Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Childcare Zoning topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council broadens zones for child care centers in attempt to expand local daycare options
Summary
The council adopted an interim zoning change to permit daycare and childcare centers in additional residential and commercial zones, a change supporters said would widen options for childcare and employers; the ordinance passed unanimously.
The Spokane City Council unanimously approved on first reading an interim zoning ordinance (C 36 7 42) to permit daycare and childcare centers in more residential and commercial zones, a step supporters say could expand the city’s childcare supply.
Speaking in favor, neighbors and parents noted the city’s childcare shortage and described how flexible locations can help families and employers. Council members said state regulatory requirements still apply and that opening centers remains subject to state licensing; Council member Katcart said many state rules “for good reasons” also can be over-regulatory and asked that the state review requirements that limit providers.
Council members said the ordinance opens zoning but does not remove licensing or state-mandated health and safety standards; it is intended to increase places where providers can locate. Supporters said expanding the range of allowable locations is a practical way to increase supply and reduce wait lists, particularly for nonstandard hours and swing shifts sought by manufacturing and shift workers.
Council member Dylan said the change is a “great first step” to address childcare costs and availability, and the measure passed 7-0.
