Dane County Maintains AAA Bond Rating in 2025

September 02, 2025
Exec Media, 608-800-1127
County Executive

Prudent Fiscal Management and Strong Reserves Key to Continued Top Rating

MADISON – Dane County Executive Melissa Agard announced today that Dane County has once again received an “AAA” bond rating from Standard and Poor’s (S&P) Global Ratings (report attached). This is the highest rating possible and affirms the county’s record of responsible financial stewardship.

“Maintaining this AAA rating is proof that our county is on solid financial ground. It means we can continue to invest responsibly in services, infrastructure, and opportunities that keep Dane County thriving,” said County Executive Agard. “We appreciate this recognition from S&P Global of Dane County’s strong financial management and robust economy.” 

S&P’s review highlighted several strengths behind the county’s rating:

• A resilient, growing economy anchored by the State Capitol and UW–Madison.
• Prudent financial management, with strong reserves.
• Consistently positive operations and projected balanced budgets in 2025–2026.
• Strong oversight and planning, including multiyear financial forecasting and a formal reserve policy.
• Manageable debt profile with rapid amortization and low pension liabilities, supported by participation in the well-funded Wisconsin Retirement System.

S&P affirmed its AAA rating on all of the county’s existing general obligation debt, with a stable outlook.

“The continuation of this top-tier rating demonstrates our commitment to being a wise steward of taxpayer funds,” Agard said. “By making responsible decisions today, we are ensuring Dane County remains strong, resilient, and well-positioned for the future.”

S&P Global Ratings is one of the nation’s premier credit rating agencies. The AAA bond rating is the most prestigious designation in lending and is granted only to the highest quality, lowest risk bonds.

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