Standard&Poor's Ratings Services assigned its 'AA-' rating, and stable outlook, to Ector County, Texas' series 2006 tax notes and affirmed its 'AA-' rating, with a stable outlook, on the county's GO debt. The rating reflects the county's: Inclusion in the Midland-Odessa MSA; Strong financial performance and position; and Moderate overall debt burden, coupled with a rapid amortization schedule. Offsetting these strengths are the county's: Economic and property tax base concentration in the petroleum industry, and Below-average income levels. Ad valorem taxes limited to 80 cents per $100 of assessed value (AV) for all county purposes secure the notes. The county's current total tax rate is 41.6 cents, and management does not expect the rate to increase due to
