Summary
Diesel and gas prices have blown through the Highway Department's fuel budget — 83.7% spent by early July when it should have been around 60%. The committee recommended $100,000 from contingency, with another request expected in November.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 4
- Last 30 days
- 0
Discussed at 2 meetings in the last 60 days; most recently Sep 15, 2026.
Impact analysis
$100,000 from the county's contingency fund now, with more likely coming later this year.
County road maintenance and snow-and-ice operations keep running without cuts.
County taxpayers if a supplemental appropriation is needed.
Mentions & discussions (5)
Tompkins County Legislature - Regular Meeting — September 15, 2026
Diesel near $6 a gallon blew a hole in the Highway Department's fuel budget — 83.7% was spent by July 6 versus an expected 60%. The Legislature unanimously moved $100,000 from contingency, with a warning that another appropriation may be needed before winter.
Budget, Capital, and Personnel Committee - Regular Meeting — September 14, 2026
Diesel and gas prices have blown through the Highway Department's fuel budget — 83.7% spent by early July when it should have been around 60%. The committee recommended $100,000 from contingency, with another request expected in November.
Facilities and Infrastructure Committee - Regular Meeting — August 20, 2026
Rising fuel prices left the Highway Department's 2026 fuel budget nearly spent months early, threatening road work and snow-and-ice operations. The committee recommended a $100,000 transfer from the Contingent Fund to cover the gap.
County Officials Project $9.8 Million Deficit in 2027 Budget
County Officials Project $9.8 Million Deficit in 2027 Budget Ithaca Times
Facilities and Infrastructure Committee - Regular Meeting — June 18, 2026
Gas prices squeezed the Highway Department budget — it was 60% through its fuel money five months into the year. Prices are trending back down, but expect a request for maybe $100,000+ to cover the gap.
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