Childcare License concerns raised over home group's application for preschool

The Hooper City Planning Commission meeting on April 28, 2025, focused on a proposed home daycare application that raised several regulatory questions. The primary concern was the applicant's compliance with state licensing requirements and the capacity of the facility.

Commission members discussed the applicant's plan to operate a daycare with a maximum of 12 students at any given time, split into two classes—one in the morning and one in the afternoon. However, discrepancies arose regarding the application details, particularly concerning the number of children and the space allocated per child. The applicant indicated a total area of 384 square feet, which would only accommodate a maximum of 10 children based on state regulations requiring 35 square feet per child.

Additionally, the applicant noted that she believed she was exempt from state licensing requirements because she would not be serving food. However, it was highlighted that an exemption letter from the Bureau of Child Care Licensing would be necessary to confirm this status. The commission members expressed the need for clarification on whether the applicant had provided the required documentation, including CPR certification and any exemption letters.

The discussion also touched on the lack of clear definitions in local codes regarding preschool operations, which could impact the approval process. The commission plans to follow up with the applicant to address these issues and ensure compliance with state regulations before making a final decision on the daycare application.