February 24, 2011

California Public Utilities Commission
505 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94102

VIA Hand Delivery

RE: California American Water Company (U210W) Order Authorizing and imposing a Moratorium on Certain New or Expanded Water Service Connections in its Monterey District – Application 10-05-020

Dear Commissioners:

I am writing to you today to voice concern over California American Water Company’s moratorium request. If approved by the Commission, the moratorium has the potential to severely impact our local economic conditions and already challenged market place. Current residents, future homebuyers, local businesses and even public services we all appreciate, will suffer as a result of its adoption.

The State Water Resources Control Board Cease and Desist Order (CDO) has put an unfair burden on the residents and business of this area.  Punishing ratepayers stuck in the middle isn’t the solution and in fact, will only exacerbate the problem.

Our region is moving in a positive direction to relinquish dependence on the Carmel River. We’ve set the bar for water conservation efforts in the state and are currently well below the Cease and Desist Order’s prescribed water reduction levels.  With the Commission’s recent approval of the Regional Water Project, adequately addressing our long term water supply needs is finally within reach and in fact attainable within the next few years.

We ask that you stand with us, the ratepayers, and deny the moratorium request that is before you for consideration.

Thank you for your time and attention.