Child-care strategy part of city's planning
The Record -- New Westminster
25 Jul 2007
By: Theresa McManus
EXCERPT

A child-care strategy is being pushed forward a year in the city's strategic priorities and departmental initiatives.

On June 9, council received a report about the funding strategy for strategic priorities, special projects and corporate departmental initiatives.

During the 2007 budget process, the city identified a number of initiatives as being important projects to move ahead on in order for the city to achieve certain corporate goals…

Coun. Lorrie Williams believes it's important that funding for a child-care strategy be included in the 2007 budget as it's a big issue for many families.

The city had allocated $20,000 in funding in its 2008 budget to identify community child-care needs, priority locations and the city's role in promoting access to child care.

"Child care is an issue in our city, as it is in most cities," Williams said. "There isn't enough quality child care."

Coun. Bob Osterman suggested the city should talk to the school board about the issue as it provides space for before-and-after care facilities.

"We have to make sure young families are able to grow and thrive in our city," said Jonathan Cote.

Council approved a motion to allocate $20,000 from the 2007 allowance for corporate studies to move the child-care strategy project into 2007. …