Oakdale council appoints Kelly Bourgeoa as city administrator, approves employment agreement

The Oakdale City Council voted unanimously April 14 to appoint Kelly Bourgeoa as the city's next city administrator and approved an employment agreement to set her start dates this summer.

Mayor Kevin Zabel moved the appointment, citing a multi-stage hiring process that screened roughly 73 applicants, advanced 14 candidates and interviewed five finalists. The motion, referencing City of Oakdale Code chapter 2, article 3, section 2-34 and Minnesota Statute 412.11, approved Bourgeoa's hire as a city employee effective June 16, 2026, and as city administrator effective June 22, 2026 (or another mutually agreed date). "We are absolutely thrilled with the hire we're going to be making tonight," Mayor Zabel said, noting Bourgeoa brings a law background and experience in municipal government.

The council also approved the employment agreement and directed city signatories to execute the document. The motion established that Christine M. Vulkarers will remain employed through June 30, 2026, as the outgoing administrator's last day. The council adopted the appointment and agreement on a 5–0 voice vote.

City officials said Bourgeoa currently serves as a city manager in Bristol, Tennessee, and previously worked in Minnesota local government. Mayor Zabel encouraged residents to meet the incoming administrator after she arrives in June.

The council's action closes a formal hiring process described in the meeting packet and puts a start date on a planned leadership transition. The appointment is effective once the employment agreement is signed and any administrative preconditions are met.