Dauphin County isn't just where Mary Bateman works—it's home. It always has been.
Born and raised in Dauphin County, Mary has lived here her entire life. Growing up, she watched her father spend countless hours coaching high school and American Legion baseball, teaching her early on the importance of giving back, working hard, and investing in your community.
Those values have guided Mary throughout more than 20 years in public finance and government administration. Today, she serves as Dauphin County Commissioner and the County's Chief Fiscal Officer, overseeing audits, financial operations, contracts, pension administration, and financial reporting.
Mary's experience, however, extends well beyond the Commissioner's Office. She began her career in Dauphin County government and later spent nearly 16 years with the Upper Dauphin Area School District, eventually serving as Business Manager and Board Secretary. There, she managed everything from budgets and contracts to payroll, human resources, transportation, and other day-to-day operations.
Her career has taught her that good government is about more than numbers—it's about the people behind them. Taxpayers deserve leaders who ask questions, spend responsibly, plan for the future, and never forget whose money they are entrusted to manage.
Mary's commitment to her community doesn't stop at the courthouse. She is a volunteer firefighter with Liberty Hose Company No. 2 in Lykens and a Hazardous Materials Technician with the Dauphin County Hazmat Team.
She also still works part-time waitressing at the Carsonville Hotel—something she enjoys because it keeps her connected to the people and community she serves.
Mary is the proud mother of two grown children and enjoys spending time with family and friends. She earned her MBA in Leadership & Ethics from Lebanon Valley College in 2024.
Mary is running for Dauphin County Commissioner because she believes the County needs experienced, practical leadership that understands both the numbers and the people behind them.
She wants to bring the same commitment to fiscal responsibility and accountability she has demonstrated as Commissioner to the Commissioner's Office—while supporting safe communities, encouraging economic opportunity, improving how county government operates, and protecting taxpayers.
For Mary, running for Commissioner isn't about beginning a career in public service. It's about continuing one. Dauphin County is where she was raised, where she built her career, where she raised her family, and where she has spent a lifetime serving others. Now she's ready to help lead it forward.
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