Standard&Poor's Ratings Services assigned its 'AA' standard long-term rating, and stable outlook, to the town of Franklin, Mass.' GO bonds. Standard&Poor's also assigned its 'SP-1+' short-term rating to the town's BANs. The ratings reflect the town's: Above-average wealth and income levels; Advantageous location along the High-Tech Interstate 495 Corridor with accessibility by commuter rail to Boston, Mass; Consistently strong financial performance and position with more than 20% of 2003 operating expenses undesignated or set aside in a stabilization fund; and Moderate and manageable debt profile. The town's full faith and credit pledge secures the bonds and notes. Franklin, with a population of about 30,000, is centrally located about 28 miles from New England's three largest cities:
