Claremont, Golden State Water Co. still to discuss memorandum
“For years, Donna Lowe watched the battle between her city and its water provider.
It wasn’t until earlier this year, when she heard about Claremont’s intent to take over the water system through eminent domain, that she decided to get involved.
“It’s good that the city is bringing attention to the water issue, and they brought the attention, but didn’t discuss what are some of those solutions,” Lowe said.
Lowe and other residents met with Golden State Water Co. representatives to discuss options other than a city takeover. The result of those meetings was a memorandum of understanding signed by a group of residents known as the Claremont Affordable Water Advocates and the water company.
The document, presented to the city this month, outlines 20 commitments.
It calls for the water company to drop its lawsuits against Claremont, require resident representation in the rate-making process, provide transparency and make efforts to lower water bills.
“The work of the memorandum of understanding was 100 percent community involvement,” said Lowe, who is a contract negotiator for a technology manufacturer based in San Francisco.”
Marquez, Liset. Daily Bulletin 29 JUne 2014.