Standard&Poor's Ratings Services raised to 'AAA' from 'AA+' its long-term rating and underlying rating (SPUR) on Portsmouth, N.H.'s general obligation (GO) bonds. The ratings reflect the city's strong and conservative management practices that, when combined with a focus on predictability and stability, has led to a trend of very strong financial results. Standard&Poor's also assigned its 'AAA' rating to the city's 2013 GO bonds. The outlook is stable. The 'AAA' ratings reflect the city's: Location and participation in large regional employment centers; Very diverse property tax base, with low unemployment, extremely strong per capita market value, and strong-to-very strong incomes; Very strong financial position, with strong management practices and policies; and Low-to-moderate debt burden. The city's
