Turtle Island seeks Montpelier city support for childcare crisis resolution

During the Montpelier City Council meeting on March 26, 2025, discussions centered on the urgent need for childcare solutions in the community, particularly concerning the Turtle Island childcare center. Phoebe Stone, a representative from Turtle Island, highlighted the center's plan to utilize the former Sweet Clover Nursery space at 3 Country Club Road to accommodate 20 to 30 children from their current enrollment of 70. This move is seen as critical to maintaining their operations in Montpelier, as losing the center would significantly impact local families.

Jocelyn York, the executive director of Turtle Island, shared her personal struggles in securing childcare for her own children, emphasizing the broader crisis faced by families in Montpelier. She noted that over a thousand childcare spots are needed in the region, making it increasingly difficult for parents to find suitable care. York expressed concern that if Turtle Island were to relocate, many families would be unable to access work or education due to the lack of transportation options.

The council members acknowledged the importance of Turtle Island's services, with one member noting that the center is the only facility in the city that offers comprehensive care for children from infancy through kindergarten. The discussions underscored the critical role that accessible childcare plays in supporting the local workforce and community well-being.

As the meeting concluded, there was a clear call for the city to prioritize early childhood programming and develop a plan to address the childcare crisis. The council's next steps will be crucial in determining how they can support Turtle Island and other childcare initiatives to ensure families in Montpelier have the resources they need.