GARNETT — A recent K-State Research and Extension report said Anderson County’s finances are not growing as rapidly as other Kansas counties. The Anderson County Rreview said the report indicates Anderson County government collects a greater percent of revenue compared to other counties but spends less. The report, “Kansas County Fiscal Conditions and Trends,” says that county fiscal trends often closely track population and income. In general, as population increases, county revenues and expenses also rise. Anderson County population levels have dropped by about 2 percent over the last 10 years. At the same time, per capita income increased 13 percent. Statewide, the average Kansas county’s population increased by 6 percent, while per capita income increased by 23 percent. The report notes that during the recent recession, many counties made significant increases in their property tax rates as the state made sharp cuts in its aid to counties. The report says that some counties increased user fees and other charges in an attempt to offset increased property taxes, but most rural counties, have few alternative sources of revenue other than the property tax.
Monday, June 10, 3 p.m.
