Rosemount City Council Approves Back-to-School Measures

It is evident school is about to start: the City Council approved two measures Tuesday that demonstrate a cooperative spirit between the city and area schools.

The first measure was to approve a school liaison services agreement for Rosemount police officers to provide a presence in elementary schools, both public and private.

Council member Kim Shoe-Corrigan pointed to this agreement as a "great example of using resources wisely and in a way that benefits the public."

Liaison officers in the elementary schools allow students an opportunity to interact with the officers and develop positive relationships. The officers also will assist with some educational endeavors. 

In another school-related motion, the council voted to continue the parking lot arrangement the city has had with Rosemount High School since 2009, which provides overflow parking at the Rosemount Community Center and Schwarz Pond Park.

In recent years more students are driving to school, which has caused a parking shortage at the school. 

Shoe-Corrigan pointed to this as an example of "two agencies working together to solve a problem and keep students from parking on the side streets in the neighborhoods."

In other business the council:

• Approved new language in the city ordinance as it relates to variances. This is in response to a state law that went into effect in May. Property owners who are considering requesting a variance are encouraged to become familiar with the ordinance revisions first. 

• Approved a temporary liquor license and outdoor music for the Rosemount Area Athletic Association (RAAA) Fall Fest to be held on Saturday, September 10 at the Fireside Restaurant from 5 p.m. - 11 pm. When approving the event the council expressed a desire to support the nonprofit's fund-raising efforts in a difficult economy.

• Directed city staff to prepare a street improvement feasibility report for 2012-14. The purpose of the long-range planning is to provide Rosemount residents with advance notice of projects anticipated for their neighborhood.