The city of Claremont is beginning the next step in potential acquisition of its water system.  

Mayor Larry Schroeder announced the decision after a closed session meeting between the city council and consultants hired to determine costs associated with the acquisition.

Up to $250,000 of general reserve funds was allocated to explore the possibility of purchasing the city’s water system. A utility consultant, appraiser and financial consultant were among the hiring expenditures. The utility consultant was present in the closed session meeting to discuss legalities involved with the possible acquisition.

“As a result of those discussions, the council has authorized the next step in the acquisition process,” Mr. Schroeder announced at Tuesday night’s city council meeting.

Claremont will give Golden State Water Company a formal notice of its decision to appraise as required by law. Then the wait continues. The estimated time to complete the appraisal will be 4 months, said Mr. Schroeder.

Claremont is expected to make an offer to Golden State Water in late October, according to a recent interview with Hal Hargrave of the grassroots group Claremonters Against Outrageous Water Rates.

—Beth Hartnett

news@claremont-courier.com