Edited by Shannon Rogers
The Carroll County Government announced exciting news. All three major credit rating agencies have once again reaffirmed the county’s highest-possible bond ratings, solidifying Carroll County’s standing as one of the nation’s most financially stable jurisdictions. Fitch Ratings, S&P Global Ratings, and Moody’s each confirmed Carroll’s AAA/AAA/Aaa status, a distinction held by only a small number of counties nationwide.
Board of County Commissioners President Kenny Kiler credited the county staff and leadership for the successful outcome. “Our Carroll County team visited the credit rating agencies in New York and delivered an excellent presentation highlighting Carroll County’s many strengths,” Kiler said.
“The renewal of triple AAA ratings from S&P, Fitch, and Moody’s is a testament to the hard work of our committed staff, the financial stability of the county, and has resulted in today’s very successful bond sale.”
The reaffirmed ratings allowed the county to issue $31.5 million in new bonds at a favorable 3.45% interest rate. The funding will support a wide range of capital projects, including general government improvements, public safety upgrades, public works initiatives, school system needs, conservation and water resource projects, and loans for local fire companies.
Only a small number of counties in the country receive these top ratings, so this puts Carroll County in a strong financial position for the future. Other verified counties with Triple-AAA ratings for 2024–2025 include Anne Arundel County, MD; Montgomery County, MD; Howard County, MD; Prince William County, VA; and Rutherford County, TN.
Based on recent and historical county announcements, the number of U.S. counties with a Triple-AAA rating is approximately 50. Given that the United States has over 3,000 counties, this places Carroll County in the top 2% of counties for credit ratings nationally.
The Comptroller’s Office said its financial oversight plays a key role in maintaining the county’s strong credit standing. The department manages the county’s accounting, procurement, and collections functions, handling everything from revenue intake and bill payment to payroll and investment of county funds. It also oversees financial records, audits, annual reporting, and the administration of county debt — responsibilities that help ensure the county’s assets are protected and its financial operations remain sound.
Once finalized, full reports from the rating agencies will be posted on the county Comptroller’s webpage.
