Standard&Poor's Ratings Services has affirmed its 'AA' long-term rating and underlying rating (SPUR) on Tacoma, Wash.'s solid waste utility debt. A first lien on the net revenues of the utility secures 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 of good liquidity levels and debt service coverage, and Capital plan that does not anticipate additional bonding. The solid waste utility serves 53,723 residential and 4,826 commercial customers in Tacoma's ('AA' GO debt rating) incorporated territory, which is located 32 miles south of Seattle and is home
