Lake County Sheriff Rogelio "Roy" Dominguez is trying to make a case for replacing the two Vietnam War-era helicopters, but that idea is a lead balloon.

Dominguez is trying to rush this through the Lake County Council, because the price will go up 20 percent after Aug. 15, and delivery would be delayed two years.

Give him credit for some creative financing ideas.

The county has made more than $1 million from foreclosures enforced by the sheriff's department, at a rate of $200 each since fall 2006. The sheriff wants to use that money to help pay for the new helicopters, although the County Council is reticent.

He also figures to get a federal grant of about $450,000 and even hopes to get $500,000 to $600,000 from selling the two 37-year-old helicopters for parts.

The balance of the $4.2 million cost would be borrowed through a bond issue.

It's a creative plan, but not wise.

Lake County is in the midst of financial turmoil. County officials are squeezing $15 million out of their budget this year, and Dominguez wants to borrow money.

The county has raised $1 million from $200 fees for each foreclosure, and Dominguez wants to borrow money.

Both the county and its taxpayers are suffering enough as it is. This is not the time to buy new helicopters. That's a luxury Lake County can no longer afford.

It is time to be well-grounded, not flighty.