Kamloops city councillors are seeking answers on why gas prices in the city often remain higher than in other interior B.C. communities.

At Tuesday’s council meeting, Councillor Bill Sarai raised the issue, noting that drivers traveling south toward Chilliwack, Hope, and Abbotsford frequently pay less for fuel than in Kamloops, despite using the same fuel suppliers.

“I actually look forward to getting into Hope… because I know the gas prices are usually cheaper than here,” Sarai said. “Lately, our gas prices are continually higher than anywhere in our interior… I hear it a lot from residents that Kamloops is getting gouged on gas prices.” He proposed sending a letter to the local MLA and the Minister of Energy and Consumer Affairs requesting an explanation.

The motion was seconded by Councillor Stephen Karpuk, who added, “If you go south of the Okanagan… the difference in price can be six cents a litre cheaper than what we’re seeing on the average station in Kamloops. How can fuel be cheaper in these communities if it’s coming from the same suppliers?” He also highlighted the need for transparency in pricing, questioning whether taxes or other factors were contributing to Kamloops’ higher rates.

Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson said he travels frequently and finds Kamloops’ prices “not that bad” compared with other regions. “I don’t find us to be that out to lunch, I really don’t” he said. He still supported the motion, noting, “It wouldn’t hurt… it doesn’t cost much to get that done anyways.”

The motion to write to provincial officials was approved unanimously, meaning Kamloops council will hopefully be able to provide residents with some clarity on why filling up in the city costs more than in neighboring communities.