WOODSTOCK, Ill. - At least two Illinois counties are having a hard time finding enough road salt to buy for this coming winter season.

McHenry County and Lake County leaders say they will form a cooperative this year instead of relying on the state Central Management Services for their salt. The government group couldn't find bidders for the two counties' salt needs and warns salt that cost $40.65 a ton last year could cost as much as $145 to $160 a ton this year.

John Adamson is the Marengo Township highway commissioner. He says he's at the mercy of whoever can sell him salt. He says forming a cooperative is a long-term solution to the salt shortage problem. He says 17 township road districts, city and county governments would be invited to join the new cooperative.