Micromobility Safety in Our Community
MICROMOBILITY DEVICES LIKE E-BIKES AND E-SCOOTERS have become incredibly popular among kids and teens. These devices can be a great way to get around, but only when they’re used safely and responsibly. As usage increases, so do the concerns about dangerous riding behaviors that put riders, drivers, and pedestrians at risk.
The good news is officers see many young riders using these devices exactly as intended. Safe riders follow traffic laws, wear helmets, yield to pedestrians, and signal or call out when passing others on trails. These behaviors help keep sidewalks, streets, and parks enjoyable and safe for everyone.
Unsafe Behaviors Create Real Risks
At the same time, officers have observed a growing number of unsafe behaviors that raise serious safety concerns. Some common issues include riding recklessly or at excessive speeds, darting into traffic without looking, carrying passengers on devices not designed for multiple riders, weaving unpredictably through pedestrian areas, and failing to yield to pedestrians. These actions not only violate state law, but they create real dangers for both the riders and those around them.
Rules Before Riding
As a reminder, e-bikes and e-scooters are regulated under state law, and riders - regardless of age - must follow the same expectations as any other roadway user. These are not toys, and parents are encouraged to understand the responsibilities that come with owning these devices before purchasing them for their children.
To help improve safety, the Rosemount Police Department is increasing its focus on micromobility devices during patrols. Officers will focus on education and safe riding conversations whenever possible, but citations may be issued when unsafe or unlawful behavior is observed. The goal is not to take away the fun of these devices, but to prevent injuries and ensure safe use throughout the community.
Families can play a major role in promoting safe riding by talking with their children about expectations before handing over the keys. Simple steps like proper helmet use, keeping speeds reasonable, following traffic rules, and staying alert can make a huge difference.
For more information on micromobility rules, safe riding tips, and our enforcement approach, visit rosemountmn. gov/Ebikes .
rosemountmn.gov
Water Quality Meeting Recap
Missed the community meeting on local water quality? You can still catch up on the discussion. Experts from the Minnesota Department of Health, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, and Dakota County joined City staff to explain how these agencies work together to protect and regulate local drinking water sources. The meeting also included an update on the ongoing review of solutions for the elevated gross alpha radiation levels at Well No. 8.
• A summary of the solutions currently being evaluated
• A list of frequently asked questions
• Community meeting materials
• Updated test results
Infant Formula Water Program Now Accepting Applications
Applications for the City’s Infant Formula Water Program opened July 1 and are now being accepted. The program supports households with formula-fed infants, ages 12 months and younger, by providing water filtration pitchers to families who use city water to prepare formula. This is an optional resource for families who wish to further reduce exposure to naturally occurring manganese during their child’s infancy.
Eligible residents can apply by visiting the Public Works front desk located at 14041 Biscayne Ave. (8am-4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday) and presenting the required documentation for staff verification.
Andrew Sparber
Officer Andrew Sparber joined the Rosemount Police Department in January 2026, bringing more than 20 years of service in the United States Coast Guard, where he retired as a Chief Boatswain’s Mate. During his military career, he served at 14 duty stations across the U.S. and overseas and completed a 13-month deployment in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. He also spent his final three years as a Special Agent with the Coast Guard Investigative Service.
BELIEVE A DEPARTMENT OF THIS SIZE ALLOWS OFFICERS TO BUILD MEANINGFUL RELATIONSHIPS WITH RESIDENTS, ENGAGE DIRECTLY WITH THE COMMUNITY, AND HAVE POSITIVE IMPACTS.
In addition to his military service, Officer Sparber has been a volunteer firefighter since 2006 and became a Pro Board–Certified Firefighter in 2015. He holds an associate’s degree in criminal justice and a bachelor’s degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management. Officer Sparber was drawn to Rosemount for the opportunity to serve in a smaller community and build strong relationships with residents. He is passionate about helping others and looks forward to making a positive impact through community-focused policing.
Request Fire Department Engagement for Your Event
The Rosemount Fire Department offers fire safety education, demonstrations, and outreach materials for schools, community groups, workplaces, and other organizations. Requests may include presentations, hands-on demonstrations, and educational resources focused on fire prevention and safety.
Please note: All requests are subject to staff availability and emergency response priorities. Submitting a request does not guarantee attendance. A Fire Department representative will follow up to confirm details if the request can be accommodated.
Tuesday, August 4
5:30 – 8:30 p.m. All around town!
Saturday, October 10 1- 5 p.m.
Central Park
LAWN WATERING
Watering guidelines help reduce peak demand, maintain system pressure, and ensure the City’s water system meets community needs during high-usage periods. Watering during cooler hours also reduces evaporation and helps lawns use water more efficiently. Water before noon or after 6 p.m. — no watering is allowed between noon and 6 p.m. daily. New sod or landscaping may be watered outside these hours for up to 30 days after installation.
Odd/even watering days:
• Even-numbered addresses water on even-numbered dates
• Odd-numbered addresses water on odd-numbered dates
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. Be sure to keep easements free of obstructions.
YARD SIGNS
Before placing a temporary sign outside, make sure it’s in a permitted location. City ordinance prohibits signs within public rights-of-way, including boulevards, utility easements, and intersection sight triangles. These restrictions help maintain visibility and safety for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. Signs placed in prohibited areas may be removed.
City code helps protect public safety, preserve neighborhood quality, and ensure a high quality of life for everyone in Rosemount. Whether you’re looking for information about parking, property maintenance, pets, noise, or other local rules, city code information is always available online: rosemountmn.gov/CityCode.
Reimagining Play at Bloomfield Park
The Bloomfield Park playground has served the community for 23 years and is now being considered for a replacement as part of the Parks and Recreation Department’s ongoing evaluation of playground conditions and lifecycle needs. A neighborhood meeting was recently held to gather community input on the project. Community members who were not able to make it are encouraged to review project details and share their feedback online.
We want to hear from you! Share your comments at: rosemountmn. gov/ParkProjects.
Stormwater Pond Maintenance
From late summer into fall, the City performs maintenance around select stormwater ponds and natural areas. Mowers are set to eight inches to protect native plants while clearing overgrowth, brush, and invasive trees. This work is essential to meet Minnesota Pollution Control Agency requirements and maintain the function of our stormwater system. Why it matters:
• Improves drainage and flood control
• Ensures emergency and maintenance access
• Controls invasive species
• Protects water quality and soil
• Prevents unauthorized landscaping in easements
Residents may notice crews working around select stormwater ponds throughout late summer and fall. Mowed areas may appear uneven as native vegetation is preserved and regrowth occurs.
Learn more about Rosemount’s stormwater system and maintenance: rosemountmn.gov/Stormwater.
Rewards for Going Green
STORMWATER
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 Rosemount Stormwater Rebate program.
WATER EFFICIENCY
PREVENT FLOODING AND ALGAE GROWTH
Leaves and lawn clippings cause big problems when left on curbs, streets, and sidewalks, because the storm drain on your street is directly connected to your neighborhood pond. Leaf-clogged drains can cause street flooding, and phosphorus-rich yard waste causes algae to bloom in our ponds and lakes. In fact, just one bag’s worth of yard waste contains enough phosphorus to grow 100 pounds of algae! Be sure to clean leaves from curbs, streets, and sidewalks early and often.
Residents can also 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.
Funding is limited and restrictions apply! Apply early and find more ways to save at rosemountmn.gov/rebates.
Visit rosemountmn. gov/compost to learn more about composting and visit adopt-adrain.org to adopt a storm drain near your home!
ONE DAY ONLY
Health Care Directive Workshop
A Healthcare Directive is a legal document that outlines your medical care wishes if you are unable to communicate them yourself. This workshop includes an educational session led by experts in healthcare, social work, and end-of-life planning, followed by one-on-one assistance to help participants complete their directives. Notaries will be available on-site, and participants will leave with completed documents ready to share with their healthcare providers and loved ones. Presented by Minnesota Hospice.
EVENT DETAILS:
Wednesday, August 19, 1-4 p.m.
Register By: August 6
Cost: FREE Steeple Center, Assembly Hall
LEPRECHAUN DAYS FOOD COLLECTION
Support the Rosemount Family Resource Center and 360 Communities by bringing non-perishable food, personal care, or baby care items to any of these FREE summer events. Residents are encouraged to attend and take part in helping support local families in need while enjoying these community activities:
• Blarney Stone Hunt (Ages 12 & Under), Tuesday, July 21, 1 p.m., Jaycee Park
• Wet N’ Wild Day (Ages 6-12), Wednesday, July 22, 1-3 p.m., Jaycee Park
• Youth Fishing Derby (Ages 13 & Under), Thursday, July 23, Registration & Pre-Fishing: 9-9:45 a.m., Derby: 10-11 a.m., Schwarz Pond Fishing Pier
Find and register for other park and recreation programs and activities:
Stay UP-TO-DATE on New Development
The City’s interactive development map is a great way to stay informed about projects happening throughout the community, including new businesses, housing developments, public improvements, and industrial growth.
View the interactive development map to learn more about what’s being built and planned across Rosemount: rosemountmn.gov/Development
NEW!
Construction has begun on Copperfield, a new restaurant that will add to Rosemount’s growing dining scene.
The City is also seeking a buyer for the former Speedway site at 14515 Dodd Boulevard. Planning efforts are underway to encourage productive redevelopment of this key corridor and support Rosemount’s continued growth.
Now Recruiting: Student Election Judges
The City is seeking students to serve as election judge trainees for upcoming elections. This is a paid opportunity ($15/hour) to learn about the election process, gain hands-on experience, and support the community on Election Day.
Requirements:
• Age 16 or 17 by Election Day
• U.S. citizen and in good academic standing in a Minnesota high school (or home-schooled)
• Parent and school permission required
Celebrating 10 years of Repair at Fix-It Clinics
So many broken items could be saved by repair. From toasters to trousers, Dakota County’s monthly Fix-It Clinics make it possible to extend the lives of your favorite items for free. Skilled volunteers help troubleshoot, mend and hopefully repair your items while you learn valuable repair skills you can take home with you.
Bring up to three items that need fixing or mending. No oversized items are allowed. If you need any accommodations to support accessibility, please email access@co.dakota.mn.us at least 48 hours in advance.
Show up to the upcoming Fix-It Clinic on Wednesday, September 16 from 4-7 p.m. at the Rosemount Community Center. The event is free, and you do not need to register to participate. If you want to lend your craft of repair and save items from the landfill, join the team of skilled volunteers that have been repairing, fixing and mending stuff for 10 years! For more information or to volunteer, visit dakotacounty.us, search “fix-it clinic”.
Partially funded by Dakota County and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.
FIX-IT CLINIC
Wednesday, September 16
4 – 7p.m.
Rosemount Community Center
Give Your Furniture and Building Materials a Second Life
Have usable furniture or leftover building materials you no longer need? Before putting them in the trash, consider donating them. Many local businesses and nonprofits accept gently used items, and some even offer free curbside pickup. Donating keeps valuable materials out of the landfill, supports community organizations, and makes reuse easy. And if you’re looking for project supplies or household items yourself, consider buying reused. Many reuse retailers offer high-quality furniture, fixtures, and building materials at a fraction of the cost of buying new— saving you money while reducing waste.
Find reuse options near you:
For donation options, explore the Dakota County Recycling Guide:
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
GET READY TO
VOTE!
The next elections are approaching, and now is the time to prepare. To save time at the polls, voters are encouraged to register in advance by July 21. Sameday registration will also be available at polling places on Election Day. Voters need to register if they have moved, changed their name or address, or have not voted in the past four years, as these situations require updating or renewing their voter registration. Voters must be at least 18 years old on Election Day to vote, though 16 and 17 year olds may pre-register so they’re ready when they turn 18.
NEW! Dakota County has new voting equipment in all precincts and voting locations this election season.
Watch video of what to expect when you vote:
