City of Rochester to Reschedule Assessment Hearing for East Center Street Reconstruction Project
City of Rochester to Reschedule Assessment Hearing for East Center Street Reconstruction Project
November 6, 2025 – ROCHESTER, MINNESOTA — The City of Rochester will reschedule the assessment hearing for the East Center Street Reconstruction Project (Project No. J7348) to ensure all affected property owners have the opportunity to participate.
During follow-up conversations with residents this week, several individuals reported receiving their hearing notice was delivered on November 3, which was the same day as the City Council Assessment Hearing. Upon reviewing project records, the City found no confirmation that the initial mailing planned for September was sent. This raises concerns about whether the City met the statutory requirements for notifying property owners of the assessment hearing, and whether residents were adequately informed about the project and their opportunities to engage with the project team.
To ensure transparency and give residents a fair opportunity to engage in the process, a new assessment hearing will be scheduled in January 2026. The City Council will consider a Request for Council Action (RCA) on November 17 to formally set the new hearing date. The rescheduled hearing will not impact the overall project timeline or construction schedule.
“This step ensures that every affected property owner will receive proper notice and have the opportunity to provide feedback before assessments are finalized,” said Ann Kasel, City Clerk. “We acknowledge the error in the notification process and sincerely apologize for any confusion it may have caused. Clear and timely communication with residents is essential, especially when it comes to public improvement projects.”
To strengthen internal procedures moving forward, the City Clerk’s Office will notarize a record of all future assessment hearing mailings, including a verified distribution list.
The East Center Street Reconstruction Project will replace aging pavement and utilities, enhance pedestrian accessibility and add a mini roundabout at 11th Avenue East, improving safety and mobility along this key corridor. More information is available on the project webpage: https://arcg.is/10mb4T2.