The Oakdale City Council approved a comprehensive zoning code update Monday that modernizes the city's development regulations after a 16-month review process.

The council unanimously adopted four new ordinances that consolidate zoning districts from 14 to 10, expand housing types in residential areas, and update building material and parking standards. The changes also reduce minimum lot sizes in some residential districts and allow buildings up to 60 feet in high-density areas through conditional use permits.

Mayor Kevin Zabel praised the effort as providing both flexibility for developers and clarity for residents. "This was a herculean lift," Zabel said, noting the code serves as a blueprint for how the city wants to grow. The update involved extensive public engagement including surveys, stakeholder meetings with developers and realtors, and input from city advisory bodies.

The council also held a public hearing on property tax abatements for Willowbrook park improvements, approving $2.3 million in abatement bonds for trail construction and neighborhood parks. Finance Director Christina explained the bonds will be supported by property taxes from a new apartment building in the development over 15 years.

Additional actions included approving a comprehensive plan amendment for the Glen Brook area to change land use guidance from commercial to mixed-use, and awarding a $2.4 million contract to OMG Midwest for street overlay work on Hadley Avenue.