DALLAS (Standard&Poor's) March 11, 2013--Standard&Poor's Ratings Services raised its long-term rating to 'AA-' from 'A+' on Houston County, Ala.'s general obligation warrants and Houston County Water Authority Inc., Ala.'s water revenue bonds. In addition, Standard&Poor's assigned its 'AA-' long-term rating to the authority's series 2013 water revenue refunding bonds. "The upgrade reflects our view of the county's continued economic growth, coupled with its role as a regional economic center within the region," said Standard&Poor's credit analyst Todd Helman. "The raised rating also reflects the county's continued maintenance of a very strong financial position," added Mr. Helman. The water revenue bonds are secured with revenues from water system operations and also by a
