Community Corner

Gas Prices Edge Near All-Time High in Michigan

Prices at the pumps in Hartland were on average $4.29 this week.

A new report released by AAA Michigan this week reveals that Michigan has the second highest gas prices in the country.

The auto club is reporting that gasoline prices have jumped about 23 cents during the past week to a statewide average of about $4.23 per gallon. AAA said Monday the average is about 47 cents per gallon more than this time last year.

In Hartland, gas prices averaged roughly $4.29 a gallon as of Friday and many residents expressed their frustration with the "ridiculous" prices on the Hartland Patch Facebook page.

"The prices are outrageous," Hartland Patch reader Peggy Seabalt wrote on the Hartland Patch Facebook page. "If you go on gasbuddy.com, you can check prices in different areas. The Kroger in Pinckney is $4.08. If you go to Toledo, gas is $3.78."

"It's limiting my driving," resident Candy Sdunek Cornell wrote. "My truck gets 12 mpg."

"Its no secret, the Government and the oil companies are in bed together," James Newport wrote. "What's more disturbing is, I can't believe a "Speedy Freeze" is up to .99 cents. Can anyone explain that to me!"

The Detroit Free Press reports that prices increased in Michigan following lingering issues at several Midwest refineries that supply gasoline to the state. In addition, speculation among Midwest refiners likely is causing panic, which means refiners are buying gasoline at a premium to meet contract orders from wholesalers.

AAA Michigan analysts say it is difficult to predict how long the higher prices will last, but warned they could continue to climb before coming down.

Will you be traveling this weekend? Where is the cheapest gas in Hartland?


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here