Local Council Adjusts Fuel Cost Projections Based on Market Changes

Fuel costs took center stage during the Hooksett Town Council Budget Review meeting, as officials discussed adjustments for the upcoming fiscal year. The council revealed that the price for unleaded gas has been set at $3.25 per gallon, a decrease from last year's $3.50. This decision reflects a careful analysis of current market trends, following a period of volatile gas prices that previously impacted the town's budget.

The Department of Public Works (DPW) and the Fire Department will operate under different fuel rates, with diesel costs also being addressed. The council emphasized the importance of using standard numbers based on historical consumption, noting that code enforcement is expected to use approximately 1,500 gallons of unleaded gas, leading to a revised budget allocation.

In addition to fuel costs, the council also touched on the membership fee for the Southern New Hampshire Planning Commission. This fee is determined by population growth, with projections indicating an increase from 14,800 to 15,000 residents. The council anticipates that this growth will influence the multiplier used to calculate the membership fee, which is expected to be around 0.6.

As Hooksett prepares for the next fiscal year, these discussions highlight the town's proactive approach to budgeting and resource management, ensuring that financial decisions are aligned with current economic conditions and community growth.