California Public Utilities Commission to Hold Public Hearing in Monrovia on Proposed Water Rate Increase, June 8

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) will hold a Public Participation Hearing (PPH) covering California American Water’s general rate case increase request on Monday, June 8, 2009 at the Courtyard Marriott Hotel at 700 W. Huntington Drive in Monrovia. The first hearing will be at 2:00 pm and the second at 7:00 pm with both taking place in the hotel’s Monterey room. The hearing will cover the proposed revenue requirement increase for its Los Angeles, Sacramento and Larkfield Districts. Duarte residents are urged to attend the meeting in to both ask questions and share their thoughts and concerns with CPUC staff, and California American company representatives, who will be present.

Duarte residents could see their water rates increase by 56% in 2010 under a proposed rate increase request currently under review by the California Public Utilities Commission. Another 4% increase is proposed to go into effect in 2011 for Duarte residents.

The PPH provides the public an opportunity to comment on California American Water’s Application. A CPUC Administrative Law Judge will proceed over the hearing and a CPUC commissioner may also be present. A court reporter will transcribe the comments during the hearing. Representatives from California American Water Co. will also be there to present and explain their proposed request.

The CPUC’s Division of Ratepayer Advocates (DRA) will also be available to listen to your comments. The DRA is an independent division of the Commission whose role is to represent and advocate on behalf of public utility customers in order to obtain the lowest possible rates consistent with reliable and safe service.

For more information, call California America Water, (888) 237-1333, or visit the company’s website at www.californiaamwater.com.