Standard&Poor's Ratings Services raised its rating and underlying rating (SPUR) to 'AA' from 'AA-' on Tacoma, Wash.'s series outstanding solid waste utility debt. In addition, Standard&Poor's assigned its 'AA' rating to the utility's series 2008 solid waste utility revenue refunding bonds. The raised rating reflects regular rate adjustments that have translated into good financial performance in the context of a long-term contract for waste disposal. A first lien on the net revenues of the utility secure the bonds. The utility's credit strengths include its: Local service area economy that is part of the large and diverse greater Seattle regional economy; Exclusive right to provide solid waste collections within the city; Management policies that reinforce a pattern
