Washington County Finances Get Vote of Confidence

As Washington County gets ready to issue bonds to fund the replacement and upgrading of its 9-1-1 emergency communications system. they are getting a major vote of confidence.

The financial services company Moody's Investors Service has given the bonds their highest rating, Aaa.

"The ratings reflect the county's very large tax base, strong local economy that is integrated into the larger Portland metropolitan area, above average resident wealth, healthy financial position, and very low level of direct debt," Moody's wrote in their assessment.

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"We're very pleased with this news, because it reflects the County's commitment to long-term financial stability and to providing relevant and quality services, within our available resources," said Washington County Board Chair Andy Duck.

The $77 million in general obligation bond are expected to be issued sometime this month. Voters approved the bond measure earlier this year.

The bonds will help pay for:

converting the existing emergency communications system to current technology;

improving countywide coverage by installing more towers;

strengthening facilities for earthquakes, storms and other emergencies;

providing for efficient expansion of the 911 center and emergency response facilities;

and replacing approximately 3,000 analog radios currently used by first responders countywide.