Search PentictonNow
The City of Penticton has received some good news in its effort to improve child-minding services.
Plans to replace the Edmonton Avenue Centre with a new childcare facility have taken an important step forward following news that the Child Care BC New Spaces Fund has approved a capital grant application totalling $2.9 million.
“On behalf of Penticton City Council and parents of children who will benefit from the added childcare spaces, I’d like to thank the Province for this grant and the economic value it will bring through the construction of a new facility,” said Penticton Mayor John Vassilaki.
In partnership with the city, OneSky Community Resources will lead the design, construction and operation of the new building, which will add up to 116 additional childcare spaces in Penticton.
“OneSky is thrilled to be a part of this initiative with the City of Penticton and to support our community,” said OneSky Executive Director Tanya Behardien. “Before COVID, we knew that more quality, affordable child care was an important need for families. We appreciate the support of the Province of BC to help improve this vital resource for families in Penticton.”
With the success of the grant, the city is preparing to initiate the process 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.
As part of this process, the city will also review the proposal for the new childcare facility with interested community members.
More information about opportunities to get involved will be shared as they are confirmed.