On Tuesday, the Democratic Salt Lake County mayor was handed a letter signed by the five County Council Republicans warning him that broad cuts could put the county's credit at risk.

"It has come to our attention that requests will far exceed resources this year," the letter reads. "However, we strongly feel that we must think more strategically about this budget year."

The letter warns Corroon not to draw down the county's healthy fund balances to support ongoing operating costs.

"It's surprising they say that," countered Corroon, adding the way of the formerly GOP-led county for years was to raise taxes then draw down the fund balances to plug budget holes. Still, the mayor insisted, "we don't want to do that."

Corroon conceded 2006 will be a tough budget year, but says his proposal will be to hold the line on taxes and make the tough choices.

- Derek P. Jensen