The 'A+' rating on the town of Northbridge, Mass.' GO bonds reflects: Average wealth indicators, Consistent financial performance with increasing reserves, and A low debt burden. The bonds are secured by the town's full faith and credit pledge. Northbridge, population 13,964, is located nearly 40 miles west of Boston and 15 miles southeast of Worcester. The town's tax base has grown considerably since fiscal 1997, increasing 40% to $730 million in fiscal 2002. Much of the growth is attributed to the available building lots in close proximity to the Grafton Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority commuter rail station. The tax base is diverse, with the 10 leading taxpayers accounting for just 5.9% of the total assessed value (AV). The diversity is
