The Village of Estero recently earned the “Gold Standard”, a AAA Bond Rating for financial stewardship from S&P Global Bond Rating. By holding this highest possible rating, the Village can secure the lowest possible interest rate should it obtain a debt in the future. (The Village currently holds no debt at all).

The AAA rating places the Village in the top 3% of Florida municipalities, reflecting well on our local economy and governing stability. Businesses and organizations looking to do business here know that only the soundest stewards and trustworthy financial policies earn this award. The Village is proud to represent the residents of Estero by maintaining standards above and beyond that which is required.

This rating was earned after an extensive review and final adoption of financial policies that cement sound stewardship of finances. Contributing factors included the Village’s complete lack of debt of any type, the early repayment of previous debt, and the twelve months of combined dedicated reserves the Village holds (8.6 million).

The rating was awarded on November 21, 2024 and announced at the December 4, 2024 Village of Estero Council meeting. It will remain in effect indefinitely, unless a change in financial status occurs.

As one of only seven cities in Florida earning this rating, it places the Village among cities with the soundest financial policies and most solid fiscal track records.

Financial stability, responsibility, and transparency are core values of the Village of Estero, and these policies earned us the highest Bond Rating possible from an international rating standard.