Standard&Poor's Ratings Services assigned its 'AAA' long-term rating, and stable outlook, to Needham, Mass.' series 2010 general obligation (GO) municipal-purpose loan bonds, dated Oct. 1, 2010, and affirmed its 'AAA' long-term rating, with a stable outlook, on the town's existing GO parity debt. The long-term rating reflects our opinion of the town's: Affluent and growing property tax base with high income and property wealth, Sound and consistent financial position, and Low debt burden with rapid amortization. Needham's full faith pledge secures the bonds. Officials plan to use bond proceeds for various municipal purposes. Needham, with a population estimate of 28,722, is 10 miles southwest of Boston in one of the nation's wealthiest regions. The town's location along Interstate
