Commission recommends city council adopt zoning change to allow up to 16 children in in‑home day care

The Murray City Planning Commission voted to forward to the City Council a proposed text amendment to residential zoning that would increase the allowable number of children in an in‑home day‑care facility from 12 to 16.

David Rogers summarized the proposal as a code change to Section 17.24.50 to add a subsection allowing up to 16 children in in‑home day care, reflecting a recent state rule change. Applicant Amy Blackwell, an in‑home provider, said she has operated since 2003 and intends to apply for the state license to serve 16 children; Monica Jenkins and other providers spoke in support and emphasized that state licensing includes staffing ratios, fencing and inspection requirements.

Commissioner Kling moved to forward the recommendation to City Council; the motion was seconded and passed unanimously by roll call. Staff noted the change applies only to in‑home day care and not to preschools, and that providers will remain subject to state licensing and any local building or safety requirements.