A substantial portion of the meeting was dedicated to the discussion and approval of Ordinance 953 and the accompanying resolutions for the Oakdale Marketplace 7th edition. This ordinance permits a horizontal mixed-use configuration, featuring a 160-unit multifamily building and a standalone commercial building. This setup diverges from the previously required vertical mixed-use, which had commercial spaces directly below residential units. The new configuration, which segregates commercial and residential uses into distinct buildings, was supported due to its potential to increase commercial space and offer shared parking benefits. The approval was not without its critics. One council member expressed a desire for more commercial options in future developments, reflecting some community sentiment for a stronger business presence.

In a related discussion during the public comments segment, resident Dan Zimlich voiced his dissatisfaction with the shift in development focus from a mix of businesses and apartments to predominantly residential projects near the Target area. Zimlich highlighted the need for more businesses, stating, “I want the businesses there,” and urged the council to reject the current proposal in favor of a balanced development approach that includes more commercial entities. His comments underscored a broader community concern about maintaining a vibrant business environment alongside residential growth.

Further into the meeting, the council addressed a plan amendment within the Forefront Technology and Office Campus. The planning commission had previously endorsed this amendment, which includes a transitional zone leading to adjacent residential areas. The council adopted Resolution 2025-78 to facilitate the development of up to 220 residential units. Concerns about maintaining adequate sewer capacity were raised, emphasizing the importance of infrastructure readiness to support increased density.

The council also deliberated on the final park system plan presented by Hannah Dunn, a community development specialist. This comprehensive plan outlines a 20-year roadmap for enhancing Oakdale’s park system, informed by extensive community input and collaboration with city staff and consultants. Recommendations, cost estimates, and prioritization matrices were included to guide future capital improvements. Council members praised the plan’s incorporation of community feedback, with one member expressing optimism about the park system’s evolution and the significance of a cohesive long-term strategy.

Another noteworthy topic was the signal operations agreement related to the Gold Line BRT project. The council reviewed the funding structure, which involves shared costs between the city and the Metropolitan Council for intersection improvements. While the agreement was recommended for approval, a council member dissented, arguing against the financial burden on residents for infrastructure tied to the BRT project.

The meeting also touched upon community safety, with the council approving a school resource officer agreement for the 2025-2026 school year at Tartan High School. This agreement, spanning from September 2025 to August 2027, highlights the importance of ensuring safety and security within educational institutions, with funding provided by the school district.

In the realm of community engagement and recognition, the council celebrated the recipients of the annual Acorn Award, honoring properties for their aesthetic contributions to Oakdale. The Forefront Technology and Office Campus and resident Rick Rubelki were acknowledged for their efforts, with the mayor expressing gratitude to all nominees. Additionally, the Night to Unite event received praise for fostering community spirit, with multiple block parties and presentations by the police department noted.

Lastly, the council addressed administrative matters, including an amendment to the 2025 fee schedule to correct building inspection fees. A proposal was made to revert roofing and siding fees to a valuation-based structure and to adjust fire suppression fees to align with industry standards. This amendment was adopted unanimously, with discussions on potentially delegating authority for minor administrative corrections to staff to streamline operations.