Higher fuel prices are putting a strain on the Elkhart County Highway Department’s budget.

County commissioners have approved a request for an additional 200-thousand dollars to cover gasoline, diesel and motor oil expenses.

Officials say higher diesel costs, particularly during last winter’s snow removal operations, have driven up expenses.

Commissioners also approved a request for another 50-thousand dollars for vehicle repairs and replacement parts.

The additional funding requests now head to the Elkhart County Council for consideration on Thursday, October 15th.​