The upgrade on Colorado Springs, Colo.'s bonds is based on the expansion of the city's economic base due to job creation in the high-technology and telecommunications business sectors. The GO bonds are secured by the city's authority to annually levy unlimited ad valorem taxes to repay debt service. The rating also reflects the city's: Service-center appeal; Strong tax base with substantial growth in assessed property valuation; Sustained low debt levels; and Strong financial management and solid fiscal policies. The rating anticipates that unreserved general fund balance levels will continue to be stable. Colorado Springs, Colo. (population 341,000) is located approximately 65 miles south of Denver and is the county seat of El Paso County. The city is a service-based economy
