Rising fuel prices force additional funding to Columbia Fire Department

The Columbia City Council has approved more money for the Columbia Fire Department, in an attempt to offset rising diesel prices.

AAA reports diesel averaged $5.96 per gallon this week in Columbia. Up more than $1 from one month ago, and up $2.51 from the same time last year.

The City Council tabbed an additional $60,000 for fuel purchases as part of the city’s fourth-quarter adjustments to its fiscal 2026 budget. The one-time hit to funding will come from the city’s general operating funds. It is hoped the additional money will cover the Fire Department’s projected fuel consumption through the end of the fiscal year on Oct. 1.