The 'AA+' rating on Polk County, Iowa's GO capital loan notes reflects the county's: Access to the stable and diverse Des Moines MSA economy, Consistently strong financial performance, and Moderate overall net debt levels. The county's full faith and credit pledge secures the GO bonds. Note proceeds were used to finance various projects at Broadlawns Medical Center. Broadlawns is a separate entity of the county that pays debt service according to an agreement with the county. Polk County forms the base of the Des Moines MSA, which is a stable and diversified regional economic center in central Iowa. The county's population grew 14.5% during the 1990s to 375,000 residents in 2000. In 2002, the county's 3.2% unemployment rate was below
