On Jan. 13, Gov. Jon S. Corzine gave his State of the State address, and I gave our State of the County address. Although the extent of New Jersey's financial crisis is well known, the governor made no mention of how he is going to make up a $2.1 billion deficit and close a projected $4 billion gap next year. His speech was filled with platitudes and lacked specific, concrete recommendations. Yet, the governor received a front-page headline that said, "N.J. is blessed by residents' talents."

In contrast, in this tough economic climate, Atlantic County government remains financially sound. We have a balanced budget that is below the state cap.

In fact, the budget increased by only 1.5 percent, and the tax rate is the same as it was in 2007. How is the county article headlined? "Service cuts, higher taxes likely in '09 county plan."

How about a little balance next time?

DENNIS LEVINSON

Atlantic County Executive