Standard&Poor's Ratings Services has revised the outlook on Tacoma, Wash. (Tacoma Power) to stable from negative to reflect the efficacy of the quick steps taken by management and the board in 2000 and 2001 to restore the financial health of the utility following the Western energy crisis. Specifically, retail rates were temporarily raised by 50%. The rating is affirmed at 'A+. Tacoma Power has repaid all but $7 million of the $35 million financing used to cover liquidity needs associated with the sharply higher costs that arose from poor hydrological conditions. The final payment of $7 million is anticipated to be made in December 2002, which is ahead of schedule. Also, by the end of the 2002, the
