Macomb County Achieves Top-Tier Aaa Credit Rating from Moody’s 

Macomb County Achieves Top-Tier Aaa Credit Rating from Moody’s

The Macomb County Board of Commissioners celebrates that Moody’s Ratings has upgraded the county’s credit rating to Aaa, the highest rating available. This distinction reflects the county’s strong financial position, disciplined fiscal management, and long-term commitment to responsible stewardship of public resources.

The Aaa rating places Macomb County among a very small number of counties nationwide to earn Moody’s top credit designation. The upgrade signifies that the county maintains exceptional financial stability, strong reserves, and sound governance practices.

The Board of Commissioners credits the achievement to years of careful financial leadership and collaboration between county officials.

“The Aaa rating is a result of the Board’s commitment to responsible fiscal management,” said Board Chair Joe Sabatini. “Through prudent budgeting, long-term financial planning, and vigilant oversight of taxpayer dollars, we have built a strong financial foundation that benefits our residents today and safeguards the county’s future.”

The Board has prioritized balanced budgets, maintaining healthy fund balances, and implementing long-range financial strategies designed to ensure stability through economic cycles. These efforts have allowed Macomb County to strengthen its financial reserves, manage debt responsibly, and maintain flexibility to invest in critical public services and infrastructure.

According to Moody’s, the Aaa rating reflects Macomb County’s very large and growing economic base, supported by an expanding population and labor force. The county benefits from diverse employment opportunities across sectors including aerospace, defense, robotics, and manufacturing. The automotive industry remains a cornerstone of the regional economy, with major employers including General Motors, Stellantis, and Ford.

Moody’s also noted that the county’s financial position remains exceptionally strong. Macomb County’s fiscal 2026 budget is balanced and the County maintains an available fund balance ratio and net cash ratio well above typical benchmarks.  Moody’s report also cited the county’s very low debt burden, indicating strong financial flexibility.

“This upgrade affirms the work we have done to protect the county’s financial health,” said Commissioner Phil Kraft, Finance/Audit/Budget Chair. “Our goal has always been to ensure that Macomb County remains financially strong while delivering high-quality services to our residents.”

Achieving the Aaa rating is expected to provide long-term benefits to taxpayers by improving the county’s ability to access capital markets at lower borrowing costs, ultimately saving money on future infrastructure and public investment projects.

“Careful financial planning ensures we are able to responsibly invest in necessary infrastructure improvements,” said Vice Chair Harold L. Haugh. “Maintaining a top credit rating allows us to plan ahead for critical improvements while keeping costs as low as possible for taxpayers.”

Media Contact:
Crystal Richardson
crystal.richardson@macombgov.org
(586) 469-5125