Local agencies watching fuel gauges

Bus transportation in Jefferson City has seen more ridership since increasing frequency, and perhaps because of increasing gas prices, as well. Photo by Stephen Brooks.

By Jeff Haldiman

Thursday, April 14, 2011

As gas prices continue to climb and get near the $4 a gallon mark, local governments and other publicly funded entities are watching their budgets closely.

Cole County Auditor Jim LePage said the county budgeted $515,000 for fuel this year. But if prices would stay at $3.79 a gallon for unleaded and $3.92 for diesel an extended period of time, the county would be looking at a 26 percent increase.

The public works department, sheriff’s department and ambulance service would be the most affected, but LePage said they have reserves to help pay those costs.

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Meanwhile, Richard Turner, JEFFTRAN director, said there has been an increase in riders because of the upswing in gas prices in recent weeks.

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JCLifer 2 years, 2 months ago

They should buy cheaper fuel from Columbia suppliers!

3blindmice 2 years, 2 months ago

is jcpd still looking to buy tahoe's? Just think in 2 years time it will average over $5

JMO 2 years, 2 months ago

I only drive about 2 miles to work, and just would walk if it weren't all uphill! The bus is looking better to me all the time.

two_cents_worth 2 years, 2 months ago

Watch out for bicycles as more people start riding them to work!!!

I'm one of 'em.

JCLifer 2 years, 2 months ago

If JCPD is buying Tahoe in this economy, someone there must have rocks in their head. There are many other alternative vehicles that would work well for the police that do not use nearly as much gas as a big SUV Tahoe. For example, the Dodge Charger Persuit gets 25 MPG- much better than a Tahoe which only gets 17 MPG.

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