CHANDLER, Ariz. – For local governments, a higher credit rating can mean substantial savings for taxpayers and more flexibility to invest in community infrastructure, parks, public safety, transportation and other essential facilities.
Chandler was recently showcased as a national model for best practices by the National League of Cities during a session that offered practical advice on how cities can improve their credit profile and secure better interest rates on tax-exempt bonds. Chandler’s Deputy City Manager and Chief Financial Officer Dawn Lang and Daniel Golliday with S&P Global Ratings shared insights on fiscal strategies and criteria that influence municipal bond ratings.
Chandler has been AAA rated from all three bond rating agencies on its general obligation bonds since 2010, but in 2023, Chandler became the first Arizona city to earn the top AAA rating from all three bond rating agencies on its excise tax revenue obligations as well. This achievement is the byproduct of decades of strategic planning and economic development along with the creation and adoption of financial policies by the City Council that guide the city’s budget and financial management practices.
Some of Chandler’s key financial principles are aligning ongoing revenues with ongoing expenses and reserving one-time revenues for one-time costs. Careful forecasting and conservative budgeting also enable the city to avoid overextending operations and building reserves that can be accessed during economic downturns.
Chandler has become a key voice for Arizona cities in shaping statewide financial policy. Collaboration with the Arizona League of Arizona Cities and Towns has helped to improve bond security for cities across the state, showcasing Chandler’s dedication to strong and healthy municipal finance practices.
Looking ahead, Chandler plans to stick to the same principles that brought it to this point: responsible budgeting, transparent governance and strategic investments in infrastructure and community services.
A Special Bond Election will be held on Nov. 4, 2025, giving Chandler voters the opportunity to authorize the issuance of general obligation bonds to fund multiple projects over time, including new projects and improvements to aging infrastructure in the areas of parks, recreation, fire, police and streets.
As more cities across the country work to strengthen their financial footing, Chandler offers a clear example of what’s possible when you plan ahead and stay the course. This success is something that other cities, towns or villages can achieve through strong and disciplined financial management practices.