DALLAS (Standard&Poor's) March 24, 2008--Standard&Poor's Ratings Services raised its underlying rating (SPUR) on Wharton, Texas' tax and revenue certificates of obligation two notches, to 'A' from 'BBB+', due to the city's consistently strong financial position and good financial management practices. The outlook is stable. The SPUR reflects the city's strong financial position; and moderate debt levels, coupled with minimal additional capital needs. Offsetting strengths include the city's property tax base, which, despite recent steady growth, remains concentrated in plastics manufacturing; and low wealth and income levels. "We expect that the city will maintain its solid financial performance and that property valuation growth will remain modest," said Standard&Poor's credit analyst Jennifer Garza. Wharton's financial position
