During the December 4, 2024, Oakdale City Council meeting, discussions centered around the potential impact of a new hotel project on the local economy, particularly concerning occupancy rates and business viability. A representative from Best Western raised concerns about the feasibility of an additional hotel in a market already experiencing occupancy rates between 55% and 60%.

The representative questioned how the proposed 83-room hotel could attract enough guests to sustain operations, suggesting that the projected occupancy rates would not support the financial investment of $24 million. This skepticism highlights the challenges of introducing new hospitality ventures in a community where existing establishments are already struggling to fill rooms.

The discussion reflects broader concerns about economic growth in Oakdale and the need for careful consideration of new developments. As the city looks to enhance its business landscape, the council will need to weigh the potential benefits of new projects against the realities of the current market.

In addition to the hotel discussion, the meeting included other topics relevant to community development, though specific details were not highlighted in the transcript. The outcomes of these discussions will be crucial as Oakdale continues to navigate its economic future and strive for sustainable growth.