ALFRED — York County Commissioners say they’re looking for a budget that takes care of obligations — and perhaps a bit more — but in general has directed County Manager Greg Zinser to keep expenses low for the fiscal year that begins July 1.

Zinser told county commissioners last week he’s expecting requests for some additional positions and that he may look to consolidate some multiple part time positions into fewer full time jobs.

Zinser said he’s expecting an increase in wages and benefits, but that insurance premiums seem to be holding firm. He said the cost of propane is projected to be around 15 cents higher per gallon than what the county currently pays, adding about $20,000 to the overall cost — but pointed out that $1.10 per gallon, as projected for York County Jail, would still be less than the consumer price. York County Jail uses about 165,000 gallons of propane annually. The per gallon cost at other county buidings is more than what they pay at the jail because they use less, he said.

Debt service will decrease by $200,000 next year, he said.

Zinser was looking for budget direction from the five-member commission for the fiscal year that begins July 1; for the current fiscal year the county budget committee approved a $19.7 million budget.

The commission has committed itself to adding additional money to fund the Layman Way Recovery Center, the residential drug rehabilitation center due to open in April on the grounds of York County Jail, he pointed out.

He said the Registry of Deeds is looking to add a position; Zinser reminded the commission that in 2006, the Register of Deeds had asked for a position to be cut, because business was slow at the time. He said the York County Emergency Management Agency was looking for a new position, and that he was looking to perhaps consolidate some positions currently held by two part-time workers into full-time jobs.

“I hope we come in under L.D. 1,” said Commissioner Richard Clark, referring to the cap approved statewide for counties and municipalities in 2005. He said he is looking for as low an increase as possible.

Commissioner Michael Cote pointed out the county’s commitment for wage and benefit increases to employees.

“These are priority, and a few other things. Other than that hold the line,” Cote said. “It’s okay to add people when you have to, but take care of the people you have.”

“Anytime you add something new, you have to have value in it,” said Commissioner Cynthia Chadwick-Granger. “Where is the value in it, and where will the money come from?”

Chadwick-Granger had questions about the potential increase in the cost of propane, and noted that going from 93 cents a gallon to $1.10 “is a lot of money.” 

“Everything is open to negotiations,” she said.

Commissioner Richard Dutremble noted the county’s upgraded bond rating, from AA to AA+.

“Keep it as low as you can,” said Commission Chairman Sallie Chandler’s regarding any potential budget increase.

— Senior Staff Writer Tammy Wells can be contacted at 324-4444 (local call in Sanford) or 282-1535, ext. 327 or [email protected].