In an effort to help reduce hardships encountered by local child care providers, the City Council on Monday approved changes to the City’s zoning regulations pertaining to home-based child care providers.
The City has worked in conjunction with a local task force to help identify ways to make child care more accessible to Bartlesville families after the issue was identified as a priority in the City’s organizational strategic plan, Bartlesville NEXT.
As a result of the collaboration, the following changes to the City’s zoning laws were identified by City staff and approved by the council on Monday:
- Removed size restrictions to allow the requirement of a minor home occupation license rather than a major home occupation license for providers caring for eight or more children
- Extended hours of operation
- Allows on-street parking for pick-up and drop-off
- Eliminates specific requirements for out-door play areas (without compromising safety)
“Under the leadership of Bartlesville Community Foundation Executive Director Laura Jensen, this task force has done fantastic work,” said City Manager Mike Bailey. “I serve as the City’s liaison and have seen first-hand the dedication this group has to making quality, reliable child care in Bartlesville accessible to everyone who needs it. It’s important not only for our children and families, but for our economy and the business community as well. These changes are only a small part of the work to be done, but they are certainly a step in the right direction.”
For more information about operating a home-based child care business, contact the Community Development Department at 918.338.4238.