During a recent government meeting, officials discussed projected fuel costs for the upcoming years, highlighting significant fluctuations in gasoline and diesel prices. The fleet manager provided estimates indicating that gasoline is expected to average $3.06 per gallon in 2024, while diesel is projected to rise to $3.11 per gallon. This marks a notable increase in diesel prices, which are currently lower than gasoline, with Chautauqua County paying $2.45 per gallon for diesel and $2.61 for gasoline under the OGS contract.

The meeting revealed that fuel prices are highly variable and subject to weekly fluctuations, complicating budget projections. Officials acknowledged the challenges posed by national policies and the ongoing transition towards electrification in transportation, which may reduce the number of diesel trucks on the road in the future. The discussion also touched on the importance of accurate projections, as these figures impact multiple departments relying on fuel.

Concerns were raised about the potential need for budget adjustments if fuel prices deviate significantly from projections. The U.S. Energy Information Administration's forecast of diesel prices at the pump, expected to rise to $3.92 this year and $4.08 next year, added to the urgency of the discussion. Officials emphasized the necessity of revisiting these estimates to avoid unexpected budget shortfalls in the future.

As the meeting progressed, the focus shifted to debt service, indicating a comprehensive approach to financial planning amidst fluctuating fuel costs.