The rating on West Hartford, Conn.'s GO bonds reflects: An affluent and stable residential tax base, Strong residential building activity, Employment access to the Hartford MSA, Sound financial operations resulting from conservative long-range planning, and A low debt burden. The bonds are secured by the towns' full faith and credit GO pledge. West Hartford (estimated population 60,110) borders Hartford, the state's capital and financial services center. Wealth per capita and taxable property have retained their value as Hartford and neighboring areas experienced declines over the past few years. Wealth levels are influenced by a high percent of professional employment and are currently 13% and 59% above the state and national averages, respectively. The fiscal 1999 net grand list totals $3.6
