The Prior Lake City Council recognized outgoing Planning Commissioner Dan Ringstad for two decades of dedicated public service and welcomed several new members to the city’s Planning Commission during its December meeting.

Ringstad was honored for his 20 years of service on the Planning Commission, serving from 2001-2009 and then returning from 2016-2025. According to city officials, he played a key role in guiding land use decisions, development proposals and long-range planning efforts that helped shape Prior Lake’s growth. He was thanked for his mentorship, thoughtful leadership, commitment and steady presence during the presentation.

In addition to recognizing Ringstad, the city council welcomed two new planning commissioners, Sam Rook and Bryan Fleming, who have now begun serving their terms. They will join Christian Fenstermacher, Michael Tennison and Kate Yurko, current members who were previously appointed to the commission. Two alternate commissioners — Shelley Schmokel and Daniel Nicholson — were also appointed and will step in as needed to ensure continuity and quorum for commission meetings.

City officials expressed appreciation to all appointees for their willingness to serve, noting that the Planning Commission plays a vital role in advising the city council on development and planning matters.