Fiscal year (FY) 2024 actuals, FY 2025 operational budgets, and plans for the FY 2026 budget were all covered in detail during the York County Council Workshop on January 14, 2025. This is a thorough synopsis:
Key Highlights:
- The meeting was opened by County Manager Josh Edwards, emphasizing the importance of setting the groundwork for upcoming budget discussions. The focus was on reviewing past fiscal performance, current operational metrics, and forward-looking strategies.
- FY 2024 actuals showed strong financial performance due to higher-than-anticipated interest income and efficient cash management practices.
- Growth in the tax base, particularly post-COVID, significantly boosted revenues.
- Capital Projects Fund had a surplus from the General Fund, maintaining a healthy balance of $72 million by the end of FY 2024.
- FY 2025 included continued growth in the budgeted mill value, with a 6-7% increase from FY 2024.
- Vacancies across various county departments, particularly in the Sheriff s office, were identified as a key driver of budgetary surpluses.
- A $17 million transfer was projected for capital projects, alongside a planned $30 million for the Sheriff s booking center expansion.
- Parks and Recreation funding included allocations for land acquisition and operational improvements, emphasizing immediate needs for existing parks and facilities.
- The council discussed the allocation of $17 million for various projects, including maintenance and enhancements across county parks, infrastructure, and public services.
- The need for more detailed capital improvement planning (CIP) was underscored, with a focus on actionable 5-year plans.
- Initial guidelines for FY 2026 were shared, highlighting priorities such as strategic planning, compliance with mandates, and maintaining balanced budgets without tax increases.
- Revenue forecasts and the importance of conservative financial projections were discussed in anticipation of potential economic downturns.
- Department directors will present their budgetary needs, aligning with strategic priorities.
- Immediate actions based on the Parks Master Plan were outlined, including staffing for new and existing parks and planning for underutilized land.
- A phased approach was adopted, with the current focus on operational readiness for existing parks and long-term planning for future acquisitions and developments.
- The council aims to host workshops focusing on specific aspects, such as vacancies, benefits, and capital projects.
- A potential council retreat was proposed for March to further refine budget strategies.
- A digital budget book is being developed for increased transparency and accessibility.
- New training programs and presentations for department directors aim to enhance the budget submission and review process.
- Council members raised concerns about the timing and transparency of budget allocations, particularly for special tax districts and external agencies.
- Discussions emphasized equitable treatment and strategic foresight in budgetary decisions.
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With a focus on preserving financial stability, attending to urgent operational requirements, and getting ready for long-term growth and sustainability, the workshop demonstrated a thorough approach to fiscal planning.