Petition for Improved Childcare in La Plata County

Commissioner Clyde Church​, Commissioner Marsha Porter-Norton​, Commissioner​ Matt Salka

We, the undersigned residents of La Plata County, recognize the critical need for accessible and high-quality childcare services within our community. The recent assignment for childcare in La Plata County, as outlined in the document from Good Food Collective, underscores the urgent importance of addressing and improving the childcare options available to Latinx families in our county.

The document provided clearly highlights the challenges and gaps in the current childcare provision, including limited availability of affordable options, lack of support for working parents, and insufficient resources for early childhood development programs. These issues directly impact the well-being of families and the overall success of our community.

We petition for increased funding and support for childcare initiatives in La Plata County, including but not limited to:

  • Expansion of affordable childcare options
  • Implementation of support systems for working parents
  • Enhanced resources and training for early childhood educators
  • Collaboration with local organizations to improve access to childcare services

The document from Good Food Collective presents compelling data and analysis that reinforces the need for urgent action to address the childcare challenges in our county. Additionally, studies such as this report further emphasize the positive impact of quality childcare on children's development and the economy.

It is imperative that we come together as a community to advocate for the improvements outlined in this petition. By signing below, you are demonstrating your support for a stronger, more inclusive childcare system in La Plata County. Together, we can create a better future for our families and children.

PETITION BY

To: Commissioner Clyde Church​, Commissioner Marsha Porter-Norton​, Commissioner​ Matt Salka
From: [Your Name]

La Plata County Commissioners
Clyde Church, Marsha Porter-Norton, Matt Salka
1101 E 2nd Ave
Durango, CO 81301

Dear Commissioners,

We, the undersigned members of the La Plata County community, are writing to express our unwavering support for the redesignation of the Lodger's Tax to provide crucial local funding for childcare in La Plata County. This initiative is not just a step forward for our community; it is an essential move to ensure the well-being and future success of our families and local economy.

Currently, less than 40% of children ages 0-6 in La Plata County have access to early care and education centers, classifying our region as a childcare desert. This scarcity of affordable childcare options keeps many parents, particularly mothers, out of the workforce, which has profound economic implications for our community. The cost burden on families is staggering: for a household with two children, the expense of unsubsidized care consumes 29% of the average household income in La Plata County. This financial strain is unsustainable and detrimental to the growth and stability of our community.

The impact on the Latine community is particularly acute. With the highest labor force participation rate, Latine families have a critical need for accessible and affordable childcare. A staggering 62% of Latina mothers with children under six are part of the workforce. Without reliable childcare, these mothers face insurmountable barriers to employment and economic advancement.

Moreover, the availability of culturally and linguistically relevant programs and resources is essential. Families need access to childcare that respects and integrates their cultural heritage and language, fostering an inclusive environment where all children can thrive. By redesignating the Lodger's Tax to fund childcare, we can address these urgent needs and provide comprehensive support to our diverse community.

Investing in early childhood education is not just a moral imperative; it is an economic necessity. When parents can participate fully in the workforce, businesses benefit from a more stable and productive labor force, and our local economy flourishes. Studies have shown that every dollar invested in early childhood education yields significant returns, including reduced social service costs and increased economic productivity.

The Lodger's Tax was originally created to support our tourism industry, recognizing the vital role it plays in our local economy. It is critical that we also support the needs of the tourism workforce, which is the backbone of this industry. Many workers in the tourism sector face unique challenges, including irregular hours and seasonal employment, which can make securing reliable childcare even more difficult. By directing Lodger's Tax funds to support childcare services, we are directly investing in the stability and sustainability of our tourism workforce. It only makes sense that these funds go to help support the actual services that benefit our tourism industry.

We have a unique opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of our children and families. We urge you to support the redesignation of the Lodger's Tax to fund childcare, ensuring that all children in La Plata County have the opportunity to access quality early education and care. This investment will strengthen our community, support our workforce, and secure a brighter future for all.

Thank you for your attention to this critical issue and your dedication to the well-being of our community. We look forward to your positive action on this matter.

Sincerely,