City Loses Water Ruling

Claremont will not be allowed to take control of its water supply through eminent domain.

The city has not proven that its plans to operate its water system would maintain the level of quality, safety and reliability provided by Golden State Water Co., Los Angeles County Judge Richard L. Fruin has ruled.

Claremont has fought a long and sometimes contentious battle with Golden State Water, a subsidiary of American States Water Co. in San Dimas.

For several years, Claremont residents have complained about poor service, unfair surcharges and complaints that are ignored by Golden State Water and the public utilities commission, according to a statement issue by Mayor Sam Pedroza

“We are disappointed in the decision after a hard-fought battle,” Pedroza said the 17-page statement, which was released Tuesday and posted on the city’s website. “The city presented a powerful case, much of it not even contested at trial, demonstrating that city ownership and operation of the Claremont water system … is in the public’s best interest.”

The court’s decision, which was handed down last week, showed that Claremont’s complaints were without merit, said Robert J. Sprowls, president and chief executive officer of American States Water.

“Since 1929, Golden Stater Water has provided high-quality water to residents and businesses in Claremont,” Sprowls said in a statement. “So we were pleased that, when the facts were considered the judge ruled in our favor.”