Kenosha Reporter

Kenosha County has received a AAA bond rating from S&P Global Ratings for the fifth consecutive year, according to an announcement by County Executive Samantha Kerkman. The AAA rating is the highest possible and reflects the county’s strong fiscal management and outlook.

“Kenosha County is proud to be one of just seven Wisconsin counties with AAA status — a distinction we’ve now held for five years running,” Kerkman said. “This is a testament to our continued fiscal health and the result of the hard work and diligence of our Finance team and the County Board.”

County Board Chairman Monica M. Yuhas stated that this recognition confirms that Kenosha County’s fiscal policies are effective and position the county well for future needs.

“Maintaining our AAA bond rating is no small task,” Yuhas said. “It is the direct result of thoughtful decision-making, a willingness to plan for the long term, and a shared belief that taxpayer dollars must be managed with the highest level of care.”

“This rating translates into real benefits for our residents — from saving millions in interest on major projects to ensuring we have the flexibility to invest in our community when it matters most,” Yuhas added. “This is about safeguarding our county’s future.”

The S&P report supporting this rating cited Kenosha County’s robust fiscal management, positive financial operations, healthy reserves, and noted ongoing economic growth expected to continue with development plans from companies such as Eli Lilly & Company and Microsoft.

S&P also issued a stable outlook for Kenosha County, stating: “reflects our expectation that Kenosha County’s well-managed budget, steady economic expansion, and extra levy capacity will ensure generally balanced budgetary performance and a healthy overall financial position in upcoming years.”

Kerkman emphasized that maintaining this top-level rating results in lower interest rates when securing funding for large projects, which benefits taxpayers.

Supervisor Jeffrey Gentz, chairman of the County Board’s Finance and Administration Committee, highlighted the significance of achieving this status.

“We save taxpayers thousands of dollars by having good credit, that’s what it boils down to,” Gentz said. “I’ve been doing this for over 18 years, and my mentors and predecessors looked at this as a goal — a goal and a dream — and we’ve achieved it.”

Kerkman credited Finance Director Patricia Merrill, Budget Director Barna Bencs, Assistant Budget Director Matthew Leys, as well as support from the Kenosha Area Business Alliance for their roles in achieving this outcome.

“This is truly a team effort, and it also would not be possible without the County Board’s strong oversight and commitment to responsible budgeting and sound fiscal practices,” Kerkman said. “Working together, we’ve achieved and maintained AAA, which benefits the entire community.”