2023 Special Election
FALL 2023
2023 KEY ELECTION DATES Friday September 22– Monday, November 6
Absentee ballot voting period: 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. at County offices or Rosemount City Hall
Tuesday, October 17
Last day to pre-register; closes at 5 p.m. Your voter registration remains current until you change your residence, your name, or do not vote in four consecutive years. Voters may still register at the polls on Election Day. Pre-Registration saves times at the polls!
Friday, October 20
Direct ballot voting begins at County Offices only • Western Service Center in Apple Valley • Dakota County Administration Center in Hastings • Northern Service Center in West St. Paul
Saturday, November 4
Extended hours for absentee and direct ballot voting: City Hall Office Hours are 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. **Direct Ballot Voting is only offered at County Offices**
Monday, November 6
Extended hours for absentee and direct ballot voting: City Hall is open until 5 p.m. **Direct Ballot Voting is only offered at County Offices**
Tuesday, November 7
Election Day: polls open 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.
To learn how to track your absentee ballot, find out where to vote, review a sample ballot and other election information, visit rosemountmn.gov/elections. UPDATE
Public Works & Police Campus Update Since June, work on this brand-new facility has been progressing at a rapid pace. Substantial amounts of site work and segments of the exterior walls have already been completed. As the exterior comes together, work will continue throughout the winter months on the interior components. Construction remains on schedule for completion and a move-in date of late fall of 2024. You can follow this project closely by visiting the project webpage at rosemountmn.gov/PDPW.
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The Winding Path of City Planning and Community Development: An Update on Connect to Your Future
TWO YEARS AGO, the City unveiled the results of a Commercial Visioning Study (rosemountmn.gov/growth). The study gathered input from local experts, staff, and market research to create a long-term vision of what Rosemount could become with partnerships, development, strategic land use and a plan to inspire investment. The goal of that study was to build on what we currently had and create more spaces where residents could live, shop, work and play in a vibrant community – goals shared by our residents and city leaders. If we could achieve such outcomes, we would be well positioned to set Rosemount apart from our larger neighboring cities and actively compete for residents, businesses, retail, and jobs. With these visuals in hand and the support of our City Council, Planning Commission, and Port Authority, our staff was prepared to sell this vision to developers and investors. Fast forward to today and you can see that these efforts have produced business, housing, and industrial growth along the Highway 42 corridor, bringing us another step closer to our wants and goals. But if you’ve interacted with us in the past couple of years, you might notice that the developments look a little different than the plans. Let’s take a closer look at the process of planning and zoning, what the city does and does not have control over, and how we work with businesses who are looking to invest in Rosemount. Developing in a smart, safe, and intentional way requires planning. All municipalities in Minnesota are required to create a comprehensive plan document and update it every ten years, as required by the Metropolitan Council. Per the Met Council, “A local comprehensive plan The City offers many ways for citizens to stay informed represents a community’s vision of how on upcoming projects. You can sign up to receive any it wants to grow and change — how it City Council or Commission meeting notices by going to will develop its land, redevelop older the Agendas and Minutes page under the Government tab on our city website (rosemountmn.gov/106). From areas, ensure adequate housing, there, click Subscriptions. You will be able to register to provide roads and sewers, protect receive advance notice when new agendas are posted. natural areas, and meet other In addition, the Agendas and Minutes page is where you community objectives.” can access the supporting information, files, and
SUBSCRIBE TO STAY INFORMED
Rosemount’s Comp Plan offers a Future Land Use Plan that guides development opportunities as they arise. While the Comp Plan sets the stage for our work, it does not force any outcome. For example, if a plot of land is currently zoned agriculture, but the Plan guides for business development in the future, the land would not change to business park until the landowner applies for that change via a rezoning application. At that point, it is their choice on who they sell to. For example, much of the UMore land has been used for agriculture research for many years. When the University’s Board of Regents decided to sell land to a potential developer, our Land Use Plan allowed for a change in zoning from Ag to Business Park to align with
minutes from past and upcoming meetings. Please note, the supporting files for upcoming meetings are posted by Friday of the week prior.
the desires of the landowner and the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. The future development at UMore Park is then guided by the City’s Land Use Plan and the AUAR, a document which studies environmental impacts. In addition, our development practices guide us to make decisions and requirements based on current and future infrastructure needs throughout the entire city. As Rosemount develops, we are constantly assessing the infrastructure demands that fit into our city planning. Regardless of WHO makes an inquiry, our planning process will be guided by the WHAT of a request. Specifically, does the proposed project work within the boundaries of what our current or planned infrastructure can handle.
DEVELOPMENT UPDATE Some of you may have seen the Vision boards that were used in 2021 to help share our ideas with residents and developers. This update of the well-traveled Akron and Highway 42 intersection shows the winding path that planning and development can take. What you see when you drive by might look a little different, but the overall vision is there. The checkmarks show projects that have come to be. The lightbulbs represent concepts that are currently being explored. While the City is not able to control the outcome of who, what, or when – we can make a difference on how development happens. Through thoughtful city planning, active promotion that Rosemount is open to and supportive of development, and careful review of proposals, we are starting to see our collective vision come to life!
All cities, including Rosemount, are driven by clear guidelines and process that keep us focused on the WHAT and not the WHO in business development. By abiding this framework as we work with business and landowners, we are supporting a free market economy, land use rights, and continued investment in a strong and successful future for Rosemount.
SPOTLIGHT NEW BUSINESS:
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WHERE: 2500 158TH CIRCLE WEST, UNIT #200 VISIT: CONQUERNINJA.COM
WHERE: 22978 145TH STREET WEST VISIT: ROSEMOUNTFLORAL.COM FALL 2023
SPOTLIGHT NEW FACILITY:
Flint Hills Recreation Complex Shelter & Trailhead
This 1,600+sq. ft. building, located at 1201 Bonaire Path, will offer restrooms and concessions for the seven soccer/lacrosse/football fields on site. In addition, it will serve as a trailhead for the future Rosemount Greenway. The greenway, expected to be
constructed in 2025, will run through the athletic complex and eventually connect Lebanon Hills Regional Park with Spring Lake Regional Park. The trailhead will offer bikers access to parking, restrooms, maps, and a bike repair station.
Looking Back on Code Enforcement for 2023 The summer Sequential Code Enforcement Program draws to a close as the fall and winter season approaches. If you recall from our Spring article in 2023, this program highlights a neighborhood in Rosemount, enforcing code compliance and preventing code violations in the city. The goal is to promote a high quality of life and educate property owners on best code compliance practices. The Sequential Code Enforcement Program in Rosemount ensures residential properties are well-maintained to city and state standards, safe for public and/or private use, and meet neighborhood expectations. SINCE MAY 2023
163 CITY NEWS
CODE VIOLATIONS AMONG 146 HOUSEHOLDS:
Any residents who were not within City Code were notified via a written notice to give ample time to remedy the violation before an inspector would come out for a second assessment. It is important to note that the Code Enforcement Program is not meant to dictate what one does with their property. It is a preventative tool for residents and the city to comply with the City Code and meet neighborhood expectations. For additional information regarding code compliance or the sequential code enforcement program, please visit our website and search keyword Code Enforcement.
80% =
LAWNS l GARBAGE & STORAGE l IMPROPER VEHICLE STORAGE
Free repair help for residents
Dakota County residents can get help repairing household items, clothes, electronics and more at a Fix-It Clinic. These monthly events help reduce unnecessary trash sent to landfills and empower individuals by teaching troubleshooting and repair skills. Stop by an upcoming Fix-It Clinic on November 18 from noon to 3 p.m. at Robert Trail Library. The event is free, and residents do not need to register to participate. Repair-savvy volunteers will guide you through each step, from troubleshooting to a completed repair. Bring up to three items that need fixing or mending such as lamps, vacuum cleaners and clothes. You must be able to carry items into the clinic, so no oversized items. Bring any tools and supplies you think might help with the job; however, volunteers have plenty of tools. For future dates and more information, visit www.dakotacounty. us and search Fix-It Clinics. Partially funded by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and Dakota County.
Public Notices
The first council meeting of each year, the City Council will designate an official newspaper for all required legal documents and notices for the City of Rosemount. For the current year, the Dakota County Tribune has been designated as Rosemount’s official newspaper. The Dakota County Tribune is free to Rosemount residents and is published every Friday. A public notice is a formal announcement made to inform the public about an upcoming meeting of a governmental body. A public notice generally must be provided for meetings of a public body subject to the open meeting law. Open meeting laws are part of broader efforts to promote government transparency and accountability, allowing citizens to be informed about and participate in the democratic process.
REBATE
The notice requirements depend on the type of meeting. State Statute requires cities to provide notice of most proposed ordinances and public hearings at least ten days before the meeting at which the item is scheduled for a final vote. These types of public notices are published in the official newspaper, posted at City Hall and on the City website. Public Notices can be found on our website by navigating to the Government tab under Transparency. For more information about the open meeting law or public notice requirements, please contact the City Clerk at cityclerk@rosemountmn.gov.
Water Efficiency Rebates Still Available – Save Money & Conserve Water! You can get a one-time rebate on your city utility bill for replacing toilets, washing machines, dishwashers, and other qualifying water efficient upgrades. Some rebates as high as $150! Visit rosemountmn.gov/ rebates to apply for the Rosemount Water Efficiency Rebate Program and learn about other rebates and grants available to residents.
FALL 2023
Mapping the City: How GIS Enhances Your Community In our ever-evolving world, technology plays a pivotal role in shaping the way we live, work, and play. One such piece of technology that often operates behind the scenes is Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Geographic Information Systems may sound like a complex term, but at its core, it’s all about maps and data. Imagine one of the familiar online mapping resources (Google Maps, MapQuest, Apple Maps) on steroids – a robust system that combines various types of information such as roads, buildings, parks, utilities, and even demographic data into a single map. Think of it as a digital atlas that helps us make sense of our City.
SO HOW DOES GIS BENEFIT OUR COMMUNITY?
The City of Rosemount employs GIS in numerous ways to improve the quality of life of our residents:
Public Works: Ever wonder how we keep track of the potholes all over the city? GIS keeps track of all City infrastructure and allows the Public Works Department to efficiently identify issues and schedule repairs.
PUMPKIN COLLECTION CITY NEWS
Emergency Services: GIS and Computer-Aided Dispatch systems help emergency responders locate incidents faster and more accurately. Whether it’s a medical emergency, fire, or natural disaster, GIS ensures that help arrives quickly. Urban Planning: When it comes to city planning, GIS is indispensable. It aids in designing efficient transportation systems, zoning, and land use. By analyzing data, city planners can make informed decisions that enhance traffic flow, green spaces, and overall livability. Environmental Conservation: Protecting our environment is a priority and GIS plays a pivotal role. It helps in monitoring and managing natural resources, identifying areas of concern, and planning for sustainable development. Community Services: GIS improves services for citizens. Whether it’s finding a nearby park, locating a polling place during elections, or reporting an issue, GIS makes it all accessible and userfriendly.
WHAT: Pumpkin collection DATE: November 4-5 LOCATION: Central Park parking lot 2875 145th St. W. Reminders: No excessive wax, paint, or décor; Pumpkins and gourds only.
The next time you look at a map or find your way with the help of GPS, remember that GIS is working tirelessly behind the scenes to enhance your life. Check out the mapping resources available to you on our City website. Search keywords city maps.
Prepare for Winter With winter around the corner the Public Works crew is preparing our fleet of plow trucks and de-icing equipment. Before the snow flies, residents are asked to prepare for the season in the following ways: KEEP ALL garbage and recycling bins at least 4 feet behind the curb MARK YOUR CURB LINES to minimize sod damage, especially if you live on a curve. Wooden stakes can be picked up free of charge at the Public Works maintenance building (14425 Brazil Avenue) weekdays through November TRIM OVERHANGING BRANCHES that may interfere with driver visibility and snowplow equipment – generally, limbs hanging over a street, trail, or sidewalk need to be trimmed up to 12 feet above the surface. DO NOT PARK on the street between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. daily, or any time after a snowfall until the street is cleared curb-to-curb VERIFY THAT YOUR MAILBOX is structurally sound and installed according to the following parameters: • Vertical post is set back 10 to 15 inches from back edge of curb • Bottom of mailbox is 42 to 48 inches off the ground • Front of mailbox is 0 to 6 inches behind back edge of curb • Front of paper boxes are flush with vertical post
If you experience sod damage or your mailbox is directly impacted by city equipment, please email pwadm@rosemountmn.gov or use our online Report an Issue tool. The amount of time it takes City crews to complete snow clearing throughout town varies based on several factors, including: intensity, total accumulation, type of snow (wet and heavy versus light and fluffy, or if the storm includes freezing rain), and the timing of when the winter storm moves through the City. On average, our crew can complete snow clearing operations on the City’s 130+ mile street system in about 8½ hours. Visit our website to sign up for text and/or email notices regarding snowplow operations. You will be alerted when snowplowing will begin, with helpful reminders about parking restrictions and other important information. Learn more at rosemountmn.gov/snowplowing
SNOW AND ICE MANAGEMENT TIPS
Shovel early and often
Select the correct product Salt only works when pavement temperature is above 15ºF. (Use a temperature gun to check). In colder temperatures, use different products.
OUTDOOR WINTER CLOTHING
SWAP
Scatter salt sparingly Space salt granules 2 to 3 inches apart.
Sweep up & re-use excess salt
Hire certified applicators Encourage your contractor to become Smart Salt Certified.
WHAT: Winter Clothing Swap DATE: November 18 LOCATION: Steeple Center Room 200/201 14375 South Robert Trail Reminders: Bring gently-used and clean outdoor winter clothing. Staff has the right to refuse items. Questions: violet.penman@rosemountmn.gov FALL 2023
PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TWIN CITIES, MN PERMIT NO. 333
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
ECRWSS Postal Customer
Printed on recycled paper
CITY INFO AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
With so much going on around Rosemount, it is more important than ever for residents to stay informed on important issues, events, and opportunities. While our print newsletter goes out quarterly, City staff works hard to keep you in the know all year long. Here are some popular ways to stay current on the items that matter most to YOU! TOPIC
WHAT
FIND IT
Council and Commission activities
Agendas, Packets, and Minutes
Rosemountmn.gov/106 Subscribe for notifications!
Council Meeting Recap
A video recap of Council Meetings called the Lowdown with Logan
Facebook and YouTube @cityofrosemount
Public Notices
Legal notification of ordinances, planning notices, or code amendments.
Dakota County Tribune City Hall bulletin board Rosemountmn.gov/684
General City Updates
Newsworthy updates for residents
Social Media channels @cityofrosemount City Website homepage Subscribe for text or email alerts Rosemountmn.gov/notifyme
City Calendar
Upcoming City meetings & events
Rosemountmn.gov/calendar
Job Opportunities
Apply to work with us!
LinkedIn Rosemountmn.gov/jobs
Police Activity
Bi-weekly updates on the work of RPD
Facebook @rosemountpolicedepartment Subscribe for updates Rosemountmn.gov/notifyme
Parks & Recreation
Parks, trails, and recreation opportunities for all
Rosemountmn.gov/parks