Gas prices in Santa Cruz County are increasing and may continue higher, said a Scotts Valley gas station owner. 

      “Get ready for a price spike as high as $8 to $9 dollars a gallon as the weeks continue,” said Abraham Ghaffarian, owner of Scotts Valley Gas and Mart on Mount Hermon Road. Ghaffarian suggests there may be a Band-Aid fix to the high $3 range soon and for a short time, but he said  to be prepared for a new normal of high $5 to high $6 a gallon.

       Ghaffarian said retailers are buying more gas to secure inventory levels in case of shortages. “It’s the old business tactic of supply and demand at play,” he said. It may be best to become accustomed to higher gas prices as just another aspect of inflation, said Ghaffarian.

    Graffarian said he has been able to keep gas prices below major retailers because he owns the property and does not stay open all night. He also picks up snacks and beverages from the suppliers rather than having them delivered.