Bickhart said the borough signs up for a minimum of 20 tons and a maximum of 60 tons a year. He said the borough uses 50 to 55 tons in a typical year, depending on ice and temperatures. This year, the borough is being charged $73.12 a ton.

Patricia Garrison, Lewisburg borough secretary, said the borough asked COSTARS for about 400 tons of salt. This year, she said they have been quoted a price of $68.98 a ton.

Northumberland borough also has taken part in the program for years, said borough Secretary Jan Bowman. The borough usually asks for 80 tons, she said Wednesday. It is charged $60.45 a ton.

Bickhart said he's never been disappointed with COSTARS, and long-term relationships like this one can have its advantages.

"Especially when supplies get scarce," he said. "We never have difficulties of getting anything. That may also be the power of the COSTARS program."