No time to let up

Carroll County is in the middle of an uncomfortable and potentially catastrophic financial crisis. Last January, the county council learned there might be a problem with available funds. They wisely appointed a committee of three members - Ann Brown, Steve Ashby and Ron Slavens - to investigate the matter and make recommendations to the group.

Investigate they did. The committee discovered problems and suspected there were issues that should be addressed by the state. Committee chair Brown recommended the council ask for an early Indiana State Board of Accounts audit.

The audit is finished and the tally is in, but the county council cannot afford to let up on the pressure now. To do that would be to relinquish all control of, and any progress made with, county finances.

SBOA results and recommendations must be pursued to reach the goal of financial health. The council's finance committee is the group to ensure progress is made. It is the county entity, recognized by the SBOA, which will be able to steer the county in the desired direction. Failure to correct the situation could result in the county not being allowed to set the 2009 budget - the state would do that instead.

Keep this committee's pressure on, council members. Carroll County will thank you for it in the future