Supervisor Bunn supports feasibility study for county employee childcare facility

A proposal for a county employee childcare facility took center stage during the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors special meeting on June 9, 2025. The discussion highlighted the need for a feasibility study to explore the potential establishment of such a facility, which could significantly benefit county employees struggling with childcare challenges.

Supervisor Slattery emphasized the importance of utilizing county-owned facilities to minimize costs, suggesting that the board should support the allocation of funds for this initiative. However, concerns were raised about the financial implications, with some supervisors wary of spending large sums on a study without clear outcomes. Supervisor Bunn pointed out the disparity between the county's size and the City of Eureka's resources, questioning the feasibility of providing equitable childcare services across the vast county.

Despite these concerns, Supervisor Arroyo advocated for the feasibility study, arguing that even a partial solution could address pressing childcare needs in the community. The board discussed the possibility of a phased approach to implementation, allowing for adjustments based on the study's findings.

In addition to the childcare facility discussion, the board also considered the allocation of $2.33 million in flexible funds. Some supervisors expressed the urgency of addressing the county's park maintenance budget, warning that without immediate funding, several parks could face closure this summer. The debate highlighted the tension between investing in long-term childcare solutions and addressing immediate infrastructure needs.

As the meeting concluded, the board recognized the importance of balancing these priorities, with a commitment to further explore the childcare feasibility study while also considering the urgent needs of county parks. The outcome of these discussions could shape the future of both childcare support for county employees and the maintenance of public spaces in Humboldt County.