Shift from AA- to AA indicates vote of confidence for the Forest Preserves’ financial plan

The financial ratings agency Standard & Poor’s has upgraded the Forest Preserve District of Cook County’s bond rating from AA- to AA. The agency cited strengthened corporate fund reserves, a large property tax base, positive financial operations with strong liquidity, and moderate overall debt burden as reasons for the new assessment.

This positive news comes as the District is preparing for a bond issue of up to $100 million, which will help it achieve critical upcoming goals for Cook County residents, such as land acquisition, reinvestment in camping opportunities and addressing deferred maintenance of facilities.

“This is a testament to the efforts of Superintendent Arnold Randall and his dedicated staff as we work in concert to move the Forest Preserve District of Cook County toward its strategic goals,” said Forest Preserve District Board President Toni Preckwinkle. “It is a positive sign that the District has been making sound financial decisions and that we’re moving in the right direction at the right time.”

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About the Forest Preserves of Cook County
Don’t you sometimes just want to escape? Explore the natural beauty of Cook County for an hour, a day or even a night. When you’re surrounded by 70,000 acres of wild and wonderful there’s no better place to feel free.