Top on the list: an increase in the gas tax, vehicle-registration fees and the Utah Transit Authority's regional sales tax.

High-occupancy toll lanes, toll roads and a minimal tax levy on all public and private land in Utah were also discussed as options to fund Utah's $23 billion deficit for future transit and transportation projects.

"This is a serious problem looming in our future and coming very fast upon us," said Sen. Carlene Walker, R-Cottonwood Heights, chair of the Legislative Transportation Task Force. "The dilemma is educating the public that by the time they get into gridlock, it's too late to solve the problem."

Task force members will review the funding suggestions next week and compile a list of recommended tax increases.

It'll be a little like a funeral, joked Sen. Sheldon Killpack, R-Syracuse, after receiving condolences about the "taxing" task before the committee to whittle down nearly $6 billion in funding requests. If approved by the Legislature, the $6 billion would be collected over the next 15 years.

Sam Klemm, spokesman for the Wasatch Front Regional Council, said he was mildly encouraged by what he had heard during Wednesday's meeting.

"They're obviously willing to listen and I think they understand that this is a problem and it's going to get worse," Klemm said.

He was also encouraged that groups like the Utah Taxpayers Association, the League of Cities and Towns and the Salt Lake City Chamber of Commerce didn't oppose tax recommendations put forth by the Regional Council.

While the League of Cities and Towns didn't present a tax plan, the group had two specific requests of the Legislature: Retain the local portion of road funds and pursue funding options other than sales tax.

The Legislative Transportation Task Force will meet Nov. 4 and 5 at 9 a.m. in Room W135 (House Building) at the state Capitol. The public is invited to comment.

nwarburton@sltrib.com