Standard&Poor's Ratings Services raised its standard long-term rating and Standard&Poor's underlying rating (SPUR) on Denton County, Texas' GO debt to 'AA+' from 'AA', with a stable outlook. The upgrade reflects the continued tax base expansion and diversification, coupled with sound management practices and policies, which mitigate any long-term concerns regarding the county's ability to manage rapid population growth. Standard&Poor's also assigned its 'AA+' standard long-term rating, and stable outlook, to the county's series 2007 permanent improvement bonds and tax notes. The ratings reflect the county's: Location at the northern edge of the rapidly growing Dallas-Fort Worth MSA, coupled with a diverse economic and employment base; Sustained rapid property tax base growth; Above-average income levels;
