Fire Department Priorities
PILLAR 1
EMERGENCY
CALL VOLUME has nearly doubled over the past decade, and the department responds with 50 paid‑on‑call firefighters and one full‑time Fire Chief. In a typical call, firefighters are paged, respond to a station, gear up, and head to the scene; after the incident, they reset equipment before returning home to work. The average time commitment is about one hour, though complex calls can take longer.
Starting in 2026, the department will launch a duty crew program, staffing a station with a designated crew ready to respond immediately. Duty crews will handle most initial responses, while additional firefighters will be paged for incidents that require more staffing (e.g., injury crashes or structure fires). The program allows firefighters to schedule shifts in advance, reducing the need to leave on short notice. Initial staffing will focus on daytime and evening hours.
ROSEMOUNT FIRE DEPARTMENT MISSION STATEMENT
SERVE ROSEMOUNT WITH PROFESSIONALISM AND COMPASSION WHILE MAINTAINING TRUST THROUGH EFFECTIVE EMERGENCY RESPONSE, PROACTIVE FIRE PREVENTION, AND COMPREHENSIVE PUBLIC EDUCATION.
PILLAR 2
PILLAR 3 FIRE PREVENTION
AS OUR COMMUNITY continues to grow, the need for proactive and comprehensive fire prevention efforts has become increasingly important. In 2026, the department will begin a proactive fire inspection and pre‑planning program to enhance life safety and property protection in existing buildings. Systematic inspections will identify hazards, verify code compliance, and capture features critical to emergency response. A detailed local database—covering occupancy types, construction, fire protection systems, and known hazards—will improve pre‑planning, response times, and operational safety. The department will work collaboratively with owners and managers to educate, guide, and recommend corrective actions that keep buildings safe for residents, employees, and visitors.
IN 2024, staff dedicated more than 3,000 hours to public education and outreach—from the Fire Prevention Open House and National Night Out to Public Safety in the Park, school visits, and the Rosemount Expo. These initiatives play a critical role in reducing risk, improving public awareness, and strengthening relationships between the fire department and the residents we serve. As demand grows alongside our community, the department will work to thoughtfully plan and staff events to meet community expectations while sustaining operational readiness.
Fire Department Staffing Additions
To keep pace with our growing community, the fire department will add two full-time positions in 2026 focused on improving response, safety, and service. A Firefighter/ Administrative Specialist will help manage daily scheduling, duty crews, and public education and inspection requests, while also serving as a responding firefighter to strengthen daytime coverage. In addition, a Deputy Fire Marshal will oversee a new Fire Inspection and Preplanning program, fire investigations, and public education programs while also enhancing on-scene command and leadership during emergency responses. Together, these roles will improve efficiency, strengthen incident management, and support a safer community.
Outfitted for Safety
As our department transitions to a duty crew staffing model, we are taking important steps to ensure our firefighters are equipped, protected, and ready to serve. Two full sets of turnout gear per firefighter help remove harmful contaminants without delaying readiness for the next call. This investment supports health and wellness, reducing exposure to hazardous carcinogens and long-term risks. Recently, all firefighters received a second helmet and protective hood, moving us closer to two complete gear sets for everyone. “A helmet isn’t just worn – it’s earned.”
Partners in Public Service: Expanding Care Beyond Policing
The Rosemount Police Department’s Community Resource Officers (CROs) collaborate with Dakota County Social Services to provide care beyond traditional policing. CROs work alongside an embedded stabilization social worker, crisis response teams, 360 Communities advocates, probation officers, and adult and child protection staff to deliver coordinated solutions tailored to each individual.
Last year, CROs reviewed 600+ reports related to disturbances, domestic situations, mental health crises, juvenile concerns, civil assists, multi-housing issues, and more. When appropriate, cases were referred to services such as social work support, crisis response, probation, and case management—helping stabilize situations and connect residents with resources.
Furthermore, this partnership allows 911 Dispatchers to transfer certain emergency calls directly to the Crisis Response Unit (CRU) instead of an officer. Criteria include: no imminent threat to self or others, no weapons, and no crime involved. In 2025, 1085 calls were transferred to CRU under these guidelines. Of those calls, 85% were handled without the need to involve law enforcement.
With mental health calls on the rise, this approach reduces pressure on officers, ensures residents receive expert care, and allows our officers to focus on crime prevention and first response. It’s a model that strengthens the overall well-being of the Rosemount community.
Rosemount PD Welcomes new Police K9 Jet
Meet Jet, Rosemount PD’s new K9—a driven, focused black Labrador born August 2, 2023. Jet and his handler began full-time training on October 27, 2025, working in varied environments (e.g., training sites in Wisconsin, the Mall of America, and the airport) and with neighboring agencies, including South St. Paul, St. Paul, Minneapolis, Edina, and Washington County. Jet was officially sworn in for duty on Tuesday, January 20, and is already serving the community on the streets of Rosemount. Officer Ahmetovic shared what it’s like to be a K9 handler and work with Jet daily. “He’s an asset to the department. More than a pet, Jet is a specialized tool that works to help keep our community safe.” What will Jet do while on duty?
• Tracking & article searches: Assists in locating individuals (e.g., missing persons or suspects) and evidence items (e.g., a discarded knife).
What should I do if I see Jet and his handler?
• Firearms detection: Locates firearms, gunpowder, casings, and related odors during searches and warrants.
Meet Our New RPD Officers
OFFICER JAMISON AHLSTROM
Officer Jamison Ahlstrom joined the Rosemount Police Department in September 2025. A 2021 Rosemount High School graduate, he began his studies at the University of Minnesota Duluth and later transferred to the University of North Dakota, earning bachelor’s degrees in Criminal Justice and Sociology in spring 2025. He then completed the Police Skills Program at Alexandria Technical & Community College.
“I chose law enforcement for the day-to-day variety and to help improve the community I grew up in,” Ahlstrom said.
After completing the Rosemount Field Training Program, Ahlstrom now serves as a solo beat officer. Outside of work, Ahlstrom enjoys the gym, fishing, and snowboarding.
We love when residents say hello—but please remember that Jet is on duty. If you see Jet out in the community, ask the handler before approaching and give them space to work.
OFFICER
GAVIN VOSIKA
Officer Gavin Vosika joined the Rosemount Police Department in September of 2025. He grew up in Olivia, MN, graduated from BOLD High School, and earned a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Saint John’s University. In 2025, he completed the Criminal Justice program and the Police Skills & Theory Program at Central Lakes College.
Gavin stated, “I enjoy that every day is something different, and there are always new problems to solve. This keeps me on my toes and helps me grow while serving the community.”
Vosika previously worked in Corrections for three years before becoming licensed as a Peace Officer. He chose Rosemount after being impressed by the department’s professionalism, training, and supportive culture. Vosika completed the Field Training Program and now serves as a solo beat officer.
2026 Budget at a Glance
As the calendar turns to January, the City’s 2026 Budget is now in full effect. The City Council approved the budget in December after months of work to align taxpayer dollars with Rosemount’s needs and priorities. Major themes of this year’s budget include investments in public safety and technology:
• Public safety: The budget adds two full-time firefighter/operations positions and funds a strategic duty crew program—hourly shifts designed to improve response times.
• Police staffing: Two additional positions strengthen the Police Department’s capacity to serve a growing community.
• Technology upgrades: New software and digital tools will streamline operations, improve resident and contractor experiences, and let staff focus on higher-value work.
Review our Budget at a Glance infographic to see a further breakdown of how we use your hard-earned dollars to provide City services that you’ve come to expect and appreciate.
Last year, the city saw an 11.6% growth in tax capacity, driven by $253 million in new construction!
That new growth saved the average taxpayer $81 on their 2025 taxes. In 2026, the average City tax bill will increase $87 annually, plus $50 annually dedicated to the new Police and Public Works campus. We are proud to share that Rosemount’s City taxes remain the second lowest in Dakota County!
LAST YEAR 11.6% GROWTH IN TAX CAPACITY, DRIVEN BY $253 MILLION IN NEW CONSTRUCTION, SAVED THE AVERAGE TAXPAPYER $81 ON THEIR 2025 TAXES
Advanced Aerospace Research Complex Coming to Rosemount
Construction will soon begin on the Minnesota Aerospace Complex (MAC)—a $1 billion, state-of-the-art aerospace and hypersonic research and testing facility that will be the most advanced of its kind in the United States.
North Wind, a leading supplier of aerospace test infrastructure, systems, and services, has purchased a 60-acre section of land located in UMore Park from the University of Minnesota. Funding for the complex is made possible through appropriations by the Minnesota Legislature and awarded by DEED’s Minnesota Forward Fund in October 2023. When fully operational in 2030, the MAC will feature nearly 250,000 sq. ft. of space for wind tunnels, engineering facilities, offices, heating/cooling systems, maintenance, and storage, plus a 60,000 sq. ft. advanced engineering facility operated in partnership with the University of Minnesota.
Why it matters for Rosemount
For decades, UMore Park land sat vacant due to environmental cleanup needs. North Wind’s plan will remediate the site and put the land back to productive use— bringing innovation, tax revenue, and high-paying jobs to Rosemount.
Historically, most local jobs have been retail, warehouse/distribution, or industrial, with many residents commuting elsewhere for work. The MAC introduces a new industry to Rosemount, which will bring high-paying office and research jobs. These jobs help support retail, dining, and consumer activity, and open Rosemount to business travel opportunities.
This development aligns with the City’s long-term strategic economic goals and represents the first phase of a potential research and development cluster at UMore Park. Future expansion could further strengthen Rosemount’s commercial base and quality of life.
Budget development for 2027 begins this spring. We welcome your ideas and feedback
In early December, our Public Works & Police teams marked one year in their new shared campus. Much like moving into a new home, staff spent the year organizing tools, refining workflows, and getting comfortable - all while continuing the important day-today work of delivering essential services to the community.
The facility has already received multiple honors:
• Nomination: Minnesota Real Estate Journal Project of the Year
• Award: Top Projects Award from Finance & Commerce
• Award: APWA Minnesota Chapter Project of the Year
We are extremely proud of how this thoughtfully designed facility not only benefits our community but also staff, services, and industry partners.
AWARD WINNING POLICE & PUBLIC WORK CAMPUS
Parks & Rec Director Receives
Industry’s Highest Honor
The City’s Parks and Recreation Director, Dan Schultz, has been selected for the Clifton E. French Distinguished Service Award—the highest professional recognition granted by the Minnesota Recreation & Park Association (MRPA). The award honors long-standing excellence, service to the profession, and leadership across Minnesota.
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
• Led strategic planning for the Mississippi River Greenway (1999).
• Managed the construction of the Rosemount Bandshell/Amphitheater (2001).
Recycling Works
Recycling is a team sport, and each player is important. Haulers collect recycling and bring it to a recycling facility. At the recycling facility, people pull contaminants out and keep the equipment running. Machines sort by materials to make sure items go to the right places. Businesses and manufacturers, many of which are local to Minnesota, turn those items into new products like boxes, bottles, cans and even lawn furniture. This process starts at home. When you recycle right, you maximize the number of valuable materials that can be turned into new products. Recycle these items: Paper
• Newspaper and inserts
• Magazines and catalogs
• Mail and office papers
Cardboard
• Corrugated cardboard
• Paperboard (e.g., cracker boxes)
• Guided multiple Parks, Trails & Open Space Master Plans (2002, 2008).
• Delivered community facilities, including the Steeple Center (2010), UMore Athletic Facility (2011), Flint Hills Athletic Complex (2013), and the Splash Pad (2014).
• Built a multi-court, lighted tennis complex (2014) and a Senior/Arts & Cultural Center (2015).
• Since 1999, Schultz has led the development of 21 new neighborhood and community parks and helped triple the size of Rosemount’s park system.
• Recent projects include a City-owned Life Time club, a 12-court pickleball complex, McMenomy Woods (80-acre nature park), and a new Dog Park. Schultz’s approach, rooted in collaboration, sustainability, and resident-driven recreation, has shaped programs, facilities, and public spaces that reflect Rosemount’s hometown feel. We are grateful and proud of the incredible public service that Director Schultz has contributed to Rosemount through the years. Please help us in thanking him for his impact!
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
How to recycle right:
• Empty and dry bottles, jars and containers (they don’t need to be perfect—just free of most food and residue).
• Leave caps on containers.
• Flatten boxes.
• Put these items loose into your recycling bins.
• Do not put plastic bags, batteries, black plastic, food and things that can tangle around moving machines into your recycling at home
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.
Winter Safety Reminders
Help keep Rosemount safe and accessible all season long.
• CLEAR SIDEWALKS AND FIRE HYDRANTS: Property owners are responsible for removing snow and ice from sidewalks and fire hydrants within 48 hours of each snowfall.
• OBSERVE WINTER PARKING RESTRICTIONS: No parking is allowed on public streets between 2 - 6 a.m. daily through March 31.
For details, plus the City’s snow clearing order of operations and how to register for notifications, visit rosemountmn.gov/snowplowing.
SPRINKLE SALT SPARINGLY!
Safety comes first, but using too much salt won’t melt ice faster. Overuse can harm property and pollute local waters. Smart, simple steps can make a difference:
Grants for Gardens
REGISTER FOR A LANDSCAPING FOR CLEAN WATER PROGRAM CLASS!
Dreaming of spring projects? Attend a free Landscaping for Clean Water class to explore beautiful, lowmaintenance, ecofriendly designs eligible for reimbursements and rebates. To register, visit dakotaswcd.org/classes
SAVE WATER & SAVE MONEY!
Shovel early and often Choose the right product
Scatter salt sparingly
HOW THE CITY REDUCES SALT USE
Sweep up reuse
The City prioritizes safety while protecting water and the environment by:
• Annual Smart Salting certification for all plow drivers.
• Use of brine equipment and application.
• Calibrating and maintaining equipment regularly.
• Limiting salt use to high-priority areas (e.g., intersections, hills).
• Using software to track plow operations.
• Exploring innovative practices and emerging technologies.
Replacing a toilet or irrigation controller with WaterSense®-certified models—or a dishwasher or washing machine with ENERGY STAR®—may qualify you for utility bill rebates. Rebates may also be available for rain barrels and pollinator-friendly native plant gardens. Save your receipts and visit rosemountmn.gov/ rebates to learn more and apply.
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
Help shape Rosemount’s future by serving on a City commission. The City Council is accepting applications for commissions that advise the Council. Current commission openings for 2026-2027 include Parks and Natural Resources, Planning, and Utility Commissions.
Applications are due by February 20, 2026, with interviews held in March. Commission terms begin April 1, 2026. Commissioners receive a $35 stipend for each regular meeting they attend. Meeting times are as follows:
• Planning Commission: 4th Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.
• Parks and Natural Resources Commission: 4th Monday at 7:00 p.m.
• Utility Commission: 4th Monday, quarterly, at 5:30 p.m.
Apply online at rosemountmn.gov/commissions. For more information, contact the City Clerk at 651-322-2003 or by e-mail at cityclerk@rosemountmn.gov.