Standard&Poor's Ratings Services has revised its rating outlook on Westfield, Mass.' general obligation (GO) debt to positive from stable, reflecting the city's improved financial position over the past three fiscal years to what we consider good levels. The 'A-' ratings on the city's general obligation (GO) debt have been affirmed. Standard&Poor's has also assigned its 'SP-1+' short-term rating to Westfield, Mass.' GO bond anticipation notes (BANs). Additional rating factors include the city's: Strong (primarily residential) tax base, with a mix of the industrial and commercial sectors; Below-average unemployment and strong household income levels; and Low debt burden, net of self-supporting enterprise debt. Westfield (population, 40,525) is located 10 miles west of Springfield, Mass., in the foothills
