Article: Credit woes hit towns ; Bond ratings south of Boston Bond ratings dip as cash shrinks

Declines in state aid and local revenues have forced many communities south of Boston to dip into their cash reserves to help pay for operating expenses. But in doing so, some have dug themselves deeper into a fiscal hole.

Some municipalities that have depleted their rainy-day funds have seen their credit ratings downgraded by the bond-rating houses, and consequently will have to spend more if they borrow money.

Chart of bond ratings, community by community. Page 3

"It's something for people purchasing municipal bonds to look at and decide the ability of a municipality to repay the loans," said John Robertson, deputy legislative director of the Massachusetts Municipal Association.

Lower ...

Related newspaper, magazine, and journal articles:

 
 
Newsweek Harper's Magazine The Washington Post Chicago Tribune Crain's Chicago Business PRNewswire Pediatric News The Nation Advertising Age The Economist (US) A FREE trial gives you access to over 80 million articles! Access over 6,500 publications with a FREE trial!