York County’s Approved Budget Balances a Tax Reduction for Residents, with Improvements in Government Services

This week, York County Council approved a budget for fiscal year 2027 which includes a tax reduction for residents, supports public safety, invests in infrastructure and provides a merit-based salary increase for staff. Establishing an annual budget is one of the most important tasks York County accomplishes in service to our citizens. Following several budget workshops and three public readings, the County’s budget has officially been adopted and will be commenced on July 1, 2026.

Using the County’s Strategic Plan as a guide, the budget serves as a roadmap for providing public services in an open, efficient, and responsive manner. The budget aligns resources to community priorities while ensuring transparency.

“York County has made meaningful progress in meeting the needs of our region and residents. I am proud of our Budget and Finance staff for working collaboratively across departments to identify priorities that align with the County’s Strategic Plan. I appreciate the work of the County Council throughout the budget process to ensure we are providing the highest-quality government services, while balancing fiscal responsibility,” explained Josh Edwards, York County Manager.

The total approved budget for FY2027 is $555,885,134, of which $188,940,661 is general fund. The total budget includes $145,974,255 for the County’s voter-approved Pennies for Progress program and more than $53 million for water and sewer operations and capital expenses.

Highlights of the FY2027 Budget include:
• A 1 mill tax reduction for York County residents, resulting in a decrease in the County’s portion of the bill for taxpayers
• A doubling in funding from $2 million to $4 million for County Road improvement projects and ongoing implementation of the fifth York County “Pennies for Progress” program
• Increases in funding to the County’s Capital Improvement Plan
o Includes allocating $10 million for Moss Justice Center Renovations, $8 million towards Public Safety Communications/911 Improvements, an Animal Services Facility upgrade, a new Coroner’s Facility and others
• Investing in the County’s water/sewer infrastructure for improved service and reliability
• A 3.5% merit-based salary increase for York County staff and the first full year of funding for a 10% salary increase for sworn officers with the York County Sheriff’s Office
• The addition of key positions to enhance the safety of our community
• An additional investment of $665,000 to support York County Fire Services and augment response efforts
• Transportation studies and improvements – including an I-77 South Corridor Plan and a Comprehensive Plan Study that will guide growth for the next decade

In 2025, York County was awarded the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the first time. The award represents a significant achievement and reflects the commitment of York County’s staff to meeting the highest principles of governmental budgeting.