As the average price for a gallon of gas has increased over 50% from last year, the Livingston County Board of Supervisors voted last week to give motorists some relief at the pump.
The Board has issued a temporary cap on the collection of County sales tax on retail motor fuel at $3.00 per gallon. This measure takes effect June 1, 2022, and will expire at the end of the year, which coincides with the tax holiday state lawmakers agreed upon as part of the New York State budget.
County leaders recognize that the cap will translate to a 33% reduction in local sales tax collected based on today’s gas prices and will increase if prices continue to climb.
“Livingston County relies on the generation of sales tax as part of its operating budget. However, the skyrocketing price of fuel and additional tax generated from that should not come at the expense of our residents,” stated Daniel L. Pangrazio, Livingston County Board of Supervisors Vice Chairman and Town of Caledonia Supervisor. “Gasoline sales generate a significant percentage of our overall sales tax collection, so while we struggle with our own rising costs, please know that this measure by your County Board of Supervisors is a call to action to help.”
Susan J. Erdle, West Sparta Town Supervisor, said, “Our residents are frustrated with the increased costs of so many basic needs, especially gas. In a rural town like West Sparta everyone needs to drive to get school, work, shopping, and medical appointments. A gas tax cap will provide some relief as inflationary pressures continue to affect almost every part of our economy.”
“We encourage our residents to ‘Shop Small’ and support our local businesses,” continued Erdle. “Supporting local businesses not only saves gas, but it also helps to build and drive the local economy and provides much needed support to our communities throughout Livingston County.”
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