FAIRFIELD COUNTY -- The DARE program eliminated.

Twenty percent budget cuts.

One-hundred-thirty jobs lost.

The Major Crimes Unit crippled.

Deputies delayed because of lack of staffing.

No assistance in a natural emergency.

That's the picture painted by county officials as they face the Feb. 8 special election. At stake is a safety services tax levy that will raise $6.8 million annually by boosting the county sales tax from 6.75 percent to 7.25 percent. It's money that will swallow the county's $4 million deficit and allow for a new jail and 911 call center to be built.

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