To have a Aa rating makes it even more attractive. The higher rating also means issuing the 1999 bonds and certificates of obligation could cost the city less in interest, McDaniel said. Better credit should mean a better interest rate.
Some factors are beyond the control of the city.
Regardless, he said, the city's bond and certificates sales will benefit from the higher credit rating. Be assured that an Aa credit is better than an A1. The improved credit rating places Abilene alongside the cities of Houston, Waco and Arlington, McDaniel said. Lubbock, Amarillo and Austin are Aa2 cities, one-third higher than Abilene's, he said. Moody's analysis placed great importance on Abilene's stabilization, brought about partly through the city's economic development initiatives and economic diversification.