By Mike Conley

The McDowell County Commissioners agreed to install a diesel storage tank that hopefully could save the county some money on fuel costs. It would also make sure the fuel is available in case of another nationwide shortage.

At last week's regular meeting, county officials talked about the recent fuel shortage problem. County Manager Chuck Abernathy said he and other staff members have been taking a close look at the diesel fuel situation for several months. The county buys its diesel fuel primarily for the Emergency Medical Services ambulances and the waste collection trucks. It is bought directly from local vendors. If the county had a diesel storage tank, it could buy the fuel off of state contract and save some money. This is how the county handles the purchase of unleaded gasoline.

County officials estimated the cost of a diesel tank and pump to be less than $30,000. That price includes upgrading the existing gasoline tank near the county jail. The installation of a 10,000-gallon diesel tank would provide around a 75-day supply. The tank would be used mostly by the EMS, the Sheriff's Office and the Rescue Squad.

The commissioners approved the purchase of a diesel tank and upgrading the existing gasoline tank.

"The scarcity of fuel is a major concern and this would take care of that, too," said Commissioner Dean Buff.

Photo credit: Tom Magliery