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Prior Lake News Compass
Thursday, May 21, 2026
Local foodies, get ready to celebrate: there is a highly anticipated addition to the Prior Lake dining scene this week! After years of meticulous planning, Chula’s is officially celebrating its grand opening on Friday, bringing a unique, chef-driven Mexican-Latin menu to Colorado Street. On the school and city front, leaders have been deep in planning for the future. The school board is refining its options for the upcoming fall referendum, and the city council shared a comprehensive look at the major transformations shaping our community through 2026. Additionally, a proposed change may affect a local bus route, and our stellar youth is recognized for their community contributions. As you look through this week's updates, we wish you a meaningful Memorial Day weekend ahead with family and friends.
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There was reason to smile, with Chula's opening on May 22. From left to right are Suzie Dahl, Manny Perez, Mercedes Dahl with daughter Charlie, and Lexi Perez holding her niece, Sawyer.
Chula's opens on May 22 after years of planning and building on family traditions
Manny Perez says there continue to be two mainstays in his life: family and food. Both have kept him extremely busy and focused. Not only has he become a grandpa twice over in as many years, on Friday, May 22, the official grand opening of Chula's will be celebrated in Prior Lake.
The Mexican-Latin restaurant located on Colorado Street will feature a chef-driven and flavorful menu that pays tribute to his heritage, according to Perez. He believes the menu for both food and drink selections will be unique and found nowhere else in the Twin Cities area.
His goal, shared by co-founders Suzie Dahl and daughter Mercedes Dahl, is to bring families and friends together while enjoying a fun atmosphere and creating new memories.
News
 | Four earn Scott County Law Enforcement Memorial ScholarshipsFour young men from Scott County were honored by the Scott County Law Enforcement Scholarship Committee on May 12, and each was awarded a $2,000 scholarship from the organization. |
City
 | Chamber updated on past, future changes anticipated in Prior LakeMany changes have occurred within the city of Prior Lake in the past year, with more to come in 2026, based on the information shared by Mayor Kirt Briggs and City Manager Jason Wedel on May 14. |
 | MVTA considering local bus route changes beginning in fallMinnesota Valley Transit Authority (MVTA) is proposing the combination of Routes 490 and 493 to take effect Aug. 10. Public feedback is being gathered through June 18. |
Schools
 | PLSAS board continues discussion on fall referendum optionsThe Prior Lake-Savage Area School Board continued to discuss fall referendum options during its study session held May 18. Matthew Hammer, a municipal advisor with Ehlers Public Finance Advisors, provided additional information related to the options being considered. |
 | Donations being accepted for PLHS Senior Celebration on June 2Members of Prior Lake High School's Class of 2026 will be celebrating at Valleyfair on Tuesday, June 2. The entertainment park will be closed to the public that evening from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. |
 | Contributions by local youth recognized by PL-Savage Optimist ClubThe Prior Lake-Savage Optimist Club hosted its annual Youth Appreciation Luncheon on May 13, honoring 36 outstanding students from 13 schools. |
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.
Obituaries
Sports
 | Lakers advance past New Prague, fall in section semi-finals to MinnetonkaThe postseason road at Gustavus Adolphus College brought a mix of historic celebration, absolute dominance and high-stakes drama for the Prior Lake boys tennis team. |
Events
May 21 | PLAY travel baseball golf tournament - The Wilds Golf Club
The event will begin with a noon shotgun start, followed by dinner and a silent auction. Community members who don't golf are still invited to enjoy the fun. Bingo will kick off at 4 p.m. with access to the silent auction and evening festivities.
May 23 | Basic archery classes - Cleary Lake Park
Archery for women is scheduled from 10 a.m. to noon and provides an opportunity for women to learn about the basics of archery and elements of safety. A family archery course is also being taught.
May 29 | Home Front Heroes Gala - Brackett's Crossing Country Club
Hosted from 5:30 to 10 p.m. by founders Erik and Gina Therwanger, the purpose of the event is to award scholarships to honor the sacrifices of military spouses.
May 30 | Bike Safety Rodeo - Hidden Oaks Middle School
The free event will allow children to show off bike safety skills, have their helmet fit-tested and enjoy a bike obstacle course, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
June 10 | Annual Youth Fishing Derby - Cedar Lake
The event will provide children ages 10-15 with everything needed for a day of fishing on the lake, including bait, gear, food and beverages. Prizes will be awarded, and all participants will receive a gift.
June 10 | Chamber's annual golf tournament - The Wilds Golf Club
The event will include a day of golf, networking, on-course games and a happy hour reception with an awards presentation. Registration will begin that day at 7:30 a.m., followed by a shot gun start at 8 a.m.
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