Story County approves $10,000 for countywide childcare feasibility study

The Story County Board of Supervisors on Oct. 28 approved a $10,000 contribution to a countywide childcare feasibility study to evaluate supply, demand and financing options for expanding childcare across the county.

County and partner staff said the three-phase study, led by Pendulum Dependent Care Solutions LLC and coordinated with United Way of Story County, Iowa State University and AIMS Regional Economic Alliance, will inventory existing childcare capacity, model demand tied to population projections, assess affordability and the childcare workforce, and deliver a time-phased implementation roadmap and funding strategies by March.

"So right now, we are asking 10,000 from Story County to help with this feasibility study," the AIMS representative said during the presentation, describing deliverables that include prioritized expansion models, partnership frameworks for employers and providers, and funding approaches that combine public, private and philanthropic resources.

Supervisors pressed staff to ensure the study is countywide in scope and to embed consistent stakeholder questions at every community intercept so that smaller towns and rural voices are represented. The consultant was described as having an out-of-state principal with local contacts who will support engagement with Story County communities and nearby labor-shed counties.

The motion to fund the county's portion was moved, seconded and approved by roll call: Merkin, Basil and Heddens recorded aye votes. The motion draws $10,000 from the countywide unassigned ending fund balance.

County staff said the study will provide the data needed to pursue competitive funding opportunities and help coordinate local leaders around a shared implementation plan.