Childcare

Two key tax provisions have been expanded in 2026 to help employees access and afford childcare, which creates opportunities to help McLean County's childcare crisis.

Republican Jerry Klinkner is challenging incumbent William Bessler, a Democrat, for the seat to serve District 4 on the McLean County Board. The candidates agree on cost of living as a key issue, but differ in how to achieve lower costs.

Chronic understaffing at DCFS and an unimplemented state law are leaving some childcare centers short-staffed, turning away kids and in some cases risking their funding.

Leadership at YWCA McLean County is pitching government bodies for financial help to address the area's childcare crisis. President and CEO Liz German said there are significant gaps in the state subsidy for childcare — and change is not coming fast enough.

Two childcare providers described an industry where good intentions run into real financial and bureaucratic walls. At least for now, some left standing in McLean County seem more interested in propping each other up than fighting over what's left.

The City of Bloomington believes childcare accessibility and affordability are “critical” issues for the community, said Tyus. “It's just as important as finding quality employees,” he said.

The city council unanimously approved an agreement with Habitat for Humanity that includes allocating $80,000 to develop two homes on Trailside Court as part of the city's "ReBloom the Block" program. City staff said the infusion of funds will speed up the non-profit's building schedule.

Bloomington-Normal’s shortage of affordable childcare options is about to get even worse. Milestones Early Learning Center and Preschool in Bloomington will permanently close July 31 – less than two weeks from now.

According to one study, Illinois is losing $6.2 billion a year from people exiting the workforce due to childcare challenges. Experts say a new statewide department dedicated to early childhood is unlikely to provide immediate relief.

The Normal Town Council has adopted a new strategic plan for the next three years. Mayor Chris Koos talks about some of the details.