NEW YORK (Standard&Poor's) Nov. 12, 2003--Standard&Poor's Ratings Services has assigned its 'AA-' rating to Sioux City, Iowa's GO urban renewal bonds series 2003A and 2003B. The outlook is stable. The sale date is November 17. At the same time, Standard&Poor's has affirmed its 'AA-' rating and 'AA-' underlying rating (SPUR) on the outstanding debt. "The ratings reflect the city's regional economy with strong links to the agricultural sector, its moderate wealth levels, sound financial position, and moderate debt burden," commented Standard&Poor's credit analyst Helen Samuelson. Credit factors precluding a higher rating at this time include the city's high debt-service carrying charges, moderate taxpayer concentration, and reliance on sales tax revenues to pay
