Gas prices have surged to the highest amount ever, leaving small town residents with a pinch on their pocketbooks.

During its last city council meeting, officials mentioned the idea of allowing four-wheelers and golf carts as a source of transportation for those who are legal to drive.

City Clerk Mary Vaughn said the council has discussed the idea with the local police department, who said they see no problem with the idea, as long as driver's abide by the same rules and laws of the town.

"The driver will have to wear a helmet," Police Chief Anthony Parker said. "There can't be any double riding either," he said.

Parker said that, in order for the four-wheelers and golf carts to be legalized within the city limits, the driver must be at least 16-years of age, have a valid drivers license, have insurance, and purchase a city sticker for the device.

"That's a way for us to keep track of who is authorized to legally drive the four-wheeler or golf cart," Parker said, "as well as give the citizens of Cardwell a break from the steep gas prices."

In doing that, the City of Cardwell will also benefit from the sale of additional city stickers. "It's a win-win for everybody," Vaughn said, "as long as everybody respects the laws and other drivers."

Several other cities in the area have discussed the idea of giving residents these options as well. The City of Senath allows golf carts to be driven by licensed drivers, who are either elderly or handicapped.

The City of Hornersville agreed to allow four-wheelers, as long as they were not being driven down the main street, and as long as they were being operated by a licensed driver.

Other cities may follow in Cardwell's footsteps soon, or at least until there is a break in the economy.