The Oakdale Parks and Recreation Commission convened on November 19, 2024, to discuss significant developments in local park planning, particularly focusing on the management of geese populations and the design of new parks in the Willowbrook neighborhood. The meeting highlighted community concerns and the city's commitment to enhancing recreational spaces while balancing ecological considerations.

A key topic was the proposed expansion of a "no person zone" to manage the local goose population effectively. This area, situated between the lake and adjacent fields, aims to create a barrier that would keep geese away from active play areas, such as soccer fields. The commission acknowledged community feedback, emphasizing the need to maintain open spaces for recreational use while still implementing measures to control the goose presence. The revised plan will reduce the buffer zone to ensure that it does not encroach on existing sports facilities, reflecting a careful consideration of both wildlife management and community needs.

In addition to wildlife management, the commission discussed the ongoing development of parks in the Willowbrook neighborhood, which is projected to add over 1,400 housing units in the coming years. The city is responsible for constructing three parks as part of a master development agreement. The first of these, Willowbrook Commons, has recently opened and features a variety of amenities, including playgrounds and fitness equipment. The commission reviewed concept alternatives for Willowbrook Park West and North, with plans for public engagement to gather input on desired features.

The timeline for these parks indicates that construction for Willowbrook Park West is set to begin in spring 2025, with completion expected by fall of the same year. In contrast, Willowbrook Park North, envisioned as a passive park, will follow a different schedule, with design work occurring in the summer and fall of 2026.

The commission's discussions reflect a broader commitment to enhancing community recreational spaces while addressing environmental challenges. As the city moves forward with these projects, the emphasis on community input and phased development will be crucial in ensuring that the parks meet the diverse needs of Oakdale residents. The next steps will involve finalizing designs based on public feedback and preparing for upcoming construction phases.