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Palmdale earns “A+” rating from Standard & Poor’s

by The AV Times Staff • June 24, 2014

Palmdale A credit ratingPALMDALE – Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services, one of the world’s leading providers of independent credit risk research and benchmarks, has completed its periodic review of the City of Palmdale’s finances and affirmed the City’s current “A+” issuer credit rating (ICR), with a stable outlook based on Standard & Poor’s local GO criteria.

The rating agency applied its updated rating criteria in completing its analysis.  Standard & Poor’s affirmed the City’s current “A+” rating on its outstanding certificates of participation and lease revenue bonds under the new criteria, which takes into account such components as the local economy, management and financial management policies and practices, budget flexibility, budgetary performance, liquidity and debt and contingent liabilities.

Standard & Poor’s also affirmed its ‘A’ long-term rating and underlying rating (SPUR), with a stable outlook, on previously issued certificates of participation (COPs) and lease revenue bonds issued by Palmdale Civic Authority and Palmdale Financing Authority and supported by the city.

The report describing the rating agency’s comments in each of these areas may be found on the Standard & Poor’s Web site, www.standardandpoors.com/ratings, or may be obtained from the City of Palmdale.

“Despite enduring one of the worst economies since the Great Depression, the City of Palmdale has consistently demonstrated the ability to take a prudent and responsible in managing the City’s finances,” said Palmdale Mayor Jim Ledford. “We have been able to provide a high level of programs, services and amenities in spite of economic challenges. Our fiscal house is in order and that is a great message to share with new businesses, manufacturers, retailers and investors who are looking for the right place to grow. I commend City Manager Dave Childs and his team who understand and show daily how to be good stewards of taxpayer dollars.”

“Thanks to the leadership, wisdom and direction of our Mayor and City Council, we have been able to navigate through turbulent waters and come through stronger than before,” said City Manager Dave Childs. “We are on a real path to fiscal sustainability, which bodes well for our community. Our finance team deserves a lot of credit for implementing this approach as we move forward in building a strong future for Palmdale.”

(Information via press release from the city of Palmdale.)

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Filed Under: Palmdale

3 comments for "Palmdale earns “A+” rating from Standard & Poor’s"

  1. Bob S. says

    June 24, 2014 at 11:55 pm

    GEE REX, what grade did you earn Lancaster? Ledford bettered you once again. Trying being an honest human being for once in your life and perhaps you just might redeem some of the ills you’ve caused the city you pretend to care about.

  2. William says

    June 24, 2014 at 5:08 pm

    Is anyone surprised by that? Mayor Ledford’s quality leadership has been reflected in the quality of the staff of the City of Palmdale. A less-than dedicated city employee would stand out like a sore thumb in Palmdale while fitting right in in Lancaster.

    In addition to a good S&P rating during difficult economic times, Palmdale has thrived despite virulent criticism and shameful attempts by our nothern neighbor’s mayor to thwart Palmdale’s continued positive development and progress.

    It would be easy to take Palmdale’s success during several recent recessions for granted but look at the contrast between Palmdale and its northern neighbor which despite all the boasting and self-congratulation has a long way to go to catch up, if it ever will.

    Good work Mayor Ledford, Council Members and City Staff. It’s much appreciated.

  3. dumbandblind says

    June 24, 2014 at 3:38 pm

    Important public information vital for transparency:
    http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/02/05/us-mcgrawhill-sandp-civilcharges-idUSBRE9130U120130205

    So in the end who do we trust?

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