The 'A+' rating on the town of Northbridge, Mass.' GO bonds reflects the town's: Average wealth indicators, Consistent financial performance with increasing reserves, and Low debt burden. The town's full faith and credit pledge secures the bonds. Northbridge, with a population of 13,182, is nearly 40 miles west of Boston, Mass. and 15 miles southeast of Worcester, Mass. The town's tax base has grown considerably since fiscal 1999 and has increased 45% to $865 million in fiscal 2003. 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. The 10 leading taxpayers account for just 5.8% of total assessed value. A
