Standard&Poor's Ratings Services raised its standard long-term rating and underlying rating (SPUR) on Washington County, Md.'s outstanding general obligation (GO) bonds to 'AA' from 'AA-'. The outlook is stable. In addition, Standard&Poor's assigned its 'AA' rating, and stable outlook, to the county's public improvement bonds, series 2008. The upgrade reflects the continued improvement in the county's financial position, which includes increased reserve levels and strengthened management practices over the past several years, coupled with improved per capita market values. Other rating factors include: The county's role as a regional employment center, with proximity to Washington D.C. and Baltimore; A large tax base that continues to exhibit healthy ongoing growth, coupled with no taxpayer concentration; A low
