The Worksession held on June 28, 2025, by the Municipality of Anchorage focused on proposed amendments to the Anchorage Municipal Code, specifically AO 2025-70, which aims to revise regulations affecting childcare facilities. The meeting addressed two primary code changes that could significantly impact the operation and establishment of childcare centers in the area.

The first proposed change involves the removal of specific bathroom requirements that have been deemed cost prohibitive for new and existing childcare centers. The discussion highlighted that eliminating the need for separate adult bathrooms and allowing shared bathroom plans could reduce financial burdens on facilities looking to open or remodel. Additionally, the proposal suggests allowing sinks to be located within the toileting area rather than requiring them to be outside the classroom. This change aims to ease compliance for new owners of facilities that previously operated under different standards, which often necessitated expensive renovations.

The second significant amendment discussed pertains to playground inspection requirements. The proposed changes aim to consolidate and clarify the regulations surrounding playground inspections, specifying when a certified playground inspector is needed. This adjustment is intended to streamline the licensing process for new facilities while ensuring that existing ones remain compliant with state statutes.

If these amendments are approved, they are expected to provide licensed childcare facilities with greater autonomy in making business decisions, thereby reducing costs and stress associated with compliance. The changes could also increase capacity ratios for school-age care, allowing for more children to be enrolled and potentially expanding childcare options in the community.

The meeting concluded with plans for a second round of code changes, which will involve community feedback and further engagement with stakeholders. The childcare team intends to monitor the impact of these changes through a survey one year after implementation to assess their effectiveness and community reception. Overall, the proposed amendments aim to enhance the operational flexibility of childcare facilities while addressing the growing needs of the community.