Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in York County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 issues in environment
Farmland and natural lands preservation
The county released $155,000 total to preserve two farms — a fully wooded 106-acre property on the Conewago Creek and 97 acres of prime farmland near East Berlin — permanently protecting them from development.
Farmland and open space preservation
The county is preserving over 3,100 acres a year — well past its 2,500-acre benchmark — but nobody has calculated the total acreage goal. President Wheeler wants a number so the county can celebrate when it gets there.
Wastewater Rate Increase
York City sewer bills are going up, so wastewater costs are about to hit residents’ monthly budgets. Some customers may qualify for a discount, so it’s worth checking before the higher bills kick in.
Conservation easement funding releases
The county is spending $276,454 to permanently protect 81 acres of the Gross family farm in Codorus Township from development.
Weatherization program contractor renewals
Eight weatherization contracts — heating, plumbing, electrical, insulation, and environmental work — were renewed for 2026-27 so low-income households can get energy-efficiency upgrades, mostly with 2% annual price bumps.
J&K Salvage fire and environmental concerns
A resident urged county officials to demand accountability after the February 25 fire at J&K Salvage in Spring Garden Township, saying oil washed into Codorus Creek and smoke drifted over neighborhoods. He cited prior litigation over alleged PFAS dumping and explosions near homes.