Submitted By: Emily Johnson
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Presentation By: Emily Johnson
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Department: Growth Management
STAFF RECOMMENDATION (Motion Ready):
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Adopt Ordinance 2023-52 to amend the supplementary regulations for daycare facility play areas, to accommodate indoor play areas for licensed urban childcare facilities (COD23-45175)
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OCALA'S RELEVANT STRATEGIC GOALS:
Economic Hub, Quality of Place
PROOF OF PUBLICATION:
Star Banner - July 21, 2023 - #9065209
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BACKGROUND: The staff has received an inquiry from a local business owner regarding indoor play areas for daycare facilities. Upon further research, staff discovered that the State has adopted guidelines for urban childcare facilities licensed under s. 65C-22.001 F.A.C. These guidelines allow such facilities to use additional indoor play area space instead of an outdoor play area if outdoor play space is unavailable.
To be classified as an urban day care facility under s. 65C-22.001 F.A.C., a prospective licensee must obtain written documentation from the local governing body confirming that the geographical area has been declared urban. The U.S. Census Bureau classifies the City of Ocala as an urban area. Additionally, the prospective licensee must consult with the licensing authority to confirm that the required outdoor play space, as stated in Section 3.4.4(B) of the Child Care Facility Handbook, either does not exist or cannot be made available. The state licensing authority determines the availability of outdoor play space.
The Planning & Zoning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval at the June 12, 2023, meeting.
FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS: The staff drafted the proposed ordinance. It is consistent with comparable ordinances for similar uses. The proposed amendment is consistent with the City's code of ordinances and with state and local health and safety regulations. Staff recommends approval.
FISCAL IMPACT: N/A
PROCUREMENT REVIEW: N/A
LEGAL REVIEW: The ordinance is ...
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