Snohomish County Council approves ordinance to expand child care availability - Lynnwood Today

The Snohomish County Council has taken a significant step toward alleviating child care shortages by unanimously passing an ordinance that reduces regulatory barriers for providers. Sponsored by Councilmembers Nate Nehring and Jared Mead, the ordinance aims to increase the availability of child care by allowing facilities to operate in more locations and streamlining the permitting process. The county has been identified as a "child care desert," highlighting the urgent need for more affordable options for families. This ordinance simplifies zoning requirements, making it easier for new child care centers to open and expand their services. Public input was crucial in shaping the ordinance, with a panel discussion held to gather insights from child care industry experts.

Council Chair Nate Nehring emphasized the importance of this measure in supporting working parents and bolstering the local workforce. The ordinance is expected to significantly increase the number of available child care slots, addressing a pressing community need. For more information, a complete text of the ordinance is accessible online.