Yes, the borough council recently discussed increasing parking rates downtown, and they've also voted to install a walk-up pay station at the Pugh Street Parking Garage.

Usually, paying more money for anything would sour The Daily Collegian Board of Opinion's normally pleasant expression. But if borough council follows through on what it potentially could do with the money, then we'd have to say take the money and run with it.

Borough council President Jean McManis said the increase and high rates in general will help to maintain current parking facilities. She also said the additional funds could be used to build a new parking garage downtown.

A new parking garage. With the difficulties students and State College business people have parking downtown now, a new parking garage is the sweet sound they all need to hear.

State College is expanding, and it will continue to do so. As it does, increasing parking availability by building garages, for example, just makes sense. So, borough council should vote for the increase.

However, the council will be accountable for what members say. The only reason the parking rate increase is acceptable is because the council wants to apply the money to projects that will benefit State College residents and visitors. The council will be held responsible, if the increase is enacted, to put this money to the appropriate use.

In this case, the costs will actually benefit the entire town. It's all up to borough council to see it through.