The foremost item on the council’s agenda was the rezoning of a six-acre property, initially zoned for 80-foot wide single-family lots, to allow for 50-foot wide lots, thereby enabling the development of more homes. This action involved changing the zoning from R2 to R3 to accommodate the site’s natural constraints, including wetlands and the need for tree preservation. The city’s comprehensive plan restricts this area to single-family dwellings, prohibiting other residential types like townhomes or duplexes.

The proposal included numerous logistical adjustments, such as decommissioning the existing access from 10th Street and relocating access to Upper 9th Street. This move requires the developer to complete the buildout of Upper 9th Street, which currently ends midway through the Platinum Bank property. The relocation aims to maintain environmental integrity by designating approximately four acres of wetlands and the associated buffer as an outlot, which will be deeded to the city for future maintenance. A stormwater management plan and a tree preservation plan are also mandated to ensure compliance with city regulations.

The Planning Commission had previously held a public hearing on this proposal where several neighbors raised concerns. In response, the developer engaged with community members and made updates to the preliminary plat. Noteworthy changes included shifting the required access corridor to reduce tree removal and enlarging a drainage and utility easement to buffer adjacent homes. City staff endorsed the proposal, determining that it aligns with both the city’s ordinance requirements and the comprehensive plan. The council, after reviewing the proposal, unanimously passed the motion to rezone the property and approve the preliminary plat, with specific conditions attached to ensure compliance with environmental and infrastructure standards.

Another decision made by the council was the unanimous approval of a new on-sale intoxicating liquor license and an on-sale Sunday license for Quantum Sports LLC, operating as Scorehub on Hail Avenue. The decision followed a brief public hearing in which no community members voiced opposition or support. The council extended congratulations to the applicant.

In a show of community support, the Mayor read a proclamation designating October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The proclamation underscored the widespread impact of domestic violence and encouraged community participation by wearing purple on October 16. This initiative was part of a broader call to action for increased awareness and prevention efforts. Alongside this, the Mayor recognized a local business, celebrating its ten-year milestone in the community.

The council also addressed administrative matters, including the approval of contracted prosecution services with Eber Lamers for a five-year term, effective at the end of the year. The city administrator, who had a prior business relationship with Lamers, recused himself from the vote. The council proceeded with the authorization, approving the agreement by a unanimous vote.

During council presentations, members shared community feedback, expressing gratitude for the domestic violence proclamation and reporting on a successful city cleanup event that saw significant resident participation. The Oakdale Farmers Market’s continuation and the city’s annual photo contest were highlighted, encouraging community engagement. Additionally, the city announced a free curbside collection service for buckthorn removal, along with a volunteer-driven project scheduled at Walton Park.