JARRETT GOODMAN
Staff Writer
The first reading of Ordinance 449, regarding the increase in the number of children allowed at community day care centers in Jasper, has received unanimous approval from the town’s Board of Mayor & Aldermen.
City Attorney Mark Raines Jr. explained during this month’s city meeting that a local resident who operates a child day care service recently approached him with a request to increase the maximum number of children permitted at day care centers within the town. Previously, the local ordinance allowed up to seven children per facility. However, the town’s regulations were outdated compared to current Tennessee state law, which permits up to 12 children. In response, the Planning Commission reviewed the matter and recommended updating the ordinance to match state guidelines, allowing up to 12 children per facility.
“Now what the Board would be asking to approve is to increase that number up to 12 instead of seven for special use. Which means the Planning Commission would have to review each application,” Raines Jr. explained.
He further noted that under current state guidelines, anyone applying to open a day care center must have their application and facility reviewed by the Planning Commission. This includes evaluating available parking and ensuring the facility meets the required square footage per child in accordance with Tennessee law. After local review, a state inspector visits the site to certify the facility and issue an official license.
Raines also pointed out that Jasper’s ordinance remains slightly more restrictive than state code in terms of square footage per child. This requirement was carried over from the original ordinance and is permitted under state law.
Following Raines’s explanation, the City Board unanimously approved the first reading of Ordinance 449. Only the second reading remains before the updated guidelines officially take effect in Jasper.
