The York County Commissioners meeting on July 16, 2025, focused on the county's financial performance and economic outlook, highlighting significant milestones and challenges ahead.

During the meeting, it was reported that the county's fund has surpassed $600 million, marking a notable achievement. The discussion included a review of the first quarter's economic performance, which saw a negative GDP print for the first time in three years. This downturn was attributed to companies front-loading orders in anticipation of tariffs, leading to a temporary negative impact on trade. However, expectations for the second quarter are more optimistic, with predictions of stronger growth despite a general slowdown anticipated in the latter half of the year.

The labor market remains resilient, with unemployment rates dropping to 4.1%. Inflation trends were also discussed, showing a slight decrease, although it remains higher than expected due to ongoing tariff impacts. The Federal Reserve's potential interest rate cuts were a key topic, with expectations for a rate reduction in September, contingent on economic conditions and upcoming tariff deadlines.

The meeting also addressed the performance of the county's investment portfolio, which has shown positive returns despite a challenging market environment. The fund's diversification strategy has proven effective, with higher quality equities and infrastructure investments yielding positive results. The county's pension fund has outperformed its benchmark, placing it in the top quartile among U.S. pension funds.

In conclusion, the York County Commissioners emphasized the importance of maintaining a cautious yet proactive approach to investment and economic management as they navigate the complexities of the current financial landscape. The next steps will involve closely monitoring economic indicators and adjusting strategies accordingly to ensure continued financial health for the county.