As ongoing geopolitical conflict in the Middle East continues to disrupt global oil shipments, the average price of a gallon of regular gasoline in New York is approaching $4.50. And residents and local businesses in Franklin Square and Elmont are feeling the effects.
Rising energy prices are affecting household finances by increasing the cost of food and transportation. Mike Gayle, of Elmont, noted that higher fuel costs affect other things like food deliveries and the cost of other goods.
“Food prices are high, and the food prices are high in part because the gas prices are high,” Gayle said. “Everything is connected. … We have to eat, but we're trying to make more money. So it's not just the gas prices itself. It's the situation with gas: It is really messing up how we move and what we're able to do in the job market, and the cost of food and all these other things.”
Although Gayle drives an electric vehicle, he recognized the pass-along costs of rising fuel prices. And, he said, he wants lawmakers and government officials from both parties to cooperate rather than point fingers, and he believes that meaningful change may depend on next month’s elections.
“The midterms are coming,” Gayle said, “and let the voting do the talking.”
Petroleum analyst Patrick De Haan shared a live fuel clock on X, showing that American drivers have collectively spent over $75 billion more on gasoline since March 1 than in the same period last year.
Trecia Wong, of Elmont, a Board of Education trustee for the Elmont school district, shared how rising energy costs are affecting her household budget. Heating oil now costs more than $1,300 per refill, compared with about $700 two years ago. She added that her electricity bill is nearly $500, and the delivery charges exceed the usage charges.
Wong noted that Elmont’s Parkway Drive lacks a gas line, forcing residents to use more expensive heating oil. Elderly neighbors are also affected.
“So all the neighbors in that area are suffering because we have to get oil to heat our homes,” she said. “We don't have a choice. … You know, even though gas is still expensive, it's a little cheaper for heating your home. … So my elderly neighbors are feeling that as well.”
Wong requested the federal government, to strengthen regulation of utility companies and review delivery charges, and called for action against price gouging and broader efforts to lower fuel costs.
“Of course, the war is going on, so if the war stops, that will help with the cost of fuel,” Wong said. “… That would be one way to get prices down, and also to make sure companies bring down prices … [T]he government needs to step in and regulate these companies, too, to make sure that they are not price gouging.”
Domenico Ciaccio, co-president of the Morton Civic Association, said that the group is working with Petro Home Service to share information, connect residents with support, and help households experiencing hardship. He recognized that rising gas, diesel and heating oil prices are increasing household expenses.
“We're hoping that this hardship is short-lived, and that things can go back to normal, because it's very important,” Ciaccio said. “Heating is an important part of our daily life, so we completely understand that with the rising cost, it's not easy on anyone, because obviously heating is not an option, especially during the cold days. So we're trying our best to do everything we can to put them in touch with the right people, keep them informed, and keep Petro on speed dial should anything change.”
Ciaccio shared the details of a Petro program that will help residents pay their bills. The company offers a SmartPay plan, which lets customers pay for their oil use in 12 monthly payments instead of one large bill, with no additional fees or interest. For more information, residents can call (800) 645-4328.
New York State also offers the Home Energy Assistance Program. Residents can apply to see if they qualify for a grant to offset their energy bill. Petro is a vendor for the program.
