The Oakdale City Council began 2025 by swearing in newly elected council members Carrie Moore and Gary Severson during their first meeting of the year Tuesday evening.

City Administrator Chris Volker administered the oath of office to both members, who were elected in November. Moore previously served on the city's Parks and Recreation Commission, while Severson served three years on the Economic Development Commission before his election to the council.

The council approved a planned unit development amendment allowing 3M Imation to install a 50-foot pylon sign at 3490 Hayward Avenue North. The sign will exceed standard city zoning requirements, featuring two 350-square-foot faces compared to the typical 30-foot height and 150-square-foot limit. Community Development Director Andy Gsof said the sign's high visibility from Interstate 694 and consistency with existing campus signage justified the deviation. The applicant must obtain a building permit before construction.

Council members also approved a conditional use permit for a home dental workshop at 4066 Goodwin Avenue North. The business, which operates from the applicant's garage making crowns and dentures, received approval with restrictions including operating hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and employment of no more than one outside worker.

The council adopted the city's 2025 legislative priorities, which will be shared with elected officials at the state legislature. Mayor Kevin Zellmer announced several community updates, including the opening of three skating rinks, a new Metro Micro transit service covering parts of Oakdale, and a prescription drug drop-off box now available at City Hall in partnership with Washington County.