Cuesta College earns high Moody’s bond rating
District refinancing expected to save taxpayers $2.7 million over time
– Following action by the San Luis Obispo County Community College District Board of Trustees at its May 6, 2026, meeting, the district announced that Moody’s Ratings assigned an Aa1 bond rating in connection with the district’s 2026 General Obligation Refunding Bonds following action by the district Board of Trustees at its May 6 meeting.
District officials said the rating reflects the district’s financial position and management as Cuesta College continues major campus projects funded through voter-approved Measure L bonds.
The announcement comes as the district prepares to open the new San Luis Obispo Campus Center and continues construction on a new instructional building at the North County Campus in Paso Robles.
In its report, Moody’s cited the district’s strong reserves, growing tax base, regional economic profile, and stable financial operations as strengths supporting the rating.
District officials said the refunding is expected to save taxpayers about $2.7 million over time by replacing higher-interest debt with lower-interest bonds. Officials said the savings will benefit property owners within the district and will not affect the district’s General Fund.
“This rating reflects the district’s careful financial planning and commitment to responsible stewardship of public resources,” said Assistant Superintendent/Vice President of Administrative Services Dr. Todd Hampton. “By securing favorable financing terms and responsibly managing Measure L investments, we are helping protect taxpayer dollars while continuing to invest in facilities that support student success and workforce development.”
District officials said the Aa1 rating is among the highest assigned to public institutions and reflects confidence in the district’s long-term fiscal condition and governance.
Moody’s also highlighted the district’s approximately $80 billion tax base and net asset position.
The district plans to celebrate the opening of the new San Luis Obispo Campus Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 3.
“Cuesta College is grateful to our community for its support of Measure L, which made these projects possible, and we extend our appreciation to the Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee for its ongoing stewardship,” said Superintendent/President Dr. Jill Stearns.
More information about Measure L projects is available at Cuesta College Measure L projects.
About Cuesta College
Cuesta College operates a main campus in San Luis Obispo, a North County Campus in Paso Robles, a South County Center in Arroyo Grande, and online programs. Additional information is available at Cuesta College.
