Norwich — The city received three bids from firms interested in operating the city-owned child care center on the grounds of the Mahan School at 92 Salem Turnpike.

The center has been operated by Live and Learn LLC of Dayville for the past 15 years. The company's current contract expires Sept. 30, and the city notified the firm of its intent to seek new proposals at the end of the lease.

City Purchasing Agent William Hathaway said the plan to seek bids was “a business decision” for the center, which has a capacity of 36 children, including eight slots for preschool-age children.

Live and Learn submitted a bid price of $800 per month. The firm had been paying the city $400 per month, Hathaway said.

Love 2 Learn LLC of Jewett City proposed a price of $450 per month and Little People's Place Too! LLC of Uncasville submitted a bid of $1,350 per month. 

The child care center is open to anyone, but city employees have first preference.

Although the current lease will expire Sept. 30, Hathaway said the bid process allowed for a 180-day review period of the bids, potentially allowing Live and Learn to continue operating it until January at the latest.