We've written numerous articles complaining that the state hasn't provided Summit Hill with the $1.25 million state grant promised for the building projects.

This week, after asking for clarification on the grant status, the council said it has received most of the money. Outstanding yet is just $120,000.What's frustrating is that despite the articles, it hadn't been stated that the bulk of the grant money was received. Even last week, at a budget workshop, and then again this week, the council said the outstanding grant money would be a relief if it was received.When questioned for specifics, the council agreed it has received the bulk of the money. As a result, State Rep. Keith McCall has fulfilled his obligation in obtaining the grant - something we hadn't reported because we hadn't been made aware of it.When we wrote previous articles about the grant money not coming, it was never brought to our attention that the borough has received over a million dollars.In essence, it tells us just what difficult financial condition exists in the borough.This week, the council says it comes down to a tax increase or laying off a borough worker.There are two full-time maintenance workers in the borough. The borough can't function with just one. It would be difficult for just one worker to hook up snow plows, maintain all the borough parks, take care of line painting, do street patching, etc.It appears there's no alternative but a tax increase.Some discussion also centered on laying off a full-time police officer.Even if a police officer is furoughed, benefits would have to be paid as per the police bargaining agreement. In addition, to provide the borough with 24-hour protection, part-time officers would have to be hired and paid.The bottom line is it looks like Summit Hill has no choice but to raise taxes.Cost over-runs on the building project, higher health insurance premiums, and lower tax returns give the council no choice.Summit Hill is a nice little town. Progress made over the years in the community cannot be compromised through unreasonable spending cuts.Nobody likes to see taxes rise. Unfortunately, this year it looks like the borough has no choice.By Ron Gowerrgower@tnonline.com