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Planning Commission backs zoning change to let churches, schools host licensed childcare
Summary
The Planning and Zoning Commission voted 5–1 to recommend that the City Council amend the zoning ordinance (case Z15551-26) to allow licensed childcare centers as accessory uses at active institutional sites, with operational standards to limit neighborhood impacts.
The City of DeSoto Planning and Zoning Commission voted to recommend approval of zoning case Z15551-26, an amendment that would allow licensed childcare centers to operate as accessory uses on the same site as active institutional facilities such as churches, schools and community centers.
Assistant Director of Development Services Jacqueline Colton told the commission the proposal updates the childcare-center definition to align with state law and creates a new “childcare center shared institutional facility” use. Colton said the proposal includes operational standards intended to reduce neighborhood impacts, including limiting outdoor activity hours to 8 a.m.–8 p.m., required fencing/setbacks, on-site queuing and pick-up, and shared parking with the host institution. “We’re proposing updates to the current childcare center definition,” Colton said, summarizing the changes staff recommended.
During the public hearing Gary Reid, speaking for Windsor Park Baptist Church, described a past church-run childcare program and urged the commission to approve the code change so displaced childcare providers could relocate into underused church space. “Our church…set up perfectly well for the childcare facility,” Reid said; he added the change could help expand local childcare options.
Commissioners questioned staff about demand, enforcement and whether the use should be allowed by right or require a Specific Use Permit (SUP). Vice Chair (S6) and Commissioner Alexis (S8) expressed reservations about a by-right approach and favored the SUP route for greater oversight; staff replied that the SUP remains an option and that the SUP fee is $3,000. Staff also said they were aware of one specific request that prompted the proposal but had not completed a citywide demand study.
Chair Brooks called for a motion; Commissioner (S2) moved to approve staff’s recommendation and the motion carried 5–1. The commission’s recommendation now goes to the City Council for final action. The commission’s vote tally was announced as 5 in favor and 1 opposed.
Next steps: The ordinance amendment will be scheduled for City Council consideration; staff noted that if the commission prefers, the city can return with an SUP-based approach to preserve discretionary review and conditions.
