MauryTHINKS

Rising gas prices are cutting into budgets large and small, sparing no victim among local government, businesses and citizens alike.

For the first time in its 50-year history Shapard Lumber Company has initiated a fuel surcharge on all deliveries.

“We really hated to do it, but with the cost of gas over $3.50 and diesel fuel more than $4, we were forced to take that step,” said General Manager David McClain. “In the past, we only added a fuel charge on deliveries of 200 miles or more.

Shapard Lumber is one of many local businesses that have been affected by the jump in fuel prices in recent weeks. Some businesses serving the construction industry have seen as much as a 20-percent drop in business as customers cut back on orders.

“Gas prices are definitely the reason some of our customers are becoming more conservative with their orders,” said Richard Pilkinton of Sequatchie Concrete Service.

Keith Throneberry of Jenkins Auto Service said rising gas prices also have bit into his bottom line by about 20 percent. Throneberry operates a small automotive repair shop on Trotwood Avenue.

Read the full story at the Columbia Daily Herald