On the North Coast, the closure of Sprouts Learning Center marks another setback for child care

Astoria’s upcoming closure of Sprouts Learning Center has highlighted the lack of child care options in Clatsop County.

Since 2017, the county has lost over half of its licensed child care capacity — more than 1,000 slots at licensed care centers, care homes and family homes.

The dilemma has put many parents under pressure and has made it harder for some businesses to recruit and retain workers.

Read Abbey McDonald’s report at:

https://www.dailyastorian.com/news/local/on-the-north-coast-the-closure-of-sprouts-learning-center-marks-another-setback-for-child/article_7ae0842e-92a3-11ec-b6f8-47b5c07ce4f1.html

In South County, an advisory committee looks to carve out more autonomy

A citizen advisory committee in the Arch Cape area is trying to bend the scope of Clatsop County’s comprehensive plan update.

The plan turned in for the Southwest Coastal region might conflict with state law, according to county staff.

The tension involves more local control over issues such as vacation rentals and design review.

See Erick Bengel’s story at:

https://www.dailyastorian.com/news/local/in-south-county-an-advisory-committee-looks-to-carve-out-more-autonomy/article_e6dcbd64-9456-11ec-b58e-df4f84c9c764.html

For the Merwyn Apartments, a challenging first year

The Merwyn has had a challenging first year offering lower-income apartments next to City Hall, but city and nonprofit leaders remain encouraged that the housing is serving an important need in the community.

The experiences at the new apartments are being used as examples by both advocates and critics of a workforce housing project proposed nearby at Heritage Square.

Take a look at Nicole Bales’ report at:

https://www.dailyastorian.com/news/local/for-the-merwyn-apartments-a-challenging-first-year/article_8dd5f864-959d-11ec-9745-3fad67ff5872.html