WASHINGTON, D.C. (Standard&Poor's) Nov. 23, 2005--Standard&Poor's Ratings Services today revised its outlook on Atlanta, Ga.'s general obligation debt rating to positive from stable, citing the city's improved finances stemming from conservative budgeting of revenues, a reduction in headcount, and continued tight expenditure controls. The outlook also reflects the steps taken by city management to rebuild reserves while continuing to build on a track record of maintaining balanced financial operations. "We expect the city to maintain conservative policies, including revenue anticipation at 96% of budgeted revenues and tight expenditure controls, particularly in terms of headcount, as this are key to the rating," said Standard&Poor's credit analyst Kenneth A. Gear. "The maintenance of a strong financial
