Known as a pendency plan, the detailed proposal must be filed with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court by Nov. 30. The plan must show the court and creditors that the city has a credible plan to erase a $45.8 million deficit from its books.

Time is short, and pressure is mounting - not a good combination for the often-combustible City Council.

Already, several council members have staked out positions contrary to the proposal set forth by city administrators.

Proposed cuts to the budgets for public safety are significant - and the most likely elements to inspire heated debate among elected leaders.

Cooler heads must prevail today. The financial health of the entire city - not just the fate of a few departments - is at stake. The council must put politics aside and carefully consider its options in order to do what's best for all of San Bernardino.

- Opinion staff