Development Authority relocates preschool to community complex and will explore buying nearby church for licensed daycare

The Development Authority told the Hampshire County Commission on March 24 that Bridge Buddies — an after‑school and preschool program displaced by water damage at Living Waters Church — has been temporarily relocated to Classroom 7 at the Capen Bridal Community Complex.

JT Hott, the Development Authority director, said the Parks and Recreation Department agreed to host Bridge Buddies in the classroom, cafeteria and gym when Parks & Rec is not using those spaces. He noted the provider is not a licensed full‑day daycare; “They operate 3 hours and 45 minutes a day,” Hott said.

Hott said the Development Authority obtained a written contract and proof of insurance from the provider and will coordinate with the county’s insurer to confirm coverage. Commissioners supported the arrangement while asking staff to verify insurance coverage and named‑insured status.

Hott also said his board asked him to explore acquiring the adjacent Living Waters Church building to convert it into a licensed daycare. He plans to convene the health inspector, development staff and daycare experts to estimate renovation costs and compliance requirements and to report back to the Development Authority at its April 15 meeting.

Commissioners praised the Development Authority’s work and noted the potential public‑policy benefits of expanding before‑ and after‑school care in the county, including supporting workforce participation for parents. No county funding was requested that night; Hott said he may return later with a formal request if a viable acquisition and operating plan emerges.