Standard&Poor's Ratings Services assigned its 'AA+' standard long-term rating, and stable outlook, to Denton County, Texas' series 2007 permanent improvement refunding bonds and affirmed its 'AA+' standard long-term rating and Standard&Poor's underlying rating (SPUR), with a stable outlook, on the county's preexisting GO debt. 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 and diversification; Above-average income levels; Sound management practices and policies, which mitigate any long-term concerns regarding the county's ability to manage rapid population growth; and Continued sound financial performance. These credit factors are tempered by the county's: High overall debt per
