Two centers in northern Kannapolis and East Spencer opened this month to the general public. The public housing agency built the centers with federal money that it hopes to repay through customer fees.

“Astronomical charges seem to be a problem for so many people,” said Millie Clawson, director of the Rowan County Housing Authority. “We want to call them child development centers. That’s what we’re emphasizing: development.”

The authority set up a company called Precious Beginnings — the name of the two centers is the same — that now hopes to gain non-profit status.

The two 6,200-square-foot centers opened March 13. They can serve as many as 67 children up to 5 years old from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays. Rates range from $75-$85 per week, varying on the child’s age. They accept children subsidized through the Rowan County Department of Social Services.

The centers have playgrounds, kitchens and separate rooms for children ages six weeks to one year, 1-2, 2-3 and 3-5.

Clawson said the housing authority is carefully screening employees and installing video cameras in rooms.

“We have done everything possible, even down to polygraph tests, to make sure we are hiring people above reproach,” she said.

Five years ago, the Rowan County Housing Authority got a $10.76 million grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to renovate the three subsidized apartment complexes it manages. The agency also oversees Section 8 housing by paying a share of rent for families who live in designated houses around the county.

The agency used money left over from that grant to build the two day care centers.

This morning, eight were enrolled in Kannapolis and three in East Spencer.

“I’m really excited, because it’s really a nice day care,” said Selena Saltz, who runs the Kannapolis center.