WASHINGTON D.C. (S&P Global Ratings) Nov. 4, 2021--S&P Global Ratings raised its underlying rating to 'A+' from 'A' on Methuen, Mass.' general obligation (GO) debt outstanding. The outlook is positive. "The rating change reflects our view of an improved financial management environment and a stronger reserve position over the past several years," said S&P Global Ratings credit analyst Christian Richards. In December 2018, the city issued $4.0 million in deficit financing notes, following deficits in its school department that reduced available reserves to approximately $599,000. At the close of fiscal 2020, its available reserves improved to $11.2 million, or 6.3% of operating expenditures. The city could face additional financial pressure from a contract that remains in arbitration, but we believe
