Coffey County approves $15,000 one‑time contribution to Burlington Early Learning Center

The Coffey County Board of Commissioners voted Nov. 4 to provide a one‑time contribution of $15,000 to the Burlington Early Learning Center to support staff retention and center operations.

Superintendent Craig Moscuel told the board the center has matching funds and emphasized the partnership between the district, Crosswinds and county programs that support behavioral‑health liaisons and after‑school care. Board members discussed the center’s ownership and operations: the school district owns the building but the center operates as a separate entity under the district’s tax‑exempt umbrella, sharing some services such as human resources and food service.

Commissioners debated where county funds should be drawn from and agreed the economic development 2025 budget would be an appropriate source rather than the community improvement reserve. Discussion included community benefits — including infant care availability and local workforce impacts — and concerns raised by constituents about using county money for salaries; board members described the requested funds as a one‑time retention/merit contribution rather than ongoing payroll support.

A motion to approve a one‑time $15,000 contribution passed by voice vote; the board recorded “Aye” and the motion carried.

Ending: The contribution was approved as a single, non‑recurring allocation. Commissioners encouraged ongoing exploration of grants and other revenue to support the center’s operations.