CEDCO Seeks $500K for Urgent Child Care Center in Colfax

BREAKING: The Colfax Economic Development Corporation (CEDCO) urgently requests up to $500,000 from the Jasper County Board of Supervisors to support a crucial child care center project in Colfax. This request was presented during a meeting held on October 24, 2023, where CEDCO outlined the immediate need for affordable child care solutions in the region.

With a staggering shortage of over 1,000 daycare spots in Jasper County, the proposed facility aims to alleviate the pressing child care crisis affecting rural communities. The center, which has already broken ground, is backed by a $1.7 million grant from Iowa Workforce Development and is set to be operated by the Colfax-Mingo Community School District upon completion.

Tim Salmon, superintendent of the Colfax-Mingo Community School District and vice-president of CEDCO, emphasized the urgency of the situation. “From my perspective as superintendent, we struggle with our parents finding places for their kids to go,” Salmon stated. “Child care is extremely expensive, and we are committed to keeping our rates as low as possible.”

The projected cost of the Colfax-Mingo Child Care Center is around $3.4 million, featuring a spacious 12,000-square-foot building capable of accommodating 140 children, from newborns to school-age kids. The center will also provide before- and after-school care, addressing a critical need for families in the community.

CEDCO is in the process of raising additional funds, with approximately $850,000-$900,000 still required to fully finance the project. Salmon reassured the board that they are exploring multiple funding options, including private investors and bank loans, should donations fall short.

“People have already signed up to enroll their children, which indicates that the facility will generate revenue,” Salmon explained. However, he cautioned against taking on loans, as this would inevitably increase costs for parents. CEDCO also proposed that the county could consider extending their donation over several years, making the $500,000 request more manageable for the county budget.

While the board of supervisors recognized the significance of CEDCO’s presentation, they deferred making an immediate decision, promising to revisit the request in the coming weeks.

The Colfax-Mingo Child Care Center represents a beacon of hope for families in Jasper County, aiming to create sustainable, affordable child care options that benefit the entire community. As discussions continue, the urgency for action grows, with the future of many local families hanging in the balance.

Stay tuned for further updates on this vital community initiative.