NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Local highway departments, police agencies, ambulance services and other government services across the state are struggling to pay the rising cost of fuel.

Special Section: Rising Gas Prices

In Cheatham County, Schools Director Lynn Seifert said the spiraling cost of fuel couldn't be anticipated for the current budget year and the schools will need between $25,000 and $35,000 in added funding to finish out the school year.

In Williamson County, the school board has asked the County Commission to let it dip into the schools' fund balance for $250,000 more to buy fuel.

A switch to biodiesel by the city of Chattanooga was intended to save money and improve air quality. The city may be in a better position because of it, even though its fuel costs are also rising.

City fleet manager Brian Kiesche said going to a blend of 80 percent petroleum and 20 percent biodiesel, made from non-petroleum products, was expected to save the city between 25 cents and 50 cents per gallon.

The fuel is used in trash trucks, dump trucks and heavy equipment.

Special Section: Rising Gas Prices