to Know your Election Team

March. We both come from families deeply rooted in public service, so we understand the challenges and triumphs of our daily work, and we know that every single vote is vital in our society. Remarkably, both of our mothers served as City Clerks for many decades. Outside of the office, we both reside in Dakota County, enjoy the outdoors, and keep up with our active children. If history serves us, Rosemount anticipates a high voter turnout for the November election. In 2020, 89% of Rosemount’s registered voters participated in the election. Ensuring the proper administration of election procedures on election day requires the help of our Election Judges. Election Judges

ACTIVITIES & INTERESTS: Gardening, outdoor adventures with family, paddle boarding

FAVORITE FOOD: Chicken Pad Thai and lemon desserts

COFFEE OR TEA: Coffee with lots of creamer

RELAXATION TIME: Laying in the sun with a good book!

HOMETOWN: Pequot Lakes, MN (Whitefish Chain)

FIRST JOB: Convenience store cashier; I rollerbladed to and from work!

are our neighbors, friends, volunteers, and community members. Be sure to thank them as you vote because their commitment is crucial to a smooth election day.

We hope that by sharing our story, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of our roles and the critical work that election officials do. More importantly, we hope to inspire you to recognize the power of your vote and the importance of participating in our democracy. Whether you’re voting in person or by mail, your voice matters, and your vote counts.

Sincerely, Erin Fasbender, City Clerk

ACTIVITIES & INTERESTS: Camping, family time, volleyball

FAVORITE FOOD: Tacos

COFFEE OR TEA: Coffee

RELAXATION TIME: Being outside

HOMETOWN: Fairfax, MN

CHILDREN: 3 girls

FIRST JOB: Lifeguard and worked at my dad’s appliance shop delivering to customers.

MEET SARAH OSTROVIAK
MEET ERIN FASBENDER

PUBLIC SAFETY ANNOUNCEMENT

Beware of Tech Support Scams

Rosemount residents, please be cautious of a new fraud scheme targeting victims across the U.S. Scammers are using pop-ups on your computer, claiming you’ve been hacked, and directing you to call a “support center” that is actually a scam operation based overseas. These scammers pose as employees from well-known companies like Microsoft or Norton. Here’s how the scam works:

Fake Identity Proof: Scammers provide fake employee numbers and phone numbers.

False Claims of Hacking: They claim your electronics and bank accounts have been hacked.

Request for Money Transfers: They instruct you to move your money to new accounts for safety.

Daily Check-Ins: They contact you daily to assure you the “hackers” are close to being caught.

Remote Access Requests: They ask for remote access to your computer to help set up new financial accounts.

Gold Conversion: Finally, they tell you to convert your money into gold, which is then picked up by a courier and converted to Bitcoin overseas.

IMPORTANT TIPS:

• Never trust pop-ups on your computer claiming you’ve been hacked.

• Do not call unknown numbers or provide remote access to your devices.

• Consult with a trusted individual if you receive such claims.

• Contact 9-1-1 immediately if you suspect you are being scammed.

• Stay vigilant and protect your finances from fraud.

Congratulations Officer Larson

Rosemount Police Officer Paul Larson has been honored with the Juvenile Officer of the Year award from the Minnesota Juvenile Officers Association. Serving as the School Resource Officer in Rosemount schools since 2021, Officer Larson was nominated by Chief Mikael Dahlstrom and received strong endorsements from school principals and students.

Chief Dahlstrom praised Larson, saying, “Paul leads with optimism, compassion, a strong work ethic, and a genuine desire to help others.”

Larson’s efforts include teaching about the 4th amendment, securing speakers on fentanyl dangers, giving safety presentations, facilitating a “First Responders Club,” organizing team escorts for state tournaments, supporting school initiatives, and mentoring students.

The Rosemount Police Department has partnered with Independent School District 196 for decades, placing SROs to ensure a safe learning environment, promote engagement, and build relationships. In a recent survey of students, over 90% of District 196 students support having an SRO in their school.

Outside of work, Larson coaches kids’ sports, hikes with his family, and follows Minnesota sports. He has served as a police officer in Minnesota for 13 years.

WATER EFFICIENCY REBATES

The City of Rosemount is once again a recipient of the MetCouncil’s Water Efficiency Grant Program for 2024-2026, receiving $27,000 for one-time rebates to residents who install WaterSense low-flow toilets, Energy Star washing machines, WaterSense irrigation Controllers, and more. Rebates range from $50-$200 depending on the product or service and cannot exceed 50% of the total pre-tax cost. All receipts submitted for rebates must be dated July 3, 2024 or after.This funding is limited, so apply early by visiting rosemountmn.gov/rebates

The City will be performing maintenance mowing around select city ponds and natural areas from late summer through early fall. Mowing at this time of the year avoids interference with the nesting activity of birds and reduces nuisance tree growth that can block access to critical infrastructure for inspections and emergency maintenance. Mowers are set to a height of 8 to 12 inches to reduce damage to native plants, prevent erosion, and control noxious weeds. Contact Rosemount Public Works at 651-322-2022 or pwadmin@rosemountmn.gov if you have questions.

LATE SUMMER POND MOWING

Enhancing Traffic Flow and Safety in Rosemount

With the city’s recent growth and development, Rosemount receives numerous inquiries about traffic safety and requests for actions such as stop signs, speed limits, enforcement, and street modifications. While it may seem intuitive to make immediate changes, effective traffic safety solutions are best supported by data and thorough analysis. Quick fixes often overlook the broader impacts. Rosemount Public Works and the Police Department prioritize the safety of motorists and pedestrians. They regularly discuss and respond to these inquiries, employing a combination of Engineering, Enforcement, and Education. Some issues have simple resolutions, while others require complex, expensive, and time-consuming solutions, such as construction projects that take years of planning. Occasionally, perceived issues stem from misunderstandings rather than actual risks.

Upcoming projects to address traffic growth include the recently constructed roundabout at Connemara Trail and Diamond Path and a planned roundabout at Connemara Trail and Akron Avenue. Additionally, a citywide pedestrian crossing study will begin soon to identify the best locations and solutions for enhancements along busy roads. MnDOT and the City will also start a study of Highway 3 in late 2024 to determine future improvements along this busy corridor.

Through regular data analysis and planning, Rosemount ensures that traffic safety measures are both effective and sustainable, addressing immediate concerns while considering long-term impacts.

Pond

Cleaning Reminder:

CURIOUS ABOUT CONSTRUCTION?

There are several large City-led street and utility construction projects happening every year. Curious? We have you covered – just visit rosemountmn.gov/ construction for links to specific projects.

Keep Yard Waste in Yards!

Storm drains connect directly to your neighborhood pond, lake, or wetland. Wastes washed into storm drains go directly to local waterbodies without receiving treatment. Even seemingly harmless materials negatively affect the water quality in your pond. Visit the Dakota County website, www.co.dakota.mn.us and search the keyword yard waste to learn how to safely dispose of wastes. Visit mn.adopt-a-drain.org to adopt your neighborhood storm drain.

RESIDENTS are welcome to drop off items that are not normally collected by trash haulers, such as mattresses, appliances, and scrap metal. Check the city website and search the keyword Citywide Cleanup Events for disposal prices. Free confidential shredding is also provided, courtesy of Michelle Hoagland Group - Keller Williams Preferred Realty. Household hazardous waste, including paint, oil, and cleaners, will NOT be accepted at this event but may be dropped off at the Recycling Zone, 3365 Dodd Road in Eagan, all year. Please note that this event is for Rosemount residents only, and a driver’s license or other proof of residency will be required to participate. Additionally, this event can generate long lines; please expect up to a two-hour wait.

CITYWIDE CLEANUP DAY

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5, 8 A.M. – NOON ERICKSON PARK, 14115 BRAZIL AVE

Need to get rid of something else or don’t want to wait in line? Check out the Recycling Guide by visiting dakotacounty.us and searching recycling guide.

NOTE: Paper shredding and cardboard recycling will take place in the Central Park parking lot, near the Police Department, at 2893 145th Street W.

HALLOWEEN COSTUME SWAP

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 6 – 8 P.M. STEEPLE CENTER, ROOM 200/201, 14375 S ROBERT TRAIL

BRING YOUR gently used and clean Halloween costumes to our swap event and take-home items that are new to you! No item donation is necessary to shop the swap. Accepting adult, kids, and even pet costumes. Please ensure that any items you bring are in fair condition, clean, and usable. All costumes must be family friendly. Event staff reserve the right to refuse any items. If you can’t make the swap but have items you would like to donate prior to the event, please contact Violet Penman at violet.penman@rosemountmn.gov or 612-268-9097. All are welcome!

HELP WANTED: Hearing Officer

Are you good at making tough decisions? Do you have experience in code enforcement, land use, or property maintenance? Volunteer to serve as a Hearing Officer for the City of Rosemount! Join us and make a difference by serving on a monthly or bi-monthly basis. Apply online at rosemountmn.gov/901/Code-Enforcement-Procedures

Recycle Right

Recycling saves energy and protects natural resources. Recycling also supports important businesses across the country and some that operate right here in Minnesota. Help support the recycling industry by recycling right.Put these recyclables loose in your home recycling cart or use a paper bag. Do not use plastic bags. 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, and search recycling guide.

Partially funded by Dakota County and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.

NEWS BRIEF

Recycling in Dakota County

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

Public Works & Police Campus Enters Home Stretch!

This project has made immense progress in the 12 months since construction began, and contractors are very busy working on the interior finishes to prepare for City staff to move in late this fall.

For more on this exciting project, visit rosemountmn.gov/PDPW

City Hall

2875 - 145th Street West

Rosemount, MN 55068-4997

Phone: 651-423-4411 • TTY: 7-1-1 (Minnesota Relay)

Mayor: Jeff Weisensel

Council Members: Paul Essler, Heidi Freske, Tami Klimpel, Paul Theisen

City Administrator: Logan Martin

Postal Customer

6th ANNUAL

Rosemount

Saturday, September 21

4-9 p.m.

Central Park

NEW Food Trucks, Domestic and Craft Beer, Live Music

Music line up:

4-5:30 p.m. Triple Dog Dare

6-9 p.m. Ragtown

Summer Event Schedule

Movie in the Park

Saturday, August 10

Starting at dusk

Central Park

Movie: Trolls Band Together (PG)

FARMERS’ MARKET

BYOC Music Night Saturday, August 24 at 7 p.m.

Central Park

Band: Self-Titled playing rock, country, & pop

Have you visited the Farmers’ Market in Rosemount? The St. Paul Farmers’ Market “crops up” in the Rosemount Community Center parking lot every Tuesday from 1 to 5 p.m., June 11 through September 24. More information is available by calling the Farmers’ Market Hotline at 651-227-8101 or info@stpaulfarmersmarket.com.

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.