The city councils in Prior Lake and Savage are the latest to explore preventing hookah lounges from settling within their borders.

Hookahs are water pipes for smoking flavored tobacco, and the establishments are often frequented by Middle Eastern immigrants but are also popular with other young adults.

As cities run into issues, others nearby fear they will jump the borders before they can create adequate protection.

Prior Lake's council took about 70 seconds last week to unanimously agree to take steps leading to a moratorium while new rules are devised.

Savage's council this week will consider adopting a temporary prohibition.

A memo prepared for the Savage council lists a litany of problems, including large crowds late at night and suspicions of illegal activity.

David Peterson

dapeterson@startribune.com