Barton County Public RecordsMissouri

Barton County, MO, has approximately 7,800 registered voters as of 2024. Elections include municipal, state, federal, and special referendums. In the 2020 presidential election, 82% voted Republican, 16% Democrat. Major polling locations include Memorial Hall in Lamar and multiple county precincts. Recent issues include school funding and road infrastructure. The County Clerk’s office administers elections, ensuring compliance with state regulations. The Republican Party predominates; Democrats have a minor presence. Voter turnout in general elections averages around 65%.

Barton County, MO, reports relatively low crime rates compared to national averages. In 2022, the county recorded approximately 150 reported crimes, including 15 violent crimes and 135 property crimes, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol. The violent crime rate is about 2.1 per 1,000 residents, while property crime stands at 19 per 1,000. Barton County Sheriff’s Office encourages community reporting, leading to consistent documentation and response efforts, and local law enforcement maintains visible patrols to enhance public safety.

Barton County, MO, hosts around 8 public schools, including Lamar High School. The high school graduation rate is approximately 89%, while about 14% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools typically score average on state assessments (Missouri Report Card composite scores around 70%). Adult education options are limited, though vocational programs exist. School safety is a priority, with safety audits and partnerships with local law enforcement. Educational programs focus on college preparatory courses and career and technical education, helping to prepare students for both college and the workforce.

As of 2022, Barton County, MO, had an employment rate of approximately 56%, with about 5,000 residents in the labor force. Key industries include manufacturing (19%), health care and social assistance (18%), and retail trade (12%). The most common occupations are production (19%), office and administrative support (15%), and sales (11%). Around 78% of workers commute by car, with an average travel time of 22 minutes; about 65% work within the county, while others commute mainly to nearby Jasper and Vernon counties.

Barton County, MO, has a homeownership rate of approximately 75%, with median home values around $110,000 and average monthly rents near $730. The housing market remains stable, with property values increasing about 3% annually. Predominant housing types include single-family homes in small towns like Lamar and Golden City, with some duplexes and mobile homes. Notable neighborhoods are near Lamar Heights and city parks. Annual property taxes average 0.85% of home value, well below the national average, making Barton County an affordable choice for residents seeking rural or small-town living.

As of the 2020 Census, Barton County, Missouri, had a population of 11,637. The median age was approximately 41.8 years, with 22.2% under 18 and 20.5% aged 65 or older. Gender distribution was roughly balanced, with 50.2% female and 49.8% male. Racially, the county was 94.6% White, 0.8% Black or African American, 0.7% Asian, 1.3% Native American, and 2.9% of two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents comprised about 2.5% of the population.