Operations Committee weighs short- and long-term childcare options for staff and community

The Operations Committee of the Mineral Point Unified School District met April 8 and prioritized expanding childcare options for staff and the community, discussing both a short-term option at Hope Lutheran Church and a longer-term plan involving a former Kwik Trip building. According to the meeting minutes, the committee identified "minimal upgrades needed (fence, ADA bathroom, washer/dryer, possible ventilation)" for Hope Lutheran and estimated it could serve about 30 children and be operational by fall as a one- to two-year solution. Alicia Gilkes was assigned to gather full cost estimates for renovations and furnishings.

Committee members also discussed pursuing a potential donation of a former Kwik Trip building as a more scalable, long-term site, noting it could accommodate 50 or more children but would require substantial renovation and a longer timeline. The minutes record that "Dr. Dunn will continue discussions with the city and Kwik Trip about donation details," and that Gilkes will explore funding sources including city revolving loan programs, grants (WEDC, WIBIC), and local community groups. The district and Superintendent Mitch Wainwright signaled potential district support for bulk purchasing and reserved staff childcare spots, but the committee did not take a formal vote and asked staff to return with cost and timeline recommendations.