10-Q: Quarterly report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d)
Published on August 8, 2007
Table of Contents
UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
(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, 2007
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 | (I.R.S. Employer identification No.) | |
of incorporation or organization) | ||
1720 North First Street, San Jose, CA. | 95112 | |
(Address of principal executive offices) | (Zip Code) |
408-367-8200
(Registrants telephone number, including area code)
(Registrants telephone number, including area code)
Not Applicable
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)
(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 checkmark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or
a non-accelerated filer. See definition of accelerated filer and large accelerated filer in Rule
12b-2 or the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer o Accelerated filer þ Non-accelerated filer 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 issuers classes of common stock, as of
the latest practicable date. Common shares outstanding as of August 1, 2007 20,666,469.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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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, | |||||||
2007 | 2006 | |||||||
ASSETS |
||||||||
Utility plant: |
||||||||
Utility plant |
$ | 1,394,883 | $ | 1,344,415 | ||||
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization |
(420,321 | ) | (402,940 | ) | ||||
Net utility plant |
974,562 | 941,475 | ||||||
Current assets: |
||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
29,842 | 60,312 | ||||||
Receivables: |
||||||||
Customers |
23,050 | 19,526 | ||||||
Other |
6,134 | 6,700 | ||||||
Unbilled revenue |
14,698 | 11,341 | ||||||
Materials and supplies at average cost |
4,742 | 4,515 | ||||||
Prepaid pension expense |
| 1,696 | ||||||
Taxes and other prepaid expenses |
5,587 | 5,534 | ||||||
Total current assets |
84,053 | 109,624 | ||||||
Other assets |
||||||||
Regulatory assets |
93,861 | 93,785 | ||||||
Other assets |
22,008 | 20,135 | ||||||
Total other assets |
115,869 | 113,920 | ||||||
$ | 1,174,484 | $ | 1,165,019 | |||||
CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES |
||||||||
Capitalization: |
||||||||
Common stock, $.01 par value |
$ | 207 | $ | 207 | ||||
Additional paid-in capital |
211,681 | 211,513 | ||||||
Retained earnings |
163,830 | 166,582 | ||||||
Total common stockholders equity |
375,718 | 378,302 | ||||||
Preferred stock |
3,475 | 3,475 | ||||||
Long-term debt, less current maturities |
291,299 | 291,814 | ||||||
Total capitalization |
670,492 | 673,591 | ||||||
Current liabilities: |
||||||||
Current maturities of long-term debt |
1,778 | 1,778 | ||||||
Accounts payable |
37,988 | 33,130 | ||||||
Accrued expenses and other liabilities |
32,503 | 35,317 | ||||||
Total current liabilities |
72,269 | 70,225 | ||||||
Unamortized investment tax credits |
2,541 | 2,541 | ||||||
Deferred income taxes, net |
69,472 | 69,503 | ||||||
Pension and postretirement benefits other than pensions |
48,584 | 48,584 | ||||||
Regulatory and other liabilities |
33,629 | 33,411 | ||||||
Advances for construction |
165,819 | 157,660 | ||||||
Contributions in aid of construction |
111,678 | 109,504 | ||||||
Commitments and contingencies |
| | ||||||
$ | 1,174,484 | $ | 1,165,019 | |||||
See Accompanying Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
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CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE GROUP
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
Unaudited
(In thousands, except per share data)
For the three months ended: | June 30, | June 30, | ||||||
2007 | 2006 | |||||||
Operating revenue |
$ | 95,782 | $ | 81,102 | ||||
Operating expenses: |
||||||||
Water production costs |
37,271 | 30,210 | ||||||
Other operations |
25,274 | 23,399 | ||||||
Maintenance |
5,241 | 3,432 | ||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
8,380 | 7,640 | ||||||
Income taxes |
4,792 | 3,753 | ||||||
Property and other taxes |
3,435 | 3,045 | ||||||
Total operating expenses |
84,393 | 71,479 | ||||||
Net operating income |
11,389 | 9,623 | ||||||
Other income and expenses: |
||||||||
Non-regulated revenue |
3,423 | 2,206 | ||||||
Non-regulated expense |
(1,966 | ) | (1,800 | ) | ||||
Gain (loss) on sale of non-utility property |
(83 | ) | 323 | |||||
Less: income taxes on other income and expenses |
(560 | ) | (297 | ) | ||||
Total other income and expenses |
814 | 432 | ||||||
Interest expense: |
||||||||
Interest expense |
4,926 | 4,970 | ||||||
Less: capitalized interest |
(450 | ) | (625 | ) | ||||
Net interest expense |
4,476 | 4,345 | ||||||
Net income |
$ | 7,727 | $ | 5,710 | ||||
Earnings per share |
||||||||
Basic |
$ | 0.37 | $ | 0.31 | ||||
Diluted |
$ | 0.37 | $ | 0.31 | ||||
Weighted average shares outstanding |
||||||||
Basic |
20,666 | 18,407 | ||||||
Diluted |
20,690 | 18,427 | ||||||
Dividends per share of common stock |
$ | 0.2900 | $ | 0.2875 | ||||
See Accompanying Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
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CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE GROUP
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
Unaudited
(In thousands, except per share data)
For the six months ended: | June 30, | June 30, | ||||||
2007 | 2006 | |||||||
Operating revenue |
$ | 167,352 | $ | 146,318 | ||||
Operating expenses: |
||||||||
Water production costs |
63,084 | 51,639 | ||||||
Other operations |
48,930 | 47,187 | ||||||
Maintenance |
9,750 | 7,330 | ||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
16,781 | 15,349 | ||||||
Income taxes |
5,336 | 4,041 | ||||||
Property and other taxes |
6,840 | 6,221 | ||||||
Total operating expenses |
150,721 | 131,767 | ||||||
Net operating income |
16,631 | 14,551 | ||||||
Other income and expenses: |
||||||||
Non-regulated revenue |
6,465 | 4,355 | ||||||
Non-regulated expenses |
(3,717 | ) | (3,339 | ) | ||||
Gain (loss) on sale of non-utility property |
(83 | ) | 348 | |||||
Less: income taxes on other income and expenses |
(1,086 | ) | (556 | ) | ||||
Total other income and expenses |
1,579 | 808 | ||||||
Interest expense: |
||||||||
Interest expense |
9,852 | 9,667 | ||||||
Less: capitalized interest |
(950 | ) | (850 | ) | ||||
Total interest expense |
8,902 | 8,817 | ||||||
Net income |
$ | 9,308 | $ | 6,542 | ||||
Earnings per share |
||||||||
Basic |
$ | 0.45 | $ | 0.35 | ||||
Diluted |
$ | 0.45 | $ | 0.35 | ||||
Weighted average shares outstanding |
||||||||
Basic |
20,663 | 18,404 | ||||||
Diluted |
20,687 | 18,427 | ||||||
Dividends per share of common stock |
$ | 0.5800 | $ | 0.5750 | ||||
See Accompanying Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
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CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE GROUP
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Unaudited
(In thousands)
For the six months ended: | June 30, | June 30, | ||||||
2007 | 2006 | |||||||
Operating activities |
||||||||
Net income |
$ | 9,308 | $ | 6,542 | ||||
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
provided by operating activities: |
||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
16,781 | 15,349 | ||||||
Amortization of debt |
337 | 330 | ||||||
Deferred income taxes, investment tax credits,
regulatory assets and
liabilities, net |
57 | 1,290 | ||||||
(Gain) loss on sale of non-utility property |
83 | (348 | ) | |||||
Changes in operating assets and liabilities: |
||||||||
Receivables |
(2,937 | ) | (4,069 | ) | ||||
Unbilled revenue |
(3,358 | ) | (2,576 | ) | ||||
Taxes and other prepaid expenses |
(689 | ) | 1,210 | |||||
Accounts payable |
6,535 | 3,097 | ||||||
Other current assets |
(227 | ) | (730 | ) | ||||
Other current liabilities |
(2,814 | ) | 3,915 | |||||
Other changes, net |
(1,840 | ) | (952 | ) | ||||
Net adjustments |
11,928 | 16,516 | ||||||
Net cash provided by operating activities |
21,236 | 23,058 | ||||||
Investing activities: |
||||||||
Utility plant expenditures: |
||||||||
Company funded |
(39,368 | ) | (46,617 | ) | ||||
Developer funded |
(11,903 | ) | (13,814 | ) | ||||
Acquisition |
(30 | ) | (13 | ) | ||||
Proceeds from sale of non-utility property |
| 353 | ||||||
Net cash used in investing activities |
(51,301 | ) | (60,091 | ) | ||||
Financing activities: |
||||||||
Net short-term borrowings |
| 26,000 | ||||||
Net repayment of long-term debt |
(514 | ) | (444 | ) | ||||
Advances for construction |
11,362 | 11,480 | ||||||
Refunds of advances for construction |
(3,203 | ) | (2,520 | ) | ||||
Contributions in aid of construction |
3,842 | 5,452 | ||||||
Issuance of common stock |
168 | 392 | ||||||
Dividends paid |
(12,060 | ) | (10,658 | ) | ||||
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities |
(405 | ) | 29,702 | |||||
Change in cash and cash equivalents |
(30,470 | ) | (7,331 | ) | ||||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period |
60,312 | 9,533 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period |
$ | 29,842 | $ | 2,202 | ||||
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash activities: |
||||||||
Accrued payables for investments in utility plant |
$ | 8,801 | $ | 7,572 |
See Accompanying Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
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CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE GROUP
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
June 30, 2007
(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
Note 1. Organization and Operations
California Water Service Group (the Company) is a holding company with five wholly owned
subsidiaries that provide water utility and other related services in California, Washington,
New Mexico and Hawaii. 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 states regulatory commissions (Commissions). In addition,
these entities and CWS Utility Services provide non-regulated water utility and utility-related
services.
The Company operates primarily in one business segment providing water utility services.
Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Presentation
The interim financial information is unaudited. The condensed consolidated financial statements
should be read in conjunction with the Companys consolidated financial statements for the year
ended December 31, 2006, included in its Form 10-K as filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission (SEC) on March 14, 2007.
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 adjustments consist only of normal recurring adjustments. The results for
interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results for any future period.
The preparation of the Companys condensed consolidated financial statements necessarily
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 condensed
consolidated balance sheet dates, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses for the
periods presented.
Certain prior years amounts have been reclassified, where necessary, to conform to the current
presentation as follows: on the income statement, non-regulated income and non-regulated
expenses which were previously netted in the income statement have been presented separately:
also, prior year amounts for income taxes associated with other income and expenses were
reclassified from income taxes included in operating expenses to income taxes on other income
and expenses. On the statements of cash flows, prior year amounts for company-funded utility
plant expenditures and accounts payable have been reduced for non-cash activities.
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Revenue
Revenue consists of monthly cycle billings for regulated water and wastewater services at rates
authorized by the Commissions and billings to certain non-regulated customers. Billings include
a fee that is paid to the Commissions. This amount is recorded in revenue and other operations
expense. Fees paid to the Commissions for the six months ending June 30, 2007, and June 30,
2006, were $2,178 and $1,864, respectively.
Other Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157 Fair Value Measurements. The statement
defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair values in generally accepted
accounting principles, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. The statement is
effective for years beginning after November 15, 2007. The adoption of this statement is not
expected to have a material impact on the Companys financial position, results of operations or
cash flows.
In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and
Financial Liabilities Including an amendment of FASB Statement No. 115. The statement
permits entities to choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair
value. The statement is effective for years beginning after November 15, 2007. The adoption of
this statement is not expected to have a material impact on the Companys financial position,
results of operations, or cash flows.
Note 3. Seasonal Business
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.
Note 4. 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 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 have an exercise price equal to the
market price on the date they were granted. 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, 2007 and 2006 related to stock options issued under the Long-Term Incentive Plan.
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The table below reflects the stock options granted under the Long-Term Incentive Plan.
Weighted Average | ||||||||
Shares | Exercise Price | |||||||
Stock Options: |
||||||||
Outstanding at December 31, 2006 |
90,500 | $ | 24.94 | |||||
Exercised |
- 0 - | - 0 - | ||||||
Forfeited |
- 0 - | - 0 - | ||||||
Outstanding at June 30, 2007 |
90,500 | $ | 24.94 | |||||
Exercisable at June 30, 2007 |
90,500 | $ | 24.94 | |||||
Equity Incentive Plan
The Equity Incentive Plan, which was approved by shareholders in April 2005, is authorized to
issue up to 1,000,000 shares of common stock. In the first quarter of 2007 and 2006, the
Company granted Restricted Stock Awards (RSAs) of 9,770 and 9,142 shares, respectively, of
common stock to employees and directors of the Company. Employee awards vest ratably over 48
months, while director awards generally vest at the end of 12 months. The shares were valued at
$38.11 and $38.51 per share, respectively, based upon the fair market value of the Companys
common stock on the date of grant. In the first six months of 2007 and 2006, the Company
granted Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) equivalent to 22,140 and 40,000 shares, respectively,
to employees, 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 $10.36 and $7.73 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:
2007 | 2006 | |||||||
Expected dividend yield
|
2.99 | % | 2.99 | % | ||||
Expected volatility
|
32.79 | % | 21.90 | % | ||||
Risk-free interest rate
|
4.48 | % | 4.19 | % | ||||
Expected holding period in years
|
5.2 | 6.0 |
The Company did not apply a forfeiture rate in the expense computation relating to RSAs and SARs
issued to employees 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.
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The table below reflects SARs granted under the Equity Incentive Plan.
Weighted Average | ||||||||
Shares | Exercise Price | |||||||
Stock Appreciation Rights |
||||||||
Outstanding at December 31, 2006 |
37,969 | $ | 38.77 | |||||
Granted |
22,140 | 38.11 | ||||||
Exercised |
- 0 - | | ||||||
Forfeited |
(469 | ) | 38.51 | |||||
Outstanding at June 30, 2007 |
59,640 | $ | 38.53 | |||||
Exercisable at June 30, 2007 |
14,453 | $ | 38.66 | |||||
The Company has recorded compensation costs for the RSAs and SARs in Operating Expense, net of
related tax effects, in the amount of $56 and $52 for the quarter ending June 30, 2007, and June
30, 2006, respectively, and $101 and $86 for the six months ending June 30, 2007 and 2006,
respectively.
Note 5. Earnings Per Share Calculations
The computations of basic and diluted earnings per share are noted below. RSAs are included in
the weighted stock outstanding used to calculate basic earnings per share as the shares have all
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. RSAs are included in the weighted
stock outstanding used to calculate dilutive earnings per share as the shares have all voting
and dividend rights as issued and unrestricted common stock.
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All options are dilutive and for 2007 all SARs are antidilutive. The dilutive effect is shown
in the table below.
(In thousands, except per share data)
Three Months Ended June 30, | ||||||||
2007 | 2006 | |||||||
Net income |
$ | 7,727 | $ | 5,710 | ||||
Less preferred dividends |
38 | 38 | ||||||
Net income available to common stockholders |
$ | 7,689 | $ | 5,672 | ||||
Weighted average common shares, basic |
20,666 | 18,407 | ||||||
Dilutive common stock options and SARs
(treasury method) |
24 | 20 | ||||||
Shares used for dilutive computation |
20,690 | 18,427 | ||||||
Net income per share basic |
$ | 0.37 | $ | 0.31 | ||||
Net income per share diluted |
$ | 0.37 | $ | 0.31 | ||||
Six Months Ended June 30, | ||||||||
2007 | 2006 | |||||||
Net income |
$ | 9,308 | $ | 6,542 | ||||
Less preferred dividends |
76 | 76 | ||||||
Net income available to common stockholders |
$ | 9,232 | $ | 6,466 | ||||
Weighted average common shares, basic |
20,663 | 18,404 | ||||||
Dilutive common stock options and SARs
(treasury method) |
24 | 23 | ||||||
Shares used for dilutive computation |
20,687 | 18,427 | ||||||
Net income per share basic |
$ | 0.45 | $ | 0.35 | ||||
Net income per share diluted |
$ | 0.45 | $ | 0.35 | ||||
Note 6. 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 and
utility plant as appropriate.
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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
$1,243 for the six months ended June 30, 2007. The estimated cash contribution to the pension
plans for 2007 is $7,913. The estimated contribution to the other benefits plan for 2007 is
$2,400.
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
executive supplemental retirement plan. The data listed under other benefits is for all other
postretirement benefits.
(In thousands) | Three Months Ended June 30, | Six Months Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Pension Benefit | Other Benefits | Pension Benefit | Other Benefits | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2007 | 2006 | 2007 | 2006 | 2007 | 2006 | 2007 | 2006 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Service cost |
$ | 1,247 | $ | 1,337 | $ | 270 | $ | 273 | $ | 2,646 | $ | 2,674 | $ | 577 | $ | 576 | ||||||||||||||||
Interest cost |
1,683 | 1,523 | 355 | 258 | 3,261 | 3,027 | 659 | 572 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Expected return on plan assets |
(1,431 | ) | (1,301 | ) | (117 | ) | (16 | ) | (2,852 | ) | (2,872 | ) | (235 | ) | (121 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
Recognized net initial APBO(1)
|
N/A | N/A | 69 | 69 | N/A | N/A | 138 | 138 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Amortization of prior service cost |
468 | 477 | 18 | 18 | 936 | 953 | 37 | 37 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Recognized net actuarial loss |
310 | 179 | 39 | 32 | 505 | 384 | 84 | 65 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net periodic benefit cost |
$ | 2,277 | $ | 2,215 | $ | 634 | $ | 634 | $ | 4,496 | $ | 4,166 | $ | 1,260 | $ | 1,267 | ||||||||||||||||
(1) | APBO Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation |
Note 7. Income Taxes
The Company adopted the provisions of Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Interpretation
No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes, an interpretation of FASB Statement No.
109 (FIN 48), on January 1, 2007. This interpretation prescribes a recognition threshold and
measurement attributes for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position
taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. FIN 48 also provides guidance on derecognition
of tax benefits, classification on the balance sheet, interest and penalties, accounting in
interim periods and disclosure and transition. At the adoption date and as of June 30, 2007, we
had no material unrecognized tax benefits and no adjustments to liabilities or operations were
required.
In connection with the adoption of FIN 48, the Company will include interest and penalties
related to uncertain tax positions as a component of income taxes, which were zero for the six
months ended June 30, 2007.
Tax years 2003 through 2006 and 2002 through 2006 are subject to examination by the federal and
state taxing authorities, respectively. There are no income tax examinations currently in
progress.
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Note 8. Short-term Borrowings
During the second quarter, the Company and Cal Water signed bank lines of credit of $20 million
and $55 million, respectively. The lines of credit agreements expire on April 30, 2012. The
agreement with the Company requires a debt to capitalization ratio less than 0.667:1.0 and an
interest coverage ratio of at least 2.5:1.0. As of June 30, 2007, the Company and Cal Water
were in compliance with the bank covenants contained in the loan agreements. As of June 30,
2007, there were no borrowings outstanding.
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Item 2
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
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
managements 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; | ||
| new legislation; | ||
| changes in accounting valuations and estimates; | ||
| the ability to satisfy requirements related to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and other regulations on internal controls; | ||
| 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; | ||
| changes in customer water use patterns; | ||
| the impact of weather on water sales and operating results; | ||
| changes in the capital markets and access to sufficient capital on satisfactory terms; | ||
| 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; |
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| 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; 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 and as directed by the regulatory commissions to which we are subject. The
process of preparing financial statements requires the use of estimates on the part of
management. The estimates used by management are based on historical experience and an
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.
Revenue Recognition
Our revenue consists of monthly cycle customer billings for regulated water and wastewater
services at rates authorized by the governmental and regulatory commissions and billings to
certain non-regulated customers.
Revenue from metered customers includes billings to customers based on monthly meter readings plus an estimate for
water used between the customers last meter reading and the end of the accounting period. At June 30, 2007, our
unbilled revenue amount was $14.7 million and at December 31, 2006, the amount was $11.3 million. The unbilled
revenue amount is generally higher during the summer months when water sales are higher. The amount recorded as
unbilled revenue varies depending among other factors on:
| water usage in the preceding period; | ||
| the number of days between meter reads for each billing cycle; and | ||
| the number of days between each cycles meter reading and the end of the accounting cycle. |
Flat rate customers are billed in advance at the beginning of the service period. The revenue
is prorated so that the portion of revenue applicable to the current accounting period is
included in that periods revenue. The portion related to a subsequent accounting period is
recorded as unearned revenue on the balance sheet and recognized as revenue when earned in the
subsequent accounting period. Our unearned revenue liability was $2.2 million as of June 30,
2007, and as of December 31,
2006. This liability is included in accrued expenses and other liabilities on our
accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.
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Expense-Balancing and Memorandum Accounts
We use expense-balancing accounts and memorandum accounts to track suppliers rate changes for
purchased water, purchased power, and pump taxes that are not included in customer water rates.
The cost changes are referred to as offsetable expenses, because under certain circumstances,
they are refundable from customers (or refunded to customers) in future rates designed to offset
cost changes from suppliers. We do not record the balancing and memorandum accounts until the
commission has authorized a change in customer rates and the customer has been billed. The
cumulative net amount in the expense balancing accounts and memorandum accounts as of June 30,
2007, was approximately $3.8 million. This amount includes certain amounts that have been filed
for recovery but have not yet been authorized, and amounts that have not yet been filed for
recovery. See Regulatory Matters below for a description of cumulative net balances of
expense balancing and memorandum accounts that have been authorized for recovery.
Regulated Utility Accounting
Because we operate extensively in a regulated business, we are subject to the provisions of SFAS
No. 71, Accounting for the Effects of Certain Types of Regulation. Regulators establish rates
that are expected to permit the recovery of the cost of service and a return on investment. If
a portion of our operations were no longer subject to the provisions of SFAS No. 71, we would be
required to write off related regulatory assets and liabilities that are not specifically
recoverable and determine if other assets might be impaired. If a regulatory commission
determined that a portion of our assets were not recoverable in customer rates, we would be
required to determine if we had suffered an asset impairment that would require a write-down in
the assets valuation. There have been no such asset impairments as of June 30, 2007 and
December 31, 2006.
Income Taxes
We account for income taxes using the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and
liabilities are recognized for future tax consequences attributable to differences between the
financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax
bases. We measure deferred tax assets and liabilities at enacted tax rates expected to apply to
taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or
settled. We recognize the effect on the deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax
rate in the period that includes the enactment date. We must also assess the likelihood that
deferred tax assets will be recovered in future taxable income and, to the extent recovery is
unlikely, a valuation allowance would be recorded. If a valuation allowance were required, it
could significantly increase income tax expense. In our managements view, a valuation
allowance was not required at June 30, 2007 or December 31, 2006.
We anticipate that future rate action by the regulatory commissions will reflect revenue
requirements for the tax effects of temporary differences recognized, which have previously been
passed through to customers. The regulatory commissions have granted us rate increases to
reflect the normalization of the tax benefits of the federal accelerated methods and available
Investment Tax Credits (ITCs) for all assets placed in service after 1980. ITCs are deferred
and amortized over the lives of the related properties for book purposes.
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Pension Benefits
We incur costs associated with our pension and postretirement health care benefits plans. To
measure the expense of these benefits, our management must estimate compensation increases,
mortality rates, future health cost increases and discount rates used to value related
liabilities and to determine appropriate funding. Different estimates used by our management
could result in significant variances in the cost recognized for pension benefit plans. The
estimates used are based on historical experience, current facts, future expectations, and
recommendations from independent advisors and actuaries. We use an investment advisor to
provide advice in managing the plans investments. We anticipate any increase in funding for the
pension and postretirement health care benefits plans will be recovered in future rate filings,
thereby mitigating the financial impact.
In September 2006, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 158
Employers Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Post Retirement Plans An
Amendment of FASB Statements 87, 88, 106 and 132(R). We adopted SFAS No.158 as of December 31,
2006 which required the full recognition of the projected benefit obligation over the fair value
of plan assets, reflecting the funded status of the benefit plans, on the balance sheet.
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RESULTS OF SECOND QUARTER 2007 OPERATIONS COMPARED TO SECOND QUARTER 2006 OPERATIONS
Overview
Second quarter net income was $7.7 million equivalent to $0.37 per common share on a diluted
basis, compared to net income of $5.7 million or $0.31 common per share on a diluted basis in
the second quarter of 2006. These positive results were primarily due to increased water usage
by our customers due to dryer weather when compared with the prior year. In addition, we earned
higher investment income from the cash proceeds from the equity offering in the fall of 2006.
The effect of the higher number of common shares outstanding did not have a significant
influence on the earnings per share.
We filed in July 2007 the General Rate Case (GRC) for Cal Water. The filing includes General
Office (which covers the significant corporate costs) and eight of our districts. We are
working with the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) as they implement their Water
Action Plan. The plan focuses on four key principles, among other things, including safe, high
quality water; highly reliable water supplies; efficient use of water; and reasonable rates and
viable utilities.
Operating Revenue
Operating revenue increased $14.7 million or 18% to $95.8 million in the second quarter of 2007.
As disclosed in the following table, the increase was due to increases in rates, increased
usage by existing customers and usage by new customers.
The factors that impacted the operating revenue for the second quarter of 2007 compared to 2006
are presented in the following table (amounts in thousands):
Increase in usage by existing customers |
$ | 9,886 | ||
Rate increases |
4,022 | |||
Usage by new customers |
772 | |||
Net operating revenue increase |
$ | 14,680 | ||
The components of the rate increases are listed in the following table (amounts in thousands):
Step Rate Increase |
$ | 1,798 | ||
General Rate Case (GRC) Increases |
1,372 | |||
Purchased Water Offset Increases |
838 | |||
Balancing Account Adjustments |
(26 | ) | ||
Other |
40 | |||
Total Increase in Rates |
$ | 4,022 | ||
Total Operating Expenses
Total operating expenses were $84.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2007, versus
$71.5 million for the same period in 2006, an 18% increase.
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Water production expense consists of purchased water, purchased power, and pump taxes. It
represents the largest component of total operating expenses, accounting for approximately 44%
of total operating expenses. Water production expenses increased 23% compared to the same
period last year.
Sources of water as a percent of total water production are listed in the following table:
Three Months Ended June 30 | ||||||||
2007 | 2006 | |||||||
Well production |
48 | % | 50 | % | ||||
Purchased |
48 | % | 45 | % | ||||
Surface |
4 | % | 5 | % | ||||
Total |
100 | % | 100 | % | ||||
Our wholly owned 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 | ||||||||||||
(amounts in thousands) | ||||||||||||
2007 | 2006 | Change | ||||||||||
Purchased water |
$ | 28,467 | $ | 22,365 | $ | 6,102 | ||||||
Purchased power |
6,403 | 5,658 | 745 | |||||||||
Pump taxes |
2,401 | 2,187 | 214 | |||||||||
Total |
$ | 37,271 | $ | 30,210 | $ | 7,061 | ||||||
Purchased water costs increased primarily due to higher customer usage and higher wholesale
water prices. Total water production measured in acre feet increased by 12.2% during the second
quarter of 2007 as compared with the second quarter of 2006 due to the warmer weather and lack
of precipitation, as compared to the same period in 2006.
Other operations expense increased 7% to $25.3 million. Payroll charged to operations increased
16%, including wage increases and an increase in the number of employees. At June 30, 2007,
there were 873 employees and at June 30, 2006, there were 850 employees.
Maintenance expenses increased by $1.8 million to $5.2 million in the second quarter of 2007
compared to $3.4 million in the second quarter of 2006, due to the repair of mains, hydrants,
and structures. Depreciation and amortization expense increased $0.7 million, or 9.7%, because
of 2006 capital additions.
Federal and state income taxes increased $1.3 million, or 32.1%, from $4.1 million in the second
quarter of 2006 to $5.4 million in the second quarter of 2007, due to increased pretax income
compared to the same quarter as last year. The effective tax rate was 40.9% in the current
quarter and
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41.5% for the same quarter last year. We expect the effective tax rate to be between 40%
and 41% for 2007.
Other Income and Expense
Non-regulated income, net of related expenses, was $1.5 million for the quarter ended June 30,
2007, compared to $0.4 million in the same period last year, which is an increase of $1.1
million, driven primarily by an increase in investment income on short term cash and other
investments. There were no property sales for the current quarter, although expenses were
incurred on prior property sales. Gains from property sales were $0.3 million for the same
quarter of 2006.
Interest Expense
Net interest expense increased $0.1 million to $4.5 million. This increase of interest expense
was primarily due to a decrease in capitalized interest expense as compared to the prior year.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 2007 COMPARED TO THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 2006
Overview
Net income for the six-month period ended June 30, 2007, was $9.3 million, or $0.45 per common
share on a diluted basis, compared to net income of $6.5 million or $0.35 per share on a diluted
basis, for the six months ended June 30, 2006. These positive results were primarily due to
increased water usage by our customers due to dryer weather when compared with the prior year.
In addition, we earned higher investment income from the cash proceeds from the equity offering
in the fall of 2006.
Operating Revenue
Operating revenue increased $21.0 million, or 14%, to $167.4 million in the six-month period
ended June 30, 2007. As disclosed in the following table, the increase was due to increases in
rates, increased usage by existing customers due to dryer weather and less precipitation than
the prior year, increases in rates, and new customers.
The factors that affected the operating revenue for the six-month period ending June 30, 2007
compared to 2006 are presented in the following table (amounts in thousands):
Usage by existing customers |
$ | 13,048 | ||
Rate increases (net) |
6,612 | |||
Usage by new customers |
1,374 | |||
Net changes in operating revenue |
$ | 21,034 | ||
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The components of the net rate increases are listed in the following table (amounts in thousands):
Step Rate Increase |
$ | 3,038 | ||
General Rate Case (GRC) Increase |
2,306 | |||
Purchased Water Offset Increase |
1,340 | |||
Balancing Account Adjustments |
(155 | ) | ||
Other |
83 | |||
Total increase in rates |
$ | 6,612 | ||
Total Operating Expenses
Total operating expenses were $150.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2007, versus
$131.8 million for the same period in 2006, 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 42% of total operating expenses. Water production expenses increased $11.4
million in the six months ended June 30, 2007, or 22% compared to the same period last year.
Sources of water production as a percent of total water production are listed on the following
table:
Six Months Ended June 30 | ||||||||
2007 | 2006 | |||||||
Well production |
45 | % | 48 | % | ||||
Purchased |
51 | % | 47 | % | ||||
Surface |
4 | % | 5 | % | ||||
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 | ||||||||||||
(amounts in thousands) | ||||||||||||
2007 | 2006 | Change | ||||||||||
Purchased water |
$ | 49,363 | $ | 39,645 | $ | 9,718 | ||||||
Purchased power |
10,099 | 8,540 | 1,559 | |||||||||
Pump taxes |
3,622 | 3,454 | 168 | |||||||||
Total |
$ | 63,084 | $ | 51,639 | $ | 11,445 | ||||||
Purchased water cost increased due to higher prices from wholesaler and higher usage by
customers. Included in purchased water are credits received from certain wholesale suppliers
and the sale of unused water rights. The amounts of the credits were $734 and $631 for the six
months ended June 30, 2007 and June 30, 2006, respectively. The increase in purchased power and
pump taxes is primarily due to increased well production.
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Other operations expenses were $48.9 million, increasing $1.7 million, or 4%, for the six months
ended June 30, 2007. Payroll and benefits charged to operations expense increased $801 for the
six months ended June 30, 2007. Wages for union employees increased 4%, effective January 1,
2007. Overall payroll costs (expensed and capitalized) increased 9% for the six months ended
June 30, 2007, due to increases in the number of employees and higher wage rates. At June 30,
2007, there were 873 employees and at June 30, 2006, there were 850 employees. Outside services
increased $450 due to various initiatives, which included preparation of the recently filed
General Rate Case.
Maintenance expense was up for the six months ended June 30, 2007, increasing $2.4 million, or
33%. Depreciation and amortization expense increased $1.4 million, or 9%, because of increased
capital expenditures in 2006.
Federal and state income taxes increased $1.8 million, or 40.8%, for the six months ended June
30, 2007, due to the change in taxable income. We expect the effective tax rate to be between
40% and 41% for 2007.
Other Income and Expense
Other income was $1.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2007, compared to $0.8 million
for the first six-months of 2006, primarily due to increased investment income.
Interest Expense
Net interest expense increased $0.1 million to $8.9 million for the period ended June 30, 2007
compared to the six-month period ended June 30, 2006.
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 flow.
The amounts discussed 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 GRC. As explained below, surcharges and surcredits to recover balancing and memorandum
accounts as well as the catch-up 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 utilitys rate setting requests, but may consider other issues
that affect the utilitys rates and operations. Effective in 2004, Cal Waters 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 Waters GRC decisions, prior to 2005,
were generally issued in the fourth quarter, but are expected to
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be issued in the second quarter of each year until 2011, when the updated rate case plan takes
effect. A decision on the eight GRCs filed in July of 2006 was delayed beyond July 1, 2007. As
required by state law, the Commission authorized interim rates incorporating the last twelve
months change in CPI. Cal Water expects a final decision on the GRCs filed in July of 2006 to
be issued in the third quarter of 2007. Rates from the final decision will have an effective
date of July 1, 2007 for any subsequent final decision.
Between GRC filings, utilities may file step 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, step rate increases are subject to a weather-normalized
earnings test. Under the earnings test, the CPUC may reduce the step rate increase to prevent
the utility from earning in excess of the authorized rate of return for that district. Step
rate increases, which were previously approved in January, were approved in July until 2011,
when the updated rate case plan takes effect.
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 Cal Water 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.
Surcharges and surcredits, which are usually effective for a twelve-month period, are authorized
by the CPUC to recover the memorandum and balancing accounts under- and over- collections
usually due to changes in offsettable expenses. However, significant under-collection may be
authorized over multiple years. Typically, an expense difference occurs during the time period
from when an offsettable expense rate changes and we are allowed to adjust its water rates.
Expense changes for this regulatory lag period, which is approximately two months, are booked
into memorandum and balancing accounts for later recovery. These accounts are subject to
reasonableness review. Future recovery of balancing account balances will be addressed in
general rate cases or by advice letter filings if the account balance is greater than 2% of
revenues. As of March 31, 2007 and June 30, 2007, the amount in the balancing accounts was $2.0
million and $3.8 million, respectively. The increase in the second quarter reflects a recent
review by the Company of 2006 power rates in Southern California Edison tariff areas which the
Company believes will be recoverable.
Cal Water does not record an asset (or liability) for the recovery (or refund) of expense
balancing or memorandum accounts in its financial statements as revenue (refunds), nor as a
receivable (or payable), until the CPUC and other regulators have authorized recovery and the
customer is billed. Therefore, a timing difference may occur between the time when costs are
recorded as an expense and when the associated revenues are received (or refunds are made) and
booked.
Rate Case Plan
In December 2005, the CPUC issues the California Water Action Plan. The plan focuses on four
key principles, among other things, including safe, high quality water; highly reliable water
supplies;
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efficient use of water; and reasonable rates and viable utilities. In accordance with the Water
Action Plans objective to streamline regulatory decision-making the Commission issued
R.06-12-016 in December 2006, to address streamlining of its water rate case plan. The
Commission issued D.07-05-062 on May 24, 2007 adopting a new rate case plan. As a result, Cal
Water will be filing a company-wide general rate case every three years beginning in July 2009.
Rates would be effective approximately 18 months from the filing date or January 1, 2011 in the
first cycle. As an interim measure, the Commission will allow Cal Water to incorporate general
operations costs including company benefits in rates for all districts after a decision in its
2007 general rate case. In addition, for the sixteen districts that have a delayed effective
date, the Commission will authorize interim rates from the authorized effective date under the
old rate case plan. These interim rates will be subject to adjustment based on a final
determination in the 2009 general rate case filing.
Pending Filings as of June 30, 2007
Cal Water has pending its 2006 GRC filings covering eight districts. The Commission has
authorized interim rates and an effective date of July 1, 2007 for the general rate change.
This means that when the Commission issues a final rate determination, expected in the third
quarter of 2007, the rates will be made effective on July 1, 2007. Any over- or under-collected
rates between July 1, 2007 and the date of a final decision will be refunded or surcharged to
customers in the affected districts. The amount requested in the 2006 GRCs is approximately
$19.1 million in 2007/2008, $3.8 million in 2008/2009, and $3.8 million in 2009/2010. The
amounts granted may vary due to a variety of factors. Over the past few years, the amount
approved by the CPUC has been substantially less than the requested amount. The GRCs also
requested the CPUC to consider several modifications to CPUC rate-setting procedures. The GRCs
request a water revenue adjustment mechanism that would allow us to recover (refund) water
revenues when actual water sales are below (above) adopted water sales in the GRCs. This
proposal would decouple our revenues from conservation efforts and inaccurate weather forecasts,
putting in place a mechanism similar to that employed by Californias investor-owned electric
utilities. The GRCs also request a full-cost balancing account that would allow us to recover
changes in source of supply mix as well as price changes under current procedures. Finally, we
requested that the Commission adjust our authorized rate of return if modifications are not
adopted to change certain rate-setting procedures. We are unable to predict the timing and
final outcome of the filings at this time.
Additionally, Decision 06-08-011 directed Cal Water to file an application to implement
conservation rates and a sales decoupling mechanism. On October 23, 2006, Cal Water filed
Application 06-10-026 requesting a water revenue balancing account, a conservation memorandum
account, and conservation rates. This request was consolidated with applications filed by other
water companies in the Commissions Order Instituting Investigation 07-01-022. A decision is
expected during the third quarter of 2007.
2007 Regulatory Activity
Cal Water filed a general rate case application on July 3, 2007 for eight districts requesting
$44.4 million in July 2008, $16.1 million in July 2009, and $14.8 million in July 2010.
Included in the filing is a review of the companys general operations costs including company
benefits. At the conclusion of the proceeding, Cal Water would be allowed to increase rates in
its other 16 districts to incorporate their portion of the adopted general operations costs. As
filed, additional rate increases attributable to other districts would be $23.1 million in July
2008 and $5.9 million in July 2009. The
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amounts granted may vary due to a variety of factors. Over the past few years, the amount
approved by the CPUC has been substantially less than the requested amount.
In January 2007, Cal Water requested step rate increases for seven districts and was authorized
an increase of $1.8 million.
In April 2007, Cal Water requested an offset rate increase for increased purchased water and
pump tax costs in its Stockton District. Cal Water was authorized an increase of $1.7 million
in May 2007.
In May 2007, Cal Water requested a drought memorandum account to track lost revenue and
corresponding production cost changes in three districts that purchase water from the San
Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC). The SFPUC has requested 10% water conservation
in its suburban service areas in 2007 due to low rainfall in the winter of 2006-2007. The
requested memorandum account was granted in June 2007.
In May 2007, Cal Water requested step rate increases for fourteen districts and was authorized
an increase of $4.6 million on July 1, 2007.
In June 2007, Cal Water filed for interim rates for eight districts in the 2006 GRC for which a
decision was delayed. Cal Water was authorized an interim increase of $2.0 million in July
2007. These rates are subject to refund or adjustment based upon the final rates set in a
decision on the 2006 general rate case.
In December 2006, Cal Water filed six advice letters to offset purchased water and pump tax
increases of $3.4 million from wholesale suppliers effective January 1, 2007. These advice
letters were approved in January and February 2007.
In December 2006, Cal Water filed an application to allow it to recover additional funding
associated with its postretirement benefit other than pensions (PBOP) or retiree healthcare
plan. Currently, Cal Water funds and recognizes expenses associated with the plan on a
pay-as-you-go basis. The excess expense between pay-as-you-go and accrual during the employees
expected service period has been recognized as a regulatory asset. As of December 31, 2006, the
regulatory asset was approximately $9.8 million. In February 2007, the Division of Rate Payer
Advocates (DRA) filed its protest to our PBOP application. In their protest, the DRA requested
to dismiss the application with prejudice. The DRA further noted that prior to their protest,
the parties met several times to discuss our application. During the discussions it became
apparent to the DRA that negotiations would extend beyond the deadline for filing their protest.
The DRA further noted that subsequent to this filing, the parties will continue their
discussions to achieve a settlement that is reasonable, consistent with the law, and in the
public interest. Cal Water intends to increase its funding so the plan is funded during the
employees service period. Cal Water has established two Voluntary Employee Beneficiary
Associations (VEBAs) to allow for increased funding and a current period income tax deduction.
While the DRA has filed its protest, the ultimate outcome will be determined by the CPUC. Cal
Water believes that the CPUC will recognize in rates the recovery of the regulatory asset and
the additional funding of the plan. If the CPUC does not permit us to recover the full amount
of our regulatory asset, the regulatory asset, to the extent not allowed in recovery, will be
written off.
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LIQUIDITY
Cash flow from Operations
Cash flow from operations were $21.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2007. Cash flow
from operations is primarily generated by net income, non-cash expenses for depreciation and
amortization, and changes in our operating assets and liabilities. Cash generated by operations
varies during the year.
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 flow 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 flow 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, 2007, we had company-funded capital cash expenditures of
$39.4 million. For 2007, our capital budget is approximately $85 million.
Financing Activities
During the quarter ended June 30, 2007, there were no debt or equity offerings, as we had
adequate funds from the equity offering of 2006. Dividend payments were higher than the prior
year due to additional shares outstanding and a higher dividend rate in the current year.
Short-Term and Long-Term Debt
Short-term liquidity is provided by bank lines of credit and by internally generated funds.
Long-term financing is accomplished through the use of both debt and equity. There were no
short-term bank borrowings at June 30, 2007 and at December 31, 2006. Cash and cash equivalents
were $29.8 million at June 30, 2007, and $60.3 million at December 31, 2006.
Cal Water has a $55 million credit facility agreement that expires April 30, 2012. The
agreement requires debt as a percent of total capitalization to be less than 67%, and an
interest coverage ratio of at least 2.5:1.0. As of June 30, 2007, we have met all covenant
requirements and are eligible to use the full amount of the commitment. In addition to
borrowings, the credit facility allows for letters of credit up to $10 million, which reduces
the available amount to borrow when utilized. One letter of credit was outstanding at June 30,
2007, for $0.5 million related to an insurance policy. Interest is charged on a variable basis
and fees are charged for unused amounts.
A separate credit facility for $20 million also exists for use by us and our subsidiaries,
including Washington Water, New Mexico Water, and Hawaii Water. In addition to borrowings, the
credit facility allows for letters of credit up to $5 million, which would reduce the amount
available to
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borrow. No letters of credit were outstanding at June 30, 2007. Interest is charged on a
variable basis and fees are charged for unused amounts.
There were no significant additions to long-term debt in the six-month period ended June 30,
2007, and we made principal payments on our first mortgage bonds and other long-term debt
payments of $0.5 million during the six-month period ended June 30, 2007.
Long-term financing, which includes senior notes, other debt securities, and common stock, has
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 will be available to meet our cash flow needs through issuances in
both debt and equity markets.
In September 2004, the CPUC issued a decision granting Cal Water authority to complete up to
$250 million of equity and debt financing through 2010, subject to certain restrictions.
During 2006, we raised approximately $103 million of capital. Of this amount, $20 million was
raised through privately placed senior unsecured notes. The remaining approximately $83 million
was raised through the issuance of 2,250,000 shares of common stock. We anticipate that the
majority of our 2007 capital needs will be covered by the $103 million raised in 2006. In future
periods, management anticipates funding our capital needs through a relatively balanced approach
between long term debt and equity.
In September 2006, we filed a shelf registration statement with the SEC for up to $150 million
in preferred stock and common stock in addition to our prior shelf permitting up to $35.6
million in preferred stock and common stock. On October 12, 2006, we completed an underwritten
public offering of 2,250,000 shares of our common stock (including 250,000 shares pursuant to
the exercise, in part, by the underwriters of their over-allotment option) at a price per share
of $36.75 to the public, raising approximately $83 million in gross proceeds. For additional
information please reference our Form 8-K, dated October 12, 2006 on file with the SEC. After
issuance of these shares, we had approximately $101 million in remaining securities available
for future issuance under our shelf registration.
We do not utilize off-balance-sheet financing or utilize special purpose entity arrangements for
financing. We do not have equity ownership through joint ventures or partnership arrangements.
Credit Ratings
Cal Waters first mortgage bonds are rated by Moodys Investors Service (Moodys) and Standard &
Poors (S&P). Previously, the two major credit facility agreements contained covenants related
to these debt ratings. The current agreements do not contain such covenants. Since 2004, the
two credit rating agencies maintained their ratings of A2 for Moodys and A+ for S & P. Both
agencies characterized us as stable. In the past, the agencies have been concerned over the
rate-setting process and decisions by the CPUC. Also, concerns were raised about our present
level of capital
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expenditures, which will need to be partially financed through long-term borrowings or equity
offerings. Management believes we would be able to meet financing needs even if ratings were
downgraded, but a rating change could result in a higher interest rate on new debt.
Dividends, Book Value and Shareholders
The second quarter common stock dividend of $0.2900 per share was paid on May 18, 2007, compared
to a quarterly dividend in the second quarter of 2006 of $0.2875. This was Cal Waters
250th consecutive quarterly dividend. Annualized, the 2007 dividend rate is $1.16
per common share, compared to $1.15 in 2006. Based on the previous 12-month earnings per share
at June 30, 2007, the dividend payout ratio is 82%. For the full year 2006, the payout ratio
was 86% 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 25, 2007 meeting, the Board declared the third quarter dividend of $0.2900 per share
payable on August 17, 2007, to stockholders of record on August 6, 2007. This will be our
251st consecutive quarterly dividend.
2007 Financing Plan
Cal Water is currently reviewing its financing needs for 2007 and 2008. We may consider issuing
equity or long-term debt to meet our financing needs. 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 $18.18 at June 30, 2007 compared to $18.31 at December 31, 2006.
There are approximately 2,537 stockholders of record for our common stock, as of the record date
for our last shareholders meeting.
Utility Plant Expenditures
During the six months ended June 30, 2007, capital expenditures totaled $51.3 million; $39.4
million was from company-funded projects and $11.9 million was from third-party-funded projects.
The planned 2007 company-funded capital expenditure budget is approximately $85 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 is unable to estimate the amount of such projects for 2007.
At June 30, 2007, construction work in progress was $68.5 million compared to $35.7 million at
December 31, 2006. Work in progress includes projects that are under construction but not yet
complete and in service.
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WATER SUPPLY
Based on information from water management agencies and internally developed data, we believe
that our various sources of water supply are sufficient to meet customer demand for the
remainder of the year. Historically, about half of the water is purchased from wholesale
suppliers with the other half pumped from underground wells. A small portion is developed
through three local surface treatment plants.
CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS
During the six months ended June 30, 2007, 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 is 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 CPUCs 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 CPUCs actions have a significant impact on our business.
See Item 2, Managements 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 carried out an evaluation, under the supervision of and with the participation of our
management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, of the
effectiveness of the
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design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period
covered by this report, pursuant to Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
Based on their review of our disclosure controls and procedures, the principal executive officer
and principal financial officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are
functioning effectively to provide reasonable assurance that the information required to be
disclosed in periodic SEC filings is reported within the time periods specified by SEC rules and
regulations.
(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.
PART II OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
As previously reported, the Company was served with a complaint in Superior Court County of Los
Angeles Case No. BC360406 for personal injury, along with other defendants, due to exposure to
asbestos. The plaintiff claims to have worked for three of the Companys contractors on
pipeline projects for the period 1958-1999 including Palos Verdes Water Company, a water utility
acquired by us in 1970. The plaintiff alleges that the Company and other defendants are
responsible for his asbestos related injuries. On April 20, 2007, the Court sustained the
Companys demur without leave to amend all Plaintiffs claims alleging products liability and
intentional torts. The Court also sustained the Companys demur with leave to amend on
Plaintiffs claim for premise owner contractor liability, a negligence claim, alleging
misconduct that may allow for punitive damages (Premise/Owner Claim), and the Court severed the
Company from the accelerated trial with other named defendants. On July 3, 2007, the Court
sustained the Companys demur with leave to amend on the Plaintiffs third amended complaint
alleging the Premise/Owner Claim. Plaintiff has filed a fourth amended complaint restating the
Premise/Owner Claim. The Company still believes that the plaintiff has failed to allege a legal
claim against the Company, and the Company accordingly intends to file another demur and motions
to aggressively defend itself. The Companys insurance carrier has accepted the defense of the
claim, reserving certain rights along with one of the contractors insurance company. We do not
believe that the Company has any liability regarding this claim, but if the Company is found
liable, any liability would probably be paid by the insurance companies. Accordingly, the
Company has not recorded any liability associated with the claim.
On May 30, 2007, the Company was served with a complaint in Superior Court County of San
Francisco Case No. CGC-07-274213 for personal injury, along with other defendants, due to
exposure to asbestos. The plaintiffs, Companys contractor employee (Contractor Employee) and
his wife claim the Company and other defendants are responsible for Contractor Employees
asbestos related injuries alleged due to product liability and negligence while Contractor
Employee worked for an underground pipeline contractor. The complaint seeks unspecified general
and punitive damages.
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The Company believes that plaintiffs have failed to allege a legal claim against the
Company, and the Company has filed a demur and motions to aggressively defend itself. The
Company has tendered the claim to its insurance carrier and intends to tender the claim to any
contractor under contractual indemnification provision, once specifics of the claim are
determined. We do not believe that the Company has any liability regarding this claim, but if
the Company is found liable, any damages would probably be paid by insurance companies.
Accordingly, the Company has not recorded any liability associated with the claim.
From time to time, we are involved in various disputes and litigation matters that arise in the
ordinary course of business. Periodically, 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 or the range of loss can be estimated, we
accrue a liability for the estimated loss in accordance with SFAS No 5, Accounting for
Contingencies. Legal proceedings are subject to uncertainties, and the outcomes are difficult
to predict. Because of such uncertainties, accruals are based only on the best information
available at the time. As additional information becomes available, we reassess the potential
liability related to pending claims and litigation matters and may revise estimates.
While the outcome of these disputes and litigation matters cannot be predicted with any
certainty, management does not believe that the ultimate resolution of these matters will
materially affect our financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
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Item 6.
EXHIBITS
Exhibit | Description | |
10.16
|
$20,000,000 Business Loan Agreement between Bank of America and California Water Service Group, CWS Utility Services, Washington Water Service Company, New Mexico Water Service Company, and Hawaii Water Service Company, Inc. dated May 30, 2007 | |
10.17
|
$55,000,000 Business Loan Agreement between Bank of America and California Water Service Company dated May 30, 2007 | |
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 Section302 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 202 |
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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 7, 2007 |
||||||
By: | /s/ Martin A. Kropelnicki | |||||
Martin A. Kropelnicki | ||||||
Vice President, Chief Financial Officer | ||||||
and Treasurer |
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Exhibit Index
Exhibit | Description | |
10.16
|
$20,000,000 Business Loan Agreement between Bank of America and California Water Service Group, CWS Utility Services, Washington Water Service Company, New Mexico Water Service Company, and Hawaii Water Service Company, Inc. dated May 30, 2007 | |
10.17
|
$55,000,000 Business Loan Agreement between Bank of America and California Water Service Company dated May 30, 2007 | |
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 |
34