Using the Pawnee as an example, operating costs are only driven partly
by fuel, if fuel was 12/gal vs 6/gal, tow costs would not double, but
increase by 30-50%.

If you are in Socal, have you explored the non ethanol mogas available
at Petrolock from cleargas? Mogas STC for Pawnee exists as long as no
alcohol in the mix.

I am all for ground launch, but really, clubs are the immediate short
term answer. Joining a club with a nice two seater, one can reduce
your off season and BFR cost significantly by spliting the tow fee.

aerodyne