The number of home foreclosures in Prior Lake rose from 61 in 2006 to 176 in 2007, according to a recently released Scott County report.

Countywide, the number of foreclosures jumped from 313 to 644 in the same one-year period. Nearby Savage and Shakopee also saw a major leap in foreclosures, with 96 for Savage and 177 for Shakopee in 2007. In 2006, Savage had 48 foreclosures, while Shakopee had 96.

Prior Lake City Council members will discuss what to do with abandoned homes in foreclosure at their May 5 meeting. The council directed staff to research ordinances on abandoned homes and come up with a plan to deal with break-ins and thefts from foreclosed homes.

Is there an abandoned, foreclosed home in your neighborhood? Have thieves raided it for copper wire or other valuables? Share your story by logging in and posting below, or e-mail editor@plamerican.com [1]. Watch for upcoming stories on this issue online and in the Prior Lake American print edition.