Those looking for a measure of how far Sunbury's image has fallen might consider this: A Snyder County judge Monday refused to allow a convicted arsonist to move to the city. Judge Harold F. Woelfel was not worried about the welfare of Sunbury residents. He was concerned about the arsonist.

The judge worried that the offender -- who has coped with drug and alcohol addiction -- would be too exposed to temptation in Sunbury. Woelfel ordered that the offender find housing in Snyder, Union, Montour or Columbia counties. The judge knows that drugs are a scourge throughout the region, yet he determined that Sunbury's situation is worse.

Three months ago, Sunbury Mayor Jesse Woodring said he might hire a marketing professional to tackle the city's image problem. The move would suggest the mayor believes the city's problems are more a matter of perception than reality. There is no chicken-or-the-egg conundrum. The city's image problem is fueled by legitimate concerns.

A double-murder in January was jarring enough. It was followed by dire predictions that criminal gangs may be operating in the area. Last week, police arrested two teens for their alleged role in a reported gang-related beating during which the victim had a gun held to her head. Meanwhile, budget concerns have prompted city officials to consider measures -- include staffing reductions -- that could hinder crime fighting efforts.

Sunbury police officers have demonstrated that they are capable when given the direction and tools needed. Elected officials ought to work closely with the police department to identify and implement strategies to address the perceived infiltration of criminal gangs and drug subculture. Successful community policing could be an effective way to make Sunbury safe enough for drug-addicted arsonists ... and the rest of us.