For the third time this year, Queen Anne’s County has been given an upgrade on its credit score.

In reviewing the financial and economic conditions for the county, Standard & Poor’s rating service has raised the county’s long term and underlying rating on public debt from “A” to “AA-.” The upgrade is due to the county’s historically low unemployment rates and strong income levels, as well as the area’s access to metropolitan regions.

Standard & Poor’s findings are based on the county’s good management, including conservative budget practices, and its stable outlook which is reflected in its rural economy and close proximity to the Baltimore and Washington metropolitan regions.

“This is great news and indicates that we are leaving the county in even better financial health than we found it. I believe that this would not have been possible without our Finance Director’s (John Borders, who is also the County Administrator) expert guidance and the diligent efforts of our county employees doing their jobs well and efficiently,” said County Commissioner Carol Fordonski.

Bond credit ratings assess the credit worthiness of government debt issues. Much like credit ratings for individuals, these ratings are an indicator of financial health for potential investors. In July of this year, both Fitch and Moody’s upgraded the county’s credit rating.