Form: 10-Q/A

Quarterly report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d)

August 7, 2009

Table of Contents

 
 
UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q/A
(Mark One)
     
þ   QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2009
OR
     
o   TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from                      to                     
Commission file number 1-13883
CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE GROUP
 
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
     
Delaware   77-0448994
     
(State or other jurisdiction
of incorporation or organization)
  (I.R.S. Employer identification No.)
     
1720 North First Street, San Jose, CA.   95112
     
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)
408-367-8200
 
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
Not Applicable
 
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes þ No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes þ No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer þ Accelerated filer o  Non-accelerated filer o
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting company o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act) Yes o No þ
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date. Common shares outstanding as of August 3, 2009 — 20,744,952
 
 

 


 

TABLE OF CONTENTS
                 
            Page  
PART I       3  
            3  
            3  
            4  
            5  
            6  
            7  
Item 2       22  
Item 3       32  
Item 4       32  
PART II       34  
Item 1       34  
Item 4       35  
Item 6       36  
            37  
            38  
 EX-31.1
 EX-31.2
 EX-32

2


Table of Contents

PART I FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The condensed consolidated financial statements presented in this filing on Form 10-Q have been prepared by management and are unaudited.
CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE GROUP
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
Unaudited
(In thousands, except per share data)
                 
    June 30,     December 31,  
    2009     2008  
ASSETS
               
Utility plant:
               
Utility plant
  $ 1,638,356     $ 1,583,079  
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization
    (492,989 )     (470,712 )
 
           
Net utility plant
    1,145,367       1,112,367  
 
           
Current assets:
               
Cash and cash equivalents
    41,498       13,869  
Receivables:
               
Customers
    26,613       22,786  
Regulatory balancing accounts
    12,612       4,629  
Other
    7,687       7,442  
Unbilled revenue
    20,273       13,112  
Materials and supplies at average cost
    5,244       5,070  
Taxes, prepaid expenses and other assets
    10,565       12,890  
 
           
Total current assets
    124,492       79,798  
 
           
Other assets:
               
Regulatory assets
    199,194       198,293  
Goodwill
    3,906       3,906  
Other assets
    30,281       23,743  
 
           
Total other assets
    233,381       225,942  
 
           
 
  $ 1,503,240     $ 1,418,107  
 
           
CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES
               
Capitalization:
               
Common stock, $.01 par value
  $ 207     $ 207  
Additional paid-in capital
    214,451       213,922  
Retained earnings
    191,098       188,820  
 
           
Total common stockholders’ equity
    405,756       402,949  
Long-term debt, less current maturities
    383,500       287,498  
 
           
Total capitalization
    789,256       690,447  
 
           
Current liabilities:
               
Current maturities of long-term debt
    2,664       2,818  
Short-term borrowings
    12,000       40,000  
Accounts payable:
               
Trade and other
    42,267       39,187  
Regulatory balancing accounts
    6,077       2,585  
Accrued interest
    4,013       3,295  
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
    34,189       35,311  
 
           
Total current liabilities
    101,210       123,196  
Unamortized investment tax credits
    2,392       2,392  
Deferred income taxes, net
    76,008       72,344  
Pension and postretirement benefits other than pensions
    152,468       152,685  
Regulatory and other liabilities
    83,282       83,312  
Advances for construction
    179,566       176,163  
Contributions in aid of construction
    119,058       117,568  
Commitments and contingencies
    —       —  
 
           
 
  $ 1,503,240     $ 1,418,107  
 
           
See Accompanying Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

3


Table of Contents

CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE GROUP
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
Unaudited
(In thousands, except per share data)
                 
    June 30,     June 30,  
For the three months ended   2009     2008  
 
               
Operating revenue
  $ 116,667     $ 105,581  
 
           
 
               
Operating expenses:
               
Operations:
               
Water production costs
    41,702       40,349  
Administrative and general
    19,386       13,835  
Other operations
    14,330       12,766  
Maintenance
    4,312       4,947  
Depreciation and amortization
    10,282       9,276  
Income taxes
    6,789       6,442  
Property and other taxes
    3,911       3,484  
 
           
Total operating expenses
    100,712       91,099  
 
           
Net operating income
    15,955       14,482  
 
           
 
               
Other income and expenses:
               
Non-regulated revenue
    3,098       1,696  
Non-regulated expenses, net
    (721 )     (1,132 )
Gain on sale of non-utility property
    72       7  
Income taxes expense on other income and expenses
    (992 )     (219 )
 
           
Net other income and expenses
    1,457       352  
 
           
 
               
Interest expense:
               
Interest expense
    5,962       5,157  
Less: capitalized interest
    (640 )     (439 )
 
           
Net interest expense
    5,322       4,718  
 
           
 
               
Net income
  $ 12,090     $ 10,116  
 
           
 
               
Earnings per share
               
Basic
  $ 0.58     $ 0.48  
 
           
Diluted
  $ 0.58     $ 0.48  
 
           
Weighted average shares outstanding
               
Basic
    20,745       20,717  
 
           
Diluted
    20,767       20,741  
 
           
Dividends declared per share of common stock
  $ 0.2950     $ 0.2925  
 
           
See Accompanying Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

4


Table of Contents

CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE GROUP
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
Unaudited
(In thousands, except per share data)
                 
    June 30,     June 30,  
For the six months ended   2009     2008  
 
               
Operating revenue
  $ 203,280     $ 178,502  
 
           
 
               
Operating expenses:
               
Operations:
               
Water production costs
    70,570       65,707  
Administrative and general
    38,247       27,253  
Other operations
    26,786       24,831  
Maintenance
    8,947       9,060  
Depreciation and amortization
    20,480       18,498  
Income taxes
    8,021       6,616  
Property and other taxes
    7,999       7,223  
 
           
Total operating expenses
    181,050       159,188  
 
           
Net operating income
    22,230       19,314  
 
           
 
               
Other income and expenses:
               
Non-regulated revenue
    5,979       4,601  
Non-regulated expenses, net
    (3,362 )     (4,168 )
Gain on sale of non-utility property
    675       7  
Income taxes expense on other income and expenses
    (1,330 )     (170 )
 
           
Net other income and expense
    1,962       270  
 
           
 
               
Interest expense:
               
Interest expense
    11,000       10,171  
Less: capitalized interest
    (1,319 )     (889 )
 
           
Net interest expense
    9,681       9,282  
 
           
 
               
Net income
  $ 14,511     $ 10,302  
 
           
 
               
Earnings per share
               
Basic
  $ 0.70     $ 0.49  
 
           
Diluted
  $ 0.70     $ 0.49  
 
           
Weighted average shares outstanding
               
Basic
    20,738       20,702  
 
           
Diluted
    20,763       20,726  
 
           
Dividends declared per share of common stock
  $ 0.5900     $ 0.5850  
 
           
See Accompanying Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

5


Table of Contents

CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE GROUP
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Unaudited
(In thousands)
                 
    June 30,     June 30,  
For the six months ended:   2009     2008  
Operating activities
               
Net income
  $ 14,511     $ 10,302  
 
           
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
               
Depreciation and amortization
    21,614       18,498  
Gain on sale of non-utility property
    (675 )     (7 )
Change in value of life insurance contracts
    (1,827 )     —  
Other changes in noncurrent assets and liabilities
    3,729       (184 )
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
               
Receivables
    (12,065 )     (1,695 )
Accounts payable
    9,916       2,317  
Other current assets
    (5,018 )     (7,962 )
Other current liabilities
    (143 )     9,994  
Other changes, net
    518       1,488  
 
           
Net adjustments
    16,049       22,449  
 
           
Net cash provided by operating activities
    30,560       32,751  
 
           
 
               
Investing activities:
               
Utility plant expenditures:
               
Company funded
    (50,655 )     (38,527 )
Developer funded
    (2,275 )     (4,823 )
Purchase of life insurance
    (1,613 )     (1,367 )
Proceeds on sale of non-utility property
    750       —  
 
           
Net cash used in investing activities
    (53,793 )     (44,717 )
 
           
 
               
Financing activities:
               
Short-term borrowings
    20,000       23,000  
Repayment of short-term borrowing
    (48,000 )     —  
Advances and contributions in aid of construction
    2,414       5,166  
Refunds of advances for construction
    (2,520 )     (3,675 )
Dividends paid
    (12,233 )     (12,191 )
Proceeds from long-term debt, net of issuance cost of $3,390
    96,610       —  
Repayment of long-term debt
    (5,439 )     (939 )
Issuance of common stock
    30       —  
 
           
Net cash provided by financing activities
    50,862       11,361  
 
           
 
               
Change in cash and cash equivalents
    27,629       (605 )
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
    13,869       6,734  
 
           
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
  $ 41,498     $ 6,129  
 
           
 
               
Supplemental information
               
Cash paid for interest, net of interest capitalized
  $ 8,553     $ 8,698  
Cash paid for income taxes
    358       16  
 
               
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash activities:
               
Accrued payables for investments in utility plant
  $ 7,623     $ 19,099  
Purchase of intangible assets with company common stock
    —     $ 1,300  
Utility plant contribution by developers
  $ 7,584     $ 6,315  
See Accompanying Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

6


Table of Contents

CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE GROUP
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
June 30, 2009
(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
Note 1. Organization and Operations and Basis of Presentation
California Water Service Group (the Company) is a holding company that provides water utility and other related services in California, Washington, New Mexico and Hawaii through its wholly-owned subsidiaries. California Water Service Company (Cal Water), Washington Water Service Company (Washington Water), New Mexico Water Service Company (New Mexico Water), and Hawaii Water Service Company, Inc. (Hawaii Water) provide regulated utility services under the rules and regulations of their respective state’s regulatory commissions (jointly referred to herein as the Commissions). CWS Utility Services and HWS Utility Services LLC provide non-regulated water utility and utility-related services.
     Basis of Presentation
The unaudited interim financial information has been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP) for interim financial information and in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and therefore do not contain all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP and the SEC for annual financial statements. The condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company’s consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2008, included in its current report on Form 8-K as filed with the SEC on April 7, 2009.
The preparation of the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements in accordance with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the balance sheet dates and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses for the periods presented. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
In the opinion of management, the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments that are necessary to provide a fair presentation of the results for the periods covered. The results for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results for any future period.
Due to the seasonal nature of the water business, the results for interim periods are not indicative of the results for a twelve-month period. Revenue and income are generally higher in the warm, dry summer months when water usage and sales are greater. Revenue and income are lower in the winter months when cooler temperatures and rainfall curtail water usage and sales.
The Company operates primarily in one business segment providing water and related utility services.
Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
     Revenue
Revenue includes monthly cycle customer billings for regulated water and wastewater services at rates authorized by regulatory commissions and billings to certain non-regulated customers. In addition, effective July 1, 2008 with the adoption of the Water Revenue Adjustment Mechanism (WRAM) and the Modified Cost Balancing Account (MCBA), Cal Water records the difference between what is billed to its regulated customers and that which is authorized by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC).
Under the WRAM, Cal Water records the adopted level of volumetric revenues as authorized by the CPUC for metered accounts (adopted volumetric revenues). In addition to volumetric-based revenues, the revenue requirements approved by the CPUC include service charges, flat rate charges, and other items that are not subject to the WRAM. The adopted volumetric revenue considers the seasonality of consumption of water based upon historical averages. The variance between adopted volumetric revenues and actual billed volumetric revenues for metered accounts is recorded as a component of revenue with an offsetting entry to a current asset or liability balancing account (tracked individually for each Cal Water district). The variance amount may be positive or negative and represents amounts that will be billed or refunded to customers in the future.

7


Table of Contents

Under the MCBA, Cal Water tracks adopted expense levels for purchased water, purchased power, and pump taxes, as established by the CPUC. Variances (which include the effects of changes in both rate and volume) between adopted and actual purchased water, purchased power, and pump tax expenses are recorded as a component of revenue, as the amount of such variances will be recovered from or refunded to the Company’s customers at a later date. This is reflected with an offsetting entry to a current asset or liability regulatory balancing account (tracked individually for each Cal Water district).
The balances in the WRAM and MCBA asset and liability accounts fluctuate on a monthly basis depending upon the variance between adopted and actual results. The recovery or refund of the WRAM is netted against the MCBA over- or under-recovery for the corresponding district and is interest bearing at the current 90 day commercial paper rate. When the net amount for any district achieves a pre-determined level at the end of any calendar year (i.e., at least 2.5 percent over- or under-recovery of the approved revenue requirement), Cal Water will file with the CPUC to refund or collect the balance in the accounts. Account balances less than those levels may be refunded or collected in Cal Water’s general rate case proceedings or aggregated with future calendar year balances for comparison with the recovery level. As of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, the net aggregated asset included in accounts receivable was $12,612 and $4,629, respectively, and the aggregate liability included in accounts payable was $6,077 and $2,585, respectively.
     Recent Accounting Pronouncements Adopted
In December 2007, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued SFAS No. 141(R), “Business Combinations.” The statement applies prospectively to business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after years beginning after December 15, 2008. SFAS 141(R) significantly changes current practices regarding business combinations. Among the more significant changes, SFAS 141(R) expands the definition of a business and a business combination; requires the acquirer to recognize the assets acquired, liabilities assumed and noncontrolling interests (including goodwill), measured at fair value at the acquisition date; requires acquisition-related expenses and restructuring costs to be recognized separately from the business combination and requires assets acquired and liabilities assumed from contractual and non-contractual contingencies to be recognized at their acquisition date fair values with subsequent changes recognized in earnings. Statement 141(R) requires that an entity record, generally through income tax expense, adjustments made after the measurement period (and adjustments during the measurement period that relate to facts and circumstances that did not exist as of the acquisition date) to (1) valuation allowances for acquired deferred tax assets and (2) acquired tax uncertainties. The Company adopted SFAS No. 141 (R) effective January 1, 2009.
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements — an amendment of ARB No. 51.” The statement amends ARB 51 to establish accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interests in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. The statement is effective for years beginning after December 15, 2008. The Company adopted SFAS No. 160 effective January 1, 2009, and it did not have a material impact on the Company’s financial position, results of operation, or cash flows.
In May 2008, the FASB staff revisited Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) issue No. 03-6 and issued FASB Staff Position (“FSP”) No. EITF 03-6-1, “Determining Whether Instruments Granted in Shared-Based Payment Transactions are Participating Securities.” FSP EITF 03-6-1 requires unvested share-based payments that entitle employees to receive nonrefundable dividends to also be considered participating securities, as defined in EITF 03-6. The Company currently grants certain unvested share-based payments awards that include rights to dividends similar to common stockholders. The Company adopted FSP EITF 03-6-1 effective January 1, 2009 and it did not have a material impact to its computation of earnings per share.
In April 2009, the FASB issued FSP SFAS 107-1 and APB No. 28-1, “Interim Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments” (“FSP SFAS 107-1 and APB No. 28-1”). This FSP amends SFAS No. 107 and APB Opinion No. 28. “Interim Financial Reporting” to require disclosures about the fair value of financial instruments for interim reporting periods that were previously only required for annual reporting periods. An entity is required to disclose the fair value of financial assets and liabilities together with the related carrying amount and where the carrying amount is classified in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. FSP SFAS 107-1 and APB No. 28-1 is effective prospectively for interim reporting periods after June 15, 2009. The Company adopted FSP SFAS 107-1 and APB No. 28-1 for the period ended June 30, 2009. See Note 9.
In May 2009, the FASB issued SFAS No. 165, “Subsequent Events.” SFAS No. 165 does not significantly change the prior accounting practice for subsequent events except for the requirement to disclose the date through which an entity has evaluated subsequent events and the basis for that date. The Company adopted SFAS No. 165 for the period ended June 30, 2009. There were no significant events or transactions that occurred after the balance sheet date and before the issuance of the financial statements on August 6, 2009 that would have significantly changed the June 30, 2009 financial statements.

8


Table of Contents

     Accounting Pronouncements Issued But Not Yet Adopted
In December 2008, the FASB issued FSP FAS 132(R)-1,“Employers’ Disclosures about Postretirement Benefit Plan Assets” (“FSP 132(R)-1”). FSP 132(R)-1 amends and expands the disclosure requirements of SFAS No. 132. An entity is required to provide qualitative disclosures about how investment allocation decisions are made, the inputs and valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of plan assets, and the concentration of risk within plan assets. Additionally, quantitative disclosures are required showing the fair value of each major category of plan assets, the levels in which each asset is classified within the fair value hierarchy, and a reconciliation for the period of plan assets which are measured using significant unobservable inputs. FSP 132(R)-1 is effective prospectively for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2009. The Company will include the expanded disclosure requirement in the consolidated financial statements for future annual periods.
In June 2009, the FASB issued SFAS No. 168, “The FASB Accounting Standards Codification and the Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles — a replacement of SFAS No. 162.” The Codification is a reorganization and compilation of all existing authoritative U.S. GAAP recognized by the FASB to be applied to nongovernmental entities. Rules and interpretive releases of the SEC under authority of federal securities law are also sources of authoritative GAAP for SEC registrants. On the effective date of this statement, the Codification will supersede all then-existing non-SEC accounting and reporting standards. This statement is effective for financial statements issued for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009.
Note 3. Stock-based Compensation
     Long-Term Incentive Plan
The Company had a stockholder-approved Long-Term Incentive Plan (which was replaced on April 27, 2005, by a stockholder-approved Equity Incentive Plan) that allowed granting of non-qualified stock options. The Company had accounted for options issued under the Long-Term Incentive Plan using the intrinsic value method under Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees.” All outstanding options (83,250 shares at June 30, 2009) have an exercise price equal to the market price on the date they were granted. The weighted average price of the options is $24.90. All options granted under the Long-Term Incentive Plan are fully vested. No compensation expense was recorded for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 related to stock options issued under the Long-Term Incentive Plan.
     Equity Incentive Plan
Under the Company’s Equity Incentive Plan, which was approved by shareholders in April 2005, the Company is authorized to issue up to 1,000,000 shares of common stock. In the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, the Company granted Restricted Stock Awards (RSAs) of 21,000 and 16,630 shares, respectively, of common stock both to officers and to directors of the Company. Employee options vest ratably over 48 months, while director options vest at the end of 12 months. The shares were valued at $38.38 and $37.60 per share, respectively, based upon the fair market value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant.
In addition, in the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) equivalent to 71,500 and 47,070 shares, respectively, were granted to officers, which vest ratably over 48 months and expire at the end of 10 years. The grant-date fair value for SARs was determined using the Black Scholes model, which arrived at a fair value of $10.50 and $6.03 per share, respectively. Upon exercise of a SAR, the appreciation is payable in common shares of the Company.
The assumptions utilized in calculation of the SAR fair value were:
                 
    2009   2008
Expected dividend yield
    3.06 %     3.11 %
Expected volatility
    36.97 %     21.96 %
Risk-free interest rate
    1.89 %     2.63 %
Expected holding period in years
    6.0       5.2  
The Company did not apply a forfeiture rate in the expense computation relating to RSAs and SARs issued to officers as they vest monthly and, as a result, the expense is recorded for actual vesting during the period. For outside directors the Company did not apply a forfeiture rate in the expense computation relating to RSAs, as the Company expects 100% to vest at the end of twelve months.

9


Table of Contents

The table below reflects SARs activity under the Equity Incentive Plan for the six months ended June 30, 2009.
                 
            Weighted Average  
    Shares     Exercise Price  
Stock Appreciation Rights
               
Outstanding at December 31, 2008
    108,710     $ 38.16  
Granted
    71,500       38.38  
Exercised
    —       —  
Cancelled
    —       —  
 
           
Outstanding at June 30, 2009
    180,210     $ 38.25  
 
           
Exercisable at June 30, 2009
    64,352     $ 38.36  
 
           
The Company has recorded compensation costs for the RSAs and SARs in Operating Expense in the amount of $221 and $186 for the quarters ended June 30, 2009, and June 30, 2008, respectively, and $505 and $277 for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
Note 4. Earnings Per Share Calculations
The computations of basic and diluted earnings per share are noted below. RSAs are included in the weighted stock outstanding as the shares have all the same voting and dividend rights as issued and unrestricted common stock. Diluted earnings per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock.
The SARs outstanding of 180,210 and 108,710 are anti-dilutive for the second quarter and six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008. All options are dilutive and the dilutive effect is shown in the table below.
(In thousands, except per share data)
                 
    Three Months Ended June 30  
    2009     2008  
Net income
  $ 12,090     $ 10,116  
Less preferred dividends
    —       (38 )
 
           
Net income available to common stockholders
  $ 12,090     $ 10,078  
 
           
Weighted average common shares, basic
    20,745       20,717  
Dilutive common stock options (treasury method)
    22       24  
 
           
Shares used for dilutive computation
    20,767       20,741  
 
           
Net income per share — basic
  $ 0.58     $ 0.48  
 
           
Net income per share — diluted
  $ 0.58     $ 0.48  
 
           
                 
    Six Months Ended June 30  
    2009     2008  
Net income
  $ 14,511     $ 10,302  
Less preferred dividends
    —       (76 )
 
           
Net income available to common stockholders
  $ 14,511     $ 10,226  
 
           
Weighted average common shares, basic
    20,738       20,702  
Dilutive common stock options (treasury method)
    25       24  
 
           
Shares used for dilutive computation
    20,763       20,726  
 
           
Net income per share — basic
  $ 0.70     $ 0.49  
 
           
Net income per share — diluted
  $ 0.70     $ 0.49  
 
           
Note 5. Pension Plan and Other Postretirement Benefits
The Company provides a qualified, defined-benefit, non-contributory pension plan for substantially all employees. The Company makes annual contributions to fund the amounts accrued for the qualified pension plan. The Company also maintains an unfunded, non-qualified, supplemental executive retirement plan. The costs of the plans are charged to expense or are capitalized in utility plant as appropriate.

10


Table of Contents

The Company offers medical, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits for retirees and their spouses and dependents. Participants are required to pay a premium, which offsets a portion of the cost.
Cash payments by the Company related to pension plans and other postretirement benefits were $17,892 for the six months ended June 30, 2009. The estimated cash contribution to the pension plans for 2009 is $29,600. The estimated contribution to the other benefits plan for 2009 is $9,600.
The following table lists components of the pension plans and other postretirement benefits. The data listed under “pension plan” includes the qualified pension plan and the non-qualified supplemental executive retirement plan. The data listed under “other benefits” is for all other postretirement benefits.
                                                                 
    Three Months Ended June 30     Six Months Ended June 30  
    Pension Plan     Other Benefits     Pension Plan     Other Benefits  
    2009     2008     2009     2008     2009     2008     2009     2008  
Service cost
  $ 2,354     $ 1,336     $ 954     $ 361     $ 4,560     $ 2,671     $ 1,458     $ 722  
Interest cost
    3,158       1,628       890       433       6,176       3,256       1,408       865  
Expected return on plan assets
    (1,871 )     (1,578 )     (208 )     (156 )     (3,578 )     (3,155 )     (393 )     (312 )
Recognized net initial APBO (1)
    N/A       N/A       69       69       N/A       N/A       138       138  
Amortization of prior service cost
    1,533       468       29       29       3,066       936       58       58  
Recognized net actuarial loss
    505       81       612       75       966       162       811       150  
 
                                               
Net periodic benefit cost
  $ 5,679     $ 1,935     $ 2,346     $ 811     $ 11,190     $ 3,870     $ 3,480     $ 1,621  
 
                                               
 
(1)   APBO — Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation
Note 6. Short-term Borrowings
The Company maintained a bank line of credit providing unsecured borrowings of up to $20 million and Cal Water maintained a separate bank line of credit for an additional $55 million. On April 17, 2009, the Company’s and Cal Water’s loan agreements with Bank of America, N.A. were amended so that the interest rate payable on outstanding borrowings is equal to the bank’s prime rate minus 0.75 percentage points or the LIBOR rate plus 1.0 percentage point. Additionally, the Company and Cal Water agreed to a fee of 0.15% based upon any unused commitment. The amendment also changed the expiration date to April 16, 2010. The agreement with the Company requires a debt to capitalization ratio of less than 0.667:1.0 and an interest coverage ratio of at least 2.5:1.0. As of June 30, 2009, the Company and Cal Water were in compliance with the bank covenants in the loan agreements. At June 30, 2009, there were no outstanding borrowings on the Cal Water line of credit and the outstanding borrowings on the Company line of credit was $12 million.
Note 7. Long-Term Debt
On April 17, 2009, Cal Water completed the sale and issuance of $100 million aggregate principal amount of its 5.875% First Mortgage Bonds due 2019, which are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by the Company. Pursuant to the note purchase agreements and supplements thereto under which Cal Water’s outstanding unsecured senior notes had been issued, Cal Water was required to issue a new series of first mortgage bonds in exchange for each outstanding series of unsecured senior notes with a like aggregate principal amount. The offering triggered this exchange provision. Accordingly, upon the closing of the offering, Cal Water was required to issue an additional series of first mortgage bonds under the mortgage indenture with a like aggregate principal amount to the holders of each series of its outstanding unsecured senior notes in exchange for each such series of notes.
In connection with the offering, Cal Water exercised its option to redeem the remaining $3.0 million of 8.86% Series J First Mortgage Bonds due 2023, which Cal Water assumed in connection with its acquisition of Dominguez Water Corporation in 2000. The redemption was effected pursuant to the terms of the indenture and supplemental indentures governing the Series J bonds. The Series J bonds were redeemed at a redemption price equal to 100% of the outstanding principal amount of the Series J bonds plus a make-whole premium of $1.0 million, and accrued and unpaid interest to the date of redemption.
Note 8. Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments
The Company has significant commitments to lease certain office spaces and water systems, and for the purchase of water from water wholesalers. These commitments are described in footnote 15 of the current report on Form 8-K dated April 7, 2009.

11


Table of Contents

Contingencies
Chico Groundwater/Wausau Insurance Matter
In 1995, the State of California’s Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) named us as a potential responsible party for cleanup of toxic contamination plumes, which contain perchloroethylene, also know as tetrachloroethylene (PCE) in the Chico groundwater. In December 2002, we were named along with other defendants in two lawsuits filed by DTSC for the cleanup of the plumes. In 2007, we entered into Court approved consent decrees (Consent Decrees). The Consent Decrees conditioned our performance upon many factors, including, but not limited to, water pumped and treated by us must meet regulatory standards so we may distribute to its customers. Pursuant to the terms of the Consent Decrees, we will incur capital costs of $1.5 million and future operating costs with a present value of approximately $2.6 million. In our 2007 general rate case (GRC) settlement negotiations, Division of Ratepayer Advocates have tentatively agreed to track all costs associated with the Consent Decrees, including legal costs to pursue insurance coverage, for potential future recovery in rates.
In connection with these suits, our insurance carrier, Employers Insurance of Wausau (Wausau) filed a separate lawsuit against us for reimbursement of past defense costs which approximate $1.5 million and a declaratory determination of coverage. On January 23, 2008, the Court heard various parties’ motions and on September 25, 2008 issued its rulings that Wausau had a duty to defend; therefore, the Company will not have to reimburse Wausau for previously incurred defense costs. The Court did not find Wausau’s actions were intended to harm the Company, so punitive damages will not be recoverable by the Company. However, the Court also found that the issue of policy coverage would be determined at trial. Trial commenced on June 1, 2009. During trial, the parties entered into a confidential settlement agreement which did not have a significant impact to the Company’s results of operations. The confidential settlement was fully executed on June 23, 2009, and a dismissal with prejudice of the lawsuit has been submitted to the Court.
Other Groundwater Contamination
The Company has been and is involved in litigation against third parties to recover past and future costs related to ground water contamination in our service areas. The cost of litigation is expensed as incurred and any settlement is first offset against such costs. Any settlement in excess of the cost to litigate is accounted for on a case by case basis based upon the nature of the settlement. It is anticipated that the majority of the settlement will be reflected as a benefit to the rate payers by offsetting future operating or capital costs.
The Company is involved in a lawsuit against major oil refineries regarding the contamination of the ground water as a result of the gas additive MTBE. The Company entered into a partial settlement with the defendants in April of 2008 that represent approximately 70% of the responsible parties (as determined by the Superior Court). On October 22, 2008, the Company received $34.2 million after deducting attorneys’ fees and litigation expenses. The Company is aggressively pursuing legal action against the remaining responsible parties. The Company has filed with the Commission to determine the appropriate regulatory treatment of the proceeds. It anticipates that the proceeds will be used by the Company on infrastructure improvements. The Company has filed with the Internal Revenue Service a request for a private letter ruling regarding the taxability of the proceeds.
The Company believes the proceeds are non-taxable based upon its intent to reinvest them in qualifying assets. When an agreement is reached with the Commission regarding the regulatory treatment, or when the taxability is determined based upon proceedings with the Internal Revenue Service, the Company will adjust the accounting of the settlement accordingly.
As previously reported, Cal Water has filed with the City of Bakersfield, in the Superior Court of California, a lawsuit that names potentially responsible parties, who manufactured and distributed products containing 1,2,3 trichloropropane (TCP) in California. TCP has been detected in the ground water. The lawsuit seeks to recover treatment costs necessary to remove TCP. The Court has now coordinated our action with other water purveyor cases (TCP Cases JCCP 4435) in San Bernardino County. No trial date has yet been set.
The Company has filed in San Mateo County Superior Court a complaint (California Water Service Company v. The Dow Chemical Company, et al. CIV 473093) against potentially responsible parties that manufactured and distributed products, which contained perchloroethylene, also know as tetrachloroethylene (PCE) in California, to recover the past, present, and future treatment costs. No trial date has yet been set.

12


Table of Contents

Other Legal Matters
From time to time, the Company is involved in various disputes and litigation matters that arise in the ordinary course of business. We review the status of each significant matter and assess its potential financial exposure. If the potential loss from any claim or legal proceeding is considered probable and the amount of the range of loss can be estimated, the Company accrues a liability for the estimated loss in accordance with SFAS No 5, “Accounting of Contingencies.” Legal proceedings are subject to uncertainties, and the outcomes are difficult to predict. Because of such uncertainties, accruals are based on the best information available at the time. While the outcome of these disputes and litigation matters cannot be predicted with any certainty, management does not believe that when taking into account existing reserves that the ultimate resolution of these matters will materially affect our financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
From time to time, the Company has been named as a co-defendant in several asbestos related lawsuits. The Company has been dismissed without prejudice in several of these cases. In other cases our contractors and our insurance policy carriers have settled the cases with no effect on the Company’s financial statements. As such the Company does not currently believe that there is any potential loss which is probable of occurring related to these matters and therefore no accrual or contingency has been recorded.
Note 9. Fair Value of Financial Instruments
For those financial instruments for which it is practicable to estimate a fair value, the following methods and assumptions were used. For cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable, the carrying amount approximates the fair value because of the short-term maturity of the instruments. The fair value of the Company’s long-term debt is estimated at $399 million and $290 million as of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively, using the published quoted market price, if available, or the discounted cash flow analysis, based on the current rates available to the Company for debt of similar maturities and credit risk. The book value of the long-term debt is $384 million and $287 million as of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively. The fair value of advances for construction contracts is estimated at $67 million as of June 30, 2009, and $66 million as of December 31, 2008, based on data of recent market transactions.
Note 10. Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements
As discussed in Note 7, on April 17, 2009, Cal Water issued $100 million aggregate principal amount of 5.875% First Mortgage bonds due 2019, which are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by California Water Service Group (Parent Company). The following tables present the condensed consolidating statements of income of California Water Service Group (Guarantor and Parent), Cal Water (issuer and wholly-owned consolidated subsidiary of California Water Service Group) and other wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Company for the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, the condensed consolidating statements of cash flows for the six-months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, and the condensed consolidating balance sheets as of June 30, 2009, and December 31, 2008. The information is presented utilizing the equity method of accounting for investments in consolidating subsidiaries.

13


Table of Contents

CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE GROUP
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET
As of June 30, 2009
(In thousands)
                                         
    Parent             All Other     Consolidating        
    Company     Cal Water     Subsidiaries     Adjustments     Consolidated  
ASSETS
                                       
Utility plant:
                                       
Utility plant
  $ —     $ 1,539,129     $ 106,426     $ (7,199 )   $ 1,638,356  
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization
    —       (471,638 )     (22,412 )     1,061       (492,989 )
 
                             
Net utility plant
    —       1,067,491       84,014       (6,138 )     1,145,367  
 
                             
Current assets:
                                       
Cash and cash equivalents
    1,371       35,970       4,157       —       41,498  
Receivables and unbilled revenue
    11       62,906       4,268       —       67,185  
Receivables from affiliates
    11,959       10,690       1,990       (24,639 )     —  
Other current assets
    84       15,013       712       —       15,809  
 
                             
Total current assets
    13,425       124,579       11,127       (24,639 )     124,492  
 
                             
Other assets:
                                       
Regulatory assets
    —       198,796       398       —       199,194  
Investments in affiliates
    406,243       —       —       (406,243 )     —  
Long-term affiliate notes receivable
    11,664       —       —       (11,664 )     —  
Other assets
    —       25,580       8,812       (205 )     34,187  
 
                             
Total other assets
    417,907       224,376       9,210       (418,112 )     233,381  
 
                             
 
  $ 431,332     $ 1,416,446     $ 104,351     $ (448,889 )   $ 1,503,240  
 
                             
CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES
                                       
Capitalization:
                                       
Common stockholders’ equity
  $ 405,756     $ 375,690     $ 36,921     $ (412,611 )   $ 405,756  
Affiliate long-term debt
    —       —       11,664       (11,664 )     —  
Long-term debt, less current maturities
    —       380,015       3,485       —       383,500  
 
                             
Total capitalization
    405,756       755,705       52,070       (424,275 )     789,256  
 
                             
Current liabilities:
                                       
Current maturities of long-term debt
    —       1,918       746       —       2,664  
Short-term borrowings
    12,000               —       —       12,000  
Payables to affiliates
    12,313       1,695       10,631       (24,639 )     —  
Accounts payable
    —       43,977       4,367       —       48,344  
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
    1,263       32,143       4,771       25       38,202  
 
                             
Total current liabilities
    25,576       79,733       20,515       (24,614 )     101,210  
 
                                       
Unamortized investment tax credits
    —       2,392       —       —       2,392  
Deferred income taxes, net
    —       73,667       2,341       —       76,008  
Pension and postretirement benefits other than pensions
    —       152,468       —       —       152,468  
Regulatory and other liabilities
    —       75,420       7,862       —       83,282  
Advances for construction
    —       178,033       1,533       —       179,566  
Contributions in aid of construction
    —       99,028       20,030       —       119,058  
 
                             
 
  $ 431,332     $ 1,416,446     $ 104,351     $ (448,889 )   $ 1,503,240  
 
                             

14


Table of Contents

CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE GROUP
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET
As of December 31, 2008
(In thousands)
                                         
    Parent             All Other     Consolidating        
    Company     Cal Water     Subsidiaries     Adjustments     Consolidated  
ASSETS
                                       
Utility plant:
                                       
Utility plant
  $ —     $ 1,488,227     $ 102,051     $ (7,199 )   $ 1,583,079  
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization
    —       (451,350 )     (20,354 )     992       (470,712 )
 
                             
Net utility plant
    —       1,036,877       81,697       (6,207 )     1,112,367  
 
                             
Current assets:
                                       
Cash and cash equivalents
    427       3,025       10,417       —       13,869  
Receivables and unbilled revenue
    72       44,049       3,848       —       47,969  
Receivables from affiliates
    9,295       11,976       372       (21,643 )     —  
Other current assets
    142       17,877       (59 )     —       17,960  
 
                             
Total current assets
    9,936       76,927       14,578       (21,643 )     79,798  
 
                             
Other assets:
                                       
Regulatory assets
    905       196,990       398       —       198,293  
Investments in affiliates
    404,064       —       —       (404,064 )     —  
Long-term affiliate notes receivable
    10,851       —       —       (10,851 )     —  
Other assets
    —       20,242       7,612       (205 )     27,649  
 
                             
Total other assets
    415,820       217,232       8,010       (415,120 )     225,942  
 
                             
 
  $ 425,756     $ 1,331,036     $ 104,285     $ (442,970 )   $ 1,418,107  
 
                             
CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES
                                       
Capitalization:
                                       
Common stockholders’ equity
  $ 402,949     $ 372,337     $ 38,139     $ (410,476 )   $ 402,949  
Affiliate long-term debt
    —       —       10,851       (10,851 )     —  
Long-term debt, less current maturities
    —       283,820       3,678       —       287,498  
 
                             
Total capitalization
    402,949       656,157       52,668       (421,327 )     690,447  
 
                             
Current liabilities:
                                       
Current maturities of long-term debt
    —       2,121       697       —       2,818  
Short-term borrowings
    12,000       28,000       —       —       40,000  
Payables to affiliates
    9,642       201       11,800       (21,643 )     —  
Accounts payable
    —       38,003       3,769       —       41,772  
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
    1,165       34,563       2,878       —       38,606  
 
                             
Total current liabilities
    22,807       102,888       19,144       (21,643 )     123,196  
 
                                       
Unamortized investment tax credits
    —       2,392       —       —       2,392  
Deferred income taxes, net
    —       70,003       2,341       —       72,344  
Pension and postretirement benefits other than pensions
    —       152,685       —       —       152,685  
Regulatory and other liabilities
    —       75,362       7,950       —       83,312  
Advances for construction
    —       174,625       1,538       —       176,163  
Contributions in aid of construction
    —       96,924       20,644       —       117,568  
 
                             
 
  $ 425,756     $ 1,331,036     $ 104,285     $ (442,970 )   $ 1,418,107  
 
                             

15


Table of Contents

CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE GROUP
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF INCOME
For the three months ended June 30, 2009
(In thousands)
                                         
    Parent             All Other     Consolidating        
    Company     Cal Water     Subsidiaries     Adjustments     Consolidated  
 
                                       
Operating revenue
  $ —     $ 109,797     $ 6,870     $ —     $ 116,667  
 
                             
Operating expenses:
                                       
Operations:
                                       
Water production costs
    —       39,979       1,723       —       41,702  
Administrative and general
    —       17,303       2,083       —       19,386  
Other operations
    —       12,386       2,058       (114 )     14,330  
Maintenance
    —       4,054       258       —       4,312  
Depreciation and amortization
    —       9,448       869       (35 )     10,282  
Income taxes (benefit)
    (40 )     6,953       (242 )     118       6,789  
Property and other taxes
    —       3,444       467       —       3,911  
 
                             
Total operating expenses
    (40 )     93,567       7,216       (31 )     100,712  
 
                             
 
                                       
Net operating income (loss)
    40       16,230       (346 )     31       15,955  
 
                             
 
                                       
Other Income and Expenses:
                                       
Non-regulated revenue
    181       1,987       1,249       (319 )     3,098  
Non-regulated expense, net
    —       87       (808 )     —       (721 )
Gain on sale on non-utility property
    —       77       (5 )     —       72  
Income tax benefit (expense) on other income and expense
    (74 )     (876 )     (146 )     104       (992 )
 
                             
Net other income and expense
    107       1,275       290       (215 )     1,457  
 
                             
 
                                       
Interest:
                                       
Interest expense
    98       5,812       257       (205 )     5,962  
Less: capitalized interest
    —       (505 )     (135 )     —       (640 )
 
                             
Net interest expense
    98       5,307       122       (205 )     5,322  
 
                             
 
                                       
Equity earnings of subsidiaries
    12,041       —       —       (12,041 )     —  
 
                             
Net income (loss)
  $ 12,090     $ 12,198     $ (178 )   $ (12,020 )   $ 12,090  
 
                             

16


Table of Contents

CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE GROUP
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF INCOME
For the six months ended June 30, 2009
(In thousands)
                                         
    Parent             All Other     Consolidating        
    Company     Cal Water     Subsidiaries     Adjustments     Consolidated  
 
                                       
Operating revenue
  $ —     $ 190,073     $ 13,207     $ —     $ 203,280  
 
                             
Operating expenses:
                                       
Operations:
                                       
Water production costs
    —       67,059       3,511       —       70,570  
Administrative and general
    —       34,542       3,705       —       38,247  
Other operations
    —       23,417       3,597       (228 )     26,786  
Maintenance
    —       8,574       373       —       8,947  
Depreciation and amortization
    —       18,883       1,666       (69 )     20,480  
Income taxes (benefit)
    (65 )     8,132       (359 )     313       8,021  
Property and other taxes
    —       6,953       1,046       —       7,999  
 
                             
Total operating expenses
    (65 )     167,560       13,539       16       181,050  
 
                             
 
                                       
Net operating income (loss)
    65       22,513       (332 )     (16 )     22,230  
 
                             
 
                                       
Other Income and Expenses:
                                       
Non-regulated revenue
    352       3,944       2,296       (613 )     5,979  
Non-regulated expense, net
    —       (1,655 )     (1,707 )     —       (3,362 )
Gain on sale on non-utility property
    —       675       —       —       675  
Income tax benefit (expense) on other income and expense
    (144 )     (1,207 )     (264 )     285       (1,330 )
 
                             
Net other income and expense
    208       1,757       325       (328 )     1,962  
 
                             
 
                                       
Interest:
                                       
Interest expense
    159       10,728       498       (385 )     11,000  
Less: capitalized interest
    —       (1,050 )     (269 )     —       (1,319 )
 
                             
Net interest expense
    159       9,678       229       (385 )     9,681  
 
                             
 
                                       
Equity earnings of subsidiaries
    14,397       —       —       (14,397 )     —  
 
                             
Net income (loss)
  $ 14,511     $ 14,592     $ (236 )   $ (14,356 )   $ 14,511  
 
                             

17


Table of Contents

CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE GROUP
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF INCOME
For the three months ended June 30, 2008
(In thousands)
                                         
    Parent             All Other     Consolidating        
    Company     Cal Water     Subsidiaries     Adjustments     Consolidated  
 
                                       
Operating revenue
  $ —     $ 101,710     $ 3,871     $ —     $ 105,581  
 
                             
Operating expenses:
                                       
Operations:
                                       
Water production costs
    —       39,439       910       —       40,349  
Administrative and general
    —       12,808       1,027       —       13,835  
Other operations
    —       11,861       1,019       (114 )     12,766  
Maintenance
    —       4,857       90       —       4,947  
Depreciation and amortization
    —       8,829       483       (36 )     9,276  
Income taxes (benefit)
    11       6,368       (51 )     114       6,442  
Property and other taxes
    —       3,207       277       —       3,484  
 
                             
Total operating expenses
    11       87,369       3,755       (36 )     91,099  
 
                             
Net operating income (loss)
    (11 )     14,341       116       36       14,482  
 
                             
 
                                       
Other Income and Expenses:
                                       
Non-regulated revenue
    197       762       980       (243 )     1,696  
Non-regulated expense, net
    —       (512 )     (620 )     —       (1,132 )
Gain on sale of properties
    —       7       —       —       7  
Income tax benefit (expense) on other income and expense
    (83 )     (104 )     (133 )     101       (219 )
 
                             
Net other income and expense
    114       153       227       (142 )     352  
 
                             
 
                                       
Interest:
                                       
Interest expense
    4       5,099       183       (129 )     5,157  
Less: capitalized interest
    —       (450 )     11       —       (439 )
 
                             
Net interest expense
    4       4,649       194       (129 )     4,718  
 
                             
 
                                       
Equity earnings of subsidiaries
    10,017       —       —       (10,017 )     —  
 
                             
Net income
  $ 10,116     $ 9,845     $ 149     $ (9,994 )   $ 10,116  
 
                             

18


Table of Contents

CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE GROUP
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF INCOME
For the six months ended June 30, 2008
(In thousands)
                                         
    Parent             All Other     Consolidating        
    Company     Cal Water     Subsidiaries     Adjustments     Consolidated  
 
                                       
Operating revenue
  $ —     $ 170,978     $ 7,524     $ —     $ 178,502  
 
                             
Operating expenses:
                                       
Operations:
                                       
Water production costs
    —       64,050       1,657       —       65,707  
Administrative and general
    —       25,182       2,071       —       27,253  
Other operations
    —       22,870       2,189       (228 )     24,831  
Maintenance
    —       8,885       175       —       9,060  
Depreciation and amortization
    —       17,602       968       (72 )     18,498  
Income taxes (benefit)
    (2 )     6,596       (177 )     199       6,616  
Property and other taxes
    —       6,620       603       —       7,223  
 
                             
Total operating expenses
    (2 )     151,805       7,486       (101 )     159,188  
 
                             
Net operating income
    2       19,173       38       101       19,314  
 
                             
 
                                       
Other Income and Expenses:
                                       
Non-regulated revenue
    256       2,719       2,041       (415 )     4,601  
Non-regulated expense, net
    —       (2,737 )     (1,431 )     —       (4,168 )
Gain on sale of properties
    —       7       —       —       7  
Income tax benefit (expense) on other income and expense
    (104 )     4       (239 )     169       (170 )
 
                             
Net other income and expense
    152       (7 )     371       (246 )     270  
 
                               
 
                                       
Interest:
                                       
Interest expense
    4       10,042       312       (187 )     10,171  
Less: capitalized interest
    —       (900 )     11       —       (889 )
 
                             
Net interest expense
    4       9,142       323       (187 )     9,282  
 
                             
 
                                       
Equity earnings of subsidiaries
    10,152       —       —       (10,152 )     —  
 
                             
Net income
  $ 10,302     $ 10,024     $ 86     $ (10,110 )   $ 10,302  
 
                             

19


Table of Contents

CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE GROUP
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
For the six months ended June 30, 2009
(In thousands)
                                         
    Parent             All Other     Consolidating        
    Company     Cal Water     Subsidiaries     Adjustments     Consolidated  
 
                                       
Operating activities:
                                       
Net income (loss)
  $ 14,511     $ 14,592     $ (236 )   $ (14,356 )   $ 14,511  
 
                             
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
                                       
Equity earnings of subsidiaries
    (14,397 )     —       —       14,397       —  
Dividends received from affiliates
    12,233       —       —       (12,233 )     —  
Depreciation and amortization
    —       19,838       1,845       (69 )     21,614  
Gain on sale of non-utility property
    —       (675 )     —       —       (675 )
Change in value of life insurance contracts
    —       (1,827 )     —       —       (1,827 )
Other changes in noncurrent assets and liabilities
    890       4,124       (1,288 )     3       3,729  
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
                                       
Net increase (decrease) in advances to affiliates
    (1,147 )     2,780       (1,633 )     —       —  
Other changes, net
    768       (8,196 )     611       25       (6,792 )
 
                             
Net adjustments
    (1,653 )     16,044       (465 )     2,123       16,049  
 
                             
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
    12,858       30,636       (701 )     (12,233 )     30,560  
 
                             
Investing activities:
                                       
Utility plant expenditures:
                                       
Company funded
    —       (46,695 )     (3,960 )     —       (50,655 )
Developer funded
    —       (2,222 )     (53 )     —       (2,275 )
Sale of non-utility property
    —       750       —       —       750  
Purchase of life insurance
    —       (1,613 )     —       —       (1,613 )
Proceeds from affiliate notes receivable
    289       —       —       (289 )     —  
 
                             
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
    289       (49,780 )     (4,013 )     (289 )     (53,793 )
 
                             
Financing Activities:
                                       
Short-term borrowings
    —       20,000       —       —       20,000  
Repayment of short-term borrowings
    —       (48,000 )     —       —       (48,000 )
Payment of affiliate notes receivable
    —       —       (289 )     289       —  
Proceeds from long-term debt, net of issuance cost of $3,390
    —       96,610       —       —       96,610  
Repayment of long-term debt
    —       (5,034 )     (405 )     —       (5,439 )
Advances and contributions in aid for construction
    —       2,257       157       —       2,414  
Refunds of advances for construction
    —       (2,495 )     (25 )     —       (2,520 )
Dividends paid to non-affiliates
    (12,233 )     —       —       —       (12,233 )
Dividends paid to affiliates
    —       (11,249 )     (984 )     12,233       —  
Issuance of common stock
    30       —       —       —       30  
 
                             
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
    (12,203 )     52,089       (1,546 )     12,522       50,862  
 
                             
Change in cash and cash equivalents
    944       32,945       (6,260 )     —       27,629  
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
    427       3,025       10,417       —       13,869  
 
                             
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
  $ 1,371     $ 35,970     $ 4,157     $ —     $ 41,498  
 
                             

20


Table of Contents

CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE GROUP
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
For the six months ended June 30, 2008
(In thousands)
                                         
    Parent             All Other     Consolidating        
    Company     Cal Water     Subsidiaries     Adjustments     Consolidated  
 
                                       
Operating activities:
                                       
Net income (loss)
  $ 10,302     $ 10,024     $ 86     $ (10,110 )   $ 10,302  
 
                             
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
                                       
Equity earnings of subsidiaries
    (10,152 )     —       —       10,152       —  
Dividends received from affiliates
    12,191       —       —       (12,191 )     —  
Depreciation and amortization
    —       17,602       968       (72 )     18,498  
Gain on sale of non-utility property
    —       (7 )     —       —       (7 )
Other changes in noncurrent assets and liabilities
    —       (1,248 )     1,064       —       (184 )
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
                                       
Net increase (decrease) in advances to affiliates
    (1,203 )     (2,028 )     3,231       —       —  
Other changes, net
    (830 )     6,244       (1,302 )     30       4,142  
 
                             
Net adjustments
    6       20,563       3,961       (2,081 )     22,449  
 
                             
Net cash provided by (used in)operating activities
    10,308       30,587       4,047       (12,191 )     32,751  
 
                             
Investing activities:
                                       
Utility plant expenditures:
                                       
Company funded
    —       (36,049 )     (2,478 )     —       (38,527 )
Developer funded
    —       (4,680 )     (143 )     —       (4,823 )
Purchase of life insurance and other
    —       (1,367 )     —       —       (1,367 )
Proceeds from affiliate notes receivable
    818       —       —       (818 )     —  
 
                             
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
    818       (42,096 )     (2,621 )     (818 )     (44,717 )
 
                             
Financing Activities:
                                       
Short-term borrowings
    —       23,000       —       —       23,000  
Payment of affiliate notes receivable
    —       —       (818 )     818       —  
Proceeds from long-term debt
    —       611       18       —       629  
Repayment of long-term debt
    —       (1,193 )     (375 )     —       (1,568 )
Advances and contributions in aid of construction
    —       4,497       669       —       5,166  
Refunds of advances for construction
    —       (3,513 )     (162 )     —       (3,675 )
Dividends paid to non-affiliates
    (12,191 )     —       —       —       (12,191 )
Dividends paid to affiliates
    —       (11,574 )     (617 )     12,191       —  
 
                             
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
    (12,191 )     11,828       (1,285 )     13,009       11,361  
 
                             
Change in cash and cash equivalents
    (1,065 )     319       141       —       (605 )
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
    2,718       2,631       1,385       —       6,734  
 
                             
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
  $ 1,653     $ 2,950     $ 1,526     $ —     $ 6,129  
 
                             

21


Table of Contents

Item 2
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
(Dollar amounts in thousands, except where otherwise noted and per share amounts)
FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS
This quarterly report, including all documents incorporated by reference, contains forward-looking statements within the meaning established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (Act). Forward-looking statements in this quarterly report are based on currently available information, expectations, estimates, assumptions and projections, and our management’s beliefs, assumptions, judgments and expectations about us, the water utility industry and general economic conditions. These statements are not statements of historical fact. When used in our documents, statements that are not historical in nature, including words like “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “may,” “estimates,” “assumes,” “anticipates,” “projects,” “predicts,” “forecasts,” “should,” “seeks,” or variations of these words or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. They are based on numerous assumptions that we believe are reasonable, but they are open to a wide range of uncertainties and business risks. Consequently, actual results may vary materially from what is contained in a forward-looking statement.
Factors which may cause actual results to be different than those expected or anticipated include, but are not limited to:
  •   governmental and regulatory commissions’ decisions, including decisions on proper disposition of property;
 
  •   changes in regulatory commissions’ policies and procedures;
 
  •   the timeliness of regulatory commissions’ actions concerning rate relief;
 
  •   changes in the capital markets and access to sufficient capital on satisfactory terms;
 
  •   new legislation;
 
  •   changes in accounting valuations and estimates;
 
  •   changes in accounting treatment for regulated companies, including adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards, if required;
 
  •   electric power interruptions;
 
  •   increases in suppliers’ prices and the availability of supplies including water and power;
 
  •   fluctuations in interest rates;
 
  •   changes in environmental compliance and water quality requirements;
 
  •   acquisitions and the ability to successfully integrate acquired companies;
 
  •   the ability to successfully implement business plans;
 
  •   civil disturbances or terrorist threats or acts, or apprehension about the possible future occurrences of acts of this type;
 
  •   the involvement of the United States in war or other hostilities;
 
  •   our ability to attract and retain qualified employees;
 
  •   labor relations matters as we negotiate with the unions;

22


Table of Contents

  •   implementation of new information technology systems;
 
  •   restrictive covenants in or changes to the credit ratings on current or future debt that could increase financing costs or affect the ability to borrow, make payments on debt, or pay dividends;
 
  •   general economic conditions, including changes in customer growth patterns and our ability to collect billed revenue from customers;
 
  •   changes in customer water use patterns and the effects of conservation;
 
  •   the impact of weather on water sales and operating results;
 
  •   the ability to satisfy requirements related to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and other regulations on internal controls; and
 
  •   the risks set forth in “Risk Factors” included elsewhere in this quarterly report.
In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this quarterly report or as of the date of any document incorporated by reference in this report, as applicable. When considering forward-looking statements, investors should keep in mind the cautionary statements in this quarterly report and the documents incorporated by reference. We are not under any obligation, and we expressly disclaim any obligation, to update or alter any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
We maintain our accounting records in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP) and as directed by the regulatory commissions to which we are subject. The process of preparing financial statements in accordance with GAAP requires the use of estimates and assumptions on the part of management. The estimates and assumptions used by management are based on historical experience and our understanding of current facts and circumstances. Management believes that the following accounting policies are critical because they involve a higher degree of complexity and judgment, and can have a material impact on our results of operations and financial condition. These policies and their key characteristics are discussed in detail in the 2008 Form 10-K. They include:
  •   revenue recognition;
 
  •   expense balancing and memorandum accounts;
 
  •   modified cost balancing accounts;
 
  •   regulatory utility accounting;
 
  •   income taxes;
 
  •   pension benefits;
 
  •   workers’ compensation, general liability and other claims; and
 
  •   contingencies
For the period ended June 30, 2009, there were no changes in the methodology for computing critical accounting estimates, no additional accounting estimates met the standards for critical accounting policies, and there were no material changes to the important assumptions underlying the critical accounting estimates.

23


Table of Contents

RESULTS OF SECOND QUARTER 2009 OPERATIONS COMPARED TO
SECOND QUARTER 2008 OPERATIONS
Amounts in thousands except share data
Overview
Second quarter of 2009 net income was $12.1 million equivalent to $0.58 per diluted common share compared to net income of $10.1 million or $0.48 per diluted common share in the second quarter of 2008. The increase in net income is primarily attributable to the increase in revenue due to rate increases from the 2007 General Rate Case, effective July 1, 2008, and usage by new customers primarily from our acquisitions in Hawaii which was offset by a decline in customer usage from the prior year, due to warmer, dryer weather in 2008.
Operating Revenue
Operating revenue increased $11.1 million or 11% to $116.7 million in the second quarter of 2009. As disclosed in the following table, the increase was due to increases in rates and usage by new customers primarily from our acquisitions in Hawaii last year.
The factors that impacted the operating revenue for the second quarter of 2009 compared to 2008 are presented in the following table:
         
Rate increases
  $ 19,199  
Decrease in usage by existing customers
    (11,941 )
Usage by new customers
    3,390  
Net revenue decrease due to WRAM and MCBA
    (352 )
Other
    791  
 
     
Net operating revenue increase
  $ 11,087  
 
     
The components of the rate increases are listed in the following table:
         
General Rate Case (GRC) Increases
  $ 14,131  
Purchased Water Offset Increases
    4,406  
Balancing Account Adjustments
    248  
Step Rate Increases
    414  
 
     
Total Increase in Rates
  $ 19,199  
 
     
Total Operating Expenses
Total operating expenses were $100.7 million for the second quarter of 2009, versus $91.1 million for the same period in 2008, an 11% increase.
Water production expense consists of purchased water, purchased power, and pump taxes. It represents the largest component of total operating expenses, accounting for approximately 41% of total operating expenses in the second quarter of 2009. Water production expenses increased 3% compared to the same period last year due to increased cost of purchased water and purchased power, although usage was down.
Sources of water as a percent of total water production are listed in the following table:
                 
    Three Months Ended June 30
    2009   2008
Well production
    49 %     50 %
Purchased
    47 %     46 %
Surface
    4 %     4 %
 
               
Total
    100 %     100 %
 
               

24


Table of Contents

Our wholly-owned operating subsidiaries, Washington Water, New Mexico Water and Hawaii Water obtain all of their water supply from wells. The components of water production costs are shown in the table below:
                         
    Three Months Ended June 30  
    2009     2008     Change  
Purchased water
  $ 31,654     $ 30,785     $ 869  
Purchased power
    7,584       6,965       619  
Pump taxes
    2,464       2,599       (135 )
 
                 
Total
  $ 41,702     $ 40,349     $ 1,353  
 
                 
Purchased water costs increased due to price increases from water wholesalers. Total water production, measured in acre feet, decreased by 11% during the second quarter of 2009 as compared with the second quarter of 2008 due to lower customer usage primarily attributed to cooler weather.
Administrative and general expense and other operations expense increased 27% to $33.7 million. The primary increase was due to increased pension and postretirement benefit costs, other benefit costs, and outside legal services. Effective January 1, 2009, wage increases became effective and there was an increase in the number of employees. At June 30, 2009, there were 956 employees and at June 30, 2008, there were 922 employees.
Maintenance expenses decreased by 13% to $4.3 million in the second quarter of 2009 compared to $4.9 million in the second quarter of 2008, due to decrease in main and service repairs. Depreciation and amortization expense increased $1.0 million, or 11%, because of 2008 capital additions.
Federal and state income taxes charged to operating expenses and other income and expenses increased $1.1 million, from a provision of $6.7 million in the second quarter of 2008 to $7.8 million in the second quarter of 2009, due to an increase in pretax income. We expect the effective tax rate to be between 38% and 40% for fiscal year 2009.
Other Income and Expense
Non-regulated revenue, net of related expenses, and gain on sale of non-utility property reflected net income of $1.5 million for the second quarter of 2009, compared to a gain of $0.4 million in the same period last year, which is an increase of $1.1 million. The change from the prior year is due to a favorable change to the cash surrender value of the life insurance contracts associated with our benefit plans.
Interest Expense
Total interest expense, net of interest capitalized, increased $0.6 million to $5.3 million for the second quarter of 2009 compared to the same period last year. This increase was attributable to the additional interest on the first mortgage bonds issued in April less increased capitalized interest on construction activity.

25


Table of Contents

RESULTS OF THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 2009 COMPARED TO
THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 2008 OPERATIONS
Amounts in thousands except per share data
Overview
Net income for the six-month period ended June 30, 2009, was $14.5 million, or $0.70 per diluted common share compared to net income of $10.3 million or $0.49 per diluted common share for the six months ended June 30, 2008. The increase in net income is primarily attributable to the increase in revenue due to the rate increases from the 2007 General Rate Case, effective July 1, 2008. This increase was partially offset by a decline in customer usage of water from the prior year, which had higher demand than the six-month period ended June 30, 2009, due to weather. The decline in customer usage of water during the six months of 2009 was partially offset by the net increase in revenue from the WRAM and MCBA.
Operating Revenue
Operating revenue increased $24.8 million, or 14%, to $203.3 million in the six-month period ended June 30, 2009. As disclosed in the following table, the increase was primarily due to increases in rates and usage by new customers primarily from our acquisitions in Hawaii last year. The decrease in usage by existing customers due to unfavorable weather lowered operating revenue which was partially offset by revenue recognized from the WRAM and MCBA.
The factors that affected the operating revenue for the six-month period ended June 30, 2009 compared to 2008 are presented in the following table:
         
Rate increases
  $ 30,785  
Decrease in usage by existing customers
    (17,151 )
Increase in usage by new customers
    5,818  
Net revenue increase due to WRAM and MCBA
    4,631  
Other
    695  
 
     
Net changes in operating revenue
  $ 24,778  
 
     
     The components of the rate increases are listed in the following table:
         
General Rate Case (GRC) Increase
  $ 23,115  
Purchased Water Offset Increase
    6,455  
Step Rate Increase
    798  
Balancing Account Adjustments
    417  
 
     
Total increase in rates
  $ 30,785  
 
     
Total Operating Expenses
Total operating expenses were $181.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009, versus $159.2 million for the same period in 2008, a 14% increase.
Water production expense consists of purchased water, purchased power and pump taxes. Water production expense represents the largest component of total operating expenses, accounting for approximately 39% of total operating expenses. Water production expenses increased $4.9 million in the six months ended June 30, 2009, or 7% compared to the same period last year due to increased cost of purchased water and purchased power.

26


Table of Contents

Sources of water production as a percent of total water production are listed on the following table:
                 
    Six Months Ended June 30
    2009   2008
Well production
    47 %     46 %
Purchased
    49 %     50 %
Surface
    4 %     4 %
 
               
Total
    100 %     100 %
 
               
Our wholly-owned operating subsidiaries, Washington Water, New Mexico Water and Hawaii Water, obtain all of their water supply from wells. The components of water production costs are shown in the table below:
                         
    Six Months Ended June 30  
    2009     2008     Change  
Purchased water
  $ 54,594     $ 51,496     $ 3,098  
Purchased power
    12,127       10,419       1,708  
Pump taxes
    3,849       3,792       57  
 
                 
Total
  $ 70,570     $ 65,707     $ 4,863  
 
                 
Purchased water cost increased due to higher prices from wholesalers. Included in purchased water are credits received from certain wholesale suppliers and the sale of unused water rights. There were no significant credits during the six months ended June 30, 2009 and June 30, 2008. The increase in purchased power and pump taxes is due to the acquisitions in Hawaii last year.
Administration and general and other operations expenses were $65.0 million, increasing $12.9 million, or 25%, for the six months ended June 30, 2009. The primary increase was due to the increased pension and postretirement benefit costs, other benefit costs, and outside legal services. Payroll charged to operating expense increased $1.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009. Wages for union employees increased 3.1%, effective January 1, 2009. Overall payroll costs (expensed and capitalized) increased 6.9% for the six months ended June 30, 2009, due to increases in the number of employees and higher wage rates. At June 30, 2009, there were 956 employees and at June 30, 2008, there were 922 employees.
Maintenance expense was down for the six months ended June 30, 2009, decreasing $0.1 million, or 1%. Depreciation and amortization expense increased $2.0 million, or 11%, because of increased capital expenditures in 2008.
Federal and state income taxes increased $2.6 million, or 38%, for the six months ended June 30, 2009, due to the change in taxable income. We expect the effective tax rate to be between 38% and 40% for 2009.
Other Income and Expense
Other income, net of related expenses was $2.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009, compared to $0.3 million for the first six-months of 2008. The change from the prior year is due to an increase in non-utility service revenues and a gain on the sale of non-utility property. In addition, other expense was reduced by a gain in cash surrender value of life insurance contracts associated with our benefit plans of $1.8 million in the six months ended June 30, 2009. In the prior year we recorded a loss (reduction) in cash surrender value of life insurance contracts associated with our benefit plans of $1 million for the six-month period ended June 30, 2008. The cash surrender value is determined in part by the market of certain underlining funds, the value of which reflects changes in the stock market. Due to a significant increase in the stock market in the first six months of 2009, there was a corresponding impact to the cash surrender value of the life insurance contracts.
Interest Expense
Net interest expense increased $0.4 million to $9.7 million for the period ended June 30, 2009 compared to the six-month period ended June 30, 2008. This increase was attributable to the additional interest on the first mortgage bonds issued in April 2009 less increased capitalized interest on construction activity.

27


Table of Contents

REGULATORY MATTERS
Rates and Regulations
The state regulatory commissions have plenary powers setting rates and operating standards. As such, state commission decisions significantly impact our revenues, earnings, and cash flows. The amounts discussed herein are generally annual amounts, unless specifically stated, and the financial impact to recorded revenue is expected to occur over a 12-month period from the effective date of the decision. In California, water utilities are required to make several different types of filings. Most filings result in rate changes that remain in place until the next General Rate Case (GRC). As explained below, surcharges and surcredits to recover balancing and memorandum accounts as well as interim rate true-ups are temporary rate changes, which have specific time frames for recovery.
GRCs, step rate increase filings, and offset filings change rates to amounts that will remain in effect until the next GRC. The CPUC follows a rate case plan, which requires Cal Water to file a GRC for each of its 24 regulated operating districts every three years. In a GRC proceeding, the CPUC not only considers the utility’s rate setting requests, but may also consider other issues that affect the utility’s rates and operations. Effective in 2004, Cal Water’s GRC schedule was shifted from a calendar year to a fiscal year with test years commencing on July 1st of each year. The CPUC is generally required to issue its GRC decision prior to the first day of the test year or authorize interim rates. As such, Cal Water’s GRC decisions, prior to 2005, were generally issued in the fourth quarter. Effective with the 2009 GRC, the processing time is scheduled for eighteen months with rates effective on January 1, 2011.
Between GRC filings utilities may file escalation rate increases, which allow the utility to recover cost increases, primarily from inflation and incremental investment, during the second and third years of the rate case cycle. However, escalation rate increases are subject to a weather-normalized earnings test. Under the earnings test, the CPUC may reduce the escalation rate increase to prevent the utility from earning in excess of the authorized rate of return for that district.
In addition, utilities are entitled to file offset filings. Offset filings may be filed to adjust revenues for construction projects authorized in GRCs when the plant is placed in service or for rate changes charged to the Company for purchased water, purchased power, and pump taxes (referred to as “offsettable expenses”). Such rate changes approved in offset filings remain in effect until a GRC is approved. Additional information on the Company’s regulatory process is described in its annual report on Form 10-K dated March 2, 2009.
Remaining Unrecorded Balances from Previously Authorized Balancing Accounts Recoveries/Refunds
The total of unrecorded, under-collected memorandum and balancing accounts was approximately $0.9 million as of June 30, 2009.
2009 Regulatory Activity to Date
Cost of Capital Application
On May 1, 2008, Cal Water filed an application in compliance with the Rate Case Plan to establish an allowable cost of capital for 2009, 2010, and 2011. The cost of capital evaluation includes such issues as the authorized return on equity, the cost of debt, and the equitable capital structure for Cal Water. This application, A.08-05-002, was considered along with similar applications from two other multi-district California water utilities. On May 7, 2009, the CPUC issued D.09-05-019 ruling on these issues and adopting a cost of capital for Cal Water for 2009. The CPUC authorized Cal Water a 10.20% return on equity, the same provision as had been last adopted by the CPUC for Cal Water in 2007 and 2008. The decision also allowed a capital structure of 53% equity and 47% debt. Finally, the decision also allowed a temporary interest rate balancing account to insulate the utilities and their ratepayers from volatile debt financing costs due to market uncertainty. The total effect of the decision was a rate decrease, of $1.8 million effective June 2009 through July 2010.
As of July 31, 2009, the CPUC had not yet ruled on a proposed all-party settlement in the proceeding that would establish a mechanism for adjusting return on equity in 2010 and 2011. Cal Water cannot predict whether or when the CPUC may issue a decision regarding these issues.

28


Table of Contents

2009 California General Rate Case Filing
On July 2, 2009, Cal Water filed its required application for a general review of rates for all operating districts and general operations. The application, A.09-07-001, requests an annual increase in rates of $70.6 million on January 1, 2011, $24.8 million on January 1, 2012, and $24.8 million on January 1, 2013. The filing marks the beginning of an eighteen month review process. As a result, and based on past experience, Cal Water cannot predict at this time the ultimate rate change the Commission will order. The Commission is generally required under state law to allow Cal Water interim rates and an effective date of January 1, 2011 if a decision is not rendered in the proceeding by that date.
Request for MTBE regulatory treatment
On July 10, 2009, Cal Water filed an application requesting the CPUC adopt ratemaking treatment of proceeds from its partial settlement of MTBE contamination litigation. Cal Water has requested that all of the proceeds be reinvested in infrastructure to treat or replace MTBE-contaminated facilities. In addition, Cal Water has requested that 50% of the reinvestment be included in rate base upon which Cal Water could earn its authorized fair and reasonable rate of return. The remaining 50% of the settlement proceeds would be included in rate base as contributions in aid of construction which does not earn a return. Cal Water has also requested specific regulatory treatment of future settlement or litigation proceeds that may occur in the consolidated MTBE cases. The CPUC has also opened a “rulemaking” proceeding, R.09-03-014, to consider, among other things, whether it should adopt a standard policy for ratemaking treatment of litigation proceeds. This rulemaking is scheduled to be concluded in the second quarter of 2010. The CPUC has previously authorized a wide range of regulatory treatments of contamination litigation proceeds. Due to the open policy proceeding and the considerable variability in the CPUC’s past treatment of contamination litigation proceeds, Cal Water cannot predict the outcome or timing of a decision in this proceeding at this time.
Washington 2009 General Rate Case Filing
On May 12, 2009, Washington Water Service Company filed a general rate increase for its regulated operations with the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC). Washington Water requested increases of $1.9 million on an annual basis. On July 30, 2009, the WUTC agreed to a revised revenue requirement of $1.2 million in additional annual revenue and revised rates.
Other 2009 Regulatory filings
In January and February 2009, Cal Water filed advice letters to offset increased purchased water and pump tax rates in eight of its regulated districts totaling $11.7 million in annual revenue. Under CPUC advice letter processing rules, Cal Water charges the rates to its customers upon filing of the expense offset advice letter. These rates were approved in late February 2009. However, expense offsets are dollar-for-dollar increases in revenue to match increased expenses and interact with the WRAM and MCBA mechanisms so that net operating income is not affected by an offset increase.
In January 2009 the City of Hawthorne approved Cal Water’s requested rate increase for its leased water system. The increase will take effect in phases, with a $0.8 million annual increase in February 2009, a $1.0 million annual increase in July 2009, and a $1.2 million annual increase in January 2010.
In January 2009 Cal Water filed an application to the CPUC for approvals and consents related to its secured debt offering, which was completed on April 17, 2009. The application included, among other things, requests for (i) a waiver of a CPUC policy, which would allow debt offerings by Cal Water of up to $100 million in principal amount be conducted through a single underwriter and (ii) clarification that complying with the terms of the indenture for the outstanding unsecured notes by granting the holders a first mortgage security interest upon the issuance of additional first mortgage debt does not use any of the Cal Water’s previously used financing authorization. This application was approved by the Commission in March 2009. On March 30, 2009, the CPUC issued decision 09-03-038 granting Cal Water (i) a competitive bidding rule exemption for the issuance of $100 million of first mortgage bonds to the extent that no one purchaser from Cal Water is permitted to acquire more than $20 million in debt in a calendar year, (ii) authority to exchange $260 million of its senior notes for first mortgage bonds without obtaining additional financing authority, and (iii) a competitive bidding rule exemption for an exchange of $260 million of senior notes for first mortgage bonds.
In April 2009, Cal Water filed advice letters to resolve most of the December 31, 2008 WRAM and MCBA balances. In May 2009, the CPUC authorized surcharges of $5.7 million and refunds of $3.8 million over a twelve month period beginning May 13, 2009.

29


Table of Contents

In June 2009, as allowed in the Commission’s 2007 Rate Case Plan, Cal Water filed advice letters for interim rate increases for eight districts effective in July 2009. These interim rates generate $2.4 million annually beginning July 1, 2009. Under the Commission’s prior rate case plan, these districts would have had rates effective in July 2009. The revenues collected are subject to refund or adjustment and will be trued up after a decision in the 2009 GRC. The rate change is an incremental addition to the adopted revenue requirement and will increase revenues from the WRAM until the next GRC.
In June 2009, Cal Water filed for escalation rate increases totaling $9.0 million effective in July for sixteen districts. As of July 13, 2009, the CPUC staff has not yet approved these increases, but they will be allowed to be included in rates on their filed effective dates subject to refund until they are approved. The escalation rate increases were not reflected in the 2009 GRC filing. Therefore, the revenue obtained is a part of the requested 2009 GRC increase, not an addition to it. The rate change is an incremental addition to the adopted revenue requirement and will increase revenues from the WRAM until the next GRC.
Throughout the calendar year, Cal Water plans to file advice letters to offset expected increases in purchased water and pump tax charges in some districts. Cal Water cannot predict the exact timing or dollar amount of the changes. However, expense offsets are dollar-for-dollar increases in revenue to match increased expenses and interact with the WRAM and MCBA mechanisms so that net operating revenue is not affected by an offset increase.
LIQUIDITY
Cash flows from Operations
Cash flows from operations were $30.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009. Cash flows from operations is primarily generated by net income and changes in our operating assets and liabilities. Cash generated by operations varies during the year which is dependent upon customer billings and timing of contributions to our benefit plans and estimated tax payments.
During the six months ended June 30, 2009, we made contributions to our pension and retiree health care plan of $17.9 million compared to $1.9 million paid during the six months ended June 30, 2008. As approved in the 2007 General Rate Case, we increased the funding level of our pension and retiree health care plan from $16.4 million during 2008 to $27.5 million during 2009.
The water business is seasonal. Revenue is lower in the cool, wet winter months when less water is used compared to the warm, dry summer months when water use is highest. This seasonality results in the possible need for short-term borrowings under the bank lines of credit in the event cash is not available during the winter period. The increase in cash flows during the summer allows short-term borrowings to be paid down. Customer water usage can be lower than normal in years when more than normal precipitation falls in our service areas or temperatures are lower than normal, especially in the summer months. The reduction in water usage reduces cash flows from operations and increases the need for short-term bank borrowings. In addition, short-term borrowings are used to finance capital expenditures until long-term financing is arranged.
Investing Activities
During the six months ended June 30, 2009, we had company-funded capital expenditures of $50.7 million. For 2009, our capital budget is approximately $100 to $120 million.
Financing Activities
During the six months ended June 30, 2009, there were no equity offerings. In April 2009, Cal Water issued $100 million of First Mortgage Bonds at the rate of 5.875% due in 2019, which are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by the Company. The first mortgage issuance costs were $3.4 million. Proceeds were used to pay down Cal Water’s short-term borrowings and will be added to Cal Water’s general funds to be used for capital expenditures and other corporate items. Dividend payments were higher than the prior year due to an increased dividend rate paid in the current year. Both advances for construction and contribution in aid of construction decreased $2.8 million during the first six months of 2009 compared to the first six months of 2008 primarily due to a decline in developer activity.
Short-Term and Long-Term Debt
Short-term liquidity is provided by bank lines of credit funds extended to us and certain of our subsidiaries and by internally generated funds. Long-term financing is accomplished through the use of both debt and equity. As of June 30, 2009, there were short-term borrowings of $12 million outstanding on the line of credit. There were short-term bank borrowings of $40 million at December 31, 2008.

30


Table of Contents

We made principal payments on our first mortgage bonds and other long-term debt payments of $4.4 million during the second quarter of 2009. As noted above, we issued $100 million of First Mortgage Bonds. In connection with this issuance, Cal Water’s outstanding senior notes in the aggregate principal amount of $260 million were exchanged for first mortgage bonds with the same interest rate and maturities the previously outstanding senior notes for which they were exchanged.
Long-term financing, which includes senior notes, other debt securities, and common stock, has typically been used to replace short-term borrowings and fund capital expenditures. Internally generated funds, after making dividend payments, provide positive cash flow, but have not been at a level to meet the needs of our capital expenditure requirements. Management expects this trend to continue given our capital expenditures plan for the next 5 years. Some capital expenditures are funded by payments received from developers for contributions in aid of construction or advances for construction. Funds received for contributions in aid of construction are non-refundable, whereas funds classified as advances in construction are refundable. Management believes long-term financing is available to meet our cash flow needs through issuances in both debt and equity instruments.
Credit Ratings
Cal Water’s first mortgage bonds are rated by Standard & Poor’s (S&P). Since 2004, the credit rating agency has maintained their rating of A+ and characterized us as stable. On April 8, 2009, Standard & Poor’s issued a rating of AA- on the 5.875% $100 million First Mortgage Bonds issued in April. If rating were downgraded in the future, it may result in a higher interest rate on future debt.
Dividends, Book Value and Shareholders
The second quarter common stock dividend of $0.2950 per share was paid on May 15, 2009, compared to a quarterly dividend in the second quarter of 2008 of $0.2925. This was Cal Water’s 257th consecutive quarterly dividend. Annualized, the 2009 dividend rate is $1.18 per common share, compared to $1.17 in 2008. For the full year 2008, the payout ratio was 62% of net income. On a long-term basis, our goal is to achieve a dividend payout ratio of 60% of net income accomplished through future earnings growth.
At its July 29, 2009 meeting, the Board declared the third quarter dividend of $0.2950 per share payable on August 21, 2009, to stockholders of record on August 10, 2009. This will be our 258th consecutive quarterly dividend.
2009 Financing Plan
Cal Water is currently reviewing its financing needs for the balance of 2009 and 2010. We intend to fund our capital needs in future periods through a relatively balanced approach between long-term debt and equity.
Book Value and Stockholders of Record
Book value per common share was $19.56 at June 30, 2009 compared to $19.44 at December 31, 2008.
There are approximately 2,687 (not in thousands) stockholders of record for our common stock, as of our record date, May 8, 2009.
Utility Plant Expenditures
During the six months ended June 30, 2009, capital expenditures totaled $53 million; $50.7 million was from company-funded projects and $2.3 million was from third-party-funded projects. The planned 2009 company-funded capital expenditure budget is approximately $100 to $120 million. The actual amount may vary from the budget number due to timing of actual payments related to current year projects and prior year projects. We do not control third-party-funded capital expenditures and therefore are unable to estimate the amount of such projects for 2009.
At June 30, 2009, construction work in progress was $116.9 million compared to $80.6 million at December 31, 2008. Work in progress includes projects that are under construction but not yet complete and placed in service.

31


Table of Contents

WATER SUPPLY
Our source of supply varies among our operating districts. Certain districts obtain all of their supply from wells; some districts purchase all of their supply from wholesale suppliers; and other districts obtain supply from a combination of wells and wholesale suppliers. A small portion of supply comes from surface sources and is processed through Company-owned water treatment plants. To the best of management’s knowledge, we are meeting water quality, environmental, and other regulatory standards for all company-owned systems.
In several of Cal Water’s operating districts, we have service contracts with and lease equipment from Basin Water, Inc. for the treatment of water from company-owned wells. The continued treatment of water from these wells is critical to Cal Water’s ability to meet customers’ demand in those districts. On July 17, 2009, Basin Water, Inc. filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and is seeking to sell some of its assets and assignment of certain of their contracts to a third party. We believe that Basin Water, Inc.’s performance of its contractual obligations and the availability of Basin Water, Inc.’s equipment will be uninterrupted during their bankruptcy proceedings. Furthermore, if the Basin Water’s equipment is no longer available, we believe there are additional suppliers that can supply the needed equipment and treatment process required in order for us to meet our water supply needs.
California’s normal weather pattern yields little precipitation between mid-spring and mid-fall. The Washington Water service areas receive precipitation in all seasons, with the heaviest amounts during the winter. New Mexico Water’s rainfall is heaviest in the summer monsoon season. Hawaii Water receives precipitation throughout the year, with the largest amounts in the winter months. Water usage in all service areas is highest during the warm and dry summers and declines in the cool winter months. Rain and snow during the winter months replenish underground water aquifers and fill reservoirs, providing the water supply for subsequent delivery to customers. To date, snowpack water content and rainfall accumulation during the 2008 — 2009 water year is 95% of normal (as of July 1, 2009 per the California Department of Water Resources). Precipitation in the prior year was below average. Management believes that supply pumped from underground aquifers and purchased from wholesale suppliers will be adequate to meet customer demand during 2009 and beyond. However, water rationing may be required if declared by the state or local jurisdictions. Long-term water supply plans are developed for each of our districts to help assure an adequate water supply under various operating and supply conditions. Some districts have unique challenges in meeting water quality standards, but management believes that supplies will meet current standards using current treatment processes.
CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS
During the six-months ended June 30, 2009, there were no material changes in contractual obligations outside the normal course of business.
Item 3.
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK
We do not hold, trade in or issue derivative financial instruments and therefore are not exposed to risks these instruments present. Our market risk to interest rate exposure is limited because the cost of long-term financing and short-term bank borrowings, including interest costs, is covered in consumer water rates as approved by the commissions. We do not have foreign operations; therefore, we do not have a foreign currency exchange risk. Our business is sensitive to commodity prices and is most affected by changes in purchased water and purchased power costs.
Historically, the CPUC’s balancing account or offsetable expense procedures allowed for increases in purchased water and purchased power costs to be passed on to consumers. Traditionally, a significant percentage of our net income and cash flows comes from California regulated operations; therefore the CPUC’s actions have a significant impact on our business. See Item 2, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Critical Accounting Policies -Expense Balancing and Memorandum Accounts” and “Regulatory Matters”.
Item 4.
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
(a) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(c) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded,

32


Table of Contents

processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our CEO and CFO, as appropriate, to allow for timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, management recognized that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives, and management is required to apply its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures. Accordingly, our disclosure controls and procedures have been designed to provide reasonable assurance of achieving their objectives.
Our management, with the participation of our CEO and our CFO, evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures for the period ended June 30, 2009. Based on that evaluation, we concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective at the reasonable assurance level.
(b) Changes to Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
There was no change in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the last fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

33


Table of Contents

PART II OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Chico Groundwater/Wausau Insurance Matter
As previously reported, in 1995, the State of California’s Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) named us as a potential responsible party for cleanup of toxic contamination plumes, which contain perchloroethylene, also know as tetrachloroethylene (PCE) in the Chico groundwater. In December 2002, we were named along with other defendants in two lawsuits filed by DTSC for the cleanup of the plumes. In 2007, we entered into Court approved consent decrees (Consent Decrees). In connection with these suits, our insurance carrier, Employers Insurance of Wausau (Wausau) filed a separate lawsuit against us for reimbursement of past defense costs which approximate $1.5 million and a declaratory determination of coverage. On June 23, 2009, we executed a confidential settlement with Wausau that did not significantly impact our financial statements.
Other Groundwater Contamination
The Company has been and is involved in litigation against third parties to recover past and future costs related to ground water contamination in our service areas. The cost of litigation is expensed as incurred and any settlement is first offset against such costs. Any settlement in excess of the cost to litigate is accounted for on a case by case basis based upon the nature of the settlement. It is anticipated that the majority of the settlement will be reflected as a benefit to the rate payers by offsetting future operating or capital costs.
The Company is involved in a lawsuit against major oil refineries regarding the contamination of the ground water as a result of the gas additive MTBE. The Company entered into a partial settlement with the defendants in April of 2008 that represent approximately 70% of the responsible parties (as determined by the Superior Court). On October 22, 2008, the Company received $34.2 million after deducting attorneys’ fees and litigation expenses. The Company is aggressively pursuing legal action against the remaining responsible parties. The Company has filed with the Commission to determine the appropriate regulatory treatment of the proceeds. It anticipates that the proceeds will have been used by the Company on infrastructure improvements. The Company has filed with the Internal Revenue Service a request for a private letter ruling regarding the taxability of the proceeds. When an agreement is reached with the Commission regarding the regulatory treatment, or when the taxability is determined based upon proceedings with the Internal Revenue Service, the Company will adjust the accounting of the settlement accordingly.
As previously reported, Cal Water has filed with the City of Bakersfield, in the Superior Court of California, a lawsuit that names potentially responsible parties, who manufactured and distributed products containing 1,2,3 trichloropropane (TCP) in California. TCP has been detected in the ground water. The lawsuit seeks to recover treatment costs necessary to remove TCP. The Court has now coordinated our action with other water purveyor cases (TCP Cases JCCP 4435) in San Bernardino County. No trial date has yet been set.
The Company has filed in San Mateo County Superior Court a complaint (California Water Service Company v. The Dow Chemical Company, et al. CIV 473093) against potentially responsible parties that manufactured and distributed products, which contained perchloroethylene, also know as tetrachloroethylene (PCE) in California, to recover the past, present, and future treatment costs. No trial date has yet been set.
Other Legal Matters
From time to time, the Company has been named as a co-defendant in several asbestos related lawsuits. The Company has been dismissed without prejudice in several of these cases. In other cases, our contractor’s and/or our insurance policy carriers have settled the cases with no effect on our financial statements.
From time to time, the Company is involved in various disputes and litigation matters that arise in the ordinary course of business. We review the status of each significant matter and assess its potential financial exposure. If the potential loss from any claim or legal proceeding is considered probable and the amount of the range of loss can be estimated, we accrue a liability for the estimated loss in accordance with SFAS No 5, “Accounting of Contingencies.” Legal proceedings are subject to uncertainties, and the outcomes are difficult to predict. Because of such uncertainties, accruals are based on the best information available at the time.

34


Table of Contents

While the outcome of these disputes and litigation matters cannot be predicted with any certainty, management does not believe that when taking into account existing reserves that the ultimate resolution of these matters will materially affect our financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
Item 4.
SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
The annual meeting of stockholders of California Water Service Group was held on May 27, 2009 at the headquarters office in San Jose, California.
  (a)   At the Annual Meeting of Stockholders, a Board of Directors to serve for the ensuing year was elected. The following directors were elected as nominated:
Douglas M. Brown
Robert W. Foy
Edwin A. Guiles
Edward D. Harris, Jr. M.D.
Bonnie G. Hill
Richard P. Magnuson
Linda R. Meier
Peter C. Nelson
George A. Vera
  (b)   One other proposal was voted on and approved by our stockholders at the meeting; the ratification of the selection of Deloitte & Touche LLP as our independent registered public accountant for 2009.
 
  (1)   Tabulation of the votes for the election of directors was:
                 
    For   Abstain
Douglas M. Brown
    17,658,137       254,086  
Robert W. Foy
    17,657,213       255,009  
Edwin A. Guiles
    17,675,477       236,745  
Edward D. Harris, Jr. , M.D.
    17,650,993       261,229  
Bonnie G. Hill
    17,637,599       274,623  
Richard P. Magnuson
    17,603,489       308,733  
Linda R. Meier
    17,513,693       398,529  
Peter C. Nelson
    17,655,944       256,279  
George A. Vera
    17,614,292       297,930  
  (2)   The stockholders ratified the Audit Committee’s selection of Deloitte & Touche LLP to serve as independent auditors for 2009. There were 17,709,097 votes in favor, 144,957 against, and 58,166 abstentions.

35


Table of Contents

Item 6.
EXHIBITS
     
Exhibit   Description
31.1
  Chief Executive Officer certification of financial statements pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes- Oxley Act of 2002
31.2
  Chief Financial Officer certification of financial statements pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes- Oxley Act of 2002
32
  Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes- Oxley Act of 2002

36


Table of Contents

SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirement of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
         
  CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE GROUP
                             Registrant
 
 
August 6, 2009       
  By:   /s/ Martin A. Kropelnicki    
    Martin A. Kropelnicki   
    Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer   

37


Table of Contents

         
Exhibit Index
     
Exhibit   Description
31.1
  Chief Executive Officer certification of financial statements pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes- Oxley Act of 2002
31.2
  Chief Financial Officer certification of financial statements pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes- Oxley Act of 2002
32
  Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes- Oxley Act of 2002

38