Parksville could be getting a new licensed childcare facility next year, if funding is successful. Council unanimously approved a resolution to work with the Boys and Girls Club of Central Vancouver Island (BGCCVI) to provide a new licensed childcare facility and other associated child, youth and parent programming in the city, according to a media release from the City.
“There is a critical shortage of childcare spaces in Parksville and very few services for youth available in our community. This project will help to meet the childcare needs of families by improving access to high quality care,” said Mayor Ed Mayne.
The City will submit a grant application, in collaboration with the BGCCVI, for the provincial Childcare BC New Spaces Fund to secure funding for a licensed childcare facility.
The project also includes renovating an existing facility, improving accessible playgrounds and professional training and certification opportunities for staff.
“We are pleased to support families with young children, youth and parents in our community,” said Mayne.
The current operating agreement with the Parksville Community Centre Society (PCCS) expires on Dec. 31, 2020, according to the media release. The City provided notice to the PCCS that it will not be entering into a new agreement with the PCCS.
The City will work the BGCCVI to operate a full complement of child, youth and family community services at the Parksville Community Centre in 2021, if the grant process is successful.
Council is investigating opportunities to provide community meeting space options in other facilities, as part of the decision. The City will retain the right to access the facility for community events such as elections, all candidates forums and as an emergency reception centre, as part of any future lease of the Parksville Community Centre.
