Hometown Safety: Let’s talk water

In the spirit of transparency, I posted the following on my Facebook page on August 25, 2026. Please visit my Facebook page to take part in this conversation on our options to remediate Gross Alpha levels in our water.

Let's talk water. So first, some good news: Well 8's latest gross alpha reading was down significantly, bringing that well's rolling average reading back into MDH acceptable levels.

But that's not the end of the road, so last week the Council met with our fellow residents from the Utility Commission to evaluate options for a longer-term solution at Well 8. The emerging final options are vastly different in scale, scope, cost and time.

Option 1: In about 1 construction season, for about $2 million, we can implement a blending solution between Wells 8 & 9. I see this option as a "fast fix," but if the gross alpha readings spike in either well in the future, it might be rendered ineffective.

Option 2: In about 3-4 construction seasons, and about $36-40 million, we can build a water treatment plant to handle water from Wells 7, 8, 9 & 12. While this is a heavy expense to bear, it is also something the City and Utility Commission has been anticipating as a possibility for a long time and preparing to fund.

Where I lean: Right now, I'm actually inclined to say we need both options. The vast majority of Option 1 expense is tied up in some of the same trunk line work that would be needed for Option 2, making it a first step toward a water treatment plant. It would give faster relief to all of us worried about our current gross alpha levels, while Option 2 positions us for the long-term.

What's next: More detail about the options should be available - or soon will be - on the city website at https://www.rosemountmn.gov/255/Water-Quality. We're expecting to make final decisions in September.

What I want to know: Water is critical to all of us, and there's a huge difference between these two projects. I want to hear from you. Share your thoughts in the comments.

Above: Screenshots taken from the meeting presentation to City Council & Utility Commission on August 18, 2026.