S&P reaffirms Orange County's strong fiscal management with AA+ bond rating

Orange County, New York, received reaffirmation of its AA+ bond rating from S&P Global Ratings on August 11, 2025. This rating is significant as it is just one rank below the highest possible AAA rating, which indicates a strong level of creditworthiness. Bond ratings play a critical role in the investment decision-making process, signifying the level of stability and safety investors can expect from county bonds. As a result of maintaining this high rating, investors are more likely to consider investing in Orange County bonds, which reflects positively on the county's financial management. The reaffirmation from S&P is a recognition of Orange County's effective fiscal policies and management strategies. The county has demonstrated its ability to manage its financial obligations responsibly, thus earning a strong reputation in the financial markets. The AA+ rating may help facilitate future funding for public projects within the county by enabling the sale of bonds under favorable terms, which could ultimately lead to improvements in public infrastructure and services. Recently, Orange County sold $23.6 million in public improvement serial bonds, which is crucial for financing necessary infrastructure projects. Selling public improvement bonds allows counties like Orange to raise capital for various projects, including upgrades to roads, bridges, and public facilities. The high bond rating encourages investors to buy these bonds, ensuring that projects can move forward without significant obstacles due to financial shortfalls. The process of issuing these bonds is vital for the continued economic development and enhancement of community services within the region. The strong bond rating and successful bond sale not only enhance the county's fiscal credibility but also provide a competitive edge in attracting future investments. Local governments rely on bond ratings as a basis for assessing their financial health and sustainability. Overall, the reaffirmation of the bond rating coupled with the active bond market participation underscores Orange County's commitment to sound financial management and strategic planning for future growth and stability.