Council approves expansion of licensed group childcare at 24749 Maryland

The Southfield City Council on Aug. 25 approved a special-use request permitting a licensed family childcare at 24749 Maryland Street to expand into a group childcare home, increasing licensed capacity to 12 children.

Abigail Pierce, the petitioner, told the council she has been an early childhood educator for 18 years and has held a childcare license since 2016. She said her existing license allowed six children and that state licensing would permit the expansion to 12. “I have been an early child educator for 18 years,” Pierce told the council, noting many Southfield residents are among her clients.

Supporters spoke during the public hearing. Pamela Juro told the council she backed the expansion and said, “We can never have enough childcare,” citing the local shortage and benefits for parents and children. Gabby Grospar also spoke in favor and said licensing would encourage other providers to do the same.

Planner staff described the property as R-3 residential and said the backyard is fenced and contains play structures. Staff confirmed the proposal had been considered at the planning commission and that neighbors who attended that hearing spoke in support.

Councilwoman Haynes moved to approve the special use; Councilwoman Banks seconded the motion. The motion carried with council approval.

Pierce said the expanded license is intended for children 6 months to roughly 3 or 4 years of age, and she said she has a long waiting list. Planning staff indicated that, if the council approved the special use, the clerk’s office could provide a certified resolution within a day or two to help the petitioner finalize state licensing requirements.

The council’s action permits the group childcare home with the usual conditions and inspections required for licensed childcare operations.