Amidst a wave of anticipation and concern, the Oakdale City Council cast a pivotal vote that could shape the future of the community, approving the construction of the Fairfield Inn by Marriott Hotel within the bustling East F Street Corridor Specific Plan. The decision, which was not made lightly, also opens the door for the proposed Oakdale Marketplace, set to further invigorate Oakdale’s commercial scene.
The council’s green light came after an intense public hearing held on Monday, Dec. 2, where voices from all corners of the community were heard.
This approval, however, was met with resistance leading to an appeal brought forth by concerned citizens, culminating in a City Council vote of 3-1 in favor, with one abstention. Mayor Cherilyn Bairos, Mayor Pro Tem Christopher Smith and council member Kayleigh Gilbert voted in favor, councilman Bob Amaral cast the lone no vote and council member Fred Smith abstained.
The Planning Commission had already unanimously endorsed the project, setting the stage for a heated council session.
“Upon conducting this public hearing, the Planning Commission approved the project,” explained Mark Niskanen, the meticulous Contract Planner, who detailed the project’s extensive amenities – from a welcoming dog run to a state-of-the-art fitness center – and significant upgrades to local infrastructure.
Byron Chapman, the developer’s representative, stood firm against a backdrop of skepticism. He highlighted the strategic selection of the Marriott brand, known for its robust frequent traveler program – a key to the hotel’s anticipated success.
“Marriott has 205 million Bonvoy members who prefer to stay within their network, even if it means traveling extra miles,” Chapman stated confidently, aiming to quell doubts about the hotel’s viability.
Yet, not all were swayed. Erica Cox, a local resident whose life is deeply intertwined with the neighborhood’s tranquility, voiced her strong opposition. Concerned about the looming structure that would stand so close to her family home at the eastern edge of the city, she shared, “You still can’t convince me that this is a good idea to live next to a four-story hotel.” Her words echoed the fears of many about the intrusion on their privacy and the disruption to their peace.
In the heart of the discussion was Mayor Cherilyn Bairos, who wrestled with the decision, acutely aware of its magnitude.
“This is a very tough decision. I’ve lost a lot of sleep on this one,” the Mayor confessed, her voice reflecting the weight of her duty to balance progress with the preservation of Oakdale’s cherished small-town charm.
The project not only includes the hotel but also paves the way for the much-anticipated Oakdale Marketplace. The area, zoned for commercial growth, had potential for various developments, even a gas station, but now promises something more aligned with community enrichment.
As the Fairfield Inn and Oakdale Marketplace take shape, City Council hopes to usher in a new era of economic vitality for Oakdale, enhancing local amenities and services.
