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Pawnee City Council authorizes assisted-living rooms for struggling daycare as group races to raise $250,000
Summary
The council unanimously approved Pawnee City Assisted Living renting a few unused rooms to PC Little Learners while the daycare pursues $250,000 in fundraising by Nov. 1, 2025 to buy its current building; staff and council discussed insurance and possible utility breaks.
Pawnee City Council on Oct. 14 authorized Pawnee City Assisted Living (PCAL) to rent several unused rooms to PC Little Learners Daycare while the daycare’s board continues a fundraising campaign to buy its current facility.
Josie Friedly, president of the PC Little Learners board and co-director of Pawnee City Development Corporation’s economic-development program, told the council the board has raised $85,000 but still needs about $250,000 by Nov. 1, 2025 to complete the purchase. Friedly said the daycare’s budget requires roughly 30 enrolled children to break even.
John DeFreece, PCAL board president, told the council he had received preliminary support from a USDA contact before the federal shutdown but that final approval rests with the City as owner of the PCAL building. Council members discussed an insurance concern reported by PCAL’s insurer — that adding a daycare could affect coverage — and whether the City could offer limited concessions such as a temporary break on water charges if the daycare secures the purchase.
Council Member Susan Eisenhauer moved to authorize PCAL to rent a few rooms to PC Little Learners on an interim basis; Council Member Pat Hatfield seconded the motion, and a roll-call vote showed all members present voting in favor.
Council members and PC Little Learners’ leaders said the arrangement is intended as a short-term measure while the daycare pursues larger private and foundation gifts. Friedly reported the board planned to meet the morning after the council meeting with two foundations known to fund rural daycare projects. The council did not set a direct city donation amount; Eisenhauer said the City might consider utility relief if the daycare completes the purchase.
Next steps: PC Little Learners will continue fundraising and pursue grant applications; PCAL and the daycare board will work with city staff on insurance and lease terms if the parties finalize a short-term rental agreement.
