Durham County outlines childcare lease terms for 115 N. Queen St.; developer to fund $198,000, classrooms capped at 18 children

Durham County staff updated the Board of Commissioners on April 1 about the childcare and pre‑K operator selection for the 115 N. Queen St. development.

Interim County Attorney Curtis Massey told the board rent relief could be offered if a nonprofit childcare operator uses the space, and that a sliding tuition scale could affect the financial value of the lease. Deputy Director of Engineering and Environmental Services Peri Manns said the County will lease the childcare space back to the developer for a 15‑year term; the developer agreed to fund $198,000 in design and construction costs and the County will provide subsidies.

Dr. Linda Chappel, senior vice president at Triangle Area Childcare Resources and Referral Services, described the program design: classrooms would serve children birth through age 4 with no more than 18 children per classroom. Dr. Chappel provided a range for annual tuition costs depending on age, estimating $14,981 to $19,000 per year.

The board reviewed selection criteria and discussed potential tuition models; staff emphasized that a sliding scale was optional and not required by the operator selection process.