Question 1

Where does municipal finance data come from?

Accepted Answer

Municipal finance data comes from Missouri State Auditor financial reports. All Missouri municipalities are required to file annual financial statements.

Question 2

What are the main revenue sources for a municipality?

Accepted Answer

Most Missouri municipalities rely on sales taxes, property taxes, utility taxes, charges for services, and intergovernmental transfers. Many cities levy a local sales tax in addition to the state rate.

Question 3

What is a General Fund and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

The General Fund is the municipality's primary operating fund. It covers core services like police, fire, public works, and administration. A healthy General Fund balance (typically 25-50% of annual expenditures) indicates the town can handle unexpected expenses without raising taxes or cutting services.

Question 4

How current is this financial data?

Accepted Answer

Missouri Auditor data typically lags 6-12 months behind the current fiscal year. The most recent year with complete data is usually one to two fiscal years prior.

Country Life Acres, MO

Country Life Acres Municipal Budget

Finances — FY 2022