COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – In an effort to update regulations for child care facilities, the Coldwater Planning Commission recommended to the City Council Monday night that they approve a zoning text amendment which would cover such items as definitions, permitted zoning districts, and operational standards.
City Planning Director Robert Hawley says the proposed amendment is based on the Childcare Readiness Audit and recommendations provided by consultants from McKenna.
He said the goals of the amendment are to:
• Align the City’s Zoning Ordinance with state licensing regulations.
• Expand access to child care to meet local needs.
• And ensure child care facilities are located and designed to maintain neighborhood compatibility and safety.
After a discussion, Hawley reviewed two amendments covering D-1 light industrial zoning districts and for A-A one family agricultural residential zoning districts which were added to the resolution.
Branch County Community Foundation Executive Director Erica Heminger said this was a first step in making child care more accessible in the area.
The Community Foundation received a $60,000 grant in July 2024 from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation to establish and lead a local implementation team aimed at tackling child care access issues in Branch County.
It’s anticipated the City Council will introduce and consider a first reading on the proposed amendment October 13 with a second reading and possible adoption October 27.
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