Larimer County Advances Childcare Tax Plan

New agreement launches voter-approved investment to expand affordable preschool and childcare access

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Larimer County is moving forward with a voter-approved plan to address the shortage and rising cost of childcare, formally signing an agreement this week with Northern Colorado Kids Thrive to implement new programs funded by a dedicated sales tax.

Why it matters

For many Northern Colorado families, the cost and availability of childcare remain among the biggest barriers to stable employment and early childhood development. The new funding structure is designed to create long-term solutions by strengthening providers, expanding classroom space, and easing financial strain for working parents.

The details

The sales tax revenue will support four core focus areas: reducing the cost of childcare for Larimer County residents while increasing access to family support services; stabilizing and expanding the early childhood workforce; increasing childcare provider capacity through targeted capital improvements; and administering and evaluating the new programs funded through the tax.

  • On November 4, 2025, Larimer County voters approved the new sales tax.
  • This week, the Larimer County Board of Commissioners executed the agreement with Northern Colorado Kids Thrive to begin allocating the tax revenue.

The players

Larimer County Board of Commissioners

The governing body of Larimer County, Colorado that approved the childcare tax plan and agreement.

Northern Colorado Kids Thrive

The organization that will be responsible for implementing the new childcare programs and allocating the tax revenue in Larimer County.

Jody Shadduck McNally

A Larimer County Commissioner who called the agreement a significant milestone for the community.

Christina Taylor

The CEO of Northern Colorado Kids Thrive, who said the organization is prepared to take on the work in partnership with the county.

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What they’re saying

“This is an important day for Larimer County. We are working to create a brighter future for our community by investing in our children and supporting the families who need it most.”

— Jody Shadduck McNally, Larimer County Commissioner (Larimer County Board of County Commissioners)

“Northern Colorado Kids Thrive is ready to take the next step in our community to assist families in securing quality and affordable childcare. We are excited to partner with Larimer County on this work.”

— Christina Taylor, CEO, Northern Colorado Kids Thrive (Larimer County Board of County Commissioners)

What’s next

The new childcare programs and services funded by the sales tax will begin rolling out across Larimer County in the coming months as Northern Colorado Kids Thrive implements the agreement with the county.

The takeaway

This voter-approved investment in Larimer County's childcare system represents a proactive approach to addressing the critical shortage and rising costs that have long impeded families' access to quality early childhood education and care. By strengthening the childcare workforce, expanding provider capacity, and directly assisting working parents, the county aims to create lasting solutions that support children, families, and the broader community.