HomeMy WebLinkAbout20231708.tiffRESOLUTION
RE: APPROVE SERVICE PLAN FOR PROPOSED FIRST FIVE YEARS EARLY
CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT SERVICE DISTRICT
WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, Colorado, pursuant
to Colorado statute and the Weld County Home Rule Charter, is vested with the authority of
administering the affairs of Weld County, Colorado, and
WHEREAS, pursuant to C.R.S. §32-21-101(3), a Service Plan concerning the proposed
First Five Years Early Childhood Development Service District, was filed with the Board of
County Commissioners, and
WHEREAS, on May 22, 2023, by Resolution #2023-1425, the Board of County
Commissioners scheduled a public hearing on the Service Plan to be held at 9:00 a.m. on
June 19, 2023, and
WHEREAS, notice of the date, time, location, and purpose of said hearing was duly
published in The Greeley Tribune, the county legal newspaper, on May 24, 2023; notice was
provided to the Division of Local Affairs of the name and type of the proposed district; and notice
of the date, time and location of said hearing was provided to the Petitioners, and to said
Division, as required by C.R.S. §32-1-202(1), and
WHEREAS, the Board did, on June 19, 2023, conduct a full public hearing on this matter,
taking evidence establishing the jurisdiction of the Board to hear this matter and further taking
evidence regarding the substantive issues set forth in C.R.S. §32-1-203, at which hearing all
interested parties were afforded an opportunity to be heard, and
WHEREAS, on June 19, 2023, the Board, after consideration of all testimony and other
evidence presented to the Board in this matter, finds that the Proposed Service Plan meets the
criteria contained within C.R.S. §32-1-203, and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of County Commissioners of
Weld County, Colorado, that:
Section 1. The Board hereby determines that all of the jurisdictional and other
requirements of C.R.S. §32-1-202 and §32-1-204, have been fulfilled,
including those relating to the filing and form of the Service Plan, the form
and publication of the public hearing of the hearing on the Service Plan,
and the type of public hearing held herein, and that, pursuant to
C.R.S. §32-1-202(1) the petitioners did give proper and timely notification
of the hearing.
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2023-1708
SD0144
APPROVE SERVICE PLAN - FIRST FIVE YEARS EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT
SERVICE DISTRICT
PAGE 2
Section 2. Based upon the information contained within the Service Plan and
evidence presented to the Board at the hearing, the Board hereby finds
and determines as follows:
A. There is sufficient existing and projected need for organized
services of the nature proposed in the Service Plan in the area to
be serviced by the proposed District.
B. The existing services in the area to be served by the proposed
District are inadequate for present and projected needs.
C. The proposed District is capable of providing economical and
sufficient services to the area within its proposed boundaries.
D. The area to be included in the proposed District has, or will have,
the financial ability to discharge the proposed indebtedness on a
reasonable basis.
E. Adequate services are not, and will not be, available to the area
through Weld County or other municipal or quasi -municipal
corporations, including special districts, within a reasonable time
and on a comparable basis.
F. The facilities and service standards of the proposed District are,
or will be, compatible with the facilities and service standards of
Weld County and of each municipality and special district which
is an interested party hereto.
G. The Service Plan is in substantial compliance with the Weld
County Comprehensive Plan and the Weld County Code.
H. The creation of the proposed District will be in the best interest of
the area proposed to be served.
Section 3. The Clerk to the Board be, and hereby is, directed to advise the
Petitioners, in writing, of this action and to attach a certified copy of this
Resolution for the purpose of filing the same with the District Court of
Weld County.
Section 4. All resolutions, or parts thereof, in conflict with the provisions hereof, are
hereby repealed to the extent of such conflict only.
Section 5. This Resolution, immediately upon its passage, shall be authenticated by
the signatures of the Board of County Commissioners and the Clerk to
the Board and sealed with the corporate seal of the County.
2023-1708
SD0144
APPROVE SERVICE PLAN - FIRST FIVE YEARS EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT
SERVICE DISTRICT
PAGE 3
The above and foregoing Resolution was, on motion duly made and seconded, adopted
by the following vote on the 19th day of June, A.D., 2023.
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Weld County Clerk to the Board
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County At orney
Date of signature: °Col aC I a3
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
WELD Yn�COUNTY, COLORADO
Milo -Free nan, Chair
Perry L. Bu
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2023-1708
SD0144
SERVICE PLAN
FOR
FIRST FIVE YEARS EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT SERVICE DISTRICT
Prepared by
Early Childhood Alliance Stakeholders
April 25, 2023
INTRODUCTION
A. Purpose and Intent
The Early Childhood Alliance seeks to create an Early Childhood Development Service District (District), pursuant
to Article 21 of Title 32, to provide "early childhood development services" to children from birth to age five
years. "Early childhood development services are defined to include early care and educational, health, mental
health, and developmental services, including prevention and intervention (C.R.S. 32-21-101 (3))."
An early childhood development services district provides, directly or indirectly, early childhood development
services to children from birth through eight years of age. The District will limit provision of services to children
from birth to five years with a special emphasis on children birth to three years.
Since the publication of the Perry Preschool Study 50 years ago, there has been little question about the benefits
of quality early care and early childhood education to individuals and to society. Life outcomes for individuals
and reduced societal costs make returns on investments of tax revenues in early care and preschool among the
most substantial available to elected officials.
Data reported in the Perry Preschool study indicated that as adults, children enrolled in the Perry Preschool
were: far less likely to be arrested; far less likely to be involved with illegal drugs; less than half as likely to
require public assistance; four times as likely to earn living wages; three times as likely to become homeowners;
and one and a half times more likely to complete high school. (REFERENCE 1)
With these kinds of outcomes in mind, the intent is for the District to create a seamless birth to 5 years delivery
system accessible to families and children, in the service area, with particular focus on children ages birth to
three years.
The District is being created to fund early childhood development services in the District as a public good. The
primary intent of the District is the creation of a dedicated funding stream for early childhood development
services to be used to support a contract -for -services and community partnership approach. The District does
not contemplate capital construction or issuance of debt as part of its organization or service delivery.
The District will align regional efforts to leverage and optimize new state funding and any potential future
investments from federal or state governments and/or private sources. The intent is that the District's Board
will contemplate creating an Advisory Board with representatives from the Colorado Department of Early
Childhood, Weld County Human Services Department, Boulder County Department of Housing and Human
Services, Weld and Boulder Counties Early Childhood Councils, St. Vrain Valley School District, and Boulder
Valley School District to analyze and synthesize data to prioritize the highest and best use of resources.
Any revenues raised or generated by the District shall be in addition to and shall not be used to replace or
supplant any funding the counties in the district would otherwise be entitled to receive from the state or federal
government (C.R.S. 32-21-112).
The District reserves the right in the future to exercise any and all statutory powers, both expressed and implied,
granted by applicable law, including amendments thereto.
B. Need for the District
Currently there are not enough spaces, in the service area, for children ages 0 — 5 to attend licensed early care
and education programs. A recent "Early Childhood Development Service District Needs Assessment" (Brodsky
Research and Consulting, February 27, 2023) demonstrates the total cost required to meet the need for high
quality early childhood education (ECE) in the proposed service area is approximately $104 million. Current
2
available funding in the service area is $32 million leaving a gap between current funding and unmet need of
$72 million. This study is included as Exhibit A.
According to U.S. Census information, there are approximately 20,000 children under the age of five years in the
District's proposed service area. Using data compiled by Wild Plum Center Head Start and Early Head Start for
the St. Vrain portions of Boulder & Weld Counties and Boulder County Head Start Program, there exists capacity
to serve 44.2% of these children in licensed programs in the proposed service area. While this does not
necessarily reflect unmet need, as children may be served in other settings, such as public pre -kindergarten,
informal care, and unlicensed care, and not all families with young children will need or want care, it does
support the need for more services in the proposed service area. (REFERENCE 2)
Many of the children within the District's proposed service area arriving at kindergarten are not ready for
school. It is more efficient and requires fewer resources if educational deficiencies are prevented rather than
remediated after a child enters the compulsory education system.
In July 2020, Colorado narrowed eligibility criteria for early intervention services leaving children who would
have previously qualified for state services in need of services.
Colorado Health Institute data shows that in Colorado, the average childcare cost burden is 28%, meaning over a
quarter of every dollar earned by a median -income family goes towards paying for childcare. The U.S.
Department of Health & Human Services indicates that once childcare costs exceed 7% of a household's income,
it is no longer affordable.
The employees of primary employers and small businesses need access to high -quality, available, and affordable
childcare to stay in the workforce. Workforce stability can only be realized when parents of children needing
early care and/or early education are able to access quality, affordable services.
Unavailable and unaffordable high -quality childcare results in lower labor force participation, greater hiring
difficulties for employers, slower potential growth, smaller tax bases, and smaller families.
America's economic success depends on a high -quality, affordable childcare system that allows parents to enter,
re-enter, and stay in the workforce.
Currently, there is no single governmental entity serving all the families needing services within the District's
proposed service area. The District will communicate, coordinate, and collaborate with other governmental
agencies and profit and non-profit organizations regarding funding from the federal, state, local counties,
municipalities, and school districts to optimize impact and assist in the equitable distribution of resources.
Furthermore, there are currently no other governmental entities, including the County, located in the immediate
vicinity of the District that consider it desirable, feasible or practical to undertake the provision of centralized
early childhood development services. The District seeks to fill a substantial portion of this need in accordance
with its statutory authority upon organization.
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II. DEFINITIONS
In this Service Plan, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated below, unless the context hereof
clearly indicates otherwise, or the term is defined by law:
BOCC's means the Board of County Commissioners of the County of Weld and the County of Boulder, Colorado.
County means the County of Weld and the County of Boulder, Colorado.
County code means the Weld County Code and the Boulder County code, as the same may be amended from
time to time.
District means the First Five Years Early Childhood Development Service District.
District Board means the five -member board of directors that will govern the service district.
Financial Plan means the Financial Plan described in Section VIII which is prepared by a certified public
accountant and describes the estimated operating revenue derived from property taxes for the first three
budget years.
Early Childhood Development Services means services provided to children from birth through eight years of
age, including but not limited to early care and educational, health, mental health, and developmental services,
including prevention and intervention.
Service Plan means this service plan for the District approved by the BOCC's.
Service Plan Amendment means an amendment to the Service Plan approved by the BOCC's in accordance with
applicable state law.
Special District Act means Section 32-1-101 et seq., C.R.S., as amended from time to time.
State means the State of Colorado.
III. GOVERNANCE
Except as otherwise provided in article 21, a District created pursuant to this article 21 shall be governed by the
applicable provisions of the "Special District Act", article 1 of this title 32.
The District will be governed by a five -member board of directors. At the time of the election, eligible voters
shall vote for or against the organization of the special district and for the members of the board who will serve
if the special district is organized.
IV. BOUNDARIES
The District's Service Area includes approximately 435,000 individuals within Weld and Boulder Counties. The
District's service area is generally described as coterminous with the existing boundaries of the Boulder Valley
and St. Vrain Valley School Districts within Weld and Boulder Counties. The District Service Area Boundary Map
is attached hereto as Exhibit B. It is anticipated that the District's Service Area may change from time to time as
it undergoes inclusions and exclusions as permitted by the Special District Act.
Exhibit G contains a list of the municipalities and unincorporated areas within the District.
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V. ASSESSED VALUATION
The current assessed valuation of the District's Service Area is assumed to be $11,772,977,571 for the purposes
of this Service Plan.
VI. PROPOSED POWERS AND SERVICES
The District shall have the power and authority to provide Early Childhood Development Services within and
without the District's Service Area as such power and authority is described in the Special District Act or all other
applicable law, as may be amended or supplemented from time to time.
However, the District Board shall not issue debt or acquire property through eminent domain unless the District
Board has published a forty-five (45) day notice and provided written notice to the Boulder County Board of
County Commissioners and the Weld County Board of County Commissioners (collectively, "the BOCC's"),
pursuant to Section 32-1-207(3((b(, C.R.S. If, within forty-five (45) days of the publication of such notice, either
of the BOCC's express to the District Board a written objection to the issuance of debt or acquisition of property
through eminent domain, then such issuance of debt or acquisition of property through eminent domain by the
District Board without the prior written consent of the BOCC's shall be considered a material modification of the
Service Plan and shall be resolved in accordance with Section 32-1-207(2), C.R.S. The vote by the District Board
to issue debt or acquire property through eminent domain must occur at a public meeting of the District Board
for which the District Board has published an additional notice at least fourteen (14) days and not more than
thirty (30) days in advance of such meeting. Such notice shall include the date, time, and location of the
meeting, as well as a general description of the matters to be considered.
The District intends to primarily provide its services through contracts, or similar instruments, with nonprofit
and for-profit providers and government agencies. The District will seek to collaborate with both Weld and
Boulder County Departments of Human Services and Community Services, as well as Early Childhood Councils in
Boulder and Weld County, St. Vrain Valley School District, and Boulder Valley School District to continually assess
unmet needs, and to reach agreement on service and program priorities and identify highest need beneficiaries.
The District will primarily focus on providing Early Childhood Development Services to children living within the
District's Service Area that are between the ages of 0 and 5. A general description of the proposed services
follows:
Outreach, navigation & assistance services to families in the service area.
The services will be used to raise awareness about the value and importance of high -quality, affordable, and
accessible Early Childhood Development Services and the availability of services and resources to local families.
The District will work with Local Coordinating Organizations (LCOs) in Weld and Boulder Counties, and use Head
Start needs assessment information along with data from area municipalities to access existing information and
identify families with unmet service needs.
Navigation services will be used to establish and maintain an easy -to -access information system that provides
details on all early care and education resources in the District's Service Area through a single resource such as a
single-entry universal waiting list.
Assistance services will be tailored to the needs of individual families looking for early care and education
programs, including, but not limited to, assistance in applying for publicly funded tuition subsidy programs (e.g.,
those funded by the District, as well as state and federally funded programs).
5
Supplements to federal, state, county, and foundation funding for early care and education programs for
families with young children in the service area using a sliding -scale tuition subsidy framework with the highest
subsidy going to families with the greatest needs as determined by family income, family size, families receiving
WIC benefits (supplemental nutrition program), children with disabilities, and other relevant contributing
factors.
Subsidies will be used to assist families with costs for early care and educational programs for infants, toddlers,
and preschoolers (children ages birth until kindergarten enrollment) who live within the geographic boundaries
of the District depending on the availability of funds.
Parents will have the ability to choose the early care and education program that best suits their needs from an
inclusive mix of early care and education providers, including, but not limited to, public schools, charter schools,
community -based and/or family childcare homes (e.g., family friends and neighbors), and Head Start programs.
Unlicensed providers will be required to provide evidence of having completed a recognized training program to
qualify for District funding. Examples of recognized training programs might include those provided by Early
Childhood Councils in Weld and Boulder Counties, Colorado Statewide Parents Coalition, Front Range
Community College, Aims Community College, University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado State University,
University of Northern Colorado, St. Vrain School District and Boulder Valley School District.
The District will not operate early care and education programs or guarantee access/enrollment at any program.
Rather, it will help families to find and fund early care and education programs.
Support for licensed and unlicensed providers of early care and education, both existing and new, to grow their
capacity will increase access to high -quality programs in the Service Area.
Establish a grants program to support early care and education providers including, but no limited to, obtaining
and maintaining a state childcare license; increasing, renovating, or improving education facilities; acquiring
equipment and learning materials; supporting workforce development and retention efforts; and meeting
standards through voluntary participation in the District's quality Assurance process.
In collaboration with local community participants, the District will develop and implement an alternative
credentialing option for area providers, independent of state or federal regulatory agencies.
Establish a grants program and work with local health providers to provide early childhood mental health
services, child nutrition programs, screening and early intervention services, and other health related programs
authorized by the District Board for the benefit of young children.
Exhibit F contains a list of Government and non -governmental organizations with which the applicants
contemplate the District working.
VII. QUALITY ASSURANCE MEASURES
The District will adopt policies and procedures for operations and grantmaking that are equitable, effective,
transparent, and adhere to all applicable legal requirements. The District policies and procedures will include: a)
Employing staff with content expertise in areas such as early childhood development, quality assurance, early
childhood education coaching, and compliance; b) Utilizing grantmaking practices adapted from grant making
governmental entities and nonprofits that benefit target populations; c) Engaging outside experts to conduct
periodic performance reviews and evaluation of the District's operations and grantmaking procedures; d)
Applicants have identified and contemplate the District using the Colorado Department of Early Childhood
Quality Rating Standards (or whatever equivalent standards the State Office of Early Childhood adopts) as the
criteria for maintaining and/or raising quality of program and service delivery; e) Recruiting, training and
6
preparing volunteers to implement a site -visitation process to apply the Quality Rating Standards (or whatever
equivalent standards the State Office of Early Childhood adopts) to operations and programs of unlicensed
providers participating in the District's quality assurance process.
The District will implement transparent financial operations by: a) Developing and adhering to a procurement
policy consistent with effective, equitable, and transparent purchasing decisions; b) Engaging a certified public
accounting firm, e.g. CliftonLarsenAllen LLP (CLA), to assist with financial policy implementation along with
setting up accounting procedures and practices, and contracting with a qualified accounting firm to complete
annual audits of its financial practices to ensure compliance with the Colorado Local Government Audit Law; and
c) Publishing an annual report documenting the District's activities and expected and actual financial position.
The District's operations will comply with applicable federal, state, and local legal requirements by: a)
Requiring that the District's grant recipients comply with all applicable state and local licensing and permit
requirements; b) Adopting policies and procedures for the distribution of funds obtained through grants or
government programs; and c) Coordinating with county and municipal authorities to avoid unnecessary
duplication or redundancy of programs and services.
VIII. FINANCIAL PLAN
The District will be financed through a voter -approved property tax of up to five mills that will be placed on the
ballot along with specifics on the organization of the special district. If approved, mill levies will be phased in
with two mills imposed in 2023, three mills in 2024, and five mills in 2025. The Financial Plan, prepared by CLA,
is based on this phased -in assessment approach levied on the property within the service area referenced in
Section IV.
The maximum mill levy the District is permitted to impose upon the taxable property within the District for
payment shall be five (5) mills ("Maximum Mill Levy"); provided, however, that the District may propose to
increase the Maximum Mill Levy, subject to voter approval, by first publishing a forty-five (45) day notice and
provide written notice to the BOCC's, pursuant to Section 32-1-207(3((b(, C.R.S. If, within forty-five (45) days of
the publication of such notice, either of the BOCC's express to the District Board a written objection to the
proposed Maximum Mill Levy increase, then the increase in the Maximum Mill Levy by the District Board
without the prior written consent of the BOCC's shall be considered a material modification of the Service Plan
and shall be resolved in accordance with Section 31-1-207(2), C.R.S. The vote by the District Board to propose an
increase to the Maximum Mill Levy to voters must occur at a public meeting of the District Board for which the
District Board has published an additional notice at least fourteen (14) days and not more than thirty (30) days in
advance of such meeting to all electors, residents and landowners within the District. Such notice shall include
the date, time, and location of the meeting, as well as a general description of the matters to be considered.
The District may also receive gifts, grants, and donations. Additionally, the District can contract with federal and
state entities.
A detailed financial plan and supporting certification can be found in Exhibit C.
IX. CONSTRUCTION
The District does not contemplate constructing any facilities or buildings at this time. It is intended that the
District will accomplish its objectives primarily through grantmaking, contracting, and direct service payments to
early education providers operating within the District's Service Area. If a grant recipient or contractor proposes
to use funds obtained from the District to construct a facility or building, the District's grant application will
require that the grant recipient comply with all applicable building codes and permitting processes.
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If the District later determines that its operations require the construction of a facility or building, the District
Board shall publish a forty-five (45) day notice and provide written notice to the BOCC's, pursuant to Section 32-
1-207(3)(b), C.R.S. If, within forty-five (45) days of the publication of such notice, either of the BOCC's express to
the District Board a written objection to the proposed facility construction, then such construction by the
District without the prior written consent of the BOCC's shall be considered a material modification of the
Service Plan and shall be resolved in accordance with Section 32-1-207(2), C.R.S. The vote by the District Board
to construct a facility must occur at a public meeting of the District Board for which the District Board has
published an additional notice at least fourteen (14) days and not more than thirty (30) days in advance of such
meeting to all electors, residents, and landowners within the District. Such notice shall include the date, time,
and location of the meeting, as well as a general description of the matters to be considered.
X. LEASING
The District does not contemplate acquiring any land or facilities at this time. The District intends accomplishing
its objectives primarily through grantmaking, contracting, and direct service payments to early education service
providers operating within the District's Service Area. The District may make grants to recipients that intend to
use the funds to acquire or lease land or facilities, in which case the grant will condition the funds to ensure that
any acquisition or lease of land or facilities (1) occurs only in the District's Service Area and (2) is issued for the
purpose of providing Early Childhood Development Services.
The District will seek to lease office space to support its operations. Any such lease will be made on
commercially reasonable terms, and the office space leased by the District will be no more than is reasonably
necessary to support the District's operations. The District may seek to coordinate leasing of office space with a
partner organization in order to achieve economies of scale and to maximize the efficient use of funds. The
District will lease office space within the Service Area and will seek to find a location centrally located within the
District's region that is reasonably accessible from all parts of the District.
XI. ARRANGEMENT OR PROPOSED AGREEMENT WITH ANY POLITICAL SUBDIVISION
The District will seek to negotiate agreements with relevant political subdivisions and intends to coordinate and
engage closely with political subdivisions through intergovernmental agreements (IGAs) and with nonprofit and
for-profit organizations through memoranda of understandings (MOUs), or similar contracts for service, to
ensure the effective implementation of the District's programs, to ensure mutually supporting efficiencies, and
to avoid duplication of efforts. Sample template forms of the IGA and MOU that the District would work from
are attached hereto as Exhibits D and E.
XII. CONCLUSION
It is submitted that this Service Plan for the District, as required by C.R.S 32-1-203 establishes that:
1. There is sufficient existing and projected need for organized service in the area to be serviced by the
District;
2. The existing service and programs in the area to be served by the District are insufficient for present
and projected needs;
3. The District is capable of providing necessary and sufficient economic and logistical support to the
area within its proposed boundaries;
4. Sec. 32-21-113 authorizes the District to contract for, and work cooperatively with, other service
providers to deliver services and provide facilities in the service area;
5. Sec. 32-1-1001(1)(d)(I): Authorizes general contracting authority for special districts;
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6. Sec. 29-1-203: Authorizes the District's ability to cooperate by contract (i.e., Intergovernmental
Agreement authority);
7. Funding for adequate service is not, and will not be, available to the area through existing funding
streams or mechanisms;
8. Service and program standards for providers in the District are comparable to Colorado's Standards
and Quality Rating;
9. The creation of the District is in the best interests of the area proposed to be served; and
10. The creation of the District is in the best interests of the residents and future residents of the area
proposed to be served.
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EXHIBITS
A. Early Childhood Development Service District Needs Assessment
B. District Service Area Boundary Map
C. District Financial Plan and supporting certification
D. Template for a District Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA)
E. Template for a District Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
F. Community Advisors (Government and Non -governmental Organization with which the applicants
contemplate the District working)
G. Municipalities and Unincorporated Areas in the District's Service Area
REFERENCES
1. Wilson, John J. United States Dept. of Justice. Juvenile Justice Bulletin. The High/Scope Perry Preschool
Project. Rockville, MD. https://www.oip.gov/pdffilesl/oiidp/181725.pdf
2. Foundation for Families. Community Assessment: Joint Report of Boulder County and Wild Plum Head
Start/Early Head Start. August 2022.
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EXHIBIT A
N _
BRODSKY
�. �. Research and Consulting
Early Childhood Development Service District Needs Assessment
February 27, 2023
In response to the Alliance's request for analysis and estimates related to early
childhood care in the District's service area, Brodsky Research and Consulting (BRC) is
pleased to submit this memorandum. BRC is an education research consulting firm
based in Longmont, CO. Founded in 2013, the company's mission is to help build early
childhood systems for all children through evidence -based research and policy analysis.
In support of the Alliance's objective to determine the economic realities of child care
and educational opportunity for children under 5 in the District, we have estimated the
following based on the current data:
1. The total cost required to meet the need for high -quality ECE in the District,
including current available service and unmet need, is approximately $104 million.
This figure is based on the distribution of income around the District, the cost for
families to access child care, and likely participation rates in child care and/or other
activities.
2. The current met need for ECE in the District, based on expected funding levels for
early childhood resources available to the population to be served, is approximately
$32 million.
3. The cost to address unmet need -- the gap between current met need and total need
— is approximately $72 million. This need is primarily concentrated among infants
and toddlers (ages birth through three).
The table on the following page presents the current need, unmet need, and total need
estimate by age.
Age
Current
Met Need
Total Need
Unmet
Need
Cost
Full
-Time
Slot
Per
Participation
Estimate
Rate
Age 0
$1.2
$17.4
$16.2
$19,107
30%
Age 1
$1.2
$22.7
$21.5
$18,700
40%
Age 2
$1.2
$20.0
$18.7
$14,595
45%
Age 3
$7.0
$20.1
$14.4
$11,587
50%
Age 4
$22.1
$23.3 i
$1.3
$10,985
60%
I
$31.7
$103.9
$72.1
$14,066
45%
Total
Discussion
To determine the total need in the community, we considered several factors: (1) the
number of children ages 0-5 by each year of age, (2) the varying levels of family income
throughout the District, and (3) the cost for families to access care based on provider
type, setting, age of child, and quality care rating.
The other factor we considered when forecasting overall community is the rate of
program participation for each child by age, as well as their need for part- or full-time
care. While estimating participation rates can be difficult given the variation in families'
unique circumstances and preferences, we used reasonable projections based on the
experiences of other similar initiatives recently implemented including the Denver
Preschool Program, Colorado Universal Preschool Program (UPK), and other states'
UPK programs.
We determined the current met need for care in the District using data from existing
programs with dedicated funding streams. These include Early Head Start, Head Start,
Colorado Child Care Assistance Program, and UPK. Our analyses assume that funding
from the sunsetting Colorado Preschool Program is incorporated into these funding
streams. we identified the number of children currently served by the total dollars
allocated to these existing programs, taking into account each child's age, level of
participation, and family income level,
To estimate the current unmet need for early childhood programming in the District,
we examined the difference between the total amount of care needed in the community
(or demand for care) and the currently funded levels of programming to serve children
in the District (or supply of care). The difference, or "gap", represents the under -
2
resourced portion of early childhood programming that the Alliance aims to support by
facilitating the provision of services for families who seek them.
The estimate of unmet need reflects the anticipated resources required to incentivize
providers in the District to offer reliable, adequate, high -quality programming,
equivalent to national accreditation benchmarks. It also provides the Alliance with a
useful goalpost as they seek supplemental sources of funding from the District, grant
opportunities, and varied private, public, and philanthropic sources.
Extensive data and evidence have been used to derive the estimates through a tested
and validated cost model, which incorporates information on mixed service delivery
providers, care settings, types of care, quality of care, workforce (such as salaries, living
wages, benefits, incentives, professional development, and recruiting/retention),
economic indicators (urban/rural differences, costs of living/housing burden, inflation,
prevalence of economic insecurity, and opportunity for economic mobility) and
demographics (population ages, household compositions, fertility rates, etc.).
For additional information, please contact Andrew Brodsky, President of Brodsky
Research and Consulting (andrew@brodskyresearch.com or 303-579-4173).
3
DISTRICT SERVICE AREA BOUNDARIES
EXHIBIT B
The District's service area is generally described as coterminous with the existing boundaries of the Boulder
Valley and St. Vrain Valley School Districts within Weld and Boulder Counties.
Page 1of1
First Five Years Early Childhood Development Service District EXHIBIT C
Financial Plan Income Statement Updated 4/11/2023
Based on a Phased -in Mill Levy
2 Mill collection 3 Mill collection 5 Mill collection
Income in 2024 in 2025 in 2026
Taxes - Income from Mill Levy $23,896,790 $35,845,185 $60,936,814
Specific Ownership Tax $1,433,807 $2,150,711 $3,656,209
Carry Forward $0 $20,381,154 $2,143,224
Total Income + Carry Forward $25,330,597 $58,377,050 $66,736,247
Expenses
Contracted -for -Services - Grants, Program and
$0 $50,412,096 $57,969,811
Assistance Services Awards, Subsidies
Total Salaries, payroll taxes, and benefits $1,041,300 $1,735,500 $1,822,275
Provider/Family Interface Services and other
$2,924,010 $2,924,010 $3,118,944
Operational Technology
Coordinated Needs Assessment, Data System, and
$75,000 $50,000 $50,000
Evaluation
Office Rental $322,560 $403,200 $415,296
Legal, Accounting, Insurance, and Other
$150,000 $150,000 $150,000
Professional Fees
Office Expenses, Equipment & Supplies, Printing,
$60,000 $6,000 $6,360
etc.
Payroll System $1,320 $2,640 $2,798
Information Technology - website, etc. $10,000 $5,000 $5,300
Meetings, and associated travel $5,000 $5,000 $5,000
County Treasurer's 1.5% Fee $360,253 $540,380 $918,645
Total Expenses
Carry Forward
Analysis
Total Expenses, excluding Grants
% of Total New Mill Revenue
$4,949,443 $56,233,826 $64,464,430
$20,381,154 $2,143,224 $2,271,818
$4,949,443 $5,821,730 $6,494,619
20% 15% 10%
EXHIBIT C (Cont.)
FIRST FIVE YEARS EARLY CHILDHOOD
DEVELOPMENT SERVICE DISTRICT
FORECASTED SURPLUS CASH BALANCES
AND
CASH RECEIPTS AND DISBURSEMENTS
APRIL 13, 2023
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
Accountant's Compilation Report 1
Forecast
Summary 2
Schedule of Estimated Assessed Valuation 3
Summary of Significant Forecast Assumptions and Accounting Policies 4
CliftonLarsonAllen LLP
CLAconnect.com
ACCOUNTANT'S COMPILATION REPORT
The Board of Directors of
First Five Years Early Childhood Development Service District
Boulder and Weld Counties, Colorado
Management is responsible for the accompanying forecasted surplus cash balances and cash
receipts and disbursements of First Five Years Early Childhood Development Service District
(the "District") for the General Fund using the cash basis of accounting for the calendar years
ending 2024 through 2026 (the "forecast") and the related summary of significant assumptions
and accounting policies in accordance with the cash basis of accounting, and for determining
that the cash basis of accounting is an acceptable financial reporting framework. We have
performed a compilation engagement of the forecast in accordance with Statements on
Standards for Accounting and Review Services promulgated by the Accounting and Review
Services Committee of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants ("AICPA"). We did
not examine or review the forecast nor were we required to perform any procedures to verify the
accuracy or completeness of the information provided by management. Accordingly, we do not
express an opinion, a conclusion, nor provide any form of assurance on the forecast.
Furthermore, because events and circumstances frequently do not occur as expected, there will
usually be differences between the forecasted and actual results, and those differences may be
material. We have no responsibility to update this report for events and circumstances occurring
after the date of this report.
As discussed in Note 3, the forecast is presented on the cash basis of accounting, whereas the
historical financial statements for the forecast period are expected to be presented in conformity
with generally accepted accounting principles on the accrual basis for government wide
statements and the modified accrual basis for individual fund financial statements for all funds of
the District by fund type.
Guidelines for presentation of a forecast established by the AICPA require disclosure of the
differences resulting from the use of a different basis of accounting in the forecast than that
expected to be used in the historical financial statements for the period. Accordingly, if the
AICPA presentation guidelines were followed, the titles in the forecast would indicate that the
presentation reflects the following: surplus cash balances and the cash received and disbursed
rather than net position or fund balances and the revenue and expenses or expenditures that
would be recognized under generally accepted accounting principles based on the accrual basis
and the modified accrual basis of accounting.
We are not independent with respect to the District.
Greenwood Village, Colorado
April 13, 2023
C,global.com/disclaimer
FIRST FIVE YEARS EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT SERVICE DISTRICT
FORECASTED SURPLUS CASH BALANCES AND CASH RECEIPTS AND DISBURSEMENTS
GENERAL FUND FUND ONLY
SUMMARY
FOR THE CALENDAR YEARS ENDING 2024 THROUGH 2026
Collection
Year
2023
2024
2025
2026
Assessed
Value
(See Page 3)
11,772, 977, 571
12,008,437,122
12,008,437,122
12,248,605,865
Mill Levy
Cash Receipts
General Fund
General
Fund
2.000
3.000
5.000
Property
Taxes
99.50%
Specific
Ownership
Taxes
6.00%
23,896,790
35,845,185
60,936,814
1,433,807
2,150,711
3,656,209
120,678,789 7,240,727
Total
Cash
Receipts
25,330,597
37,995,896
64, 593, 023
127, 919, 516
Cash Disbursements
Contracted -for -
Services - Grants,
Program and
Salaries,
Payroll Taxes,
Purchased
County
Treasurers
Assistance Services
and Benefits
Services
Fee
Award, Subsidies
1.50%
50,412,096
57,969,811
1,041,300
1,735,500
1,822,275
3,547,890
3,545,850
3,753,698
360,253
540,380
918,645
Total
Cash
Disbursements
4,949,443
56, 233, 826
64,464,429
108,381,907 4,599,075 10,847,438 1,819,278
125,647,698
Cash Balances
Annual
Surplus
Cash
(Deficit)
20, 381,154
(18, 237, 930)
128,594
Cumulative
Surplus
Cash
Balances
20, 381,154
2,143,224
2,271, 818
Collection
Year
2024
2025
2026
2,271, 818
This financial information should be read only in connection with the accompanying Summary of Significant Forecast Assumptions and Accounting Policies and Accountant's Report.
Page 2
FIRST FIVE YEARS EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT SERVICE DISTRICT
FORECASTED SURPLUS CASH BALANCES AND CASH RECEIPTS AND DISBURSEMENTS
GENERAL FUND FUND ONLY
SCHEDULE OF ESTIMATED ASSESSED VALUATION
FOR THE CALENDAR YEARS ENDING 2024 THROUGH 2026
Boulder Valley RE -2
St. Vrain Valley RE 1J
School District
School District
Total AV
Year
Boulder County
Boulder County
Weld County
(To Page 2)
2023
6,833,401,721
2,394,474,512
2,545,101,338
11,772,977,571
2024
6,970,069,755
2,442,364,002
2,596,003,365
12,008,437,122
2025
6,970,069,755
2,442,364,002
2,596,003,365
12,008,437,122
2026
7,109,471,151
2,491,211,282
2,647,923,432
12,248,605,865
This financial information should be read only in connection with the accompanying Summary of Significant Forecast Assumptions and Accounting Policies and Accountant's Report.
Page 3
FIRST FIVE YEARS EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT SERVICE DISTRICT
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT FORECAST ASSUMPTIONS
AND ACCOUNTING POLICIES
APRIL 13, 2023
NOTE 1) NATURE AND LIMITATION OF FORECAST
This forecast of financial information is for the purpose of a financial analysis of the General
Fund of the proposed First Five Years Early Childhood Development Service District (the
"District"), located in Boulder and Weld Counties (the "Counties"), Colorado. The forecast
displays how the proposed General Fund will be funded from forecasted cash receipts and
disbursements for the District under the following assumptions.
This financial forecast presents, to the best knowledge and belief of the members of the Early
Childhood Alliance (collectively, "Management"), the District's expected cash position and
results of cash receipts and disbursements for the forecast period for the General Fund.
Accordingly, the forecast reflects Management's judgment, as of April 13, 2023, the date of this
forecast, of the expected conditions within the District and the District's expected course of
action. The forecast is consistent with the District's proposed Service Plan and Management's
intentions.
The assumptions disclosed herein are those that Management believes are significant to the
forecast; however, they are not all-inclusive. There will usually be differences between
forecasted and actual results because events and circumstances frequently do not occur as
expected, and those differences may be material.
The World Health Organization has declared the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019
("COVID-19") a world-wide pandemic. COVID-19 is impacting global markets, supply chains,
businesses, and communities. With regard specifically to the District, the full impact of COVID-
19 on future development and resultant growth in assessed valuation as presented in the
forecast is unknown.
Certain assumptions are based on general environmental factors that are beyond any entity's
ability to predict, such as the rate of inflation. Assumptions relating to the assessed value of the
Service Area, and the rate of inflation are particularly sensitive as they relate to the forecast. A
small variation in these assumptions could have a large effect on the forecasted results. There
is a high probability that the forecasted assessed values derived from these assumptions will
vary from the actual future assessed values.
The forecast is expressed in terms of 2023 dollars, with adjustments for inflation. The assessed
value of the District is forecasted to increase 2% biennially pursuant to the reassessment of
property required by State statute, starting in 2024.
Certain capitalized terms in this forecast may not be defined herein. The reader of this forecast
should refer to the proposed Service Plan for such definitions.
Page 4
FIRST FIVE YEARS EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT SERVICE DISTRICT
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT FORECAST ASSUMPTIONS
AND ACCOUNTING POLICIES
APRIL 13, 2023
NOTE 2) THE DISTRICT
The District is being created to fund early childhood development services in the District as a
public good. The primary intent of the District is the creation of a dedicated funding stream for
early childhood development services to be used to support a contract -for -services and
community partnership approach. The District does not contemplate capital construction or
issuance of debt as part of organization or service delivery.
The District's service area is generally described as coterminous with the existing boundaries of
the Boulder Valley and St. Vrain Valley School Districts within Weld and Boulder Counties.
NOTE 3) BASIS OF ACCOUNTING
The basis of accounting for this forecast is the cash basis, which is a basis of accounting that is
different from that required by the generally accepted accounting principles under which the
District will prepare its financial statements.
NOTE 4) PROPERTY TAXES
The primary source of revenue or cash receipts will be ad valorem property taxes. Property
taxes are levied by the District's Board of Directors. The levy is based on assessed valuations
determined by the County Assessor generally as of January 1 of each year. The levy is
expressed in terms of mills. A mill is equal to 1/10 of one cent per dollar of assessed valuation.
The levy is normally set by December 15 by certification to the County Commissioners to put
the tax lien on the individual properties as of January 1 of the following year. The County
Treasurer collects the determined taxes during the ensuing calendar year.
The property taxes resultant from the mill levy and assessed valuation have been reduced by
0.5% to allow for uncollectible taxes.
Operations Mill Levy
Pursuant to the District's proposed Service Plan, a maximum mill levy of 5.000 mills is
authorized to support operations and maintenance of the District. The District is expected to levy
an operations mill levy of 2.000 mills beginning in 2023 (for tax collection in 2024). The forecast
assumes the District will increase the mills levied to 3.000 for collection in 2025, and to 5.000 for
collection in 2026.
County Treasurer's Fee
The County Treasurers' 1.50% fee for collection of property taxes is displayed in the forecast as
cash disbursements.
Page 5
FIRST FIVE YEARS EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT SERVICE DISTRICT
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT FORECAST ASSUMPTIONS
AND ACCOUNTING POLICIES
APRIL 13, 2023
NOTE 5) SPECIFIC OWNERSHIP TAXES
Specific ownership taxes are set by the State and collected by the County Treasurers, primarily
on vehicle licensing within the Counties as a whole. The specific ownership taxes are allocated
by the County Treasurers to all taxing entities within the County. The forecast assumes that the
District's share will be equal to approximately 6% of the net property taxes collected by the
General Fund.
NOTE 6) INTEREST INCOME
Interest income associated with other cash balances has not been considered in this forecast.
NOTE 7) CONTRACTED -FOR -SERVICES
Beginning in 2025, the District is expected to award grants/service awards to provide early
childhood development services. The District will not operate early care and education
programs or guarantee access/enrollment at any program. The program is intended to help
families to find and fund early care and education programs within the Districts service area. A
grants program will be established to support early care and education providers including, but
not limited to, obtaining and maintaining a state childcare license; increasing, renovating, or
improving education facilities; acquiring equipment and learning materials; supporting workforce
development and retention efforts; and meeting standards through voluntary participation in the
District's quality assurance program.
NOTE 8) SALARIES, PAYROLL TAXES AND BENEFITS
The District anticipates hiring staff with expertise in areas such as early childhood development,
quality assurance, early childhood education coaching and compliance. The District estimates
salaries, payroll, taxes and benefits will begin in May of 2024. The forecast includes the District
estimates for salaries, payroll, taxes and benefits.
NOTE 9) PURCHASED SERVICES
Purchased services include, but are not limited to: office rental, office expenses, equipment,
payroll systems, IT services, operational technology, legal, auditing, and other professional fees.
The District does not contemplate constructing any facilities or buildings at this time. It is
intended that the District will accomplish its objectives primarily through grantmaking,
contracting, and direct service payments to early education providers operating within the
District's Service Area.
This information should be read in connection with the accompanying Accountant's Report and
forecast of financial information.
Page 6
EXHIBIT D
INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT
REGARDING DELIVERY OF EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
This Intergovernmental Agreement (this "Agreement") is entered into on , 20_, by and
between FIRST FIVE YEARS EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT SERVICE DISTRICT, a quasi -
municipal corporation and political subdivision of the State of Colorado (the "District"), and
, a (the " "), (the District and the
may be referred to herein individually as a "Party" or collectively as the "Parties").
RECITALS
WHEREAS, the District is an early childhood development service district organized and operating
pursuant to § 32-21-101 et seq., C.R.S., as amended; and
WHEREAS, the District was primarily organized to provide a consistent funding mechanism to support
the delivery of early childhood development services within the District service area; and
WHEREAS, the is a organized and operating pursuant to
§ et seq., C.R.S., as amended; and
WHEREAS, the presently provides services to the citizens of its
service area and has identified an opportunity to partner with the District in the delivery of the common
services; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the provisions of the Colorado Constitution, Article XIV, Section 18(2)(a) and (b)
and § 29-1-203, C.R.S., the District and desire to enter into this Agreement to define the
relationship of the Parties and to provide a common service in the best interests of the citizens of each
Party.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration for the mutual promises contained herein, and other good and
valuable consideration, which is hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:
1.
2.
3.
4. TERM AND TERMINATION. This Agreement shall commence upon execution and shall continue in
effect for a term of one (1) year ("Initial Term"). Upon the expiration of the Initial Term, this Agreement
shall renew automatically for successive one (1) year terms. This Agreement may be terminated at any
time by mutual agreement of the Parties or upon one Party giving the other Party ninety (90) days prior
written notice.
5. TABOR. All financial obligations of the Parties under this Agreement are contingent upon annual
appropriation, budgeting, and availability of specific funds to discharge such financial obligations.
Page 1 of 3
Nothing in this Agreement shall be deemed to create a debt or multiple fiscal year financial obligation,
a pledge of the credit, or a collection or payment guarantee by either Party.
6. NOTICES. Any notice required or permitted by this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed
to have been sufficiently given for all purposes if sent by certified or registered mail, postage and fees
prepaid, addressed to the Party to whom such notice is intended to be given at the address set forth
below or otherwise provided by either Party in writing. Such notice shall be deemed to have been
given when deposited in the U.S. Mail, or when delivered electronically, read -receipt requested and
received by the sending Party.
DISTRICT:
[Other Party]:
7. NO THIRD -PARTY BENEFICIARIES. None of the terms, conditions or covenants set forth in this
Agreement shall give or allow any claim, benefit or right of action by any third person not a party to
this Agreement. Any person other than the Parties to this Agreement who or which receive services
or benefits under this Agreement shall be only an incidental beneficiary.
8. GOVERNING LAW AND VENUE. This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of
Colorado. Venue for any legal proceeding arising from or related to this Agreement shall be proper
only in County, Colorado.
9. GOVERNMENTAL IMMUNITY. No provision of this Agreement shall be construed as a waiver,
express or implied, of any, immunities or defenses provided to the Parties by applicable law, including
but not limited to the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act, § 24-10-101 et seq., C.R.S., as amended.
10. ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION. In the event of any dispute or claim arising under or
related to this Agreement, the Parties shall use their best efforts to settle such dispute or claim through
good faith negotiations with each other. If such dispute or claim is not settled through negotiations
within thirty (30) days after the earliest date on which one Party notifies the other Party in writing of
its desire to attempt to resolve such dispute or claim through negotiations, then the Parties agree to
attempt in good faith to settle such dispute or claim by mediation conducted under the auspices of
the Judicial Arbiter Group (JAG) of Denver, Colorado or, if JAG is no longer in existence, or if the
Parties agree otherwise, then under the auspices of a recognized, established mediation service
within the State of Colorado. Such mediation shall be conducted within sixty (60) days following either
Party's written request therefor. The Parties shall share the costs of such mediation equally. If such
dispute or claim is not settled through mediation, then either Party may initiate a civil action in the
local District Court of County.
11. ATTORNEYS' FEES. For any dispute arising from or related to this Agreement, the prevailing party
shall be entitled to an award of reasonable attorneys' fees and costs.
Page 2 of 3
12. INTEGRATION; AMENDMENT; ASSIGNMENT. This Agreement represents the entire agreement
between the Parties and there are no oral or collateral agreements or understandings. This
Agreement may be amended only by an instrument in writing signed by the Parties. This Agreement
may be assigned only upon the written approval of the non -assigning Party, which approval shall not
be unreasonably withheld.
13. SEVERABILITY. If any provision of this Agreement is deemed unenforceable or void by a court of
competent jurisdiction, such provision shall be deemed severable and the remainder of this
Agreement shall continue in full force and effect.
14. COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which
shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and the same
instrument.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have executed this Agreement on the date first written above.
FIRST FIVE YEAR EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DISTRICT
By:
Its:
Attest:
By:
Its:
Page 3 of 3
EXHIBIT E
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
REGARDING DELIVERY OF EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
This Memorandum of Understanding (this "MOU") is entered into on , 20_, by and
between FIRST FIVE YEARS EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT SERVICE DISTRICT, a quasi -
municipal corporation and political subdivision of the State of Colorado (the "District"), and
, a (the " "), (the District and the
may be referred to herein individually as a "Party" or collectively as the "Parties").
RECITALS
WHEREAS, the District is an early childhood development service district organized and operating
pursuant to Sec. 32-21-101 et seq., C.R.S., as amended; and
WHEREAS, the District was primarily organized to provide a consistent funding mechanism to support
the delivery of early childhood development services within the District service area; and
WHEREAS, the District and desire to enter into this MOU to define the relationship of the
Parties.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration for the mutual promises contained herein, and other good and
valuable consideration, which is hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:
1.
2. TERM AND TERMINATION. This MOU shall commence upon execution and shall terminate by mutual
agreement of the Parties or upon one Party giving the other Party thirty (30) days prior written notice.
3. TABOR. All financial obligations of the District under this MOU are contingent upon annual
appropriation, budgeting, and availability of specific funds to discharge such obligations. Nothing in
this MOU shall be deemed to create a debt or multiple fiscal year financial obligation of the District, a
pledge of the credit of the District, or a collection or payment guarantee by the District.
4. NOTICES. Any notice required or permitted by this MOU shall be in writing and shall be deemed to
have been sufficiently given for all purposes if sent by certified or registered mail, postage and fees
prepaid, addressed to the Party to whom such notice is intended to be given at the address set forth
below or otherwise provided by either Party in writing. Such notice shall be deemed to have been
given when deposited in the U.S. Mail, or when delivered electronically, read -receipt requested and
received by the sending Party.
DISTRICT:
[Other Party]:
Page 1 of 3
5. NO THIRD -PARTY BENEFICIARIES. None of the terms, conditions or covenants set forth in this
MOU shall give or allow any claim, benefit or right of action by any third person not a Party to this
MOU. Any person other than the Parties to this MOU who or which receive services or benefits under
this MOU shall be only an incidental beneficiary.
6. GOVERNING LAW AND VENUE. This MOU shall be governed by the laws of the State of Colorado.
Venue for any legal proceeding arising from or related to this MOU shall be proper only in
County, Colorado.
7. GOVERNMENTAL IMMUNITY. No provision of this MOU shall be construed as a waiver, express
or implied, of any immunities or defenses provided to the Parties by applicable law, including but not
limited to the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act, § 24-10-101 et seq., C.R.S., as amended.
8. ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION. In the event of any dispute or claim arising under or
related to this MOU, the Parties shall use their best efforts to settle such dispute or claim through
good faith negotiations with each other. If such dispute or claim is not settled through negotiations
within thirty (30) days after the earliest date on which one Party notifies the other Party in writing of
its desire to attempt to resolve such dispute or claim through negotiations, then the Parties agree to
attempt in good faith to settle such dispute or claim by mediation conducted under the auspices of
the Judicial Arbiter Group (JAG) of Denver, Colorado or, if JAG is no longer in existence, or if the
Parties agree otherwise, then under the auspices of a recognized, established mediation service
within the State of Colorado. Such mediation shall be conducted within sixty (60) days following either
Party's written request therefor. The Parties shall share the costs of such mediation equally. If such
dispute or claim is not settled through mediation, then either Party may initiate a civil action in the
local District Court of County.
9. ATTORNEYS' FEES. For any dispute arising from or related to this MOU, the prevailing party shall
be entitled to an award of reasonable attorneys' fees and costs.
10. INTEGRATION; AMENDMENT; ASSIGNMENT. This MOU represents the entire agreement
between the Parties and there are no oral or collateral agreements or understandings. This MOU
may be amended only by an instrument in writing signed by the Parties. This MOU may be assigned
only upon the written approval of the non -assigning Party, which approval shall not be unreasonably
withheld.
11. SEVERABILITY. If any provision of this MOU is deemed unenforceable or void by a court of
competent jurisdiction, such provision shall be deemed severable and the remainder of this MOU
shall continue in full force and effect.
12. COUNTERPARTS. This MOU may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall
be deemed to be an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have executed this MOU on the date first written above.
FIRST FIVE YEARS EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DISTRICT
Page 2 of 3
By:
Its:
By:
Its:
Page 3 of 3
Attest:
EXHIBIT F
FIRST FIVE YEARS
EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT SERVICE DISTRICT
COMMUNITY ADVISORS
Aims Community College
Boulder County Department of Community Services
Boulder County Department of Public Health
Boulder County Department of Family Health
Boulder Valley School District
Child and Adult Care Food Program
Child Find
Colorado State University
Colorado Statewide Parent Coalition
Early Childhood Council of Boulder County
Early Childhood Council of Weld County
Front Range Community College
Headstart
Imagine!
Local Coordinating Organizations in Boulder and Weld County
Mental Health Partners
St. Vrain Valley School District
University of Colorado, Denver
University of Northern Colorado
Weld County Department of Community Affairs
Weld County Department of Public Health
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
Page 1 of 1
EXHIBIT G
FIRST FIVE YEARS
EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT SERVICE DISTRICT
MUNICIPALITIES IN SERVICE AREA
BOULDER COUNTY
BOULDER
ERIE
JAMESTOWN
LAFAYETTE
LONGMONT
LOUISVILLE
LYONS
NEDERLAND
SUPERIOR
WARD
In addition, other unincorporated areas
ALLENSPARK
EL DORADO SPRINGS
HYGIENE
NIWOT
PEACEFUL VALLEY
PINECLIFFE
RAYMOND
WELD COUNTY
DACONO
ERIE
FIRESTONE
FREDERICK
MEAD
Page 1 of 1
FIRST FIVEYEARS
EARLY CHILDHOOD
DEVELOPMENT
SERV CE DISTRICT
•
Why We Are Here
• School readiness
• Numbers of providers
• Extraordinary costs
• Unsustainable workforce
• Lost wages and productivity
•
Approval of this service plan is a viable way to create a dedicated funding
stream to support all children ages birth to age 5 in the proposed service area.
Service Plan Ensures
• Focus on school readiness
• Investing in a public good
• Greatest need = Greatest benefit
• Equity, quality, and accessibility
• Childcare workforce development
If we are serious about equity, funding childcare and early childhood education as a public
good is the most significant thing we could do. CEO of a major Colorado craft brewery
Unmet Needs and Impacts
• Leave fewer behind
• Grow number licensed & unlicensed providers
• Stabilize & expand general workforce
• Reduce cost burden on working families
"This should have happened 39 years ago when, as a single mother, I was struggling to find
care for my daughters. They are struggling with the same challenge today."
-- President of a professional business association
Services and Delivery Approaches
• Address essential needs
• Early care & education • Health • Mental Health
• Developmental services, incl. prevention and intervention
• Prioritize children ages birth to 3 years old
• Navigation and tailored support for families
• Parent choice and enhancing providers
"This is an economic and social justice issue, much like universal health care."
President of a local political group
I
Approaches
• Critical collaboration
• Leverage of existing resources
• Program and service grants
• Provider support and quality assurance
"I want my grown children to be able to stay in Boulder/Longmont area to raise their own
families ... without this type of investment, we won't be able to attract young families,
especially working professional women."
State -level workforce and early education advocate
Governance
• Naw unit of government
• Elected 5 member governing board
• Community leaders, from throughout
service area, locally accountable
"Solving the child care crisis would be an investment in ourfuture ...//
-- Local newspaperopirnon
Mill Levies and Property Taxes
• Maximum mill levy of 5 mills
• Phased -in over 3 years
• Estimated revenues
• From taxpayers to parents and providers
• No capital development or servicing debt
"I don't generally favor special districts, but this issue is so important and so essential to
workforce stability that we will consider making an exception."
President of a business membership organization
Conclusion and Request for Approva
First Five Years Early Childhood Development Service District Service Plan meets the
statutory requirements for approval under §12-1-2o1(2), C.R.S.
• Sufficient existing and projected need for organized service in the area to be serviced by the
proposed special district.
• Existing service in the area to be served by the proposed special district is inadequate for
present and projected needs.
- - Only R5% of all children meet school -readiness criteria when entering kindergarten.
- - February 2O23 "Early Childhood Development Service District Needs Assessment"
demonstrates the total cost required to meet the need for high quality early childhood
education in the proposed service district is approximately $104 million. Current available
funding is $3z million leaving a gap between current funding and unmet need of $72 million.
- - In addition to the above, 3 children are waiting for every childcare / early learning
opening available.
Conclusion and Request for Approva
First Five Years Early Childhood Development Service District Service Plan meets the
statutory for approvalunder§12-1-201(2), C.R.S.
• Proposed special district is capable of providing economical and sufficient service to the
area within its proposed boundaries.
District will be the only entity providing a centralized funding mechanism and dedicated
means of coordination to develop and enhance early childhood services within the proposed
service area. With the funding contemplated in the proposed Service Plan, the District will be
• ' • provide significant economical . • sufficient service • the entire proposed service
area into the future.
• Area to be included in the proposed special district has, or will have, the financial ability to
discharge the proposed indebtedness • • reasonable basis.
-- Proposed Service Plan does not include any indebtedness and the District does not
contemplate ' issuance of debt • part of organization or service delivery.
Conclusion and Request for Approva
First Five Years Early Childhood Development Service District Service Plan meets the
statutory requirements for approval under §-12-1-2o1(2.$), C.R.S.
• Adequate service is not, or will not be, available to the area through the county or other
existing municipal or quasi -municipal corporations, including existing special districts, within
a reasonable time and on a comparable basis.
-- While there are other similar service provided within the proposed service area, there is still
an extremely high need for additional and supplemental early childhood services throughout.
As a result, adequate service is not or will not be available in the proposed service area by
another local government within a reasonable time and on a comparable basis.
• Facility and service standards of the proposed special district are compatible with the
facility and service standards of each county within which the proposed special district is to
be located and each municipality within the service area.
-- Proposed District does not contemplate construction of facilities as part of its organization
or service delivery. Service standards will be established in conjunction with all applicable
County or Municipal standards as specific service delivery models are developed.
Conclusion and Request for Approva
I
First Five Years Early Childhood Development Service District Service Plan meets the
statutory requirements for approval under §12-1-2o1(2.$), C.R.S.
• Proposal is in substantial compliance with the County master plan.
-- While this District will not engage in any development or land use activities, the provision
of centralized and dedicated early childhood services will promote the guiding principles
within the County Comprehensive Plan of promoting economic growth and stability as well as
positively contributing to the health, safety, and general welfare of the citizens of the County
within the proposed service area.
Conclusion and Request for Approval
First Five Years Early Childhood Development Service District Service Plan meets the
statutory requirements for approval under §12-1-2o1(2.$), C.R.S.
• Proposal is in compliance with any duly adopted county, regional, or state long-range water
quality management plan for the area.
- -The District will not engage in any services or actions which would impact a county,
regional, or state long range water quality management plan. However, to the extent any
future services or actions of the District do impact such a plan, the District will ensure
compliance.
• Creation of the proposed special district will be in the best interests of the area proposed to
be served.
- - As previously noted, there is a substantial and continuing need for additional early
childhood services throughout the proposed service area. The District will be the only entity
providing a centralized funding mechanism and dedicated means of coordination to develop
and enhance these critical services that will provide a broad public benefit. Therefore,
organization of the District is in the best interests of the proposed service area.
Conclusion and Request for Approva
• First Five ly Years Childhood Development
Service
District Service
• • "
t the
statutory • approval under
C.R.S.
•
•The District respectfully requests approval of
the proposed Service Plan without condition or
modification pursuant to § 32 a -2°3W, C.R.S.
0
June 11, 2023
Weld County Board of Commissioners
Perry Buck
Mike Freeman
Scott James
Kevin Ross
Lori Same
1150 O Street
Greeley, CO 80631
Dear Commissioners
On June 19, 2023, the Weld County Commissioners are holding a public hearing on the First Five Years
Early Childhood Development Service District
The Early Childhood Alliance has been working on this proposal for the past several years During that
time, the Alliance developed a Purpose Statement, a Roadmap, and a 1 -page summary that highlights
our guiding principles These documents, or portions thereof, are attached in Exhibits 1-3
The Alliance is confident that you will find the principles the Alliance has embraced are consistent with
those identified in the County's Comprehensive Plan Of particular note is the County's desired
direction of promoting economic growth and stability as well as positively contributing to the health,
safety, and general welfare of the citizens of the County
We appreciate your review of these supplemental documents as a way for you to become more familiar
with the Alliance's principles and how they are intertwined in the proposed service district
Thank you
/4744/z
Kathy Hall
Representing the Early Childhood Alliance
Early Childhood Coalition (aka Longmont Early Childhood Community Coalition) Exhibit 1
PURPOSE STATEMENT
MISSION / VISION
Coalition Mission — Ensure that all Longmont/Boulder County children ages 0 — 5 are daily in safe, healthy,
affordable, and developmentally appropriate settings
Coalition Vision — Prospects for healthy, productive, prosperous lives for all Longmont/Boulder County children are
improved because of the affordable, high -quality child care and early learning they experience from ages 0 — 5
OUR GOALS
1 Every child is school -ready when they enter kindergarten Ensure a system that reaches 100% of our children
birth to 5 years
2 Childcare and early learning providers, in every setting, have the skills and tools needed
3 Childcare and early childhood education are both valued and funded as a public good
WHY THESE GOALS?
The rewards of being school -ready are significant and long-lasting for children, their families, and the community
A young child's earliest experiences and environments set the stage for future development and success in school
and life These experiences influence brain development and provide the foundation for language, reasoning,
problem solving, social skills, behavior, and emotional health
Children who are most school -ready are likely to have had sustained access to high -quality childcare and early
learning
At -risk children benefit the most from high -quality child care and early learning, because those programs emphasize
the importance of physical well-being, economic well-being, child development and supports for families
There are long-lasting benefits to society when children are school -ready as they enter kindergarten School -ready
children are more likely to
• Master basic skills by age 11,
• Need less remedial education and public aid,
• Graduate from high school on time,
• Graduate from college,
• Bring strong skills to the workforce,
• Earn higher incomes as adults,
• Own a home
Every dollar invested in comprehensive, high -quality early learning and care for disadvantaged children from birth
through age five provides a 13% return on investment to society Every $1 invested in early childhood yields as
much as a $13 return, providing positive impacts on educational attainment, employment, health, truancy, and
criminality
Skilled providers, with opportunities for ongoing professional development and access to a variety of needed
resources, are critical to meeting the first and primary goal school -readiness. Without such individuals, meeting
this goal is impossible
1
WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES TO REACHING THESE GOALS?
a. Availability of high -quality child-care and early learning opportunities
There are 5,239 children ages 0-5 years in Longmont, but only 2,060 "slots" for them in licensed childcare and
early learning programs. This means the majority (60%) of children are in unlicensed or license exempt settings,
which include foster parents, grandparents, co-ops, FFNs (Friends Family and Neighbors), and alternative
programs where people care for children who are not their own.
Focusing on unlicensed and license exempt options will reach the most children. More and varied options are
needed.
b. Quality of Child Care and Early Learning
Licensed providers are quality rated, on a scale of 1-5, using the Colorado Shines Quality Criteria. Of the 67
licensed programs for ages 0-5 year in Longmont, only 16 or 24% are rated 3 or above. Since this rating scale
does not apply to unlicensed programs there is no comparable way to evaluate unlicensed providers.
We need to better understand the quality levels the majority of children are experiencing, and better identify
areas where additional resources would be most beneficial.
c. Affordability
Licensed childcare and early learning programs are often too costly for many Longmont families. The average cost
of infant care in 2020 ranged from 9% to 27% of a two -parent family's income and from 29% to 85% of a single
parent's income. By comparison, the federal government's standard for affordability is that families spend no
more than 7% of their income on child care.
Whether affordability is an issue or not, a family may have a cultural preference for an unlicensed FFN option.
Applying resources to increase the level of affordability and support unlicensed and licensed exempt providers
could provide more children with high -quality child care and early learning experiences.
d. Socio-Economic Factors, School Readiness and Achievement Gap
Socioeconomic status is the single most influential factor influencing how ready -to -learn a child is when they
enter kindergarten. Low social class puts children far behind from the start. Race and ethnicity compound that
disadvantage, largely due to factors also related to social class. In Longmont, 24.4% of the population is
Hispanic/Latino, and the total minority rate is 34.7%. Longmont's poverty rate is 8.2%.
The school district serves a population that is 37.7% minority, with the largest portion being Hispanic/Latino at
30%. Twenty-two percent (22.0%) of students are eligible for the federal free and reduced -price meal program
(FRL) and 15.2% are English Language Learners.
Statewide approximately 40% of students not eligible for FRL meet school -readiness criteria when they enter
kindergarten. That compares with 15-20% meeting the criteria if their family is eligible for the free and reduced -
price meal program.
2
ODevelopmental screening is key to identifying the readiness and needs of specific children. Only 31% of Colorado
children 9 months to 3 years old receive such screening,
Test scores for students in St. Vrain Valley schools show that achievement gaps narrow but continue through high
school. There is a 24 -point difference between non -minority and minority students in both English Language Arts
and Math. There is also a 31 -point difference in these same subject areas between students whose families are
not eligible for the FRL program and those who are eligible
A significant portion of Longmont students may not be school -ready when they enter kindergarten, and this
situation impacts student achievement over time.
e. Childcare and Early Learning Providers
Childcare and early learning providers of all kinds are in short supply. State figures indicate that the number of
licensed providers, often referred to as ECE teachers, needs to increase by 33% for year-round licensed programs
and by an additional 44% for public pre-school programs by 2025. Without significant changes this situation will
only worsen.
This short supply situation is compounded by a 40% turnover rate. Seventy percent (70%) of ECE program
directors report finding it difficult to find qualified staff.
In the licensed environment only 17% of the providers hold a bachelor's degree in early childhood education, even
though as many as 80% express a desire to pursue such a degree.
It is reasonable to estimate that similar increases will be needed in the unlicensed and license exempt providers.
Turnover rates and the need/desire for additional professional development are also probably similar.
There is an urgent need to increase the number of providers and the opportunities for professional development
in all settings.
f. Current Funding and Wages
Today Colorado's funding focus is largely on formal, licensed care and early learning opportunities. Licensed
providers have access to numerous local, state, and federal funding sources, including programs such as Head
Start and funding for universal preschool and kindergarten. Tax credit dollars available to families for these
purposes generally flow to middle- and upper -middle income taxpayers.
Unlicensed and license exempt providers do not have access to state or federal funding, so many Longmont
children do not benefit from these additional funds.
The minimum wage in Colorado as of January 2022 is $12.56 per hour, with childcare workers receiving a median
hourly wage of $15.16 and preschool teachers $18.20. These figures reflect what providers earn in licensed
settings and may overstate what an unlicensed or licensed provider earns. These low wages contribute to high
turnover.
A focus on unlicensed and license exempt providers, whose needs are greater, will benefit Longmont the most.
3
HOW WILL OUR GOALS BENEFIT OUR STAKEHOLDERS?
Children and their Families will
• Have access to more affordable programs that will produce long-lasting benefits.
Providers will
• Have more resources available for ongoing professional development in all settings.
• Potentially have more available positions at better salaries, and experience less turnover.
School District will
• Have the ability to redirect funding, such as Title 1 provided to school with high poverty levels, away from
remediation and toward enrichment.
• Reduce the number of special education referrals resulting from children failing to read "on grade level"
as kindergarteners or 1St graders.
Employers will
• Experience a more dependable workforce today - more confident in their ongoing childcare and early
learning options, more productive, and with higher morale.
• Have access to a more skilled workforce in the future.
Community Leaders and Government will
• Be able to cash in on the significant return -on -investment opportunity that comes with a diverse, well-
educated populace and a workforce drawn from the immediate area.
• Be able to redirect a high percentage of government funding away from remediation and toward
enrichment for community members.
Citations for the sources of all the information and data referenced in this document are available on the LECCC
Drive.
Draft_7-7-22
Updated 8-4-22
4
Exhibit 2
Early Childhood
Alliance
Roadmap
A plan to increase local funding for early childhood services
within the geography that encompasses the
St. Vrain Valley and Boulder Valley School Districts
November 2022
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
About Us: The Early Childhood Alliance is a broad -
based working group whose members support various
objectives, approaches, and outcomes related to both
child care and early learning capacity, gaps, costs per
child and ROI.
Intentional Focus:
Commitment: equity
We want to ensure that early childhood education is
seen as a public good and is universally available. We
want to intentionally remove the structural barriers to
opportunity, thus supporting children to reach their
full developmental and educational potential and
eliminating the gap between low-income children and
children of color and their peers. Our commitment is
to design and allocate resources in an equitable
manner, ensuring those furthest from opportunity and
most in need are the first recipients and receive the
most.
Age: birth to three as starting focus
We aim to create a seamless birth to 5 system
leveraging existing resources while bringing in
additional resources to fill gaps. To that end, we'll use
a phased approach, starting with a focus on birth to three where resources are most
limited and additional resources will have the biggest impact. We will expand to serve
all birth to 5 year olds as resources are available.
THE NEED FOR
REGIONAL
INVESTMENT
Every dollar invested in
high -quality early
learning and care for
disadvantaged young
children provides a 13%
return on investment to
society. Yet there is an
acute shortage of early
care and education
programs throughout our
region. Recent data
shows a significant gap in
capacity. When care is
available, the cost for
families is a significant
burden. This is a regional
need that demands a
regional solution.
Geography: Saint Vrain Valley School and Boulder Valley School Districts
We seek to support the most children possible, not letting city or county boundaries
limit participation. By focusing on the geographical footprint that encompasses both
school districts, we'll be able to reach the most children in need across our region,
therefore having the biggest impact.
OUR BIG AUDACIOUS GOAL:
INCREASE FUNDING FOR SERVICES FOR
CHILDREN BIRTH TO 5 AND THEIR FAMILIES
Wage
VISION AND VALUES
VISION
We aim to create a region where all young children have
improved prospects for healthy, productive, prosperous lives
because of the affordable, high -quality child care and early
learning they experience.
MISSION
We seek to ensure that all children ages birth to 5 years in the
region are in safe, healthy, affordable, and developmentally
appropriate settings daily.
The region prospers
when children thrive,
because they are our
future workforce,
leaders, and
community members.
VALUES: our non-negotiables
This work contributes towards a seamless, well-resourced and equitable birth -to -5
early childhood system, ensuring families, early childhood providers, and school
districts have the resources needed to support the healthy growth and development
of all children in the community. We believe the only way to achieve equity is by
embracing and fully living these core values in all we do:
Quality: We will enhance and ensure high -
quality services that are child and family
centered, culturally responsive and outcomes
based.
Accessibility: We will invest in and expand a
mixed delivery system that is inclusive of
community -based centers, family child care
homes, family friend and neighbor care, and
school settings.
Affordability: We aim to impact the cost of
early childhood services, eliminating obstacles
to affordable care for families and ensuring
services are cost effective for providers.
Partnerships/Collaboration: We aim to
leverage and uplift the work of existing early
childhood partners by engaging and fostering a
regional, multi -stakeholder, public and private
partnership.
Investment Stewardship: This initiative is
designed to generate new, sustainable
resources for the early childhood system. We
are responsible stewards of these resources
and hold ourselves accountable to not supplant
nor jeopardize existing local, state, or federal
resources.
age
GOALS AND STRATEGIES
We will activate ideas, people and resources to ensure sustainable, local public funding so that
all young children in the region have access to quality early learning services and supports.
GOALS we will achieve these measurable outcomes by
centering on three, inter -connected goals:
• Children enter kindergarten demonstrating school
readiness across all domains (e.g. physical, emotional,
social, cognitive)
• Gaps in school readiness between populations of children
are eliminated
• Family choice is valued and respected when selecting
among mixed delivery options
• The early childhood workforce is paid a competitive wage
• The diverse early childhood workforce has access to
quality professional development and training
• Gaps in funding the early childhood system are decreased
Families have a variety of
high -quality early care
and learning options that
meet their needs and
ensure children are ready
for school and life.
Child care and
early childhood
education are
valued and funded
as a public good.
Child care and early
learning providers,
in every setting,
have the skills and
tools needed.
CORE STRATEG I F c where we focus our time and attention
irr-cjI
Strategy
care
and
education
1 Secure
a dedicated,
services
and
supports.
local
public
funding
stream
for early
4
Strategy
reach
and
2: Create
involve
stakeholders.
and
implement
a strategic
engagement
plan
to
_sjs�.
Strategy
.4
Develop
the
coalition
infrastructure
needed
for success.
FRStrategy
work
that
4:
can
Build
help
connections
smooth
the
path
to
and
for
leverage
local
initiatives
relevant
like
statewide
this.
System design & resource allocation principles: we envision a system based on these key attributes
• Universal and targeted: available to all with those most in need receiving the most (e.g. sliding fee
scale, phased approach)
• Family choice: variety of options available via a mixed delivery system (e.g. community -based, school -
based, home -based, licensed, family friend and neighbor)
• Birth -to -five, starting with birth -to -3: fill the biggest gaps first by elevating the importance of the
earliest years, phasing in all children birth — S year as resources are available
• Workforce support: promote adequate compensation for the workforce, across setting and program
types
• Equitable access: meet the unique needs across ethnicity, race, gender, ability and socioeconomic
status
• Accountable: evaluated by child -based outcomes
• Leverage existing infrastructure: resources flow through existing community partners and
programs to maximize community assets and minimize administrative costs (e.g. providers, schools,
Early Childhood Councils, Local Coordinating Organizations)
age
Early Childhood Alliance
Exhibit 3
Our Alliance is dedicated to ensuring:
• Every child is nurtured from birth to be school -ready when they
enter kindergarten.
• Childcare and early childhood education are both valued and
funded as a public good.
• A seamless birth to 5 system that reaches 100% of children,
leveraging existing resources and particularly focused on those
ages birth to three.
• Parents and childcare and early learning providers, in every
setting, have the skills and resources needed.
Early Childhood by the numbers in the Boulder/Weld County area:
• Approximately 20,000 children under age 5.
• Only 35% of all children meet school -readiness criteria when entering kindergarten - less than 20% in
families who qualify for free/reduced lunch and only 40% in all other families.
• 3 children are waiting for every 1 child care/early learning opening available in Colorado.
• Average per child cost for childcare and early learning for ages 0-5 is
more than $21,000 annually.
• In 2022, the living wage required for a two -adult household with one
preschooler and one infant is $122,196. 29% of families with young children
do not make a living wage.
• Average base salary for early childhood providers is $37,500 annually.
Public school preschool teachers average $53,100.
Why invest in early learning opportunities for all children?
The rewards of being school -ready are significant and long-lasting for children, their families, and the
community. Children who are most school -ready are likely to have had sustained access to high -quality
childcare and early learning. At -risk children benefit the most because such programs emphasize the
importance of physical well-being, economic well-being, child development and support for families.
Every dollar invested in high -quality early learning and care for disadvantaged young children provides a
13% return on investment to society. Yet there is an acute shortage of early care and education
programs throughout our region. When care is available, the cost for families is a significant burden.
This is a regional need that demands a regional solution.
Dedicated Funding would be used to increase:
• Number of high -quality child care and early learning providers and
openings available
• Range of coordinated services available to all parents and children,
including early care and educational, health, mental health, and
developmental services
• Screenings and early intervention services
• Quality of programs through additional training for parents and
providers, and licensing options for providers
• Affordability and choice for families
• Compensation for the child care and early learning workforce
--- And to Pay for Special District administration and evaluation.
What is the Alliance's proposal?
• Establish an Early Childhood Development Special
District, to secure dedicated, regional public funding
for programs and services to support the success of
our young children.
• The proposed region would encompass the Boulder
and Weld county areas of the Boulder Valley and
St. Vrain Valley School districts.
• The Service Plan supporting the proposed Special
District will be developed in a manner consistent with
current state law and that allows for future flexibility.
St. Vroin Volley School District
Boulder Volley School District
• Put an initiative for approval of local taxes to support the Special District on the 2023 November ballot.
Advantages of this approach:
• Long-term, dedicated funding supports our children throughout their most critical period of
learning and sets the stage for their future development and success in school and life.
• Regional funding supports the goal of school -readiness for every child in our area, regardless of
which school district they attend.
• Local control helps to insure that the funding is used to meet the specific needs of our local
children and their families in an accountable and measurable way.
For more information and ways to support this effort, contact the Alliance at ecalliance2023@gmail.com
Version 4- 7 23
Esther Gesick
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Attachments:
John Chmil <JChmil@lyonsgaddis.com>
lyonsgaddis.com>
Tuesday, May 9, 2023 11:25 AM
Esther Gesick; Bruce Barker
Early Childhood Service District - Service Plan Filing
Service Plan for First Five Years Early Childhood Development Service District_
4-25-23.pdf
Caution: This email originated from outside of Weld County Government. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the
sender and know the content is safe.
Good morning Clerk Gesick,
On behalf of the proponents for the First Five Years Early Childhood Development Service District, please
accept this email as the filing of the proposed Service Plan of the District pursuant to Section 32-1-202(1)(a),
C.R.S.
Please let me know if there are any questions.
Sincerely,
LYONS GADDIS
Ai c uWlVt V o LL u t.SLiii'i
John Chmil
Snarehoider
/chmill yons_gaddis. corn
P.O. Box 978
Longmont, CO 80502-0978
303-776-9900 303-776-9100
lyons_gaddis. corn
CONFIDENTIALITY STATEMENT: THIS E-MAIL MESSAGE AND ANY ACCOMPANYING DOCUMENTS CONTAIN INFORMATION WHICH IS ATTORNEY CLIENT
PRIVILEGED, CONFIDENTIAL AND INTENDED ONLY FOR THE USE OF THE ABOVE -NAMED RECIPIENT. IF THE READER OF THIS MESSAGE IS NOT THE
INTENDED RECIPIENT, YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT ANY DISSEMINATION, DISTRIBUTION, PRINTING OR COPYING OF THIS MESSAGE IS STRICTLY
PROHIBITED. IF YOU HAVE RECEIVED THIS MESSAGE IN ERROR, PLEASE IMMEDIATELY NOTIFY US BY TELEPHONE OR RETURN THE E-MAIL MESSAGE TO
US. THANK YOU.
1
LONGMONT
ffiCOMMUNITY
�FOUNDA71ON
ongmoirt Community Foundation
fi36 00emen 5 8:O, Suits 203
Longgmont CA 80501
(303)67a-6555
PAY
Five hundred dollars and 00/100
rorHE
OflOER OF
weld Co(inty Clerk to the Board's Office
Weld County Clerk to the Board's Office
11
50 O Street
P!O. Box'758
Greeley, a 80631
The Longmont Community Foundation
Gran128964 :: Early Childhood Alliance
this is for the First Five Years Ear' Childhood Development Services District
10441
05/10/2023 500.00
,r/, �ll� ✓ 1 � RECEIVED
• MAY 12 2023
COMMISSIO S
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RECEIPT DATE S-/5_161°` N. 92188
ADDRESSRECEIVED FROM -The, �y artt �mmp�l l Fojln m° m
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BY ,./.74/.4., /iA
Notice of Hearing on a Proposed Service Plan for the Organization of
the First Five Years Early Childhood Development Service District
Docket #: 2023-48
Notice Is Hereby Given that the Early Childhood Alliance have petitioned the Board of County
Commissioners of Boulder and Weld Counties for approval of a proposed Service Plan for the
organization of the First Five Years Early Childhood Development Service District, which Service
Plan was filed with the Counties on May 9, 2023. Pursuant to §§ 32-21-107 and 32-1-204, C.R.S.,
public hearings will be held before the Boards of County Commissioners of both Boulder and Weld
Counties at the dates, times and locations specified below:
Board of Weld County Commissioner's Hearing:
Monday, June 19, 2023, at 9:00 a.m., located at 1150 O Street, Greeley, Colorado 80631
Board of Boulder County Commissioner's Hearing:
Tuesday, June 20, 2023, at 4:30 p.m., located at Boulder County Courthouse, 3rd Floor,
1325 Pearl Street, Boulder, Colorado 80302
Purpose: The purpose of the hearing is to provide the public with an opportunity to comment upon
the requested approval of a proposed Service Plan for the formation of the First Five Years Early
Childhood Development Service District, a Title 32 special district to be organized under the laws
of the State of Colorado, in particular § 32-21-101, et seq., C.R.S. Any person in support of, or
objecting to, the proposed Service Plan may appear at such date, time, and place indicated above,
or may send written comments prior to the hearing, to address your respective County
Commissioners regarding the proposed Service Plan.
Service Plan: A copy of the submitted Service Plan is available for public inspection and copying at
the offices of the Boards of County Commissioners. Boulder County - Boulder County
Courthouse, 3rd Floor, 1325 Pearl Street, Boulder, CO 80302; Weld County - 1150 O Street,
Greeley, CO 80631.
Mill Levy: The Service Plan proposes a mill levy of up to 5 mills to be levied on all taxable property
within the legal boundaries of the proposed District. There is no statutory maximum mill levy. Voter
approval is required for any future tax increases and the Service Plan requires specific notice by
the District prior to referring any future tax increase to the voters.
General Description of the Proposed District's Boundaries/Service Area: The proposed
service area of the District is coterminous with the boundaries of the Boulder Valley School District
and the St. Vrain Valley School District that are within Boulder County and Weld County only.
General Purpose of the Proposed District: The District is being proposed in order to create a
dedicated funding stream for early childhood development services within the service area. Early
childhood development services are defined to include early care and educational, health, mental
health, and development services, including prevention and intervention. The proposed District
intends to limit its services to children from birth to five years, with a special emphasis on children
birth to three years.
Board of County Commissioners
Weld County, Colorado
Dated: May 22, 2023
Published: May 24, 2023, in the Greeley Tribune
Pu
an o
rop
arty
distri
in pa
or
Notice fag
Hearing on a Propo�i Service Plan for the
Organization of the Flrst Five Years Early Childhood
Development Service Distrito
Docket #: 2023-48
Notice Is "7:11,474.1g;
ereby Given that the Early Childhood Alliance have
Weld Coues forappo oval ofyaCi7oli sed Service Piandfor the
organization of e First Five Years Early Childhood Develop-
ment Service District, which Service Plan was filed with the
Counties on May 9,2023. Pursuant to §§ 32-21-107 and 32-1.204,
.R.S., public hearings will be held be₹are the Boards of County
Commissioners of both Boulder and Weld Counties at the dates,
times and locations specified below.
Board of Weld County Commisslo�rer's Hearing:
Monday, June 19, 2023, at 9:00 a.m., located at 1150
Street, Greeley, Colorado 80631
glid11,417,2„(ZII1707,1117,Ziantiladdeerr,yCommissioner'sHearing:23,at4:30pm.,locatedatBoulderrdFloor,1325PearlStreet,Boulder,
rpose: The purpose of the hearing is to provide the public with
osed Sernce Plan for the Po mation of the FlrsipFlve Years
Childhood Development Service District, a Title 32 special
ct to be organized under the laws of the State of Colorado,
rticular 4 32-21-101, et seU , C.R.S. Any person in support of,
jetting o, the proposed Service Plan may appear at such
8, to aaares
the proposed
Service.Plan: A copy of the submitted Service Plan is available
for public. inspection and copying at the offices of the Boards of
County Commissioners. Boulder County - Boulder County Court-
house, 3rd Floor, 1325 Pearl Street, Boulder, CO 80302: Weld
County -1150 O Street, Greeley, CO 80631.
MIII Levy: The Service Plan proposes a mill levy of up to 5 mills
to be levied on all taxable property within the legal boundaries
of the proposed District There is no statutory maximum mill
levy. Voter approval is required for any future tax increases and
the Service Plan requires specific notice i the District prior to
referring any future tax increase to the voters.
General Description of fhe Proposed District's Boundaries
/Service Area• The proposed service area of the District is coter-
minous with the boundaries of the Boulder Valley School District
and the 5t vrafn Valley School District that are within Boulder
County and Weld County only.
General Purpose of the Proposed DisMM: The District is being
proposed in order to create a dedicated funding stream for early
childhood development services within the service area. Early
childhood development services are defined to include early
care and educational, health, mental health, and development
services, includinn prevention and intervention. The or000sed
ars.
Board of County Commissioners
Weld County, Colorado
Dated: May 22.2023
Published: May 24, 2023, in the Greeley Tribune . 1978422
Prairie Mountain Media, LLC
PUBLISHER'S AFFIDAVIT
County of Weld
State of Colorado
The undersigned, Aaent , being first duly sworn
under oath, states and affirms as follows:
1. He/she is the legal Advertising Reviewer of
Prairie Mountain Media LLC, publisher of the
Greeley Tribune.
2. The Greeley Tribune is a newspaper
of general circulation that has been published
continuously and without interruption for at least
fifty-two weeks in Weld County and
meets the legal requisites fora legal newspaper
under Colo. Rev. Stat. 24-70-103.
3. The notice that is attached hereto is a true copy,
published in the Greeley Tribune
in Weld County on the following date(s):
May 24, 2023
Signature
Medd:yr:If
swtyn t4 before me this 223
SHAYLA NAJERA
NOTARY PUBLIC
STATE OF COLORADO
NOTARY ID 20174031966'
MY COMMISSION EXPIRES July 31, 2025
(SEAL)
Account:
Ad Number:
Fee:
1099690
1978422
$34.50
COLORADO
Department of Local Affairs
Division of Local Government
NOTICE OF FILING OF SPECIAL DISTRICT SERVICE PLAN
Pursuant to CRS 32-1-202(1), the County Clerk and Recorder or Municipal Clerk shall notify
the Division of Local Government within five days after the filing of a service plan for the
formation of a new Special District. Please provide the information indicated and return
this form to the Division of Local Government.
Petitioner Information
Early Childhood Development Service District May 9, 2023
Name of Proposed District Filing Date
Early Childhood Development Service District
Weld County Board of County
Commissioners
Type of Proposed District Approving Authority Receiving Plan
John Chmil, Lyons Gaddis Attorneys and Counselors 303-776-9900; jchmil@lyonsgaddis.com
Contact Person Filing Service Plan Phone/Email
Hearing Information'
Weld County Administration, 1150 0 Street, Greeley, CO 80631
Location of Hearing
9:00 a.m.
June 19, 2023
Time of Hearing Date of Hearing
May 15, 2023
Clerk Signature Date
'Pursuant to C.R.S. 32-1-202(1) the board of county •missioners shall provide written notice of the
date, time, and location of the hearing on the service plan to the division. Hearing information may be
provided when submitting this notice of filing of service plan if known.
DLG 60 (Rev. 4/21)
Governor Jared S. Polis I Rick M. Garcia, Executive Director Chantat Unfug, Division Director I
1313 Sherman Street, Room 521, Denny,, CO 80203 P 303.864.7720 TDD/TTY 303.864.7758 www.dola.colorado.gov
Strengthening Colorado Communities
Esther Gesick
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Vigil - DOLA, Margaret <margaret.vigil@state.co.us>
Monday, May 15, 2023 12:53 PM
Esther Gesick
McConnell - DOLA, Joe; Trisha Coberly - DOLA; Bruce Barker; John Chmil
Re: DLG-60
- 60
Caution: This email originated from outside of Weld County Government. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the
sender and know the content is safe.
Received, thank you.
On Mon, May 15, 2023 at 11:51 AM Esther Gesick <egesick@weld.gov>wrote:
Joe —Thank again!
Hello Margaret — Attached please see the attached Notice of Filing. Please let me know if you have any questions or
need anything further.
Sincere regards,
Esther E. Gesick
Clerk to the Board
1150 O Street/ P.O. Box 758/ Greeley, CO 80632
tel: (970) 400-4226
Confidentiality Notice: This electronic transmission and any attached documents or other writings are intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed
and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure. If you have received this communication in error, please
immediately notify sender by return e-mail and destroy the communication. Any disclosure, copying, distribution or the taking of any action concerning the contents
of this communication or any attachments by anyone other than the named recipient is strictly prohibited.
From: McConnell - DOLA, Joe <ioe.mcconnell@state.co.us>
Sent: Monday, May 15, 2023 10:51 AM
1
To: Esther Gesick <egesick@weld.gov>
Cc: Trisha Coberly - DOLA <trisha.coberly@state.co.us>; Margaret Vigil - DOLA <margaret.vigil@state.co.us>
Subject: Re: DLG-6O
Caution: This email originated from outside of Weld County Government. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the
sender and know the content is safe.
Hi Esther,
Yes, Margaret Vigil is the person who receives them at the Division of Local Government. I have copied her
to this email.
The statutory reference (32-1-202(1)), shown on the form, explains the rest:
32-1-202. Filing of serf ice plan required - report of filing - contents - fee.
(1) (a) Persons proposing the organization of a special district: except for a special district that is containe
32-1-204_5, shall submit a service plan to the board of county commissioners of each county that has territory inc
organization of the proposed special district in any district court The service plan shall be filed with the county cit
meeting of the board of county c on]ssioners: the division, and the state auditor_ Within five days after the ill
commissioners: shall report to the division on forms furnished by the division the name and type of the proposed
pursuant to the procedure provided in section 30-28-112, CRS.: the service plan shall be referred to the plannir
board of county commissioners within thirty days after the plan was filed with the county clerk and recorder_ At the
the final planning commission action on the service planthe board of county commissioners shall set a date Aithir
district The board of county commissioners shall provide written notice of the date, time, and location of the hear
not to exceed thirty days unless the proponents of the special district and the board agree to continue the hearing for
(b) Notwithstanding the requirements of subsection (1Xa) of this section, the service plan of a proposed health
not be referred to the county planning commission for consideration or recommendations. At the next regular mee
service plan with the county clerk and recorder: the board of county commissioners shall set a date within thirty dal
county commissioners shall provide written notice of the meeting pursuant to subsection (1Xa) of this section_
Joe McConnell
Local Government Elections Et Financial Analyst
Local Government Services
2
COLORADO
Department of Local Affairs
Divis!on of Local Government
P: 303-864-7739 I F 303-353-0751
1313 Sherman St., Room 521, Denver, CO 80203
Special District Elections Main Page
Special District Election & Director forms
*Please note that I have had telephone issues. Please use my cell phone number.
Under the Colorado Open Records Act (CORA), all messages sent by or to me on this state-owned e-mail account may be
subject to public disclosure.
On Mon, May 15, 2023 at 10:46 AM Esther Gesick <egesick@weld.gov>wrote:
Hello Joe,
Thank you very much - I'll save this in place of my old one.
Since I couldn't locate the page for this online, is there additional information as to where a Notice of Filing should be
submitted? It has been several years, and I just have a old sticky note with a staff member name of Maggie Vigil
(margaret.vigil@state.co.us). Is that still accurate, or should I send it to your or a centralized address?
Esther E. Gesick
Clerk to the Board
1150 0 Street/P.O. Box 758IGreeley, CO 80632
tel: (970) 400-4226
3
Confidentiality Notice: This electronic transmission and any attached documents or other writings are intended only for the person or entity to which it is
addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure. If you have received this communication in error,
please immediately notify sender by return e-mail and destroy the communication. Any disclosure, copying, distribution or the taking of any action concerning the
contents of this communication or any attachments by anyone other than the named recipient is strictly prohibited.
From: McConnell - DOLA, Joe <joe.mcconnell@state.co.us>
Sent: Monday, May 15, 2023 10:17 AM
To: Esther Gesick <egesick@weld.gov>
Cc: Trisha Coberly - DOLA <trisha.coberly@state.co.us>
Subject: DLG-60
Caution: This email originated from outside of Weld County Government. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the
sender and know the content is safe.
Hello,
You were looking for form DLG 60. Please see attached...
Joe McConnell
Local Government Elections & Financial Analyst
Local Government Services
COLORADO
Department of Local Affairs
Division of Local Government
P: 303-864-7739 I F 303-353-0751
1313 Sherman St., Room 521, Denver, CO 80203
Special District Elections Main Page
Special District Election & Director forms
*Please note that I have had telephone issues. Please use my cell phone number.
Under the Colorado Open Records Act (CORA), all messages sent by or to me on this state-owned e-mail account may be
subject to public disclosure.
Margaret Vigil
General Professional III
She/ Her/ Hers*
i
1313 Sherman St., Room 521 Denver, CO 80203
margaret.vigil®state.co.us P 303.864.7738 www.colorado.gov/dola
*Learn more about why my pronouns are displayed.
Under the Colorado Open Records Act (CORA), all messages sent by or to me on this state-owned e-mail account may be subject to public
disclosure.
5
§ 32-1-203. Action on service plan --criteria
(1) The board of county commissioners of each county which has territory included
within the proposed special district, other than a proposed special district which is
contained entirely within the boundaries of a municipality, shall constitute the
approving authority under this part 2 and shall review any service plan filed by the
petitioners of any proposed special district. With reference to the review of any
service plan, the board of county commissioners has the following authority:
(a) To approve without condition or modification the service plan submitted;
(b) To disapprove the service plan submitted;
(c) To conditionally approve the service plan subject to the submission of additional
information relating to or the modification of the proposed service plan.
(2) The board of county commissioners shall disapprove the service plan unless
evidence satisfactory to the board of each of the following is presented:
(a) There is sufficient existing and projected need for organized service in the area
to be serviced by the proposed special district.
(b) The existing service in the area to be served by the proposed special district is
inadequate for present and projected needs.
(c) The proposed special district is capable of providing economical and sufficient
service to the area within its proposed boundaries.
(d) The area to be included in the proposed special district has, or will have, the
financial ability to discharge the proposed indebtedness on a reasonable basis.
(2.5) The board of county commissioners may disapprove the service plan if
evidence satisfactory to the board of any of the following, at the discretion of the
board, is not presented:
(a) Adequate service is not, or will not be, available to the area through the county
or other existing municipal or quasi -municipal corporations, including existing
special districts, within a reasonable time and on a comparable basis.
(b) The facility and service standards of the proposed special district are compatible
with the facility and service standards of each county within which the proposed
special district is to be located and each municipality which is an interested party
under section 32-1-204(1).
(c) The proposal is in substantial compliance with a master plan adopted pursuant to
section 30-28-106, C.R.S.
(d) The proposal is in compliance with any duly adopted county, regional, or state
long-range water quality management plan for the area.
(e) The creation of the proposed special district will be in the best interests of the
area proposed to be served.
Hello