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OTTUMWA, IOWA -- Iowa is in great financial shape. That is the message from Iowa State Treasurer Michael Fitzgerald.

Fitzgerald was in Ottumwa Tuesday to counter allegations that Iowa's finances are a mess. The visit is to set the record straight about statements of a fiscal disarray from Governor Terry Branstad.

He points to a balanced budget, large surpluses, many reserve funds and a AAA credit rating over 800 to counter the claims; and said there is no reason to make cuts toward education.

"Iowa, if it isn't the best, its one of the top 3 or 4 best states in the country as far as our fiscal condition is concerned. And this argument that's going on; if you think we were in a mess we'd be calling for tax increases but we're not. Both Democrats and Republicans agree we could have some tax cuts here but lets not cut out pre-school."

Fitzgerald is confident an agreement on the state budget will be reached before the end of the fiscal year next month. He is scheduled to make similar stops in other cities all over Iowa.