Standard&Poor's Ratings Services assigned its 'AAA' rating and stable outlook to Monmouth County, N.J.'s series 2012 general obligation (GO) bonds and affirmed its 'AAA' rating, with a stable outlook, on the county's existing GO debt and Monmouth County Improvement Authority, N.J.'s GO debt, supported by the county. The rating reflects our opinion of the county's: Strong and diverse regional economy, anchored by the services, retail trade, and health care industries; Extremely strong and diverse property tax base, coupled with very strong wealth and income; Consistently strong and conservative financial management, demonstrated by strong current fund balances; and Moderate-to-low overall debt. The county's unlimited GO pledge secures the bonds. Officials intend to use bond proceeds to fund various capital
