Exploring options—balancing safety, reliability, timing, and cost
SINCE EARLY FEBRUARY, Public Works has been working with specialized water system engineers from Short Elliot Hendrickson to evaluate potential solutions to reduce Gross Alpha radiation levels in water from Well No. 8. Options under review include:
• Limit use or shift to emergency backup: Use only during major fire events or peak summer demand.
• Replace Well No. 8: Drill a new well in a different City location.
• Blend with Well No. 9: Combine water before entering the storage and distribution system.
• Treatment at Well No. 8: Construct a facility at the site (adjacent to and partially within Jaycee Park).
Meet Rosemount’s New Police Chief: Carson Thomas Evaluating Solutions for Well No. 8
• Centralized treatment at Well No. 12: Build a facility in the Business/Industrial Park and add trunk watermains to move water from Wells 7, 8, and 9 for treatment. Each option varies in scale, complexity, timing, and cost. Technical and financial analysis will continue for several months, with a goal of identifying the preferred solution by the end of 2026. Depending on the approach, construction is expected to take 1–4 years.
for updates, which are shared in coordination with this quarterly newsletter and more frequently as needed. We’ve also compiled a list of FAQs to address questions from residents.
After six months as Interim Chief, Carson Thomas was sworn in on April 7 as Rosemount’s Police Chief. With more than two decades of experience in law enforcement and a leadership style centered on service, integrity, and relationship building, Thomas prioritizes collaboration and community partnership.
Since joining Rosemount in 2022 as Deputy Chief, he has helped strengthen internal communication, expand professional development, modernize tools and technology, and foster a welcoming workplace culture. Thomas began his career in California, serving in patrol, major crimes investigations, SWAT leadership, and community outreach roles.
“Our core values begin with how we treat one another,” Chief Thomas said. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to support this team and continue building a strong, healthy department for our community.”
Department information available at rosemountmn.gov/Police.
rosemountmn.gov
WATER QUALITY REPORT
2025 report now available
Water is a highly regulated resource, and the City of Rosemount is dedicated to providing safe, clean drinking water. The 2025 Water Quality Report is available at rosemountmn.gov/ WaterQuality and can be viewed or printed. Prefer a paper copy? Contact Public Works at 651-322 2022
ANNUAL HYDRANT FLUSHING May Cause Temporary Discoloration
@cityofrosemount
Each spring, Public Works flushes over 1,700 City fire hydrants to remove mineral buildup and ensure hydrants are ready for emergencies. This can cause temporary water discoloration. If you notice it, run all taps until the water clears and avoid laundry until then. If issues persist, call 651-322 2022 .
WATERING RESTRICTIONS: May 1–August 31
To conserve water and limit drought impacts, Rosemount follows odd even watering rules based on your house number. Water before noon or after 6 p.m. — no watering between noon and 6 p.m. daily . New sod or landscaping may be watered outside these hours for 30 days after installation.
Save water & protect your lawn
• Water less: Lawns need about 1 inch/week.
• Fix leaks: One broken sprinkler can waste 1,000+ gallons/hour.
• Mow high: Set mower height to 3 inches to grow deeper roots.
Scan to view the 2025 Water Quality Report
Scan code to submit your issue online at: rosemountmn. gov/ReportIssues
View more information at: rosemountmn. gov/WaterSmart
• Water deeply: 6–8 inches but less often to encourage drought tolerance.
• Use smart controls: Check rainfall totals or add a smart irrigation sensor.
REPORTING ILLEGAL DUMPING AND SPILLS
If you see spills or illegal dumping, please report it.
• Emergencies or after hours spills that are flowing: Call 9 1 1.
• Nonemergency’s during business hours: Call Public Works at 651- 322-2022 or use online reporting tools.
Remember: Storm drains lead directly to lakes, ponds, and wetlands— water is not treated first
Signs of dumping/spills
• Oily sheens, suds/foams, unusual colors/odors, or excessive trash.
• Barrels with unknown contents.
• Pipes with flowing water when it hasn’t rained.
• Unexplained stains on the curb.
• Sanitary sewage (wastewater that should have gone to a toilet).
Rosemount Police Department Launches Drone Program
Fire Department Staff Additions
To meet community needs, the Fire Department welcomed two full time team members focused on strengthening response, safety, and service:
Assistant Chief & Deputy Fire Marshal: Chad Ganfield
A Rosemount native and longtime department leader (since 2003), Chad has served as Lieutenant, Captain, and Battalion Chief, and led department training. He is a past recipient of the 2014 Rosemount Firefighter of the Year and the 2025 Dakota County EMS Council Citizen Lifesaving Award and has served with Dakota County Special Operations and Minnesota Task Force 1.
Role: Lead a comprehensive existing building inspection program, partner with business owners to educate and enforce fire codes and ensure compliance with state/local regulations; lead public education and outreach; respond to calls in a command role.
The Rosemount Police Department has introduced a new Drone Program to support emergency response, search and rescue, crash reconstruction, and community safety operations. Drone use is governed by state law and department policy, including privacy protections, data retention limits, and clear rules on when drones may and may not be used. All flights are conducted by FAA Certified officers following federal regulations.
Learn more and read the full policy at rosemountmn.gov/Drones
“
Drones provide a safer, faster aerial perspective during critical incidents.”
LT Firefighter/ Administrative Specialist: Krissy Horner Krissy joined Rosemount Fire in 2018 as a paid on -call firefighter and has served as Lieutenant. She is trained as a Youth Fire Setting Intervention Specialist and recently earned her EMT certification. She is a past Rookie of the Year award recipient.
Role: Operations support. Manage scheduling, duty crews, and public education/inspection requests; respond to calls to strengthen daytime coverage. Together, these roles enhance efficiency, response times, incident management, and public safety.
Demystifying Development: How Big Projects Are Planned
The pace of growth and change can feel like a rollercoaster. The City is committed to helping residents understand the tools used to ensure community growth happens safely and responsibly. Rosemount uses robust planning and review processes to balance property rights and community needs, and to ensure that major projects meet standards well before formal applications are filed.
PLANNING &
ENVIRONMENTAL
REVIEW TOOLS
• AUAR (Alternative Urban Areawide Review): Evaluates potential environmental impacts and mitigation strategies of development scenarios over a broader area, informing decisions ahead of individual project approvals.
LONG-RANGE PLANNING
• Comprehensive Plan: A key document that guides the planning on land use, infrastructure build out, roads and transportation, water, and natural resources.
YOUR VOICE MATTERS—WATCH FOR 2050 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES.
• Agency coordination: Many reviews require input from agencies such as the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), Dakota County, and MnDOT.
THANK YOU FOR MAKING THE 2026 ROSEMOUNT EXPO A SUCCESS—
Please take a moment to complete our brief survey—we appreciate your input and look forward to seeing you next year!
Diversifying business and job types builds resilience to economic shifts, new technologies, financial markets, and evolving consumer trends. Rosemount has several large developments underway or on the horizon. These are opportunities to strengthen services, amenities, and local employment.
City Council’s strategic pillar to “Grow and Enhance Rosemount” is supported by professional staff who work daily with developers and consultants to evaluate prospects. Residents with comments or concerns are encouraged to contact the City to share their feedback and have their questions answered.
A huge thank you to everyone who showed up and contributed to making the 2026 Rosemount Expo a success! We truly appreciate your support for our community and for helping bring the event to life. This year, we also tried something new with a Monopoly-themed Expo, adding a fun and interactive twist to the experience.
As we continue to grow and improve, your feedback is incredibly valuable in helping us understand what worked well and what we can do better. We are always looking for ways to make the Expo even more engaging and enjoyable each year, and we hope to build on this year’s ideas moving forward.
Pedestrian Crossing Enhancements Program
In 2025, the City reviewed pedestrian crossings on major roads and near busy places like schools and parks. Safety data, expert guidance, and community feedback were used to identify where improvements are needed most. The City now has a yearly program to fund and build these upgrades. Starting this summer, the City will do projects at several crossings each year on the highest-priority locations based on safety, usage, and community needs.
Note: this program focuses on crossings along streets that are owned and maintained by the City of Rosemount. Improvements on state highways or county roads are not included in this program, although the City will continue to coordinate with these agencies on broader safety issues or other necessary improvements. Learn more: rosemountmn.gov/pedstudy
Seeking Wetland Monitoring Volunteers (WHEP)
Join the Wetland Health Evaluation Program (WHEP) team this summer to monitor five wetlands for vegetation, macroinvertebrates, and other indicators. May–July, about 20 hours total; equipment and free training provided. More information: mnwhep.org
$
GREEN Rebates
Stormwater Rebate:
Property owners who install projects like raingardens, buffers, rain barrels, or native plant gardens may receive a one time utility bill rebate. Rebates range from $20–$500 (up to 50% of qualifying costs).
Water Efficiency Rebates:
Residents may receive a one time water bill rebate for WaterSense® toilets, WaterSense irrigation controllers, ENERGY STAR® washing machines/dishwashers, or irrigation system audits. Rebates range from $50–$200 (up to 50% of pre tax costs).
Funding is limited—apply early: rosemountmn.gov/rebates
Crosswalk on Bonaire Path adjacent to Emerald Trail Elementary
Connemara/Akron Roundabout Project Begins Soon
Construction on the City’s next roundabout intersection is expected to begin in late May or early June. An Open House is planned for April 30, from 4:30–7 p.m., at the Public Works & Police Campus to share project schedules, traffic impacts, and detours.
CITYWIDE GARAGE SALE
The Citywide Garage Sale is back!
When: May 14–16, 2026 NEW this year: Every participating address will be listed on the City’s interactive map, so bargain hunters can find sales fast.
Registration: $10 per Rosemount address and can be completed online.
Registration Deadline: May 4.rosemountmn.gov/sale
Register and view the sale map: rosemountmn. gov/sale
For information on other public infrastructure projects this year, visit rosemountmn.gov/ construction
MOW LESS THIS MAY AND HELP NATURE THRIVE
The City is encouraging residents to take a more mindful approach to lawn care during the month of May by mowing less often and letting grass grow a little longer. These small changes can make a big difference—supporting pollinators, conserving water, and helping reduce air and noise pollution, all while allowing residents to enjoy the natural beauty of their yards.
We’ll also be sharing helpful lawn care tips each week throughout May—stay tuned on our social media channels or read our Newsflash articles on the website to learn more.
Want to join in? Visit rosemountmn.gov/ MLM for easy tips on how to participate and simple ways to make your yard more eco-friendly this season.
HOME IMPROVEMENT LOANS AVAILABLE IN DAKOTA COUNTY
No Interest – No Monthly Payment
Need repairs you can’t afford? The Dakota County Community Development Agency (CDA) offers interest free home improvement loans for low and moderate income homeowners. No monthly payments required; it is due to be repaid when you sell your home or no longer live in it. Loans range from $15,000–$35,000.
Common loan uses: windows, siding, roofs, furnaces, electrical/ plumbing, or repairs. A CDA
Apply on the Dakota County CDA website or call 651- 675-4462 to request a mailed application.
*Income limits are as of July 11, 2025, and are subject to change. Additional eligibility restrictions may apply.
advisor inspects and helps scope your project; you get bids and select a reasonably priced contractor. Payments are made directly to contractors upon approved completion.
• Candidate filing for City Council: May 19–June 2
To qualify, you must be a Dakota County homeowner with sufficient equity and a satisfactory credit history, as well as a household income under the following limits:
Stay Safe with the Recycling Zone
Instead of leaving unwanted household items like yard and garden chemicals, cleaners, auto products, and electronics around your house or garage, take them to the Recycling Zone (3365 Dodd Road) in Eagan instead.
The Recycling Zone makes sure the stuff that doesn’t belong in the trash or recycling is disposed of the right way to keep our environment safe. Dropping off is easy. You stay in your car while staff unloads materials from the trunk or backseat. Put smaller items in a box that you can leave behind. Accepted items – free drop-off unless otherwise noted:
• Auto products like motor oil, antifreeze and gas
• Batteries
• Bug killers/repellants
• Cardboard (no larger than 36” x 36”)
• Cleaners
• Electronics (fee for TVs and computer monitors)
• Lightbulbs – all types
• Needles and sharps (in a closed rigid container, keep in front seat)
• Paints and stains
ELECTIONS CALENDAR
• Primary Election: August 11, 2026
• General Election: November 3, 2026
Details on candidate filing, registering to vote, where to vote, and absentee ballots: check the city website, email cityclerk@rosemountmn.gov, or call 651- 322- 2003.
Be an Election Judge — Serve & Get Paid!
Election judges work as a team to run polling places: open/ close polls, greet voters, help register, check in voters, and more. Apply at rosemountmn.gov/302. 2026
• Personal care products like nail polish and hair dye
• Propane tanks and aerosol sprays
• Scrap metal
• Tires (fee)
• Small household electronics like toasters and vacuums
• String lights and cords
• Vaping devices
• Weed killer
• Most products that say caution, warning, danger or poison
If you have an unknown or unique household chemical, email recyclingzone@co.dakota.mn.us prior to dropping off to work with Recycling Zone staff about safe handling. Partially funded by Dakota County and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.
Safely dispose of household hazardous waste at the Recycling Zone in Eagan.
Council Members: Paul Essler, Heidi Freske, Tami Klimpel, Paul Theisen
City Administrator: Logan Martin
SPRING CLEANUP DAY
Clear out clutter the right way! Spring CleanUp Day offers disposal options for items not accepted in curbside trash—like mattresses, appliances, and scrap metal.
Plus: Free confidential paper shredding and cardboard recycling at Central Park, with on site assistance by the Michelle Hoagland Group, Keller Williams Preferred Realty.
When: May 16, 8 a.m.–Noon
Location: Dakota Area Transfer Station, 3358 165th St E
Shredding & cardboard: Central Park, 2893 145th Street W
For a full list of accepted items and fees visit the City’s website and search Citywide Cleanup Event.
Quick Links
Water Quality & Report: rosemountmn.gov/waterquality
Construction Updates: rosemountmn.gov/construction
