If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, the State College Borough Council is bestowing serious praise on other college towns with its discussion to adopt strategies that would better relations between students and local residents.

But in addition to flattering the creative town leaders that work with universities, like University of Florida, University of Colorado and Clemson University, this borough initiative is flattering to another group: the Penn State students.

It's a move that says, "Hey, neither of us are going anywhere, so let's work with each other, not against each other."

The three priorities the borough members identified -- an informational packet for new off-campus residents, a program to mediate landlord-tenant disputes and an introductory "walkabout" program -- could seriously mend the rift that can appear between temporary and permanent residents.

The packet for new off-campus residents -- some of whom are tasting true independence for the first time -- would include vital information ranging from where to put garbage to the locations of nearby businesses. This could stop confusion in the beginning of semester, preventing not only misplaced trash bags but advising students of the responsibilities that come with their newfound independence.

Their second priority, mediation between landlord-tenant disputes, is also long overdue. In a bustling college town with annual contracts, an abundance of subletters and high-priced leases, it's no wonder relations between landlords and first-time tenants can get prickly. Such mediation could act as an educational tool for students, identify problem areas for property managers and provide an alternate recourse besides an expensive legal battle.

Yearly "walkabouts" by borough officials and residents -- the third prong of the plan -- seem a little unnecessary, but again, considerate. Everyone wants to feel like a part of a community and the visit could help show the effects of your actions go beyond your neighborhood.

But flattery isn't meaningful when it's not supported by a show of faith and after such a momentous discussion about including students in the off-campus community, the discussion took a disappointing turn.

Council members were concerned by a proposed party host ordinance that would allow the host of an out-of-control party to call the police without facing legal consequences. They were afraid it would encourage alcohol abuse.

On the contrary, such a move would increase student safety -- not decrease it. Bringing sober, trained officers into what could escalate into a violent situation would only defuse problems that otherwise would be left in less capable hands.

If the borough wants to better ties to the students community members, providing information and welcomes are important, but neither are on par with letting students know that even first-time community members can be dependable adults.

It's flattering to be accommodated, but it's even better to be trusted.