Standard&Poor's Ratings Services affirmed its 'BBB-' Standard&Poor's underlying rating (SPUR), with a stable outlook, on Newport Municipal Utility District (MUD), Texas' waterworks and sewer system revenue debt. The SPUR continues to reflect the district's: High debt burden, and Additional capital needs. These weaknesses are offset, in part, by the district's: Healthy property tax base growth, coupled with access to the Houston MSA; and Adequate financial position. The 1,919-acre Newport MUD is 23 miles northeast of Houston, Texas and is within the city's extraterritorial jurisdiction in Harris County. The district was formed in 1998 after the consolidation of Harris County MUD Nos. 20 and 73. Residents have access throughout the Houston MSA via State Highway 90 and
