Standard&Poor's Ratings Services assigned its 'AAA' rating to Monmouth County, N.J.'s series 2008 general obligation (GO) bonds. At the same time, Standard&Poor's affirmed its 'AAA' rating on the county's previously issued GO debt. The rating reflects our view that the county has several favorable credit characteristics, including: Strong local economy anchored by the services, retail trade, and health care industries; Substantial and expanding tax base providing more than 60% of the county's revenues; Income levels that exceed both state and national levels; Consistently strong and conservative financial management, evidenced by regular operating surpluses and high current fund balances; and Moderate-to-low overall debt burden. The county's full faith and credit pledge secures the series 2008 bonds. Proceeds
