Editor’s note: The weekly “Prior Lake in the Past” column contains summary excerpts of news items published in the Prior Lake American during decades from the past. We hope our readers enjoy remembering those people and events mentioned in the articles, and this feature provides historical perspective about how much the community has changed over the decades.
Prior Lake American
Published 60 years ago
July 26, 1966
County has growth spurt: Scott County’s population had increased by more than 5,900 residents since 1960, with its current population estimated at 27,813, according to the Metropolitan Planning Commission. The largest increase was seen in Shakopee with a population gain of 1,232. Savage showed the second largest growth with a gain of 533. Prior Lake’s population was estimated at 1,314.
In a race for first: With only two games remaining in the season, Green Heights and Snell’s Bar tied for first place in the Prior Lake softball league. The first-place teams were three games ahead of the closest competitor, Busse Howe Fertilizer.
Published 38 years ago
July 25, 1988
Boat access proposed: The Prior Lake City Council continued discussion on the public boat access being proposed adjacent to Sand Point Beach. Council member Doug Larson said more review was needed to ensure swimmers were protected. The city and Department of Natural Resources had reviewed safety concerns five years earlier. A 90-day review period was authorized by the council since funding for the boat access still needed approval, and construction was not expected to start until the next year.
Loftus farm sold to developer: The former Loftus farm located near the intersection of county roads 27 and 42 was sold to Wexford Development. Development plans included 140 single-family homes to be built on the 75-acre parcel.
Four running for open commissioner’s seat: Four men filed for the Scott County Commissioner’s seat being vacated by Jack Casey from Credit River Township. Candidates included John Kane, Bill Feldt, Gerald Allen and Edwin Mackie.
Published 20 years ago
July 22, 2006
Event center planned by the SMSC: The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community announced its intent to build an event center on the north side of Mystic Lake Casino Hotel. Plans included two halls — one for shows and the other for bingo. The projected opening date was August 2007.
Sports task force approved: The Prior Lake-Savage Area School Board approved the formation of a task force to make recommendations on how area recreational and athletic offerings could be improved. Dan Martini and Jeff Peer, representing the Parks, Athletics and Recreation Joint Task Force, were to make recommendations on scheduling of facilities within the community, upgrading of existing fields and meeting with the Prior Lake-Savage Area Hockey Association to discuss plans for an indoor ice arena.
