The San Juan County meeting held on April 24, 2025, focused on the urgent need for funding to support the Silverton Family Learning Center (SFLC), a crucial childcare facility in the community. Several community members, including parents, teachers, and local business owners, voiced their concerns about the potential closure of the SFLC and its impact on families and the local economy.

During the meeting, advocates emphasized that the SFLC plays a vital role in enabling parents to work while ensuring their children receive quality care and early education. One board member highlighted the importance of using tourism tax funds to promote Silverton and support essential services like childcare. The urgency of the situation was underscored by testimonies from parents and educators who expressed that without the SFLC, many families would struggle to balance work and childcare responsibilities.

Julie Ganjo, a long-time employee at the SFLC, shared her experiences and the emotional toll that uncertainty about funding has on families. She noted that the closure of the center would force parents to stay home, significantly affecting their ability to work. Other speakers echoed this sentiment, stressing that the SFLC not only supports the immediate needs of families but also contributes to the long-term educational foundation for children.

The discussion also touched on the historical context of the SFLC, with community members recalling how the center was established over 20 years ago with the support of local commissioners. They urged current leaders to continue this legacy of support, emphasizing that investing in early childhood education is essential for the community's future.

As the meeting concluded, there was a collective call for the commissioners to consider allocating funds to ensure the continued operation of the SFLC. The community's commitment to its youngest members and the importance of maintaining a supportive environment for families were clear themes throughout the discussions. The next steps will involve further deliberation by the commissioners on how to address the funding needs of the SFLC and support the community's workforce.