Didn't see that coming

N&O:

Skyrocketing fuel prices could push Durham's budget even higher, as cost estimates made just a few weeks ago in preparation for the proposed budget already are woefully low, the council learned today during budget deliberations. The proposed budget is $356 million, a 17 percent increase over the current fiscal year, and calls for an 11 percent property tax rate increase.

The transit system, for instance spent $1.7 million on fuel in fiscal year 2006-07. It budgeted $2 million for the current fiscal year but will have spent $2.6 million by the end of June.

. . .

The impact will be felt across the city, not just in the bus system, as everything from garbage trucks to police cruisers to housing inspectors making their rounds will be affected.

Herald-Sun:

Durham [County] has budgeted $836,000 for fuel, mostly for sheriff's vehicles and ambulances, but Ruffin said that may climb. The original cost estimate, prepared two months ago, pegged fuel costs at $2.80 a gallon, but the county is currently paying $3.20, because government agencies are exempt from gas taxes.

Maybe we should just let the free-market take care of our so-called congestion problem, and get the government out of the business of building roads all together. (/snark)