Brennan Phillips - Western News
Penticton may soon see the arrival of a new childcare facility.
The City of Penticton has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with OneSky Community Resources in support of developing a new childcare facility at Kiwanis Park.
“OneSky has a deep understanding of the community’s childcare needs and an excellent reputation for providing childcare services,” said the city’s director of development services, Blake Laven. “We’re excited to take the next step to work with them to apply for the grant and consult with the community about the proposal.”
Both the City and OneSky are seeking a grant worth up to $3 million for the new facility which would replace the Edmonton Avenue Centre.
“We are so appreciative of the opportunity to partner with the City of Penticton on a proposal for new childcare spaces,” said OneSky executive director Tanya Behardien.
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Behardien explained that OneSky has been a trusted childcare provider in the Kiwanis Park location for 45 years, and added they are excited to help expand childcare support in the community.
The city explained in a release that when reviewing the proposal, residents will be invited to consider the need for a zoning amendment to add daycare as a permitted use in Kiwanis Park. Although Kiwanis Park has been home to two childcare facilities for the past 30 years, childcare is currently not a permitted use in the park.
“We’re pleased that OneSky came forward to work with us on this opportunity,” said Mayor John Vassilaki. “The MOU is the first of several steps that need to fall into place before Council can make a final decision on this proposal.”
If the grant is successful and there is interest in the community in moving forward with the proposal, the City will start the process for the zoning amendment, including a public hearing.
Residents are encouraged to register with Shapeyourcitypenticton.ca to stay informed about this work and share their feedback.
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