BETHEL — In the past Bethel has paid as much as $5.94 per gallon for heating fuel.

Budget Committee member Jim Bennett raised the issue at a meeting and  Interim Town Manager Sharon Jackson proposed a fixed cost agreement for heating fuel by consolidating each of the municipalities’ facilities under one contract.

At an April 17 meeting, Jackson said she had received a price of $1.99 per gallon for propane from Community Energy. That price would be effective until June 30, 2025.

“We could lock in now and pay that price instead of paying [close to] six dollars [per gallon],” said Jackson.

One tank is non-compliant because it is on federal railroad property. It fuels Bethel Rescue’s generator.

In the meantime, Jackson will lock-in with Community Energy. She has officially cut ties with former supplier, Suburban Propane who will charge the Town one dollar per gallon to drain the currently full tanks.

“They have already overcharged us over 75%, ” said Select Board Member Pat McCartney.

Jackson said the town uses 5,500 gallons of propane a year. Savings will be in the range of $20,000 per year.

Select board members praised Jackson at the meeting. Said Frank Del Duca, “You started with the budget and I think you have been very impressive. I think our direction is going to come from you of how much work needs to be done and how long it’s going to take you to do it.”

Jackson will stay on as town manager until at least September.

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