The rating on Polk County, Iowa's bonds is affirmed. The outlook revision reflects a prior outlook change on county GO debt in 1998. The bonds were issued in 1997, and proceeds were loaned to the city of Des Moines toward the construction of an intermodal parking facility. The bonds are unlimited-tax general obligations of Polk County. Financial operations remained sound in fiscal 1999. The county's audited June 30, 1999 unrestricted general fund balance of $26 million was a sound 32% of expenditures, consistent with results of prior fiscal years. The outlook reflects the continued strength of the Des Moines regional economy and the county's financial performance. Credit quality could improve if Polk County institutes formal long-range plans that encompass a
