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Rangely council tables $3,000 donation request from Giant Step Preschool
Summary
After hearing from Giant Step Preschool’s director about plunging enrollment, doubled insurance costs and the loss of a recurring grant, the Rangely Town Council voted to table a $3,000 request from the town’s Fund for Public Giving until the end of the year while staff pursues additional county and discretionary funding options.
Kirsty Kildiff, director of Giant Step Preschool, asked the Rangely Town Council for a $3,000 contribution from the Fund for Public Giving to help the longtime child-care provider bridge an operating shortfall.
Kildiff told the council that the center enrolled more than 50 children in 2024–25 but is operating at roughly half that number this school year. She said rising payroll, food and supply costs, plus insurance that has “doubled” in recent years and the loss of a grant that previously covered property taxes and insurance, have left the center in a precarious position. “We are seeking financial assistance to bridge funding gaps while we pursue long-term solutions,” Kildiff said.
The request prompted a wide-ranging discussion about whether municipal funds should be used to support a nonprofit childcare business. Council members acknowledged Giant Step’s role supporting the local workforce and hospital and school employees but expressed concern about setting a precedent for taxpayer support of private nonprofits.
Council members asked about Giant Step’s steps to stabilize revenue: a 20% tuition increase that began in August, increased fundraising, efforts to recruit new families and pursuing a property-tax exemption. Kildiff described cost-cutting measures, a small staff roster (four employees, only one full time), and a variety of grassroots fundraising efforts including bake sales, a butter-braid fundraiser and partnerships with the high school student council.
After discussion, Councilmember Andy Schaefer moved to table the $3,000 contribution monthly through the end of the year; the motion was seconded by Councilmember Kyle Ren and carried by voice vote. The council asked Town Manager Lisa and others to follow up with county officials and to check whether CCITF or other discretionary funds might be available to support the preschool. Staff pledged to report back with additional information.
The motion leaves the preschool’s immediate fundraising and operational adjustments in place while the council gathers more information about possible county and grant funding. Kildiff said the preschool is not currently unable to pay its bills but is operating with narrow margins and outstanding accounts receivable tied to August tuition that have yet to be collected.
The council will revisit the request in subsequent monthly meetings if additional funding options are identified or if Giant Step signals an immediate cash shortfall.
