Whereas a significant portion of childcare spaces in many communities are provided by small, private childcare operators, which play a critical role in ensuring accessible and diverse childcare options, particularly in rural and underserved areas; And whereas current government childcare programs, such as the New Spaces Fund, primarily prioritize non-profit, public, and Indigenous providers, limiting access for small private providers and creating financial barriers that may reduce overall childcare availability: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM petition the provincial government to: 1. Expand incentives and financial supports indicated in Budget 2025 for non-profit, public, and Indigenous childcare providers to also include small private childcare operators; 2. Ensure that any public investment into the construction of public buildings, such as schools, hospitals, and libraries, includes dedicated childcare spaces to address growing demand; 3. Provide funding, establish partnerships, and develop initiatives to support the recruitment, training, and certification of Early Childhood Educators ECEs, including specialized training for infant-toddler and special needs care; and 4. Improve communication policies with private childcare providers, ensuring they are actively engaged in policy development and funding allocation discussions.
