Standard&Poor's Ratings Services has raised its ratings on Northbridge, Mass.' general obligation (GO) bonds to 'A+' from 'A-', reflecting its view of the town's: Strong wealth and income measures, Improved financial position and strong reserve levels, and Low overall net debt burden. Northbridge serves an estimated population of 14,727 in Worcester County and is located 40 miles west of Boston and 15 miles southeast of Worcester, Mass. Income levels in the town are, in our opinion, strong, with median household effective buying income at 123% of national levels. Market value has decreased by 17% since 2008 to $1.4 billion in fiscal 2011; despite the decreases, market value remains what we consider strong at $96,485 per capita. The town
