Upcoming Questions

 

You are living in Durbin and have no local grocery store. Marlinton is a long way and gas is expensive? Marlinton has just passed a 1% tax on groceries. Should go to Marlinton or somewhere they don't have this tax?

Whether you should travel to Marlinton or find groceries elsewhere depends on several factors:

Distance and fuel costs:

• How far is Marlinton from Durbin?
• What is your current gas mileage?
• What is the gas price per gallon?

Groceries needed:

• How much and what type of groceries do you need?
• Are there any essential items you can't get elsewhere?
• Will you need to make multiple trips to Marlinton if you don't get everything at once?

Alternative options:

• Are there any closer towns with grocery stores that don't have the tax?
• Can you order groceries online for delivery or pickup?
• Do you have any friends or neighbors who could share groceries or split a trip to Marlinton?

Tax impact:

• While 1% may seem small, it can add up depending on your grocery bill.
• Consider the total cost difference between groceries in Marlinton (including tax and gas) and your alternative options.

Time and convenience:

• How much time and effort are you willing to invest in finding groceries?
• Is making a longer trip to Marlinton worth the potential savings and wider selection?

Here's a breakdown to help you decide:

Option 1: Go to Marlinton:

• Pros: Familiar store, potentially lower overall cost if gas mileage is good and you buy enough groceries to offset the tax.
• Cons: Time spent traveling, gas cost, 1% tax on groceries.

Option 2: Go to another town without the tax:

• Pros: Avoid the tax, potentially shorter travel time.
• Cons: May have a smaller selection, might not have everything you need, could still involve gas costs.

Option 3: Order groceries online for delivery or pickup:

• Pros: Saves time and gas, avoids tax in some cases.
• Cons: Delivery fees, limited selection compared to physical stores, might not be available in your area.

Option 4: Share groceries or split a trip with neighbors:

• Pros: Reduces gas costs and potentially tax impact, builds community.
• Cons: Relies on others' availability and needs, might require coordination.

Ultimately, the best option depends on your specific circumstances and priorities. Weigh the pros and cons of each option carefully before making your decision.