Marina considers changing its municipal code to promote more childcare options.

Finding a childcare provider can be challenging in Monterey County for various reasons, including affordability, lack of providers and long waiting lists.

“When the process is too burdensome, potential caregivers may become discouraged and walk away,” Marina City Councilmember Jenny McAdams says. “Updating our local policies is a small but meaningful way for the city to show support, appreciation for caregivers, and understanding of the challenges facing working families.”

She was inspired to look at the issue after attending the Cal Cities Community Services Policy Committee meeting in January. She requested the council consider an ordinance to make it easier for childcare and adult care providers to start a commercial or in-home childcare business in the city.

The proposed ordinance includes expanding the zones where these types of businesses can operate and enables them to move into existing commercial spaces, including offices and retail. It would also remove a 300-foot radius restriction between childcare centers.

Council voted unanimously on June 3 to move forward with the ordinance. It is scheduled to return to council for a vote on Tuesday, June 24.

It would align with Senate Bill 234, also known as Keeping Kids Close to Home Act, which became effective in 2020. The law facilitates childcare businesses in residential zones.

California has a childcare crisis. According to kidsdata.org, a program of the nonprofit Population Reference Bureau, only 17 percent of kids ages 0-12 in Monterey and San Benito counties have access to licensed childcare. That’s below the statewide average of 25 percent.

The lack of childcare may cause tragic consequences. In May, the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office arrested Maria and Johanna Marquez for involuntary manslaughter after a 3-month-old died under their care. They were allegedly operating an unlicensed daycare, with up to 30 children, in their home in Royal Oaks.