"But the county is facing significant pressure absent a change of course," she said.

The county faces a budget deficit estimated at $150 million through the end of 1992.

The county faces a civil penalty of up to $5,000.

Now, less than a year later, this county so used to iron rule faces a different kind of control.

The county is facing a deficit, and local taxes are on the rise.

At the time he took the job, in the early 70's, the county faced a challenge similar to the one many cities are encountering today.

He said the county could face a deficit of up to $200 million next year.

This came about at a time that the county itself was facing huge budget deficits and lack of funding for other services.

The county faces an estimated shortfall of up to $110 million on the $2.2 billion budget that is to take effect next month.

Just before he took over, the county was facing a $161 million deficit.