Gas prices have soared, but Vernon politicians would like to push them a little higher.
Council endorsed a call Monday for the provincial fuel tax be increased by $0.001, or one-tenth of a cent, with all of that money being directed towards pedestrian and cycling infrastructure in B.C. communities,
“It will assist in funding for sidewalks and bicycle trails,” said Mayor Rob Sawatzky.
Based on population, such a tax could generate about $58,600 a year for Vernon.
Sawatzky believes an expanded pedestrian network would ease the city’s financial burdens by shifting traffic away from roads.
“We can’t go to property taxpayers all of the time (for funds). It (levy) is a logical approach because the people burning gas are the ones who require us to maintain roads,” he said.
The city is supporting a resolution put forward by the Union of B.C. Municipalities.
While he supported the motion, Coun. Bob Spiers isn’t confident lobbying the provincial government will be successful.
“It’s going no where. They have a gas tax (grant) policy already and they won’t add to it,” he said.
