The Oakdale City Council approved a $2.7 million construction project for two new parks in the Willowbrook neighborhood during their March 11 meeting, combining what were originally separate projects to create cost efficiencies.

The council voted to amend the city's capital improvement plan to merge Willowbrook Park West and Willowbrook Park North into a single project with a budget increase of $325,000 from the original $2.4 million allocation. Community Development Director Andy Goff said the combined approach will allow the city to capture bidding efficiencies when the project goes to market in April.

Willowbrook Park West will feature a U12 soccer field with artificial turf, four pickleball courts, a volleyball court, and a combined restroom and picnic shelter building. The North park will provide open green space with native prairie plantings, a 20-foot wooden bridge, and limestone seating areas. Public Works Director Corey said construction on both parks is scheduled to begin in June, with completion targeted for 2025.

In other business, the council voted 3-2 to hire a probationary police officer despite objections from Council Member Moore, who cited the applicant's "baseless and unprofessional attacks on other city staff" during his previous departure from city employment. Mayor Zabel and Council Members Morcom and Severson supported the hire based on Police Chief Newton's recommendation.

The council also approved the selection process for a construction manager for the police department and city hall renovation project, appointing City Administrator Chris, Chief Newton, and the project architect to serve on the selection committee. The construction management request for qualifications will be advertised immediately, with the architectural contract expected to be finalized by March 25.