FORSYTH COUNTY — Forsyth officials recently learned that Standard & Poor’s had upgraded the county’s bond rating to the highest possible level.

According to information from the county, the Standard & Poor’s rating has increased from AA+ to AAA with a stable outlook.

In addition, the county’s rating from Moody’s Investors Service remains Aaa with a stable outlook, the highest rating available from that organization.

David Gruen, the county’s director of finance/chief financial officer, said in a statement that the rating will only help Forsyth.

“The upgrade to our rating will certainly make our bonds even more attractive to investors,” he said in a statement.

“Having a high rating can also result in monetary savings on bonds in the future due to lower interest rates.”

The improved rating could prove beneficial in November if voters approved a general obligation bond for traffic improvements. County commissioners recently signed off on the ballot measure.

Standard & Poor’s cited a number of factors contributing to the rating upgrade, including the county’s strong economy and financial profile, as well as good financial practices and management.

County Manager Doug Derrer said the increased rating highlights the county’s strong financial condition, as well as the hard work by its officials and staff.

“The upgrade reflects the county’s strategic planning, the leadership provided by the board of commissioners, and the sound policies implemented by the board and carried out by our dedicated financial staff,” he said in a statement.