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Affordable single-family 3-, 4-, and 5-bedroom homes coming soon in Shakopee.
The Scott County Community Development Agency (CDA) is proud to announce the completion of the first three new single-family homes in Shakopee as part of the Community Land Trust (CLT) Program—marking a major milestone in its effort to expand affordable homeownership opportunities for local families. These newly completed homes represent Phase 1 of a ten-home development, with four of seven additional homes now moving into construction and three more to begin construction later in 2027.
Each home is part of the CDA’s long-term strategy to help make homeownership more attainable for first-time buyers who are often priced out of the traditional market. Through the CLT model, buyers purchase the home at an affordable price while the land remains in the trust. Homeowners lease the land for just $25 per month and enjoy all the benefits of traditional homeownership, including the ability to build equity.
The CLT shared-equity approach preserves affordability for future generations. When owners sell, a portion of the appreciation stays with the home, keeping the property affordable for the next buyer and ensuring that public investment continues to support community stability over time.
With four more homes now underway and three more coming, first-time homebuyers are encouraged to reach out early. Beginning the education, counseling, and eligibility review process now helps potential buyers become fully prepared when the next phase of homes is completed and available for purchase in the first half of 2027. The CDA offers free and low-cost homebuyer education workshops and one-on-one financial counseling through its HUD-certified program—resources designed to build credit, strengthen savings, and support long-term success as a homeowner.
The updated income limit for this project in the Community Land Trust Program is $105,200. This makes the upcoming homes accessible to a broad range of working families, including teachers, healthcare workers, and service professionals who often struggle to find attainable housing options in the area. Buyers must meet all other program requirements.
Interested homebuyers can learn more about eligibility requirements, upcoming homebuyer education opportunities, and details about the CLT Program at www.scottcda.org.
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The New Prague Chamber of Commerce welcomed the community to Memorial Park on August 6 for Czech Out New Prague, our annual business and community expo. This year’s event featured more than 50 local businesses and organizations showcasing the many products, services, and resources available right here in the New Prague area.
The evening also featured food, family-friendly activities, and live music from Sean Benz & the Misfits, presented in partnership with the New Prague Area Arts Council. Czech Out New Prague continues to be a great opportunity for residents to connect with local businesses and organizations while enjoying a fun evening in the community.
Thank you to our exhibitors, partners, volunteers, and everyone who came out to make the 2026 event a success!
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At the SMSC, team members are a part of a shared commitment to building a great future. As the largest employer in Scott County, the SMSC offers many career opportunities through a variety of fields, where you can learn, contribute, and grow your future—all while earning comprehensive benefits. Find positions in retail, childcare, recreation, and more.
If you’re ready to build your future, visit shakopeedakota.org/careers today.
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Get your yard ready for the season with Dakota Prairie Composting's free fall yard waste drop-off program that runs October 1-31 and is available to all Scott County residents.
Proudly brought to you by the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community, this convenient service makes it easy to clear out leaves and seasonal debris sustainably.
Visit their website for more information: https://dakotaprairiecomposting.com
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Looking to step into a high-demand career with zero tuition cost? The Career LIFT program provides Scott County residents (ages 18+) with free training and industry credentials.
Upcoming and Ongoing Opportunities:
- IT Essentials (A+): Build a solid foundation in IT fundamentals (60 hours).
- Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) & Boilers License Training: Scheduled for November through December.
- Healthcare & Other Options: Programs include Pharmacy Technician, Phlebotomy, Medical Terminology, and upcoming courses like Welding and EMT/EMR.
Scan the QR code above or visit shakopee.org/careerlift and scroll to the bottom to complete the Interest Form.
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How Southern Valley Alliance Is Changing Lives in Our Community
In the early 1980s, individuals experiencing domestic violence in Scott and Carver counties had nowhere to turn. There were no local domestic violence services, no crisis line, and few resources for survivors seeking safety. That changed in 1982 when a courageous survivor of spousal abuse joined compassionate community volunteers to create what would become Southern Valley Alliance (SVA).
For more than four decades, SVA has stood alongside survivors of domestic violence, providing advocacy, support, safety planning, and education to help individuals and families build lives free from abuse. Our mission is not simply to help survivors endure abuse, but to empower them to move forward, heal, and thrive.
Today, Southern Valley Alliance serves as the only comprehensive domestic violence agency serving Scott and Carver counties. From our Domestic Abuse Advocacy Center in downtown Shakopee, SVA provides a 24/7 crisis line, legal advocacy, support groups, housing assistance, emergency financial support, children's services, prevention education, and other critical resources for survivors and their families.
The need for these services continues to grow. Last year, SVA served 1,239 individuals and answered more than 2,200 crisis line calls from people seeking support, safety, information, and hope.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. While awareness has grown over the years, domestic violence continues to affect individuals, families, and communities across Minnesota. Every survivor deserves to know they are not alone and that help is available. That is why organizations like Southern Valley Alliance are needed now more than ever. Together, we can make a difference. Whether through volunteering, donating, attending an event, or simply sharing information about available resources, every member of our community has a role to play.
Together, we can create a community—and a future—free from violence.
Learn more about Southern Valley Alliance and how you can make a difference at svamn.org.
Interested in volunteer opportunities? Contact SVA at officemanager@svamn.org.
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Minnesota Valley Transit Authority provides nearly 155,000 rides during 12-day event
Minnesota Valley Transit Authority (MVTA) set an all-time State Fair ridership record in 2026, providing 154,915 rides during the 12-day event—an increase of 4.2 percent over 2025.
The record comes as thousands of fairgoers chose transit to avoid traffic, parking challenges and road construction throughout the region.
“People continue to recognize the State Fair as an event where transit can make the trip easier from beginning to end,” said MVTA CEO Luther Wynder. “This year’s record ridership demonstrates how important reliable public transportation is when our region is managing large crowds and significant transportation demands.”
Daily Records and Station Shift
MVTA set daily State Fair ridership records on the first three days of the fair and again on the seventh day.
Friday, Aug. 28, was the busiest day in MVTA’s State Fair history, with 18,880 rides provided.
The agency also expanded its State Fair service in 2026 by adding Blackhawk Park and Ride to its existing service at Burnsville Transit Station, Eagan Transit Station, and Southbridge Crossings Park and Ride in Shakopee.
“Adding another State Fair boarding location gave riders more options and helped us respond to demand across the service area,” said MVTA Chief Development Officer Matt Fyten. “The strong ridership we saw throughout the fair reflects the convenience of being able to leave the driving and parking to us.”
Transit Continues to Connect the Community
MVTA’s record State Fair ridership occurred despite a slight decline in overall State Fair attendance compared with the previous year, underscoring the continued role of transit in connecting people to major community events.
“Every ride represents someone who was able to get to the fair without having to worry about parking or navigating congested roads,” Wynder said. “We’re proud that MVTA can be part of the State Fair experience and provide a dependable transportation option for residents and visitors from across the region.”
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Next Stop: Minnesota Renaissance Festival
With State Fair service complete, MVTA has shifted additional buses to serve the Minnesota Renaissance Festival. Weekend service will operate through Oct. 4 from:
● Eagle Creek Park & Ride — 6600 Eagle Creek Boulevard, Shakopee
● Southbridge Crossings Park & Ride — 1401 Crossings Boulevard, Shakopee
● Burnsville Transit Station — 100 East Highway 13, Burnsville
For more information about MVTA service, contact MVTA Customer Service at 952-882-7500 or visit mvta.com.
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The Scott County Community Development Agency’s (CDA) Center for Entrepreneurship (CFE) continues to see the impact of investing in local entrepreneurs. Two CFE business members are receiving well-deserved recognition for their growth, innovation, and entrepreneurial success, demonstrating that businesses supported through the CFE can go on to compete and succeed well beyond Scott County.
My Little Venture LLC, the CFE’s 2025 FAST-TRACK Business Challenge winner, recently advanced to the semi-final round of the prestigious MN Cup, participating in the Aug. 4 Showcase alongside some of Minnesota’s most promising emerging businesses. My Little Venture was selected as the 2025 FAST-TRACK winner for its innovative business concept and entrepreneurial potential. The company is focused on developing meaningful products and experiences that inspire creativity, learning, and engagement for young children and families. Its advancement to the MN Cup semi-finals represents a significant accomplishment and reflects the dedication, preparation, and continued refinement that goes into building a successful business.
While My Little Venture was not selected as a finalist in this year’s highly competitive MN Cup field, reaching the semi-final round is an achievement worth celebrating. The CFE congratulates the My Little Venture team and looks forward to following their continued growth and success.
The CFE is also proud to celebrate Mike and Lori McGuire of Accelerated Care Solutions (ACS), the 2023 FAST-TRACK Business Challenge winners, who were recently recognized by the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal among the Top 50 fastest-growing private companies in Minnesota. Since winning the FAST-TRACK Business Challenge, ACS has continued to build momentum, expand its market presence, and make a meaningful impact serving senior communities throughout Minnesota and the Midwest. Their recognition is a tremendous accomplishment and an example of what can happen when entrepreneurial vision is matched with hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to growth.
Building businesses beyond the start-up stage
These accomplishments highlight an important part of the CFE’s mission: Supporting entrepreneurs not only when they are starting a business, but as they continue to grow, adapt, and compete. Through mentoring, business education, professional service grants, networking opportunities, and strategic guidance, the CFE works to provide entrepreneurs with resources and connections that help move their businesses forward.
Seeing FAST-TRACK Business Challenge winners advance to statewide competitions and receive statewide recognition is a powerful reflection of that mission. My Little Venture’s journey to the MN Cup semi-finals and ACS’s recognition as one of Minnesota’s fastest-growing private companies demonstrate the talent and potential within Scott County’s entrepreneurial community.
The CFE is proud to celebrate the accomplishments of its members and looks forward to seeing where their continued entrepreneurial journeys take them!
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At CAP Agency, our mission is to assist and empower people to achieve social and economic well-being in partnership with our community. The work we do in Scott, Carver, and Dakota counties is made possible by our volunteers who dedicate their time to supporting our community. We appreciate our volunteers so much! Looking to get involved? There are many opportunities at CAP Agency.
Volunteer Opportunities at CAP Agency
Food Shelf Volunteer: Help pack food boxes for our clients and/or stock shelves at our food shelf in Shakopee.
Senior Meal Delivery Driver: Connect to one of our 14 locations in Scott, Carver, and Dakota counties. Pickup and delivery volunteers bring meals to senior clients Monday-Friday mornings.
Local Imports Thrift Store: Open Monday-Friday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm and Saturday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm, CAP Agency’s Local Imports thrift store has a great opportunity to volunteer. Volunteers are needed to sort and organize donations, stock shelves, hang clothes, and help with general store upkeep. All proceeds go directly back into CAP Agency's programs to help support our community.
For more information and to learn more about our volunteer opportunities, contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Grace Grosskurth, at GGrosskurth@capagency.org or (952) 402-9848.
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ELKO NEW MARKET
Community Halloween Party
October 24
9:30 AM - 11:30 AM, Eagle View Elementary
Bring your little ghouls and goblins for a festive morning tailored for children from infancy through 5th grade, featuring fun games, treats, and exciting raffles for just $5 per child (payable at the door). Please note that the last entry is at 10:45 AM to ensure everyone has plenty of time to enjoy the activities before the event concludes. For more information, visit elkonewmarketmn.gov.
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Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
December 10
6 PM, Elko New Market City Hall
The 2026 Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will be held on Thursday, December 10. Please contact City Offices at (952) 461-2777 for more information or questions.
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BELLE PLAINE
Oktoberfest
October 10
Noon - 9 PM, Downtown Belle Plaine
12:00 PM Brat Trot
The First Annual Belle Plaine Oktoberfest Brat Trot is here! Whether you’re ready to crush a 5K Fun Run/Walk or looking to dominate the ZeroK (all of the glory, none of the sweat), the party is happening!
Costumes are highly encouraged, so bring your best Bavarian gear or craziest outfit. Live music, food, and good ol’Oktoberfest fun to follow.
SCHEDULE:
12 PM The 5K kicks off!
(online registration required)
12:15 PM The ZeroK “race” begins!
(online registration required)
12 PM - 2 PM Bob Pexxa Polka Band
12 PM - 4 PM Face Painting
2 PM - 4 PM Live Wrestling
4 PM Stein Holding Contest
(Registration 12 PM - 3 PM)
4:45 PM Kraut Eating Contest
(Registration 12 PM - 3 PM)
6 PM Pumpkin Carving
4 PM - 8 PM “Triple Rock” Band
8 PM Laser Light Show
For more information, visit: www.BellePlaineFestivals.org
Witches on Main
October 22
4:30 PM - 8:30 PM, Downtown Belle Plaine
A Spooktacular Evening in Belle Plaine Featuring:
- Vendors & Unique Shopping
- Food & Beverage Specials
- Giveaways & Prizes
- Spooky Fun for All Ages
For more information, visit bp-chamber.com
Downtown Trick or Treat
October 30
3 PM - 5 PM, Downtown Belle Plaine
Visit participating downtown businesses for treats, smiles, and Halloween fun.
Costumes Encouraged!
For more information, visit bp-chamber.com
Downtown Carriage Rides
November 5
4:30 PM - 6:30 PM, Gateway Parking Lot (110 Main Street East)
Enjoy a FREE carriage ride through charming downtown Belle Plaine! Rides will depart and return from the Gateway Parking Lot (Main & Chestnut).
No Registration required- just show up and enjoy the ride! Perfect for families, date night, or just soaking in the seasonal spirit. Hot chocolate provided to keep you cozy.
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JORDAN
Big Rig Boo
October 10
Scotty County Fairgrounds
12 PM - 3 PM Truck or Treating
Hop from truck to truck (semis, tractors, and more!) and load up on treats with the whole family. Costumes encouraged!
4 PM Truck & Tractor Pull
Stick around for some serious horsepower as the trucks, tractors, and semis go head-to-head in the pull of the day!
Don't let the fun end with the fair — bring the whole crew and let's make some more memories together!
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PRIOR LAKE
Prior Lake Fire Open House
October 8
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM, Fire Station 1, off Fish Point Rd.
The Prior Lake Fire Department will host an Open House and roll out the fire trucks on Thursday, Oct. 8. The community is invited to get an up-close look at equipment and meet the firefighters.
Candy Crawl
October 30
10 AM - 1 PM, Downtown Prior Lake
Candy Crawl is a daytime trick-or-treat event for Prior Lake’s youngest residents. The candy crawl begins at City Hall, where children will receive a treat from city staff. After City Hall, the fun continues to participating downtown businesses.
Prior Lake Holiday Market
November 21
9 AM - 4 PM, Club Prior
New in 2026! The Prior Lake Holiday Market is where the community comes together to celebrate the season and the talented makers who call this area home. With many vendors under one roof, this market is your destination for one-of-a-kind gifts, handcrafted goods, and the kind of holiday shopping that feels good.
Browse the work of local artisans who have spent the year perfecting their crafts, from ceramics and jewelry to textiles, art, and everything in between. Whether you're searching for the perfect gift or simply want to soak in the holiday spirit, there's something here for everyone on your list.
DecemBRRR Dazzle
December 4
5:30 PM - 8 PM, Lakefront Park
Join us as we kick off the night with the annual tree lighting ceremony followed by a festive firework show. Continue the night of cheer by getting your photo with Santa at the pavilion, be wowed by professional ice carving demonstrations, warm up next to a giant bonfire, and more! To keep you cozy, snacks and refreshments will be available for purchase.
Noon Year's Eve Party
December 31
11 AM - 1 PM, Club Prior
Join for a free, fun, daytime New Year’s bash filled with bingo, crafts, and a dance party that will make you boogie. And of course, no New Year’s celebration is complete without a spectacular balloon drop! You don’t want to miss this party of the year! This event is geared towards children and their families. Attendance will be capped at 250 guests.
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NEW PRAGUE
Pumpkin Pals
October 22
6 PM - 7:30 PM, Fitness & Aquatic Center, 410 Central Ave N
Join us for a safe, non-scary evening of games, storytelling, songs, and silly fun! Children ages 1-5 are encouraged to come in costume. $10 per child (adults and non-walkers are free).
Pre-registration required through New Prague Area Early Learning: (952) 758-1674
Fall Sampler
October 31
9 AM - 4 PM, Fitness & Aquatic Center, 410 Central Ave N
Free use of the facility from 9 AM - Noon, including sampler classes, refreshments, and tours. 50% off admission to the facility from Noon - 4 PM, including open swim.
Membership sale: No enrollment fee + 50% off November dues
30th Annual Holiday Parade of Lights & Celebration in the Park
December 4
6:30 PM, Downtown New Prague & Memorial Park
Festivities begin with a Live Nativity from 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM.
The parade begins at 6:30 PM and travels east along Main Street to Memorial Park. Following the parade, continue the celebration in the park with a community tree lighting, hot cocoa, fire rings, a Christmas tree decorating contest, Santa visits, and a holiday fireworks show.
It’s a festive small-town holiday tradition that feels like our very own Hallmark movie!
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SHAKOPEE
S'more Family Fun
October 16
6 PM - 8:30 PM, Quarry Lake Park
The whole family is invited to roast marshmallows, play yard games, and spend some quality time together.
This is a free event, but registration is required: ShakopeeMN.gov/registration
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Annual Spooky Family Fun
October 24
4 PM - 7 PM, Huber Park
Games, booths, prizes, animals, food trucks, and CANDY! No registration is required for this free event.
Jack-O'-Lantern 5K and Kids Pumpkin Run
October 31
9 AM - 10:30 AM, Shakopee Community Center, 1255 Fuller St S
The Jack–O–Lantern 5K and Kids' Pumpkin Run (1/2 mile) is back! Halloween costumes are encouraged but not required. Prizes will be awarded for the overall best costume as well as the top 3 male and female finishers. The race begins and ends at the Shakopee Community Center. The 5K begins at 9 AM, and the Kids' Pumpkin Run begins at the completion of the 5K (approximately 10 AM). Registration is required. Register at www.Shakopeemn.gov/registration
Turkey Bowling
November 20
7 PM - 8:30 PM, Shakopee Community Center, 1255 Fuller St S
All ages are invited to the brand-new Turkey Bowling at the ice arena! Everyone will get a chance to bowl a few frames with a frozen "turkey." All participants will get a chance to win a fun prize. The cost includes hot chocolate and a sweet treat to take home: $6 for residents and $9 for non-residents.
Skate with the Grinch
December 11
7 PM - 8:30 PM, Shakopee Community Center, 1255 Fuller St S
Bring the whole family and ice skate with the Grinch and his pal, Max. This all-ages event is the perfect way to spend your evening. The fee includes an ice skate rental and is $6 for residents and $9 for non-residents.
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SAVAGE
Halloween Bash
October 17
5 PM - 8 PM, Savage Sports Center
Get ready for Savage's ultimate Halloween celebration! This annual community event features:
- Horse-drawn wagon rides
- Dancing
- Inflatables
- DJ
- Games
- Food trucks
- Sponsor tables
- Costumes and more!
Click HERE to register.
Tree Lighting Ceremony
December 3
5:30 PM - 6 PM, Savage City Hall
Join Mayor Kelly and other city officials for a community holiday tradition. Come to the City Campus before heading to the Santa Cop Night and help count down the lighting of the holiday tree. Celebrate with activities for everyone to enjoy, including hot cocoa, a bonfire, and live holiday music.
This is a FREE community event. No registration needed!
After the tree lighting, head to the Savage Police Department garage to drop off unwrapped gifts for the annual Toys for Tots campaign. Police Chief Brady Juell and Santa will be there to greet you, and volunteers will help unload gifts from your car..
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Secret Holiday Shop
December 5
9 AM - 11 AM, Savage Sports Center
The Savage Parks and Recreation Annual Secret Holiday Shop is just around the corner, where kids of all ages can shop for their family and friends without parents to see. A variety of gifts will be available for choosing, ranging from $1 to $15. Parents purchase tickets and create a shopping list with their participant upon arrival. Children will be assisted by volunteers while parents wait in the waiting room.
Gifts will be wrapped and labeled at the end of the shopping experience. Don’t miss this opportunity to do Holiday shopping in a festive and safe environment. Santa will be making a stop at the Secret Holiday Shop for a photo opportunity!
Register at check-in, not online.
NOTE: Purchases can be made with cash or check only; debit or credit cards will not be accepted.
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Stay Connected!
To stay informed about all the exciting events and developments in Scott County, follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletter at GreatScottCounty.org. We look forward to sharing more about what makes our Great Scott County a fantastic place to live and do business.
| | Until next time, take care and enjoy all that Scott County offers. | | | | |
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100 5th Ave. East, Shakopee, MN 55379
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