Largo's Future First
A Plan for Universal, Full-Day VPK for Every Child
The Challenge: A Barrier for Working Families
The high cost of childcare is a major burden for Largo's families. The state's free VPK program only covers 3 hours a day, leaving parents to pay for expensive "top-up" care. This financial strain is a barrier to work and makes our city less competitive in attracting and retaining the families who are vital to our community's future.
The Cost of Full-Day Care
State VPK
FREE
+
Top-Up
~$100/wk
=
Full Day
$3,600/yr
The Solution: Universal Top-Up VPK
This plan makes Largo the most family-friendly city in Tampa Bay. We will use a portion of a hard-won budget surplus to cover the "top-up" cost, making full-day VPK completely free for every four-year-old in Largo. This provides an immediate, direct savings of **$3,600 per year** to Largo families.
State Hours
Largo Hours
Full-Day VPK
A Promise of Fiscal Responsibility
This program is not about reckless spending. It's the final step in a comprehensive plan to restore Largo's fiscal health. It will **only** be funded by **$3 million in annual savings** from prior fiscal reforms, and it will not start until our city's finances are on solid ground for the long term.
"On-Ramp" Trigger
The program will only begin if the 5-year budget forecast shows an ending fund balance above 16% in every single year.
"Off-Ramp" Trigger
The program will be suspended if the General Fund balance is ever projected to fall below 15%, protecting taxpayers.
A Smart Investment in Largo's Growth
This policy is more than an expense; it's a high-return investment. The benefits are measured not just in dollars, but in the long-term strength and prosperity of our community.
Financial & Economic Growth
Gaining a Competitive Edge
See how this plan makes Largo the clear choice for families in Pinellas County.
LARGO
(PROPOSED)
Annual Top-Up Cost:
$0
Save $3,600 a Year!
CLEARWATER
(ESTIMATED)
Annual Top-Up Cost:
$5,400+
Based on ~$150/week
ST. PETE
(ESTIMATED)
Annual Top-Up Cost:
$3,200+
Based on ~$90/week
Proven Annual Return on Investment
13%
Source: Nobel Laureate James Heckman
This ROI comes from higher tax revenues from increased earnings and reduced public spending on remedial education, health, and crime.
Make Largo a Magnet for Families
This clear financial advantage will attract new residents who will:
- Expand our property tax base and increase home values.
- Support local businesses and drive economic activity.
- Enable more parents to join the workforce, boosting household incomes.
Social & Community Strength
Educational Success
Children in VPK are more likely to be ready for Kindergarten, read at grade level, and graduate high school.
Reduced Crime
Studies show a 48% lower rate of felony arrests by age 21 for at-risk children in quality early education programs.
Improved Health
Better long-term physical and mental health outcomes, leading to a higher quality of life and reduced public health costs.
Greater Equity
Closes achievement gaps and gives every child, regardless of background, the foundation they need to succeed.
Let's Build the Community of Choice, Naturally
This isn't just a policy; it's a declaration of our priorities. It's a fiscally responsible investment in our children, our families, and our city's future. By putting our families first, we ensure Largo's prosperity for generations to come.