Shakopee Snapshot: Summer 2025

PUBLIC SAFETY

Celebrate the strength of our community as neighbors across Shakopee come together for Night to Unite! This annual summer tradition is all about building relationships between resi dents and public safety agencies like the Shakopee Police and Fire Departments while enjoy ing a night of fun and connection. Turn on your porch lights, gather your neighbors, fire up the grill, and enjoy games, good food, and great company! Whether it’s a backyard BBQ, a block party, or a simple front yard chat, the goal is to bring people together and strengthen our community bonds. Residents are encouraged to lock their doors, turn on their outside lights, and spend the evening with their neighbors! Shakopee’s crime rates are historically low, thanks in large part to strong community partner ships and proactive policing. Events like Night to Unite play a key role in keeping our neighbor hoods safe by encouraging communication, crime prevention, and trust between residents and law enforcement. Register your Night to Unite block party at ShakopeeMN.gov/nighttounite from June 2 through July 21. When you register, you can request a visit from police officers, firefighters, and other city representatives. Your gathering doesn’t need to be big—just meaningful! Even a casual get-together with lawn chairs and snacks can make a difference. The connections made on this night will help build a stronger, safer, and more united Shakopee. For questions, contact the Shakopee Crime Prevention Unit at 952-233-9441 or police@Sha kopeeMN.gov. We can’t wait to celebrate with you! Join us for Night to Unite on Tuesday, Aug. 5

CHIEF’S NOTES

There’s nothing quite like summer in Shakopee! Warmer weather means the return of some of our favorite seasonal traditions and events. From the

Shakopee Police Chief Jeff Tate

grand opening of SandVenture Aquatic Park to the thrill of Valleyfair rides and Soak City splashes, there’s no shortage of fun for all ages. The sound of hooves at Canterbury Park and the beat of live music at Rhythm on the Rails make it clear that summer is in full swing. Beyond the big events, summer is also about the simple joys—long days spent outdoors in our beautiful parks, biking along our more than 80 miles of trails, stopping by a lemonade stand or simply enjoying a sprinkler in your own backyard. It’s the perfect time to reconnect with neighbors you haven’t seen all winter or meet new faces who’ve moved into the community. Shakopee continues to be one of the safest communities in the area, and that’s no coincidence. Crime rates remain historically low, thanks in large part to the strong connections among neighbors here. We always say it, and we mean it—when neighbors look out for each other, everyone benefits. Even as our city grows, that close-knit feel lives on in the way residents care for and support one another. Another amazing opportunity to come together and strengthen those neighborhood bonds is our annual Night to Unite celebration, happening this year on Tuesday, Aug. 5. It’s a chance to gather with neighbors, enjoy some summer fun, and meet local police officers, firefighters, and City staff. Watch the City of Shakopee website and the Shakopee Police Department Facebook page for details on how to register your block party— and spread the word, new block parties will be entered to win a prize! Summer Safety Tips from Shakopee Police: Lock up —Always lock your doors, vehicles, bikes, and garage doors, even when you’re at home. Light it up —Keep outdoor areas well-lit at night to deter suspicious activity. Look out for each other —If you’re heading out of town, ask a trusted neighbor to keep an eye on your property. Drive safe —Watch for pedestrians, bicyclists and children playing, especially in neighborhoods and near parks. Stay hydrated and sun-safe —Drink water, wear sunscreen, and take breaks in the shade on hot days. Report suspicious activity —If you see something that doesn’t seem right, don’t hesitate to call us. Let’s make this summer safe, fun, and full of community spirit. See you out there, Shakopee!

A group of neighbors takes a Night to Unite party photo.

Youth party-goers take a break from waterslide fun to pose with Captain Jamie Pearson (left) and Officer Lucas Willis at a 2024 Night to Unite party.

Summer 2025 17