The City of Springfield could soon be testing propane conversion kits for a couple dozen vehicles.
Aldermen asked Budget Director Bill McCarty a series of questions about the cost of the conversions, the grants from the state and federal governments that will ultimately pay for the conversions, and even the possibilities of other alternate fuels like compressed natural gas and electric vehicles.
McCarty said that propane burns cleaner, runs through the engine with less wear and tear, is cheaper than gasoline, doesn’t diminish performance and will lead to a savings of upwards to $70,000.
He also says that after the grants are in place and conversions complete, the city will not be out of any money.
The ordinance was placed on the debate agenda for possible passage next week.
