Property tax incentive program helps childcare providers
Last month, the Board of Douglas County Commissioners approved a tax incentive program resolution that would offer property tax rebates to qualifying licensed childcare providers to help them reinvest in their operations, workforce and facilities.
Through the program, eligible providers can receive a rebate covering 75% of the County portion of their real and personal property taxes. Providers who offer care for infants and toddlers may qualify for an additional 25%. To participate, providers must be licensed, in good standing and commit to using the funds for approved expenses such as staff retention, facility improvements or educational materials.
Douglas County is the second county in Colorado to adopt this type of program under a new state law allowing local governments to create targeted property tax incentives for community needs, such as childcare. The program was developed through a collaborative, cross-departmental effort and informed by recommendations from local and regional childcare studies.
Data from Douglas County’s Early Childhood Council shows a significant shortage of licensed childcare providers, particularly for infants and toddlers. Current capacity meets only about 16.6% of the estimated need for infant care and about 38% for toddlers.
If approved, applications for the program are expected to open in late spring, with rebates distributed later in the summer. The program will be evaluated annually.
Childcare providers interested in learning more can email Diane Smith at dsmith1@douglasco.gov.
Information and image provided by Douglas County
