Planning commission backs conditional-use permit for childcare center in Burgess

Northumberland County planning commissioners voted to recommend approval of a conditional-use permit that would allow a childcare facility at 740 Jesse Pont Memorial Highway in Burgess.

The permit application, filed by Crystal Cove Housing LLC with Carolyn (Doctor) Crockett listed as applicant, would convert space in the former Dr. Beekley office into a childcare center. The Planning Commission approved the recommendation under conditions that require obtaining all applicable state permits and licenses, compliance with the Virginia Statewide Building Code, downward-directed exterior lighting if any is proposed, and other standard health-and-safety provisions; the packet was amended during the meeting to clarify which state agencies must be involved.

Dr. Carolyn Crockett, who identified herself as the applicant and said she has more than eight years’ experience working in local schools as a special‑needs educator, told the commission she plans to start with toddler care and expand into after‑school programs as the business grows. “I have been an educator of the Northumberland public school system for over 8 years … working as a special needs educator,” Crockett said during the public hearing. She said she expects to begin with one or two employees and will follow state staffing ratios as required.

There were no in‑person speakers against the application. Supporters called in during the public comment portion. A caller who identified herself as Dr. Linda and gave a Northumberland County address urged the commission to forward the proposal, saying Crockett is “well suited for this opportunity.” Another speaker, Philip Johnson Haney II, said the county needs more local childcare capacity, especially for special‑needs children.

Commissioners clarified logistics with Crockett and with Mr. Haney, who the applicant said owns the building and will be the landlord. Staff present advised that the Planning Commission recommendation goes to the Board of Supervisors, which must grant the final approval before the applicant may begin construction or operations. The commission also noted county requirements such as a handicap railing at the front entrance and a fenced play area for the outdoor space; Mr. Conaway (county staff) inspected the property and identified those items earlier in the review process.

During the meeting the commission amended the conditions on the record to replace a reference to the Virginia Department of Social Services with the correct agencies: the Virginia Department of Health and the Virginia Department of Education, Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Development. After the amendment passed, commissioners voted to forward the recommendation to the Board of Supervisors.

The Board of Supervisors will consider the conditional‑use permit at its next meeting; the Planning Commission’s action was a recommendation only. If the Board of Supervisors approves the permit, the applicant must still secure all required state licenses and building permits before opening.

Votes at a glance

- Conditional‑use permit for childcare at 740 Jesse Pont Memorial Highway (Crystal Cove Housing LLC / Carolyn Crockett): Planning Commission recommended approval with conditions; motion amended to name Virginia Department of Health and the Virginia Department of Education, Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Development as agencies for required permits. The recommendation will be forwarded to the Board of Supervisors for final action.