(Watertown, DC) — Leaders in Watertown are trying to find solutions as an ongoing childcare crisis cripples the Codington County area. County commissioners and other local organizations gathered at Lake Area Tech last night for a meeting to address the issue. Watertown City Manager Amanda Mack reported there’s a lack of about 600 spots needed for childcare in Codington County right now. Some long-term solutions were discussed, such as an idea of a revolving loan fund to support local childcare centers. City officials may also continue to look into repurposing certain buildings to be used for care, but that would have to come with even more additional funding and resources. However, the childcare forum was not an official city or county meeting, so no action could be taken apart from having open conversations with the public.
