Prior Lake News Compass

Thursday, June 25, 2026

We have some massive changes and highly anticipated transformations rolling through town this week. A historic plot of local farmland is officially transitioning into a major new residential neighborhood, and our local waters just achieved a conservation milestone by being cleared from the state's impaired list. We’ve also got a stretch of hot weather ahead; remember to stay safe and hydrated this week, especially when spending time outdoors.

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Close to 88 acres that had been part of the Vierling farm will be developed by Pulte Homes in the near future.

Pulte Homes given nod to proceed with housing development on Vierling farm

The rolling hills of farmland located near the intersection of County Road 42 and Eagle Creek Avenue will soon look significantly different. The City of Prior Lake approved the preliminary and final plat for Marlow Ridge during its June 9 council meeting. Pulte Homes of Minnesota had submitted applications requesting amendments to the city's 2040 land use plans and zoning map on behalf of the Vierling Family Limited Partnership, which currently owns a significant portion of the undeveloped land in that area.

Discussion on development proposed for the site continued during Tuesday's council meeting, and the project was given the green light as a planned unit development and for its preliminary plat plans. Community Development Director Casey McCabe outlined proposed changes which would divide the property into three separate parcels, with development on one to start soon.

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News

Man charged with showing gun to kids selling lemonade at Lakefront Park

A 23-year-old Vadnais Heights man is facing three gross misdemeanor charges after he reportedly showed a gun to two children who were running a lemonade stand at Lakefront Park on June 16.

City

Annual boat parade being planned for July 4 holiday

The Prior Lake Association and Knotty Oar Marina will again sponsor the city's annual July 4 boat parade on Prior Lake.

Upper Prior Lake delisted from state's impaired waters list

Clean Water Funds from the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) supported conservation work that significantly contributed to four lakes, two river reaches and one creek’s proposed removal from the state’s impaired waters list.

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Sports

PLHS Fishing Team brings home 2nd, 3rd place finishes

The Prior Lake High School Fishing Team participated in the second of three Minnesota Junior Bass tournaments of the season and came away with second- and third-place finishes.

Prior Lake in the Past

This weekly column contains summary excerpts of news items published in the Prior Lake American decades ago. We hope our readers enjoy remembering those who are mentioned from years past, and this feature provides historical perspective about how much the community has changed over the decades.

Prior Lake Police Log

This weekly report is based on information submitted by the Prior Lake Police Department for responses. All calls for service may not be included; all subjects arrested and named are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

June 25 | Free Community Plate meal - Shepherd of the Lake
Community Plate, offering a free meal to all, will be held from 5 to 6 p.m. on the second and last Thursday of each month in 2026.
June 25-28 | Dan Patch Days - The City of Savage
The City of Savage's annual celebration of Dan Patch Days will include a variety of activities for all ages and will be held throughout the city.
June 30 | Beachy Balance Fun - Cleary Lake Regional Park
Participants of all ages can test their skills on the log roll or glide across slack lines set up near the beach.
July 9 | Veteran Cafe - Club Prior
Held from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. on the second Thursday of every month, this informal gathering offers coffee, treats and a welcoming space for veterans to connect and share stories.
July 10 | Annual beach party - Sand Point Beach Park
This event includes free activities such as face painting, wacky hair coloring, games and crafts. Expect plenty of live music, entertainment and contests.
July 14-28 | Intro to Pickleball for Adults - Spring Lake Park Pickleball Courts
The course will be held Tuesday evenings from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Join your friends and family who are playing one of the fastest-growing sports.
July 15 | Celebration BBQ - Lakefront Park Pavilion
Join Club Prior friends in honor of the USA turning 250 years old.
July 20 | Wolf discussion with Stan Tekiela - Prior Lake Library
Regional expert on all things outdoors, Stan Tekiela, will share some of the fascinating experiences he has had involving wolves, coyotes and foxes.
July 24 | Prior Lake Windjammers at Music in the Park - Lakefront Park
Grab your lawn chairs, pack a cooler (no glass, please!), and enjoy a free, relaxing evening of live music in the park.

Prior Lake News Compass is grateful for the financial
support received from these Founding Donors:

  • Albrecht Poss Foundation

  • Bob and Lisa Conzemius

  • Den and Sandy Gardner

  • Pat and Norma Klein

  • Lakefront Music Fest

  • McKnight Foundation

  • Prior Lake Lions Club

  • Prior Lake-Savage Optimist Club

  • Prior Lake Rotary Club

  • Prior Lake Rotary Foundation

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Prior Lake News Compass is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation that depends on donations from our readers. Please consider making a financial contribution to help us with our ongoing expenses.

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Prior Lake News Compass
PO Box 75, Prior Lake, MN 55372