KNN Public Finance helps its public agency and nonprofit clients develop sound and prudent debt management practices that will serve their long-term interests. We serve as your trusted guide in the complex labyrinth of public finance. KNN is here to help you move your organization forward to meet your mission.

 

Credit Rating Management
As the most active financial advisor in the State, KNN has continual contact with the rating agencies, meeting with them in person or by phone at least once a week. Additionally, our firm has a unique asset in assisting public agencies and non-profits improve their credit ratings to obtain lower debt issuance costs. David Brodsly, one of our vice presidents, served as a senior credit officer for Moody’s Investor Services and his insider’s perspective on credit and disclosure issues has proven invaluable to our clients as they seek stronger credit ratings. As part of these services, KNN schedules all conference calls and meetings, assembles the credit package, and creates the rating presentation for our clients.
Debt Capacity Analysis
A comprehensive analysis of debt capacity provides assurance that the amount of debt acquired by a municipality is cost effective. By analyzing debt capacity and establishing appropriate limits on debt issuance based on this analysis, KNN helps municipalities to keep their financial obligations at affordable levels.
Educational Workshops
As an industry leader, KNN offers educational workshops to municipal finance officers, non-profit executives, school finance officials, and their respective Board and Council members. Our professional advisors demystify the funding process by explaining new products and regulations in clear, concise language. Workshop topics include, but are not limited to: A Debate on the Merits of Competitive and Negotiated Methods of Sale OPEB and Pension Obligations: To Bond or Not to Bond? Protecting Your Agency thorugh Debt and Swap Policies Land Secured Financings: Developing Local Goals and Policies How Much is Too Much? Debt Capacity and Debt Affordability Analysis The Debt Issuance Process: Briefings for County Board of Supervisors Establishing Prudent Debt Management Practices in Your Debt Program How Much Bonding Capacity Do We Have? Tax Rates, Assessed Values, and Bond Authorization Amounts Tobacco Securitization Bonds TRAN Process
Financing Feasibility Analysis
KNN's access to real time market data through its parent company, Zion's Bank, provides our clients with a real advantage when evaluating the appropriate time to issue long-term debt. KNN helps public agencies and non-profits evaluate their current fiscal status and determine the feasibility of obtaining favorable interest rates in the current market.
Investor Outreach
Because California's state and local finances are closely intertwined, institutional investors worry about the impact of California's budget crisis on the creditworthiness of cities, counties, and school districts. KNN facilitates meetings between public agencies and investors, proactively addressing concerns about the agencies' ability to mitigate adverse economic impacts and establish their creditworthiness in advance of issuing bonds.
Variable Rate Oversight Program
KNN assists clients in evaluating the market's impact on variable rate debt and in determining next steps when interest rates begin to rise.
Debt Management Policies
KNN explores today's most innovative financing tools for public agencies and non-profits. Then, our professionals work side by side with an agency's staff and elected representatives to develop practical and comprehensive debt management policies. These policies prepare an organization to manage future financial opportunities and challenges in the volatile marketplace.