Commissioners preview FY26 budget priorities: recovery center costs, training center, energy and contract-deputy debate

York County officials used the Jan. 15 meeting to preview major issues for the fiscal 2026 budget, focusing on rising personnel costs, expected increases in electricity rates, funding and outfitting needs for the county’s recovery center and training center, and a prolonged discussion over contract deputies and county policing responsibilities.

County administrative staff (identified in the record as Greg) told the board the county will need to factor in wage and benefits increases tied to recently approved and forthcoming union contracts; the county anticipates negotiating with multiple unions this year. Greg also highlighted that several long-term electricity purchase agreements will expire in November 2025, and initial modeling shows a likely increase in utility expense unless the county can re-lock favorable rates.

On facilities, staff reviewed the recovery center and related training center plans. The meeting record shows the board previously approved a development cost estimate for the recovery center of about $21,900,000; combined planning and outfitting discussions increased the projected total development-related…