Last month, the Gwinnett County Board of Education approved the adoption of a bond resolution and associated documents authorizing the issuance and sale of Series 2019 General Obligation Bonds in the amount of $173,355,000. The sale of these bonds will go directly toward capital improvement projects including construction of a new high school, facility additions and renovations, technology upgrades, and other projects included in the bond referendum approved by voters in November of 2018.
Gwinnett citizens have consistently supported critical school funding initiatives, including multiple bond and sales tax referenda. The taxpayers’ trust in the school system has been well-placed, based on findings from external audits of GCPS’ building programs.
In recent audits, MGT of America commended GCPS on the management of its construction program. MGT found GCPS in full compliance in all areas audited and with state laws, noting that the school system effectively has met its E-SPLOST objectives. GCPS also was commended for implementing processes that resulted in lower construction costs than those in neighboring counties.
In preparing for the sale of the bonds, the school district’s bond ratings were reviewed and reaffirmed at the highest level (Aaa) with a stable outlook by both Standard & Poor’s (S&P) and Moody’s Investors Service. GCPS is one of only two school districts in Georgia to hold a “Aaa” bond rating from both Moody’s and S&P. Currently, only 24 school districts nationwide have earned this fiscal stamp of approval from both bond rating agencies.
CEO/Superintendent J. Alvin Wilbanks takes pride in the district’s record of fiscal accountability and how that benefits taxpayers and students. He explains, “Our Board of Education and the employees of the school district take our responsibility to be the best stewards of taxpayer funds very seriously. The reaffirmation of the district’s Aaa bond rating and the impact it has on the sale of bonds is noteworthy for our community. It positions us to deliver on promises made to our stakeholders while also serving as further evidence of our school district’s financial stewardship over time.”
GCPS’ commitment to financial stewardship has allowed the district to maintain a stable financial position despite ongoing growth and budget challenges, and its low debt burden, due in large part to the district’s ability to fund its ongoing capital needs through the E-SPLOST and related G.O. bond referenda.
According to the bond rating firms, Gwinnett County Public Schools’ favorable bond ratings are based on its strong financial management. Moody’s indicated its rating was based on the district’s sound reserve position; its use of SPLOST revenue for debt service; and its large, diverse tax base. S&P added that its rating reflects its opinion on the district’s manageable debt burden and its strong financial position aided by very strong management practices and a demonstrated ability to manage through economic downturns.