California Water News Daily Your Source For Water News in California
Following the approval from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), the city of Bellflower – located in Los Angeles County — will sell the city’s municipal water system to California American Water (CAW). Residents of Bellflower approved the sale of the city’s water system during the November 2016 election. The system currently serves about 10 percent of the city.
Bellflower Mayor Ron Schnablegger said, “California American Water has a goal of providing reliable and efficient water services to customers in Los Angeles County. The company’s commitment to its customers, working safely and being a model of environmental protection is consistent with the city’s philosophy. The city is pleased residents will have excellent water service from California American Water.”
California American Water provides water throughout the state. Within Los Angeles County CAW provides water to some 28,000 homes and businesses, serving approximately 100,00 people in the cities of Bradbury, Duarte, El Monte, Irwindale, Monrovia, Rosemead, San Gabriel, San Marino and Temple City, as well as unincorporated portions of Los Angeles County and the Baldwin Hills area.
Bellflower’s water system is less than 20 miles from California American Water’s Los Angeles County district operations center; CAW maintains qualified water personnel who are certified by the California State Water Resources Control Board. A subsidiary of American Water, CAW intends to make various upgrades to the city’s water infrastructure which will include upgrading or replacing water mains that are nearing the end of their useful lives.
The purchase price of Bellflower’s water system is $17 million. The city will receive the funds pursuant to the approval of the CPUC and finalization of the contract. As new CAW customers, Bellflower’s businesses and residents serviced by CAW will have access to the company’s low-income ratepayer assistance program, as well as conservation programs including rebates and free water saving devices.
“We have a strong legacy and presence in the Los Angeles region where we’ve been providing water service for over 50 years,” said Rich Svindland, California American Water president. “Pending approval by the California Public Utilities Commission, this acquisition will provide residents with access to a long-term, reliable water supply for years to come. We are proud to serve our new Bellflower customers, and ensure that their water quality meets or surpasses state and federal standards.”
