The Northshore Fire Department has announced that Standard and Poor’s Rating Services has assigned a bond rating of AA+ to the fire district.

A rating was requested in preparation for the issuance of up to $25 million of general obligation bonds for the purpose of constructing and equipping a new headquarters fire station that the citizens of Kenmore and Lake Forest Park authorized in February 2008.

Earlier this month, Chief Tom Weathers, Deputy Chief Jim Torpin, bond consultant Susan Musselman, financial consultant Tom Broetje and legal counsel Kinnon W. Williams made a presentation to representatives from Standard and Poor’s. The ensuing report recognized the district for its strong organizational and financial management, as well as its strong community support in its explanation of this high rating.

“We are extremely pleased with this exceptional rating” reports Weathers. “It is a credit to the quality services our organization provides, both in emergency services and general business practices. Our citizens will receive a great financial benefit from this rating. It is also significant to note that only one other fire district within the state has received a rating this high.”

Chief Weathers further noted, “Through the process of making this presentation, it was obvious to all that the Board of Commissioners has established a culture of fiscal responsibility that resonates in all district actions.”