The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County has earned a AAA rating from S&P Global Ratings for its series 2025 general obligation limited-tax bonds, ensuring funding for certified master plan projects without raising debt-servicing costs or increasing taxes.

S&P also affirmed its AAA rating on the District’s existing general obligation debt — the highest rating assigned by the credit-rating agency. The District has maintained this top-tier rating since 1997, consistently demonstrating strong financial stewardship and leadership.

The rating reflects several key factors, including the District’s outstanding financial management practices and the strength of DuPage County’s diverse and thriving economy. The recent passage of a voter-supported referendum to increase the District’s operational levy also underscores continued public trust and investment in natural resource preservation.

“The AAA rating highlights the District’s strong financial-management practices, prudent reserve policies, and effective operations,” said Brian Kuszewski, interim director of Finance for the Forest Preserve District. “It signals to the market that the District’s debt is low-risk, leading to lower borrowing costs and ultimately saving property taxpayers money over time.”

The S&P report cited the District’s proactive leadership, healthy reserves, operational flexibility, and substantial landfill fund resources as key factors in maintaining its strong credit profile.

“The ‘AAA’ rating reflects our view of the District's deep and diverse economy coterminous with DuPage County, significant operational flexibility, and robust financial management, which have contributed to healthy reserves and liquidity,” the report stated.

For more information, including the full ratings report, visit the Forest Preserve District’s “Budgets and Financial Reports” page on its website.