FALK ANNOUNCES DANE COUNTY RECEIVES ‘TRIPLE A’ BOND RATINGS FROM MOODY’S AND FITCH

June 14, 2005
Lesley Sillaman (608) 267-8823 or Chuck Hicklin (608) 266-4109
County Executive

Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk announced today that Dane County has received “AAA” (Triple A) credit ratings this week, from Moody’s Investment Service and from FitchRatings, for $14.26 million of 2005 tax exempt General Obligation bonds and notes to be issued after competitive sale Thursday (June 16) and County Board action Thursday evening. This is the highest credit rating category available and means the County gets the lowest loan rates when it borrows money for large projects. Only two Wisconsin counties have a “Aaa” bond rating—Dane and Waukesha counties. “This is great news for taxpayers. We’ve worked hard to control spending and manage our budget carefully to keep Dane County in excellent fiscal health,” said Falk. “It’s good to see that work recognized in a way that benefits taxpayers.” In citing reasons for awarding Dane County the Triple A rating, FitchRatings said, “The 'AAA' rating reflects Dane County's growing tax base, consistently strong economic performance, solid financial management, and moderate debt levels.” It also stated, “The administration is committed to enhancing social welfare and public safety programs while maintaining strong management practices that limit budgetary spending growth.” “It is my goal as County Executive to constantly improve government and find efficiencies to limit taxes, while maintaining crucial services that people count on,” said Falk. The proceeds of the tax exempt bonds will finance various county projects including additional space for a juvenile detention facility ($6.8 million), public works and highway improvements ($1.5 million) and park and recreational enhancements ($3.8 million). FitchRatings and Moody’s Investment Service are two of the nation’s leading credit rating agencies. Bonds that are rated ‘AAA’ are judged to be of the best quality, carrying the smallest degree of risk. # # #