The affirmed ratings on Tacoma, Wash.'s GO bonds reflect: The city's full participation in the Puget Sound region's expanding and diverse economic base; Conservative fiscal policies, which should enable the city to successfully operate without financial disruptions in an I-747 environment; and Solid financial performance with a moderate overall debt burden. These factors are somewhat mitigated by average wealth and income indicators. The bonds are secured by the city's ability to levy unlimited ad valorem taxes. The city, with a population of 194,500, covers an area of 49 square miles along the Puget Sound waterfront in Washington State. Tacoma, which is the Pierce County seat ('AA-' GO rating), is located 32 miles south of Seattle and 28 miles northeast of
