Prior Lake voters went to the polls on Tuesday and rejected the city’s $60 million referendum plan to improve local parks and trails.
A total of 6,798 votes were cast, according to unofficial results from the Minnesota secretary of state’s office. Of that figure, approximately 58% of voters, or 3,934 were “no” votes. “Yes” votes came in at 2,864, or 42%.
The plan had been worked on by city staff since 2018 and focused on Prior Lake’s aging parks, major improvements at Spring Lake and Lakefront parks, and expansion of the trails system.
A total of $10 to $12 million would have been spent on improving smaller neighborhood parks, with approximately the same amount set aside for trail system upgrades.
Lakefront Park’s plan would have allowed for more pickleball and tennis courts, a new adventure playground and splash pad, a disc golf course and other upgraded amenities. The plan for Spring Lake Park included adding pickleball courts, improved parking options and new park structures such as restrooms, a warming house and park shelters. Improvements were estimated to cost $20 million for each of the major parks.
Mayor Kirt Briggs expressed appreciation for the community’s active participation throughout the process.
“The people have spoken,” Briggs said. “The City Council wanted our residents to be a part of this from the start and to have the final say in moving us forward. Thank you to everybody who participated and made their voice heard.”
Staff will continue to evaluate next steps for the future of its parks and trails and will keep residents informed as plans develop, according to a press release issued by the city on Wednesday.
