Specifically, one of the most important points yet to be decided is whether the charter should permit referendums on public spending and debt. Some commissioners worried that Lancaster County might turn into California, where widespread use of ballot initiatives is believed to have led to fiscal gridlock. But other commissioners said referendums allowing the public to limit government spending are essential — especially at a time when county debt is mounting.

"Our high rate of debt over the last five years is chewing up our debt capacity at an alarming rate," said commissioner John Smucker. "At the current rate, we will be at our debt limit in two, three or four years. ... Given the realities of our political system today, it seems politicians have an inability" to stop borrowing and spending.

Commissioner Heidi Wheaton cited Hourglass Foundation figures showing that the county's current $266 million in debt could rise to $426 million by 2011 with construction of a new prison. "We elect people who say they're conservative, but this isn't conservative," said Wheaton.

"We've got to have something on referendum in this charter."