California Water Service Requests Approval for CPUC Rate Increase

California Water Service (Cal Water) will begin sending information to customers this week regarding its recent application to the California Public Utilities Commission (Commission) to increase rates in 2017 through 2019. This proposal is required every three years by the Commission, the independent state agency responsible for setting the utility’s rates, and begins an 18-month water rate review process.

According to Cal Water, most of the rate increase request for the Livermore District is needed to make infrastructure improvements. Cal Water is proposing to:

o Replace 18,140 feet of aging and high-risk water main

o Replace SCADA system server and software to maintain monitoring and control of water system

o Construct a new well to increase supply

o Install disinfection system at pump station to maintain water quality

o Install an emergency generator at a pump station to maintain service during power outages

“This required rate review will enable us to continue investing in the community’s water system so that we can continue to provide a safe, reliable water supply to customers for generations to come,” said Cal Water Livermore District Manager Frank Vallejo.

“We are committed to operating efficiently and have taken aggressive steps to control costs such as freezing our employee headcount, except where needed for infrastructure improvements, and reducing benefit costs, especially as costs for infrastructure, treatment, and other operation and maintenance continue to increase across the country,” Vallejo said.

The Commission will thoroughly audit Cal Water’s expenses, plans, and operations during the review process, during which cost estimates could be refined and projects adjusted to result in a decision that could differ from what is proposed. This filing is independent of the drought and measures the Company is taking to meet water use reduction mandates set by the State.

If the Commission approves the application as filed, bills for the typical metered residential customer in Livermore District would increase $3.70 per month in 2017, $1.82 per month in 2018, and $1.72 per month in 2019.

Customers are invited to submit comments in writing or at Public Participation Hearings, if held by the Commission.

Cal Water also offers a range of conservation tools and programs to help customers control their bills. A low-income rate assistance program and hardship grants are available for qualified customers. Information on all programs is available at www.calwater.com.

Cal Water serves about 56,055 people through 18,400 service connections in Livermore. The company has provided water service in the area since 1927. Additional information may be obtained online at www.calwater.com.

Information submitted by Cal Water

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