Childcare shortage flagged as major workforce barrier in Perry County; county considers model business plans and grants

Perry County officials and consultants spent part of the special meeting focused on childcare shortages and possible steps to expand capacity and reduce workforce barriers.

"Well over 56% cited that in the barrier for workforce entry or workplace entry," the presenter said, summing survey results that linked childcare availability to the county’s labor challenges. The presenter referenced a West Central Indiana childcare study that estimated about 1,200 adults in a five‑county region could re‑enter the workforce if reliable childcare were available.

Officials and staff discussed tools to support childcare expansion: a change to a childcare tax credit that can reimburse employers for part of their investment in childcare, possible pursuit of community facilities funding for nonprofit partners, and the idea of creating a simple template business plan for in‑home or small childcare operators to reduce regulatory intimidation.

The presenter pointed to a concrete local example: Vermillion County bought and is renovating an old elementary school (identified as an Ernie Pyle elementary conversion) to become a childcare center — a model the presenter said could inform Perry County’s approach.

County members requested follow up on available state and federal grant channels and whether the county can assist with applications or partner with nonprofits to operate or pass through funds. No formal action was taken at the meeting; staff and consultants will draft next steps and resources for local officials to review.