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Staff outlines Wisconsin childcare assistance changes; authority asks whether daycare buildings could qualify for façade grants
Summary
Staff told the Kenosha Redevelopment Authority that Wisconsin policy changes increase child care subsidy coverage and provider payments, and authority members asked staff to consider whether daycare buildings could be eligible for facade assistance.
City staff told the authority on Oct. 21 that several changes and programs in Wisconsin aim to increase financial support for child care providers and families.
Staff said the Wisconsin Shares child care subsidy program was increased in the most recent biennial budget so that statewide it will cover 75% of a slot's cost (previously 41% statewide), covering eligible low-income families participating in work, education or training programs. Staff said Kenosha County Job Center coordinates Wisconsin Shares locally.
Staff described the Child Care Bridge payments (administered by the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families) as monthly payments to providers introduced in 2020 and renewed to help providers cover rent, mortgage, utilities, payroll and supplies to recruit and retain staff. Staff also described a new Get Kids Ready initiative beginning in 2026 that will provide assistance to providers serving 4-year-olds in elementary school readiness programs; staff said detailed program information is limited because the initiative is new.
Staff noted recent regulatory changes: 16-year-olds may now serve as assistant teachers; group child care programs with sufficient space can serve up to seven children per one childcare teacher (an increased ratio); and family child care providers with sufficient staffing and space can serve up to 12 children.
Authority members asked whether day cares could qualify for the city's Uptown Fa—ade Grant or related facade assistance. Staff said they would review the existing facade policy to determine whether daycare facilities (commercially operated buildings) could be added as eligible and would follow up. Staff noted many older day care buildings could use exterior repairs, fencing, playground safety work or accessibility improvements.
During general discussion staff and members noted a day care in Uptown identified in the meeting materials as Treehouse Child Daycare Center at 161260 Third Street appears to have its sign down and furnishings at the curb; staff said they will check property ownership and whether the facility is closed.
The authority moved to receive and file the childcare assistance report. The motion passed by voice vote with all members present voting in favor.
