News & Notes: State Shortfall Could Mean Gas Hike

By Larry Kratka
Berkshire News Network
11:44AM / Tuesday, April 01, 2008

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Gas Tax May Be Last Resort          

PITTSFIELD — There is a possibility that Massachusetts may raise the tax on gasoline if the state cannot close its $1.3 billion shortfall and a hike in the gas tax would not sit well with Massachusetts residents. 

State Sen. Benjamin B. Downing, D-Pittsfield, told the Berkshire News Network that a hike in the gas tax is a possibility. However, he said that until the state gets all the savings possible out of the budget, no one will have an appetite for a gas tax. 

On Monday, Gov. Deval Patrick said it was possible that gas could near $4 a gallon because of the high cost of oil. Prices across the state are averaging about $3.15, up 50 cents over last year at this time.

But if lawmakers save every last nickel and still don't erase the budget shortfall, the state would have to look at other options. Downing was careful not to predict that a hike in the gas tax would have a chance to be introduced. Patrick has refused to rule out the possibility of imposing a new tax at the pump and while legislative leaders have not embraced the idea publicly, few have rejected it entirely.

 
Barrington Stage Eyes VFW Space

PITTSFIELD — It looks like the Barrington Stage Company may lease the top floor of the Veterans of Foreign Wars building on Linden Street. The building has been for sale for many months but the lease agreement with the Barrington Stage Company would be a plus for both parties. 

The theater company would use the facility as their Stage 2 site and music theater lab. The VFW would be able to keep the building and renovate the downstairs bar. The deal has not been signed yet but Barrington Stage Company has already sent out season brochures announcing that its Stage 2 and Music Lab productions would take place at the VFW. 

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