Compared to the economic woes being reported on the national level, Bates County is in pretty good financial shape according to the 2011 budget report. As of the end of 2010, cash on hand was just over $1,656,000. Revenues for 2011 are forecast to be just over $6,883,000 with expenses (expected to be up slightly) to be around $7,700,000. The difference (around $839,000) is still a positive number- which again, contrasts nicely compared to the woes of others.
The 92 page budget report is available at the office of Marlene Wainscott in the Bates County Courthouse.
