City Council members in Oakdale have unanimously approved the construction of a $6 million sports park on Greger Street, anticipated to attract the community to a new, top-tier sports complex. City Manager Bryan Whitemyer stated, “We’re responding to a community need.”
The $6,807,124 Greger Sports Complex will be funded through Park Capital Facilities Fund 349 ($4,750,124), Parks Replacement Fund 549 ($250,000), and American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds ($1,807,000). George Reed Inc. secured the contract with the lowest bid, while the highest bid of $7.2M was submitted by Sinclair General Engineering.
Plans for the complex include grading, utilities, landscaping, paving, concrete fencing, and a prefabricated all-gender restroom. The sports facilities will feature two soccer fields with advanced drainage, a tennis court, and four pickleball courts, with provisions for future additions. While both the pickleball and tennis courts will be lighted, no lights will be installed for the soccer fields.
Whitemyer clarified that the choice of a unisex restroom is based on economy, citing reduced vandalism compared to gendered restrooms, as seen at the T.L. Davis Sports Complex.
The city has diligently saved development fees for this project. The current facilities are at maximum capacity, and the addition is eagerly awaited, he added.
After the project’s 5-0 approval, Mayor Cherilyn Bairos stated, “I’m excited to break ground on this project ... It’s significant for us.”
Whitemyer said plans call for construction to start the week of April 8, 2024 and the park should be completed around Thanksgiving, 2024.
Mid-Year Budget Outlook Positive
Due to favorable market conditions and careful spending, the city has maintained a 43 percent General Fund reserve, leading to an $80,395 surplus. The FY 2023-24 Mid-Year Budget is projected to close at $6,796,807. Whitemyer attributed the positive trend to multiple factors, including the community’s backing of Measure H, which supports city services through a half-cent sales tax and is in effect until March 31, 2031. Currently, Measure H revenues, mainly allocated to public safety, provide $1.7M for police and $1M for fire services.
Whitemyer emphasized Measure H’s critical role in maintaining public safety levels. Council member Christopher Smith expressed gratitude to voters, noting that Oakdale’s sales tax remains competitive.
However, the city’s insurance rates have risen by 40 percent, mirroring statewide trends.
The City Council unanimously approved the Mid-Year Budget, with the next meeting set for Monday, April 1, at 7 p.m. at City Hall, 277 North Second Ave.
