The daycare’s only condition will be that it will operate between the hours of 6am and 7pm, according to the city council.
Neighbours opposed to the decision were concerned over traffic volume, noise, parking, and the concern that it is a business enterprise and not a publicly run facility or charity organization.
Councillor Tarik Sayeed, who supports the new daycare, commented:
“We’re talking about kids here. I say this very respectfully but as far as for the issues of traffic and noise, deal with it and embrace change.”
Other supporters note that there has been a shortage of affordable daycare in the city, and the new business will benefit young families and Penticton’s future, according to councillors Judy Sentes and Helena Konanz.
Tina Bootsma, owner of the daycare, has said that the business will have staff parking and she informed the council that there will be peak traffic between 7:30am and 9am, and 4pm to 4:30pm. The council, it has been reported, voted 5-1 in favor.
Daycare business proprietors can benefit from flyer printing and other related services, which can help spread information into the community to introduce parents to their child care services.