Tip Of The Hat

DRUG TASK FORCE INCREASE

For weeks now, representatives of Talladega County's Drug and Violent
Crime Task Force have been making the rounds with hat in hand, asking
local governments to up their investments in the cause.

On Tuesday, Sylacauga's City Council became the latest example of
good stewardship. The council doubled its contribution to the task
force, realizing the impact the organization has on escalating drug
and violent crime problems across the county.

Federal funding is being cut, and local governments must make up the
difference for the program to continue. And that's exactly why
Sylacauga opted to make wise use of taxpayer money by allocating
additional funding to keep the task force intact.

Some governments have already made the pledge. Others are still
considering what they will do.

Those who are still undecided need to be reminded that this is a war
communities cannot afford to lose. By banding together to strengthen
this particular weapon, the county has a fighting chance.

Those who have made the commitment recognize that. The rest need to
get on board for their future's sake.