The city of Clatskanie is considering a three-cent per gallon gas tax, which would create a fund for street repair in the city.

A new Oregon law means the city had better act fast if it wants to impose the tax and avoid putting the issue on the ballot. But the city first wants to hear what residents think of the idea, said Clatstkanie Mayor Diane Pohl.

The new tax would generate an estimate $20,000 each year, city officals estimated.

In past years, money for street work, along with several other city projects, has come from the sales of city-owned timber, as the city does not have a specific street fund. However, as funds have been stretched thin, Pohl hopes the city council will look closely at a local gas tax.

“Not only would the locals pay the tax, but all the travelers from Highway 30 would pay as well,” Pohl said.

The gas tax was introduced in Clatskanie after Oregon Legislature imposed a moratorium on local gas taxes effective Sept. 28. This means the city won’t be able to institute a city gas tax without voter approval.

Pohl said she has not taken a stance on the new tax, but thinks the city should at least discuss the option and make a decision at the Sept. 9 City Council meeting.

Pohl said he hopes citizens will weigh in at the next City Council meeting on Sept. 9. Nobody showed up to last week’s hearing on the matter.