...August 1, 2019 CHICAGO (S&P Global Ratings) Aug. 1, 2019--S&P Global Ratings raised its rating on Blaine, Minn.'s existing general obligation (GO) debt to '###' from '##+'. At the same time, we assigned our '###' long-term rating to the city's series 2019B GO capital improvement plan bonds. The outlook is stable. "The upgrade reflects the city's healthy trend of economic growth, which is expected to continue for the foreseeable future, resulting in incrementally stronger wealth and income figures, which we also anticipate continuing given population and residential development growth trends," said S&P Global Ratings credit analyst Andrew Truckenmiller. The upgrade is additionally supported by the city's demonstration of very strong financial performance, very strong financial policies and practices, and maintenance of very strong reserves and liquidity. Despite the planned growth and demands on city services, the city expects to maintain its reserve position in accordance with its fund...