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Buhl council approves childcare feasibility study with CEDA, will seek grant funds
Summary
Council authorized Community and Economic Development Associates to conduct a childcare feasibility study and apply for additional CEDA Rural Capacity Program funds after receiving a First Impression Report that recommended downtown and noted regional market appeal.
The Buhl City Council on Aug. 6 authorized Community and Economic Development Associates (CEDA) to carry out a childcare feasibility study and to apply for additional Rural Capacity Program funds to support the work.
Joshua Schuetz, Community and Business Development Specialist with CEDA, presented a First Impression Report prepared after a site visit. The report highlights downtown Buhl as a candidate area for economic development, recommends the city consider a tourism or visitors’ brochure to showcase amenities, and found that a regional childcare facility could appeal to multiple markets and has a reasonable chance of remaining viable.
Councilor Towner moved, supported by Councilor Loeffler, to approve conducting the feasibility study and to submit a request for awarded funds to CEDA; the motion carried unanimously. During discussion officials said the study is meant to inform private and public partners; whether a future facility would be city‑run or privately operated is unknown and potential local costs are not yet specified.
Why it matters: childcare availability affects workforce stability and economic development; a feasibility study will provide data on demand, operational models and financing options to guide city and partner decisions.
Next steps: the study will be conducted by CEDA and the First Impression Report will be posted on the city website; staff will report back with study results and any grant award information.
