SAN FRANCISCO (Standard&Poor's) June 14, 2006--Standard&Poor's Ratings Services raised its underlying rating (SPUR) to 'AA-' from 'A+' on Tacoma, Wash.'s series 2001 solid waste revenue bonds. Additionally, Standard&Poor's assigned its 'AA-' long-term rating to the city's series 2006 solid waste revenue and refunding bonds. The raised rating reflects the strong conservative management policies, providing solid liquidity and debt service coverage, and a competitive position into the future. The outlook is stable. "Tacoma has a sound and diverse local service area economy," Standard&Poor's credit analyst Joon Kang said. "It also has a strong revenue collection process, sound financial operations, diverse customer base, and limited future capital needs." "We expect Tacoma to continue its
