California Water Service Group - 10-Q quarterly report FY

 

(Mark One)

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

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 issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date. Common shares outstanding as of November 1, 2007 – 20,666,869.

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.

See Accompanying Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

See Accompanying Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

See Accompanying Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

See Accompanying Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE GROUP

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
September 30, 2007
(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

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 state’s 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.

The interim financial information is unaudited. The condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company’s 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 Company’s 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.

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 nine months ending September 30, 2007, and September 30, 2006, were $3,783 and $3,454, respectively.

In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (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 Company’s 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 Company’s financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

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 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 under the Long-Term Incentive Plan have an exercise price equal to the market price on the date they were granted, and are fully vested. No compensation expense was recorded for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2007 and 2006 related to stock options issued under the Long-Term Incentive Plan.

The table below reflects the stock options granted under the Long-Term Incentive Plan.

Pursuant to the 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 first nine months of 2007 and 2006, the Company granted Restricted Stock Awards (RSAs) of 10,170 and 9,467 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 the weighted average price of $38.20 and $38.65 per share, respectively, based upon the fair market value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. In the first nine months of 2007 and 2006, the Company granted Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) equivalent to 24,140 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 $10.41 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:

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.

The table below reflects SARs granted under the Equity Incentive Plan.

The Company has recorded compensation costs for the RSAs and SARs in Operating Expense, net of related tax effects, in the amount of $101 and $73 for the quarter ending September 30, 2007, and September 30, 2006, respectively, and $270 and $216 for the nine months ending September 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

The computations of basic and diluted earnings per share are noted below. RSAs are included in the weighted stock outstanding used to calculate basic and dilutive 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.

All options are dilutive and for 2007 all SARs are antidilutive. The dilutive effect is shown in the table below.

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.

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 $4,088 for the nine months ended September 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.

The Company adopted the provisions of 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 September 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. For the nine months ended September 30, 2007, there was no interest or penalties.

Tax years 2003 through 2006 and 2002 through 2006 are subject to examination by the federal and state taxing authorities, respectively. There is a federal tax examination currently in progress by the Internal Revenue Service for the 2005 fiscal year.

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 September 30, 2007, the Company and Cal Water were in compliance with the bank covenants contained in the loan agreements. As of September 30, 2007, there were no borrowings outstanding under the Company’s or Cal Water’s lines of credit.

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 employee’s 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.

Item 2

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
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 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:

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.

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.

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 customer’s last meter reading and the end of the accounting period. At September 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:

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 period’s 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 $2.3 million as of September 30, 2007, and $2.2 million as of December 31, 2006. This liability is included in “accrued expenses and other liabilities” on our accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.

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 September 30, 2007, was approximately $3.9 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.

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 September 30, 2007 and December 31, 2006.

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 management’s view, a valuation allowance was not required at September 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.

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 plan’s 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 SFAS No. 158 “Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Post Retirement Plans — An Amendment of FASB Statement Nos. 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.

Third quarter net income was $13.8 million equivalent to $0.67 per common share on a diluted basis, compared to net income of $12.6 million or $0.68 common per share on a diluted basis in the third quarter of 2006. The higher net income was primarily due to the increase in rates approved by the Commissions and we earned higher investment income due in part to the cash proceeds from the equity offering in the fall of 2006. The effect of the higher number of common shares outstanding reduced earnings per share by $0.08 on a diluted basis in the third quarter of 2007.

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 increased $6.1 million or 6% to $113.9 million in the third 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 third quarter of 2007 compared to 2006 are presented in the following table (amounts in thousands):

The components of the rate increases are listed in the following table (amounts in thousands):

Total operating expenses were $96.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2007, versus $91.7 million for the same period in 2006, a 5% 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 47% of total operating expenses. Water production expenses increased 2% compared to the same period last year. Proceeds from the leases of unused water rights during the quarter were deducted from purchased water expense. These leases reduced water costs by $1.4 million for the three months ending September 30, 2007 and $0.4 million in the same period last year.

Sources of water as a percent of total water production are listed in the following table:

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:

Purchased water costs increased primarily due to higher wholesale water prices. Total water production measured in acre feet decreased by 3.5% during the third quarter of 2007 as compared with the third quarter of 2006 due to lower customer usage late in the quarter.

Other operations expense increased 12% to $26.5 million. Payroll and benefits charged to operations increased 6%, including wage increases and an increase in the number of employees. At September 30, 2007, there were 878 employees and at September 30, 2006, there were 865 employees.

Maintenance expenses increased by 1.5% to $4.2 million in the third quarter of 2007. Depreciation and amortization expense increased $0.7 million, or 8.7%, because of 2006 capital additions.

Total federal and state income taxes remained at $8.9 million for the third quarter of 2006 and 2007. The effective tax rate was 39.3% in the current quarter and 41.2% for the same quarter last year. The current quarter reflected revisions to certain components of our expected 2007 tax provision. We expect the effective tax rate for the year to be between 40% and 41%.

Non-regulated income, net of related expenses, was $0.8 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2007, compared to $0.4 million in the same period last year, which is an increase of $0.4 million, driven primarily by an increase in investment income on short term cash and other investments.

Net interest expense increased $0.6 million to $4.5 million. This increase of interest expense was primarily due to lower deduction of capitalized interest expense as compared to the prior year.

Net income for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2007, was $23.1 million, or $1.11 per common share on a diluted basis, compared to net income of $19.2 million or $1.03 per share on a diluted basis, for the nine months ended September 30, 2006. These positive results were primarily due to increased water usage by our customers due to dryer weather during the first half of the year when compared with the prior year and an increase in rates approved by the Commissions. 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 impacted earnings per share by $0.14 on a dilutive basis during the nine months ended September 30, 2007.

Operating revenue increased $27.1 million, or 11%, to $281.2 million in the nine-month period ended September 30, 2007. As disclosed in the following table, the increase was due to 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 nine-month period ending September 30, 2007 compared to 2006 are presented in the following table (amounts in thousands):

The components of the net rate increases are listed in the following table (amounts in thousands):

Total operating expenses were $247.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2007, versus $223.4 million for the same period in 2006, an 11% 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 44% of total operating expenses. Water production expenses increased $12.5 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2007, or 13% compared to the same period last year.

Sources of water production as a percent of total water production are listed on the following table:

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:

Purchased water cost increased due to higher prices from wholesaler and higher usage by customers. Included in purchased water are proceeds from the lease of unused water rights. The amounts of the proceeds were $2.1 million and $1.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2007 and September 30, 2006, respectively. The increase in purchased power and pump taxes is primarily due to increased well production.

Other operations expenses were $75.4 million, increasing $4.5 million, or 6%, for the nine months ended September 30, 2007. Payroll and benefits charged to operations expense increased $2.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2007. Wages for union employees increased 4%, effective January 1, 2007. Overall payroll costs (expensed and capitalized) increased 8% for the nine months ended September 30, 2007, due to increases in the number of employees and higher wage rates. At September 30, 2007, there were 878 employees and at September 30, 2006, there were 865 employees. Outside services increased $0.5 million due to various initiatives.

Maintenance expense was up for the nine months ended September 30, 2007, increasing $2.5 million, or 22%. Depreciation and amortization expense increased $2.2 million, or 9%, because of 2006 capital additions.

Federal and state income taxes increased $1.9 million, or 14.2%, for the nine months ended September 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, net of income taxes, was $2.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2007, compared to $1.3 million for the first nine-months of 2006, primarily due to increased investment income.

Net interest expense increased $0.7 million to $13.4 million for the period ended September 30, 2007 compared to the nine-month period ended September 30, 2006.

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 utility’s rate setting requests, but may 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 1^st 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, but are expected to 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 fourth 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 June 30, 2007 and September 30, 2007, the amount in the balancing accounts was $3.8 million and $3.9 million, respectively.

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.

In December 2005, the CPUC issued the California 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. In accordance with the Water Action Plan’s 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.

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 fourth 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 California’s 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 Commission’s Order Instituting Investigation 07-01-022. As of September 30, 2007, this proceeding is still open and pending CPUC approval.

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 company’s 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 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 August 2007, Cal Water filed three advice letters to offset purchased water rate increases of $1.5 million from SFPUC. These advice letters were approved in September 2007.

In September 2007, Cal Water filed an advice letter to recover the difference between interim rates approved in D.06-08-014 and final rates approved in D.06-08-011 for the 2005 GRC. The recovery of $0.5 million is through a twelve-month temporary surcharge. This advice letter was approved in September 2007.

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 employee’s 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.

Cash flow from operations was $47.1 million for the nine months ended September 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.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2007, we had company-funded capital cash expenditures of $61.7 million. For 2007, our capital budget is approximately $85 million.

During the quarter ended September 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 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 September 30, 2007 and at December 31, 2006. Cash and cash equivalents were $26.5 million at September 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 September 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 September 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 borrow. No letters of credit were outstanding at September 30, 2007. Interest is charged on a variable basis and fees are charged for unused amounts.

There were additions to long-term debt of $0.2 million in the nine-month period ended September 30, 2007, and we made principal payments on our first mortgage bonds and other long-term debt payments of $0.9 million during the nine-month period ended September 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 in August, and the remaining approximately $83 million was raised through the issuance of 2,250,000 shares of common stock in October. 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.

Cal Water’s first mortgage bonds are rated by Moody’s Investors Service (Moody’s) and Standard & Poor’s (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 Moody’s 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 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.

The third quarter common stock dividend of $0.2900 per share was paid on August 17, 2007, compared to a quarterly dividend in the third quarter of 2006 of $0.2875. This was Cal Water’s 251^st 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 September 30, 2007, the dividend payout ratio is 81%. 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 October 24, 2007 meeting, the Board declared the fourth quarter dividend of $0.2900 per share payable on November 16, 2007, to stockholders of record on November 5, 2007. This will be our 252^nd consecutive, quarterly dividend.

Cal Water is currently reviewing its financing needs for 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 per common share was $18.56 at September 30, 2007 compared to $18.31 at December 31, 2006.

There are approximately 2,830 stockholders of record for our common stock as of November 1, 2007.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2007, capital expenditures totaled $79.6 million; $61.7 million was from company-funded projects and $17.9 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 are unable to estimate the amount of such projects for 2007.

At September 30, 2007, construction work in progress was $82.6 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. In the fall we anticipate the completion of a substantial portion of the work in progress.

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.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2007, there were no material changes in contractual obligations outside the normal course of business.

On October 21, 2007, we completed negotiations and signed a two year agreement with the Utility Workers Union of America, AFL-CIO, which represents 496 field and office employees. The agreement, which is subject to ratification by members of the union, included a wage increase of 3.1% effective January 1, 2008. Wage increases for 2009 will be negotiated separately in the fall of 2008.

Negotiations with the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers, AFL-CIO, which represents 45 engineering and water quality personnel, will be conducted in November 2007, with expected ratification in December 2007. The agreement is expected to include wage increases effect January 1, 2008.

In September 2007 our Washington subsidiary received Commission approval to acquire a water and waste water system which serves approximately 391 customers at the Rosario resort on Orcas Island. In October 2007 a purchase agreement was signed for the asset acquisition in the amount of $0.9 million. We will begin operating the system on November 5, 2007.

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 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

Item 1.

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

As previously disclosed, the Company and a number of co-defendants were served with a complaint in the Superior Court County of Los Angeles, Case No. BC360406, for personal injury allegedly caused by exposure to asbestos. The plaintiff claims to have worked for three of the Company’s contractors on pipeline projects during the period 1958-1999, including Palos Verdes Water Company, a water utility we acquired in 1970. The plaintiff alleges that the Company and other defendants are responsible for his asbestos-related injuries. On April 20, 2007, the Superior Court sustained the Company’s demurrer without leave to amend all Plaintiff’s claims alleging products liability and intentional torts. The Court also sustained the Company’s demurrer with leave to amend Plaintiff’s claim for premise owner contractor liability, a negligence claim, alleging misconduct that may allow for punitive damages (the “Premise/Owner Claim”) and severed the Company from the accelerated trial with other named defendants. On July 3, 2007, the Court sustained the Company’s demurrer with leave to amend the Plaintiff’s third amended complaint alleging the Premise/Owner Claim. Plaintiff filed a fourth amended complaint restating the Premise/Owner Claim. The Court overruled the Company’s demurrer on the Plaintiff’s fourth amended complaint, but the Court sustained the Company’s motion to strike punitive damages. Under the plaintiff’s remaining cause of action, the Company does not believe that a liability is probable, and the Company can not reasonably estimate any liability amount at this time. The Company used asbestos cement pipe and fittings, which were widely used in the water industry and permitted for such use by regulatory agencies, and the Company only hired qualified contractors to install the pipe and fittings in accordance with laws and regulations at the time. The Company intends to aggressively defend itself. The Company’s insurance carrier has accepted the defense of the claim, reserving certain rights along with one of the contractors’ insurance companies. If the Company is found liable any liability would most likely be paid by the Company’s or contractors’ insurers. Accordingly, the Company has not recorded any liability associated with the claim.

As previously disclosed, on May 30, 2007, the Company and a number of co-defendants were served with a complaint in the Superior Court County of San Francisco, Case No. CGC-07-274213, for personal injury allegedly caused by exposure to asbestos. The Plaintiff dismissed the Company from the complaint without prejudice prior to setting a trial date. The Company sustained no liability.

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.

Item 5.

OTHER INFORMATION

On October 24, 2007, the Board of Directors of California Water Service Group adopted an amendment to our Restated Bylaws amending the provision of the Restated Bylaws relating to annual meetings of stockholders. The Amendment provides that annual meetings of stockholders will be held at such time on such date as shall be designated from time to time by resolution of the Board of Directors, in accordance with applicable law. Prior to the adoption of the Amendment, the Restated Bylaws provided that annual meetings of stockholders were to be held during the month of April on such a date and time as designated by the Board. The Company will hold its 2008 Annual Meeting of Stockholders on May 27, 2008. The date of this meeting has been changed by more than 30 days from the anniversary of the Company’s 2007 Annual Meeting of Stockholders. Thus, any stockholder proposal submitted pursuant to Rule 14a-8 or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, for inclusion in the Company’s proxy statement for the 2008 Annual Meeting of Stockholders must be received by the Company at its principal executive offices no later than January 6, 2008.

Item 6.

EXHIBITS

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.

Exhibit Index