Port authority agrees to review terms, pursue state grant application to expand child care

Clara presented a time-sensitive request asking the port authority to consider owning property and serving as the applicant for a state child-care expansion grant to help Pioneer Care relocate and expand an employer-focused child-care program.

Clara said the project follows a "multiple pod" model and that state funds (about $500,000) are available only to projects owned by government entities. She told members the Port Authority could hold the property for the grant term (about five years) so the project would qualify for bonding dollars.

Clara said preliminary conversations had been held with Nathan Johnson, identified in the discussion as the CEO of Pioneer Care. Amy, speaking for county partners, said the county could step in as the applicant if the port authority or city chose not to. "If it's not something the city and or port authority is in a position... then we would look for the city to request that the county step in," Amy said, and she noted timing constraints tied to meeting and packet deadlines.

Members asked whether the grant requires matching funds; Clara said there is a 50% match and that local fundraising and a foundation pledge could cover much of it. Members emphasized the tight timeline for application materials and discussed whether the port authority or the county should proceed in parallel to preserve options.

A member moved to authorize staff to review terms from Pioneer Care and to prepare a resolution allowing the port authority to be the applicant for the state funding; another member seconded. The board voted in favor and the motion carried. Members said they would schedule a follow-up meeting to review specific acquisition and grant terms before finalizing the application.

The port authority adjourned after the vote.