Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Lancaster County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
7 issues in taxes budget
Children and Youth placement costs surge
Commissioners renewed contracts with eight providers of specialized placements for kids in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems — and noted how hard it's become to find an open bed.
Senior and Human Services Agreements
The amended agreement with Thompson Social Services was pulled so staff can dig deeper before it returns to the board.
Senior services funding
County seniors get the 2027 Senior Games at Spooky Nook and slightly pricier Meals on Wheels deliveries — a quarter more per meal, paid from state grant funds.
State Food Purchase Program funding for low-income residents
Nearly $758,000 in state money will fund the purchase, transport, storage, and distribution of food to low-income Lancaster County families, with Community Action Program (CAP) running the effort.
State Food Purchase Program funding for county food pantries
Community Action Partnership will keep running the State Food Purchase Program with a slightly larger $776,844 budget, helping offset rising food costs for pantries.
Bulk fuel and fleet card contract
The county locked in three-year deals for bulk fuel delivery (with new fleet card services) and insurance brokerage services — the insurance deal costs $456,999, a 10.79% bump.
Behavioral health services funding increase
The board renewed a slate of contracts for mental health and disability services, including a $318,445 federal grant providing permanent supported housing for 20 people with serious mental illness.