A daycare center, Read Den Play, was given approval for a conditional use to convert 825 square feet of an existing shopping center located at 252-268 Milford Harrington Highway into a daycare facility. The shopping center is owned by Southern States.
“I am here to request a conditional use for the building on Milford Harrington Highway for a proposed childcare center,” Jamilla Scott, owner of the daycare, said. “It will be before and after school programming.”
Scott plans to open a large family childcare facility for up to 12 school-aged children with two employees. Children will occupy the front of the room space for reading and the back would be used for learning and play. Read Den Play would be open five days a week and weekends, when necessary, from 5:30 AM to 8:00 PM.
There would be a large classroom area as well as a snack area for children. There is one bathroom that will serve the facility. There is also a room to house cabinets and a refrigerator for snacks. There is also a large grassy area that could be utilized for outdoor play.
The building has six paved parking spaces in the existing parking lot as well as pull in drop-off and pick-up areas meeting the standards for the city. The Planning Commission voted four to zero to approve the request. A public hearing was held for the application.
“We own the building that Ms. Scott is looking at for this daycare center and when I first met her, I was just so thrilled about her passion for children and a desire to try to educate them and make great citizens out of our young people. I’m very enthused about this,” Gary Rhodes, General Manager of Southern States, said. “I would like to say that we’re very happy that this fits our plan for the center that we have there. We have an accountant there, we have a window cleaning business there, we have two beauticians, and then, if she’s allowed to be there, the daycare center, and so we’re very happy to have her there. I would really like to have her as part of our establishment.”
A roll call vote was taken since it was a land use request.
“I approve. One of the reasons I like it is because I think it will add to the community and the endorsement by Southern States,” Councilman Dan Marabello said. “I’m impressed because they have such a beautiful operation. It’s one of the best-looking businesses I’ve seen in Milford. So, just based on that, how much I know it could be a good program.”
Councilwoman Madula Kalesis voted yes as it would be a great asset for the city.
“I vote yes for the reasons stated that it will be a wonderful asset to the city and provide a much-needed service,” Councilwoman Nadia Zychal said. “Also, the shining endorsement was a lovely feather in your cap.”
Councilwoman Nina Pletcher also voted yes to the request.
“I support this as well,” Pletcher said. “I really want to make a point that the center potentially has weekend coverage is very much needed in our town.”
Councilman Danny Perez agreed, stating that he drove by the location quite often and thinks it will be an excellent addition.
“I do support the application, it does comply with Chapter 230-20-1b and there’s still a great need for childcare services in the City of Milford,” Councilman Jason James said. “If I recollect, this area has been vetted for the safety and security to support a childcare facility.”
Councilwoman Katrina Wilson cast the final yes vote.
“I think this is definitely an addition to what our city needs, childcare and the age, the older children as well, that’s a biggie,” Wilson said. “The staff and the planning commission reviewed this and approved, so, I vote yes.”
There was no information on when Read Den Play would be open for business.
