It’s no surprise, as gasoline prices continue to rise across the U.S.; and, of course here in Cherokee County as well.

A quick check Thursday morning in Centre, found gasoline prices ranging from $4.23 to $4.29 a gallon meanwhile the price for diesel ranged anywhere between $4.69 and $5.29 a gallon.  Gasoline just across the state line in Georgia was at $4.19 a gallon.

We spoke to Cherokee County Chief Deputy Josh Summerford about those rising fuel costs and what effect they would possibly have on emergency services at the sheriff’s office.  He stated:  “We don’t have any plans to alter daily operations of the Sheriff’s Office. We requested additional fuel funding last year in the budget, in anticipation of higher fuel prices, and the Commission granted that.  We have an important job to do in providing public safety we will continue to do that.”

We also talked to State Senator Andrew Jones by phone Wednesday, and he sent us a statement saying:  “A recent spike in fuel prices – coupled with our troubling reliance on Russian oil and gas has showcased – now more than ever – the vast importance of American energy independence.  The Biden administration must immediately open up production in the U.S. to full capacity to counter these crippling prices; we here in the Alabama legislature are doing our part by taking up legislation to prohibit cities and counties in Alabama from enacting any New York-style laws which would ban or restrict the use of certain types of energy,”  Jones added “I’ll also do everything in my power to help our first responders who are being negatively impacted by this surge in fuel prices.”

We will have more from other county and state officials regarding this matter in our upcoming newscasts.