Committee advances $40,359 ARPA reallocation to build infant/toddler playground for CEFS, contingent on staffing

The Effingham County Tax and Finance Committee moved to send a reallocation of $40,359.01 in ARPA increased-capacity funds to the full county board so CEFS can build an outdoor playground for infants and toddlers as part of a state-funded early childhood program. The committee attached a condition that the program must fill a site director position and begin operations before final disbursement.

Courtney, representing the Effingham County Child Care Research Committee, read a letter requesting the funds and described the playground scope: poured-in-place rubber surfacing, fencing and a shade structure. Courtney said CEFS received an early childhood block grant from the Illinois State Board of Education and plans to offer 28 licensed year-round childcare slots for children ages 0 to 3, targeted to families with financial, social or developmental challenges who are employed or attending school.

"The proposed outdoor playground space consists of poured in place, rubber surfacing, fencing, and a shade structure," Courtney said, adding preliminary contractor quotes indicate the project will exceed $40,000 and that CEFS will follow procurement rules to select a contractor.

Committee members pressed CEFS on capacity, safety and staffing. A CEFS representative said the outdoor area is sized to accommodate 16 toddlers at once (75 square feet per child) and that CEFS expects to operate the program within the two-year grant term, but that finding a site director remains the critical gating item.

Josh moved to forward the $40,359.01 reallocation to the full board contingent on the program filling a site director and starting services; the motion was seconded and approved by the committee.

What the approval means

The committee vote advances the request to the full county board for final approval of the reallocation and release of funds. Committee members and CEFS representatives indicated the funds would be used only after CEFS completes required procurement and demonstrates staffing sufficient to begin service delivery.