As the fiscal crisis around the country threatens more and more local governments, officials are faced with increasing challenges and a need for immediate action. The vision and the leadership of elected officials are keys to sustaining local governments through this crisis. This executive summary for elected officials: -Describes the fiscal dimensions of the current economic crisis. -Identifies what worked in previous fiscal cutback efforts. -Explains why innovation is critical and how positive actions can be taken. -Describes how local government actions can contribute to the economic recovery.