Lake County Commission Approves 5-Cent Gas Tax Increase for Road Funding

Lake County commissioners are considering a proposal to increase the local gas tax by five cents per gallon, raising it from 7 cents to 12 cents to address a more than $700 million road maintenance deficit fueled by rapid population growth, heavier traffic, and rising construction costs. The additional revenue would be dedicated to road resurfacing and transportation improvements, with officials emphasizing the need for proactive funding to keep pace with infrastructure demands. The proposal has sparked debate among commissioners, with some opposing the tax hike on the grounds that it disproportionately impacts working-class residents who drive frequently, while others argue the urgency of addressing the county's road funding shortfall. Lake County plans to hold a public hearing on September 23 to gather community input before making a final decision, which must be reached by an October 1 deadline. Similar tax increases have recently been approved in nearby Seminole County and are common among other Central Florida counties. The commission is also considering whether to approve the tax increase themselves or put the issue to a public vote.