What does debt service as a percentage of net revenues indicate?

Debt service as a percentage of net revenues indicates the proportion of revenues that are allocated for debt service. This metric is crucial for understanding how much of a government's available revenue is used to pay its existing debt obligations, which includes both principal and interest payments. A higher percentage means that a larger portion of revenue is directed toward servicing debt, which can be a sign of financial strain or risk if it limits the funds available for other services or investments. Conversely, a lower percentage suggests that the government has more flexibility to allocate funds toward other needs, such as infrastructure, public services, or reserves. This measure provides valuable insight into a municipality’s financial health and its ability to manage its debt relative to its revenues.