(2/2018) Frederick County’s AAA Bond Ratings Reaffirmed

County Executive Jan Gardner announced today that all three major bond rating agencies have reaffirmed Frederick County Government’s AAA bond rating due to conservative and stable financial management and a prospering economy. AAA stable is the highest possible rating a county can receive.

"This is excellent news! Frederick County’s finances are well managed and our economy is strong and growing," said Executive Gardner. "These ratings mean that our taxpayers will save millions of dollars. It also means we can make our money go farther in terms of build schools, roads, libraries, fire stations and parks, and all of those things that create a high quality of life in Frederick County. Our long-term planning, conservative budgeting, and our high financial standards are ensuring a bright future for our county."

During meetings in New York City last week, Executive Gardner and other county leaders meet with the rating agencies to discuss the county’s strong financial reserve policies, sound fiscal management and initiatives such as Livable Frederick, a new approach to master planning.

Fewer than 50 of the nation’s more than 3,000 counties earn AAA bond ratings from all three bond rating agencies, Moody’s, Fitch and Standard & Poor’s. Frederick County joined the elite ranks for the first time in June 2016.

In the reports, Frederick was described as having a "very strong economy," supported by "very strong management" and "strong operating performance." Analysts wrote of the county’s "strong operating performance" and its "large, diverse tax base."

For additional information, contact Finance Division Director Lori Depies at 301-600-1117 or via e-mail at ldepies@FrederickCountyMD.gov.

County Announces "Recycle Right!" Contest

You may know that it’s important to recycle, but do you really know how to recycle? That’s the question being asked of local students in the "Recycle Right!" Activity Book Contestconducted by the Frederick County Department of Solid Waste Management (DSWM). The program, open to all local K-12 students (public, private and home school), asks participants to learn more about the recycling process, then use their knowledge – and their creativity – to help educate our community about the importance of recycling the right materials in the correct way.

The DSWM is asking students to visit the contest website to review recycling tips and learn more about how individual actions impact the recycling program. Students are then asked to submit an essay or artwork that promotes better understanding of recycling. The DSWM will use selected student work to create an educational booklet that will be distributed at community events and through local classes and outreach efforts.

All contest entries must be received by Friday, April 6. Entries will be divided into four grade-level groups for judging: K-2, 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12. A total of $1,000 in prizes will be awarded. For

For additional information call Annmarie Creamer at the Recycling Outreach Program at 301-600-7405 or visit www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/RecycleContest