York Supervisors Finalize 2026 Legislative Priorities
Board emphasizes State funding for Chesapeake Bay resiliency, local control of zoning; strikes seat belt camera proposal, admissions tax
The York County Board of Supervisors has approved its 2026 legislative priorities, advancing a platform centered on local authority, fiscal fairness, and environmental resiliency. The package—finalized during the board’s October 7 meeting—will guide the county’s advocacy during the upcoming Virginia General Assembly session.
Environmental and resiliency funding emerged as one of the top priorities. The board reaffirmed its request for additional state support for Chesapeake Bay Act compliance, emphasizing the burden that unfunded mandates place on local governments. County officials warned that without increased assistance, York could face a $30–$40 million bill to meet Clean Water Act requirements tied to rising sea levels. “If the state imposes the mandate, it should share the cost,” one supervisor said.
Transportation priorities include securing full funding for road maintenance, Smart Scale projects, and the proposed extension of the Capital Trail. The board also voiced support for creating a dedicated primary and secondary road fund to improve long-term planning and infrastructure investment.
In the area of education, York County will continue to advocate for full funding of state construction and modernization grants, teacher pay increases, and summer learning programs. The board removed a previous proposal to change the state’s school funding formula, which had been considered too complex to pursue this year.
Under land use, supervisors reaffirmed their push to preserve local zoning control over short-term rentals and accessory structures—issues that have drawn statewide attention since 2023 legislation limited localities’ ability to regulate them. York County is seeking clarification that its preexisting ordinances remain valid and amendable, ensuring decisions about local development remain in local hands.
One of the most discussed issues was whether to include a proposal allowing the use of cameras to enforce seat belt violations. After significant debate, supervisors unanimously agreed to strike the measure, calling it overly punitive and an overreach of surveillance powers. One Supervisor noted the potential for excessive fines and privacy concerns.
Another issue struck by the Supervisors from the list of legislative priorities was authorization for York County to impose an *admissions tax* on attractions such as Water Country USA or Great Wolf Lodge, allowing the county to shift more of the tax burden toward tourists rather than residents.
The legislative package also calls for:
Continued state funding for volunteer and small fire departments, including the $5 million small equipment grant program.
Creation of sustainable funding for first responder cancer screenings and retirement benefits for 911 dispatchers.
Modernization of the state’s public notification requirements, replacing expensive newspaper ads with online postings—an effort supervisors say would save localities thousands of dollars annually.
Support for naming a U.S. naval vessel after York County, following a local tradition of honoring Virginia communities.
According to the County, the 2026 legislative agenda aligns with York County’s six strategic priorities: public safety, education, economic development, communications, environmental stewardship, and technology investment. Board members said the priorities reflect both the county’s local challenges and its growing regional role.
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