Press Release|Public Finance
KBRA Affirms AA Rating with Stable Outlook for City of Los Angeles, CA Solid Waste Resources Revenue Bonds
25 Jun 2026 | New York
KBRA affirms the long-term rating of AA with a Stable Outlook for the City of Los Angeles, CA Solid Waste Resources Revenue Bonds.
The Stable Outlook reflects KBRA’s expectation that the Solid Waste Resources (SWR) Fee and other comparatively minor pledged sources will continue to provide strong coverage of debt service on the Bonds. The Outlook additionally expects recently implemented rate adjustments to reduce and ultimately eliminate the SWR Revenue Fund’s reliance on annual General Fund (GF) subsidies.
Key Credit Considerations
Credit Positives
- Strong legal framework, with a clearly defined gross revenue pledge and solid bondholder protections.
- Recently implemented SWR Fee adjustment schedule is expected to gradually phase out the need for an annual GF transfer to subsidize SWR Revenue Fund operations.
- SWR Fees are related to an essential governmental service provided across a very large and stable economic base.
Credit Challenges
- The SWR Revenue Fund has not been consistently self-supporting due to infrequent adjustments to the SWR Fee, resulting in significant historical reliance on GF subsidies.
Rating Sensitivities
For Upgrade
- Establishment of a track record of consistent and timely SWR Fee rate adjustments, beyond the current five year ordinance, resulting in the realization and maintenance of SWR program self-sufficiency absent GF support.
For Downgrade
- A decline in SWR Fee levels leading to a significant reduction in gross debt service coverage.
- Reduced willingness of management and the City Council to provide GF support, as necessary, to ensure SWR Fund solvency.
To access ratings and relevant documents, click here.