Center Township's growth has made it clear that the current municipal building would be unable to serve the township's needs over the long term.

Therefore, it probably wasn't a surprise to many residents when they learned that township officials already were putting money aside for a new facility.

The township is not in a situation demanding immediate action; indeed, the township probably can continue to operate with the current building on Sunset Drive for a few more years, if services do not increase.

However, the current facility — the size of the building and available parking — is not conducive to big attendance at supervisors' meetings. Nor is it conducive to expansion of services, like formation of a police department.

The township has so far been content to rely on the services of the state police, and the state police have done a good job in the township.

Nevertheless, it is a fact that the state police can't be everywhere at one time, and there are times when circumstances prevent those police from being in close proximity to the township.

A visible local force could increase emphasis on motorists obeying traffic laws, as well as on getting drunken drivers off the road, handling traffic accidents and investigating crimes.

Indeed, it is noteworthy that positive conditions in the township have allowed the municipality to avoid the expense of forming a police department up to now.

It would be naive to think that a police force is not in Center's future, however.

According to Ronald Flatt, supervisors chairman, $460,000 has been set aside for a new building, and he said more money might be added to that amount at the end of this year, if there is a budget surplus.

The disclosure that the supervisors are exploring two options — purchasing an existing building as well as building new — should be appreciated by taxpayers. The township will be able to opt for the best deal in meeting the municipality's needs, if and when officials move forward with the plan.

It was disclosed that officials had discussed possibly buying the 10,500-square-foot former State Farm Insurance Co. building on Clearview Circle. However, that building has been sold to someone else.

Flatt said the building was bigger than officials thought the township was going to need.

It is noteworthy that the supervisors have chosen to reveal their consideration of the new-facilities idea at this time, when the matter still is within the exploratory phase. Township residents will have the opportunity to express their opinions about what is being proposed.

It is important for residents to acknowledge, however, that growth creates additional needs.

Nearby Butler Township has dealt with the same space issues as those now facing Center, and has built a structure that accommodates its needs.

Whether Center residents like it or not, similar decisions for their municipality lie ahead.

It will be the responsibility of the township's leaders to meet the needs in the most cost-effective way possible.

Judging from officials' handling of the issue to date, they appear to be on the right course.