SPOKANE, Wash. – The Spokane City Council unanimously voted to adopt an ordinance allowing daycare and childcare centers in all residential and commercial zones.
This decision is part of the city’s “H.O.M.E. Starts Here” initiative, aimed at reducing barriers to employment, including access to affordable childcare.
A Washington Senate bill recently passed requires cities to permit daycare facilities in residential areas. According to a study by the Washington State Department of Children, Youth and Families, less than 30% of families in Spokane County with preschool children have their childcare needs met.
Council member Paul Dillon emphasized the importance of the ordinance.
“How we solve this crisis is expanding our range of option… similar to our housing crisis… it’s going to open up a lot more opportunities,” Dillon stated.
The ordinance’s interim zoning code will be in effect for one year. The city plans to evaluate how to make these measures permanent.
