Public Hearing for Mr. Carwash at 7099 Leven Street North

Dissent: While the final vote was unanimous among council members, multiple public speakers expressed strong opposition during the public hearing.

Moved by Council Member Rich [0:22:20] · Seconded by Unknown [0:22:31]

The discussion centered on the proposed Mr. Carwash's compatibility with the Tartan Crossing PUD, which aims for a compact, walkable, mixed-use environment. Staff recommended denial, citing conflict with the PUD's intent, pedestrian-friendly vision, and potential negative externalities like noise for adjacent residential properties. The applicant argued that the PUD's original vision had already been compromised by previous council approvals of auto-centric uses and presented evidence of traffic compliance and noise mitigation plans. Public comments were mixed, with some residents supporting the convenience and job creation, while others expressed concerns about noise, traffic, and the erosion of the PUD's intent. The Planning Commission had recommended approval, but the City Council ultimately denied the applications.

Denial of Conditional Use Permit for Mr. Carwash at 7099 Leven Street North

Moved by Council Member Moore [0:26:01] · Seconded by Unknown [0:26:12]

Following the denial of the PUD amendment, the City Attorney clarified that a separate action was still required for the Conditional Use Permit (CUP) application, as it was a pending request subject to time limits. The basis for denying the CUP was that, since the PUD amendment to allow car washes was not approved, the use was not permitted under the zoning ordinance.

2025 GreenStep Cities Award Presentation

The City Council received a presentation recognizing Oakdale's ongoing success in the GreenStep Cities program. The presentation detailed Oakdale's achievements over nine consecutive years in Steps 4 and 5, highlighting specific metrics such as increased LED lighting, the addition of an electric vehicle to the police fleet, high accessibility to bicycle routes and parkland, significant tree planting, and a substantial increase in renewable energy use for city operations. The Mayor expressed gratitude to the city staff and commissions involved.

Proclamation Recognizing Building and Code Professional Appreciation Day

Mayor Zabel issued a proclamation designating September 1st as Building and Code Professional Appreciation Day. The proclamation highlighted the critical role of these professionals in ensuring building safety, code compliance, and rental housing standards, often working in challenging field conditions. The Mayor specifically acknowledged the dedication of the Community Development Department and Chief Building Official Greg Brady for their contributions to a safe and stable city.

Proclamation Recognizing Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

Mayor Zabel proclaimed September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, drawing attention to the national public health challenge of suicide, its high incidence among youth, and the importance of public awareness, education, and access to treatment. The proclamation provided information for national crisis hotlines and highlighted Oakdale's efforts to deliver mental and behavioral health supports through its police department in partnership with Washington County, emphasizing the community's role in prevention.

Approval of Preliminary Plat for Oakdale Marketplace 7th Edition (Les Schwab)

Moved by Council Member Morham [0:53:15] · Seconded by Unknown [0:53:23]

The Council considered the preliminary plat for the Les Schwab Tire Center, which will create three lots for an automotive service and repair business at the southeast quadrant of 34th Street and Marketplace. This project was made possible by a prior city ordinance amendment in response to a court order. Staff recommended approval, subject to conditions including the execution of a development agreement and securing various construction and agency approvals. The Planning Commission had also recommended approval.

Approval of Site Plan for Les Schwab Tire Center

Moved by Council Member Severson [0:54:19] · Seconded by Unknown [0:54:25]

Following the approval of the preliminary plat, the City Council moved to approve the site plan for the Les Schwab Tire Center. Staff reported that the proposed site plan elements, including building height, setbacks, lot coverage, parking, landscaping, exterior materials, and site lighting, had been met. Minor updates to the plan included additional parking and a larger trash enclosure. Conditions of approval were consistent with those for the preliminary plat, emphasizing ongoing coordination with watershed districts and city engineering.

Approval of Conditional Use Permit for Josiah Center Church

Moved by Council Member Rich [0:57:04] · Seconded by Unknown [0:57:13]

The City Council considered and approved a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for Josiah Center to establish a church at 533 Hayward Avenue North, unit 100. Staff noted that places of worship are permitted through the CUP process across all Oakdale zoning districts and that the proposed church met the criteria for approval. The Planning Commission had also recommended approval. A single condition was attached, requiring 'no parking' signage for emergency vehicle access.

Approval of Conditional Use Permit Amendment for True Line Sign Company Electronic Message Sign

Moved by Council Member Moore [1:00:46] · Seconded by Unknown [1:00:54]

The Council approved a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) amendment for True Line Sign Company and MC Geneva Properties LLC to install a 24 square foot electronic dynamic business sign at 1267 Geneva Avenue North, replacing an earlier smaller sign. Staff confirmed the proposal met zoning ordinance criteria and the Planning Commission had recommended approval. Eight conditions were set, including a minimum display duration of 30 seconds, static messages only, and strict illumination standards (250 nits from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.) due to the sign's proximity to residential property.