Ebensburg Borough will end 2011 as another successful year. The community produced a surplus and will increase the budget for 2012 by more than 12 percent according to borough officials.

Ebensburg officials attributed their financial success to consistent tax rates, which remain one of the lowest in Cambria County.

Officials said the earned income in the borough continues to rise and results in higher revenue.

Despite the nationally depressed housing market, officials said there hasn't been a change in their real estate transfers.

After installing new signs, refurbishing parks and sidewalks, borough officials credited the success to creating a pleasing environment.

"You've got to create a positive atmosphere; I think we've done that. And that is what, in the long term, helps sustain revenues," said borough manager Daniel Penatzer.

Ebensburg officials have a $5 million water project slated for next summer and a large sidewalk project to improve West Sample Street and West Crawford Street.