NEW YORK (Standard&Poor's) March 13, 2013--Standard&Poor's Ratings Services has assigned its 'AA' rating to the City of Colorado Springs, Colo.'s utilities system revenue bonds series 2013A. At the same time, Standard&Poor's affirmed its 'AA', 'AA/A-1+', and 'AA/A-1' ratings on the utilities' parity debt outstanding. The outlook is stable. "In part, the 'AA' rating reflects our view of the city council's willingness to set rates that provide generally strong debt service coverage and good liquidity," said Standard&Poor's credit analyst Judith Waite. We believe other credit-positive factors include the following: Competitive rates in each of its four utility systems, although significant rate increases--particularly in the water system--will accompany planned capital improvements; A diverse mix
