Ann Arborites who are tired of popping tires on pothole-filled roads may take heart in various proposals by Gov. John Engler and the state Legislature.
Both state Republicans and Democrats are proposing solutions to help fund road repairs. A popular option is to get more federal funding.
"We're dead last in the money we send to Washington that we get back for transportation," said Rep. Terry London (R-Marysville), the minority vice chair of the House transportation committee.
One idea that has been hinted at without receiving much public support is an increase in the state gas tax.
"I would support a five-to-seven- cent gas tax increase," London said. "But the problem isn't to the point that I would raise it up to a dime."
However, many are opposed to the gas tax because they say there are other alternatives that should be tested first.
"A gas tax would be counterproductive at this time," said Rep. Alvin Kukuk (R-Macomb).
Engler also said in his State of the State address that he would like to wait before increasing the gas tax.
"I believe before fuel taxes are raised, we must exhaust every alternative, lower costs as much as possible and enact every possible reform," Engler said. "I am not satisfied that we have done our utmost."
Some legislators said Engler's current road projects are frivolous and should be frozen until local roads are repaired.
"The governor has proposed projects that will cost a lot of money," said Rep. Pat Gagliardi (D-Drummond Island), the majority floor leader. "We should stop all new projects and concentrate on old roads."
Other legislators said the previous Republican-controlled House found many solutions to fix the roads.
"We have taken care of some of the issues in the last session," Kukuk said.
Kukuk said the solutions that last session's members devised include eliminating the diesel-fuel discount for trucks.
Engler's seven-step proposal from his State of the State address is:
Other legislators said they would prefer the state government allocate funds raised by the state's 15-cent-per-gallon gas tax to fix roads.
"We have to put a halt to the state government from raiding the transportation funds for administrative costs," said Rep. Thomas Kelly (D-Wayne).
Kukuk also said a proper solution would be to "improve public transportation."
Kukuk suggested a solution proposed in Engler's State of the State address last month - tort reform to cut down on frivolous lawsuits.
"A drunk driver could hit a guardrail, sue the state and receive a large sum of money," Kukuk said.