SJW CORP
DEF 14A, 2000-03-16
WATER SUPPLY
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<PAGE>   1




                                  UNITED STATES
                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                             WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

                            SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION

           PROXY STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 14(a) OF THE SECURITIES
                      EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 (AMENDMENT NO. 1)


Filed by the Registrant [X]

Filed by a Party other than the Registrant [ ]

Check the appropriate box:

[ ]  Preliminary Proxy Statement         [ ]   Confidential, For Use of the
                                               Commission Only (as permitted
                                               by Rule 14A-6(e)(2))

[X]  Definitive Proxy Statement

[ ]  Definitive Additional Materials

[ ]  Soliciting Material Pursuant to Section 240.14a-11(c) or Section 240.14a-12

                                    SJW CORP.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                (Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter)


- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    (Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the Registrant)

Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box):

[ ]  No fee required

[X]  Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(4) and 0-11.

     (1)  Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies:
          Common Stock, $3.125 par value
          ----------------------------------------------------------------------

     (2)  Aggregate number of securities to which transaction applies:
          3,045,147
          ----------------------------------------------------------------------

     (3)  Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed
          pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (Set forth the amount on which the
          filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined):
          $128.00
          ----------------------------------------------------------------------

     (4)  Proposed maximum aggregate value of transaction:
          $389,778,816.00
          ----------------------------------------------------------------------

     (5)  Total fee paid:
          $77,955.76
          ----------------------------------------------------------------------

[X]  Fee paid previously with preliminary materials.

[ ]  Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange Act Rule
     0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting fee was paid
     previously. Identify the previous filing by registration statement number,
     or the Form or Schedule and the date of its filing.

     (1)  Amount Previously Paid:

          ----------------------------------------------------------------------

     (2)  Form, Schedule or Registration Statement No.:

          ----------------------------------------------------------------------

     (3)  Filing Party:

          ----------------------------------------------------------------------

     (4)  Date Filed:

          ----------------------------------------------------------------------

Notes:



<PAGE>   2

                                   SJW CORP.

                                                                  MARCH 15, 2000

Dear Shareholder:

     You are cordially invited to attend the Annual Meeting of the Shareholders
(the "Annual Meeting") of SJW Corp. ("SJW"), which will be held on April 20,
2000 at 10:00 a.m. local time, at the offices of SJW, 374 West Santa Clara
Street, San Jose, California 95113.

     At the Annual Meeting, you will be asked to consider and vote upon the
following proposals:

     1. To consider and act upon a proposal to approve and adopt the Agreement
and Plan of Merger, dated as of October 28, 1999 (the "Merger Agreement"), among
American Water Works Company, Inc., a Delaware corporation ("American Water
Works"), and SJW Acquisition Corp., a wholly-owned subsidiary of American Water
Works ("Merger Sub"), and SJW. If the shareholders of SJW approve and adopt the
Merger Agreement, Merger Sub will be merged with and into SJW (the "Merger"),
with the outstanding shares of SJW common stock ("Common Stock") being converted
into the right to receive $128.00 per share in cash, without interest. As a
result of the Merger, SJW will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of American
Water Works. Shareholders of SJW will not become shareholders of American Water
Works following the Merger. Detailed information concerning the Merger is set
forth in the accompanying Proxy Statement and a copy of the Merger Agreement is
attached as Annex A to the Proxy Statement, both of which you are urged to read
carefully.

     2. To elect nine directors for the Board of Directors to serve until the
next annual meeting of the shareholders and until their successors are chosen.

     3. To consider and act upon a proposal to ratify the selection of KPMG LLP
as independent auditors of SJW for calendar year 2000.

     4. To act upon the shareholder proposal set forth in the enclosed Proxy
Statement.

     5. To transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting
and any postponements or adjournments thereof.

     Approval and adoption of the Merger Agreement requires the affirmative vote
of a majority of the outstanding shares of Common Stock held by shareholders of
record at the close of business on March 13, 2000 (the "Record Date").

     Holders of Common Stock will be entitled to dissenters' rights under
California law in connection with the Merger as described in the accompanying
Proxy Statement.

     Your Board of Directors, after careful consideration, has unanimously
approved the Merger Agreement and determined that the Merger is advisable, fair
to, and in the best interests of SJW and its shareholders, and recommends that
you vote "FOR" adoption of the Merger Agreement and the transactions
contemplated thereby.

     IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOUR SHARES BE REPRESENTED AT THE ANNUAL MEETING,
WHETHER OR NOT YOU PLAN TO ATTEND PERSONALLY. THEREFORE, YOU SHOULD COMPLETE AND
SIGN THE ENCLOSED PROXY CARD AND RETURN IT AS SOON AS POSSIBLE IN THE ENCLOSED
POSTAGE-PAID ENVELOPE. THIS WILL ENSURE THAT YOUR SHARES ARE REPRESENTED AT THE
ANNUAL MEETING.

                                          Very truly yours,

                                          W. Richard Roth
                                          President and Chief Executive Officer
<PAGE>   3

                                   SJW CORP.
                            ------------------------

             NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS TO BE HELD ON
                                 APRIL 20, 2000
                            ------------------------

To the Shareholders of SJW Corp.:

     The Annual Meeting of the Shareholders (including any adjournments or
postponements thereof, the "Annual Meeting") of SJW Corp. ("SJW") will be held
at the offices of SJW located at 374 West Santa Clara Street, San Jose,
California 95113, on Thursday, April 20, 2000, at 10:00 a.m. local time for the
following purposes:

          1. To consider and act upon a proposal to approve and adopt the
     Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of October 28, 1999 (the "Merger
     Agreement"), among American Water Works Company, Inc., a Delaware
     Corporation ("American Water Works"), and SJW Acquisition Corp., a Delaware
     corporation and a wholly-owned subsidiary of American Water Works ("Merger
     Sub"), and SJW. The Merger Agreement provides, among other things, for the
     merger of Merger Sub with and into SJW (the "Merger") pursuant to which
     each share of SJW's common stock, $3.125 par value ("Common Stock"), issued
     and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the Merger
     (other than shares of Common Stock for which dissenters' rights are
     perfected) will be converted into the right to receive $128.00 per share in
     cash, without interest. As a result of the Merger, SJW will become a
     wholly-owned subsidiary of American Water Works. Shareholders of SJW will
     not become shareholders of American Water Works following the Merger.
     Detailed information concerning the Merger is set forth in the accompanying
     Proxy Statement and a copy of the Merger Agreement is attached as Annex A
     to the Proxy Statement, both of which you are urged to read carefully.

          2. To elect nine directors for the Board of Directors to serve until
     the next annual meeting of the shareholders and until their successors are
     chosen.

          3. To consider and act upon a proposal to ratify the selection of KPMG
     LLP as independent auditors of SJW for calendar year 2000.

          4. To act on the shareholder proposal set forth in the enclosed proxy
     statement.

          5. To transact such other business as may properly come before the
     meeting and any postponements or adjournments thereof.

     Only holders of record of shares of Common Stock at the close of business
on March 13, 2000 (the "Record Date") are entitled to notice of and to vote at
the Annual Meeting. A complete list of shareholders entitled to vote at the
Annual Meeting will be available for examination, for proper purposes, during
ordinary business hours at SJW's corporate offices, 374 West Santa Clara Street,
San Jose, California 95113, during the 10 days prior to the Annual Meeting.
Adoption and approval of the Merger Agreement requires the affirmative vote of a
majority of the outstanding shares of Common Stock held by shareholders of
record on the Record Date.

     In connection with the proposed Merger, dissenters' rights will be
available to those shareholders of SJW who vote against adoption of the Merger
Agreement and who otherwise meet and comply with the applicable requirements of
Section 1301 of the California General Corporation Law (the "CGCL"), a copy of
which is included as Annex C to this Proxy Statement. Reference is made to the
section entitled "Dissenters' Rights" in this Proxy Statement for a discussion
of the procedures to be followed in asserting appraisal rights under Section
1301 of the CGCL in connection with the proposed Merger.
<PAGE>   4

     YOUR VOTE IS VERY IMPORTANT REGARDLESS OF HOW MANY SHARES OF COMMON STOCK
YOU OWN. REGARDLESS OF WHETHER YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THE ANNUAL MEETING, YOU ARE
REQUESTED TO SIGN, DATE AND RETURN THE ENCLOSED PROXY PROMPTLY IN THE ENCLOSED
POSTAGE-PAID ENVELOPE. YOU MAY REVOKE YOUR PROXY AT ANY TIME PRIOR TO ITS
EXERCISE. IF YOU ARE PRESENT AT THE ANNUAL MEETING OR ANY ADJOURNMENTS OR
POSTPONEMENTS THEREOF, YOU MAY REVOKE YOUR PROXY AND VOTE PERSONALLY ON THE
MATTERS PROPERLY BROUGHT BEFORE THE ANNUAL MEETING.

                                          BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

                                          Robert A. Loehr
                                          Secretary
                                          March 15, 2000

     PLEASE SIGN AND DATE THE ENCLOSED PROXY AND RETURN IT PROMPTLY IN THE
ENCLOSED POSTAGE-PAID ENVELOPE.

     SHAREHOLDERS SHOULD NOT SEND STOCK CERTIFICATES WITH THEIR PROXY CARDS.
STOCK CERTIFICATES SHOULD BE RETAINED UNTIL LETTERS OF TRANSMITTAL ARE RECEIVED
AFTER THE EFFECTIVE TIME OF THE MERGER. See "APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE MERGER
AGREEMENT -- Procedures for Surrender of Certificates of Common Stock."
<PAGE>   5

                                   SJW CORP.
                            ------------------------
                                PROXY STATEMENT
                         ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
                                 APRIL 20, 2000
                            ------------------------

     This Proxy Statement is being furnished to the holders of the common stock,
$3.125 par value ("Common Stock"), of SJW Corp., a California corporation
("SJW"), in connection with the solicitation of proxies by the Board of
Directors of SJW to be used at the Annual Meeting of SJW's shareholders to be
held at 374 West Santa Clara Street, San Jose, California 95113, on April 20,
2000 at 10:00 a.m. local time and any adjournments or postponements thereof (the
"Annual Meeting").

     At the Annual Meeting, the holders of shares of Common Stock will be asked
to consider and vote upon the following proposals:

     (i) To approve and adopt the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of
October 28, 1999 ("Merger Agreement"), among American Water Works Company, Inc.,
a Delaware corporation ("American Water Works"), SJW Acquisition Corp., a
Delaware corporation and a wholly-owned subsidiary of American Water Works
("Merger Sub"), and SJW. The Merger Agreement provides for the merger of Merger
Sub with and into SJW (the "Merger"). As a result of the Merger, SJW will become
a wholly-owned subsidiary of American Water Works;

     (ii) To elect nine directors for the Board of Directors to serve until the
next annual meeting of the shareholders and until their successors are chosen;

     (iii) To consider and act upon a proposal to ratify the selection of KPMG
LLP as independent auditors of SJW for calendar year 2000;

     (iv) To act on the shareholder proposal set forth in this Proxy Statement;
and

     (v) To transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting
and any postponements or adjournments thereof.

     Subject to the terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement, in the Merger
each issued and outstanding share of Common Stock (other than Dissenting Shares
(as defined herein)) will automatically be canceled and cease to exist and will
be converted into the right to receive a per share amount equal to $128.00 per
share in cash, without interest (the "Merger Consideration"). Upon the
consummation of the Merger, shareholders of SJW will have no further interest in
the surviving corporation. See "THE APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE MERGER
AGREEMENT -- Description of the Merger" and "-- THE MERGER AGREEMENT -- The
Merger." A copy of the Merger Agreement is attached to this Proxy Statement as
Annex A.

     In connection with the proposed Merger, dissenters' rights will be
available to those shareholders of SJW who vote against adoption of the Merger
Agreement and who otherwise meet and comply with the requirements of Section
1301 of the California General Corporation Law (the "CGCL"), a copy of which is
included as Annex C to this Proxy Statement. Reference is made to the section
entitled "Dissenters' Rights" in this Proxy Statement for a discussion of the
procedures to be followed in asserting dissenters' rights under Section 1301 of
the CGCL in connection with the proposed Merger.

     SJW'S BOARD OF DIRECTORS, AFTER CAREFUL CONSIDERATION, HAS UNANIMOUSLY
APPROVED THE MERGER AGREEMENT, HAS DETERMINED THAT THE MERGER IS ADVISABLE, FAIR
TO, AND IN THE BEST INTERESTS OF SJW AND ITS SHAREHOLDERS, AND RECOMMENDS THAT
THE SHAREHOLDERS VOTE "FOR" APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT AT THE
ANNUAL MEETING.

     The close of business on March 13, 2000 (the "Record Date") has been fixed
as the record date for determining the holders of SJW's Common Stock who are
entitled to notice of and to vote at the Annual Meeting. As of March 7, 2000,
there were 3,045,147 shares of Common Stock outstanding and entitled to vote.

                                        i
<PAGE>   6

This Proxy Statement is dated March 15, 2000 and, together with a copy of SJW's
1999 Annual Report, is first being mailed to registered holders of Common Stock
on or about March 15, 2000.

                                       ii
<PAGE>   7

                               TABLE OF CONTENTS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                PAGE
                                                                ----
<S>                                                             <C>
AVAILABLE INFORMATION.......................................      v
SUMMARY.....................................................      1
  SJW Corp..................................................      1
  American Water Works Company, Inc.........................      1
  The Annual Meeting........................................      2
  The Merger................................................      3
  The Merger Agreement......................................      5
THE ANNUAL MEETING..........................................      6
  Date, Time and Place......................................      6
  Purpose of the Annual Meeting.............................      6
  Voting Rights.............................................      6
  Vote Required.............................................      7
  Recommendation of the Board of Directors..................      7
  Voting and Revocation of Proxies..........................      7
  Dissenters' Rights........................................      8
  Solicitation of Proxies...................................      8
APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT...............      9
  Background................................................      9
  Reasons for the Merger....................................     11
  Description of the Merger.................................     12
  Opinion of SJW's Financial Advisor........................     12
  Regulatory Approvals......................................     17
  Federal Income Tax Consequences...........................     18
  Accounting Treatment......................................     18
  Merger Consideration......................................     19
  Closing and Effective Time of Merger......................     19
  Procedures for Surrender of Certificates of Common
     Stock..................................................     19
  Interests of Certain Persons in the Merger................     19
THE MERGER AGREEMENT........................................     22
  The Merger................................................     22
  Representations and Warranties............................     22
  Certain Pre-Closing Covenants.............................     22
  No Solicitation of Transactions...........................     25
  Employee Benefit Plans....................................     26
  Access to Information.....................................     27
  Cooperation and Reasonable Best Efforts...................     27
  Indemnification and Insurance.............................     28
  Conditions to the Consummation of the Merger..............     28
  Termination...............................................     28
  Expenses and Certain Required Payments....................     29
  Amendment and Waiver......................................     30
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA.....................................     31
PRICE OF SJW COMMON STOCK; DIVIDENDS........................     31
SJW.........................................................     32
  General...................................................     32
  Water Supply..............................................     32
</TABLE>

                                       iii
<PAGE>   8

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                PAGE
                                                                ----
<S>                                                             <C>
  Regulation and Rates......................................     32
  Franchises................................................     33
  Seasonal Factors..........................................     33
  Competition and Condemnation..............................     33
  Environmental Matters.....................................     33
  Employees.................................................     33
  Properties................................................     34
AMERICAN WATER WORKS COMPANY, INC...........................     34
DISSENTERS' RIGHTS..........................................     34
ELECTION OF DIRECTORS.......................................     36
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND
  MANAGEMENT................................................     37
COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER
  PARTICIPATION.............................................     39
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION......................................     39
PENSION PLAN TABLE..........................................     40
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT.....................     40
PERFORMANCE GRAPH...........................................     42
RATIFICATION OF APPROVAL OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS............     42
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSAL........................................     43
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS..............     45
SECTION 16(a) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP COMPLIANCE...............     45
INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN DOCUMENTS BY REFERENCE.............     46
REPRESENTATIVES OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS...........     46
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS.......................................     46
OTHER MATTERS...............................................     46
</TABLE>

<TABLE>
<S>      <C>
ANNEX A  Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of October 28, 1999
ANNEX B  Opinion of Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated dated as of
         October 28, 1999
ANNEX C  Section 1301 of the CGCL Relating to Dissenters' Rights
</TABLE>

                                       iv
<PAGE>   9

                             AVAILABLE INFORMATION

     SJW is subject to the informational requirements of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), and in accordance therewith files
reports, proxy statements and other information with the Securities and Exchange
Commission (the "Commission"). Such reports, proxy statements and other
information filed by SJW with the Commission can be inspected and copied at the
public reference facilities maintained by the Commission at Room 1024, Judiciary
Plaza, 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549-1004 and at the following
regional offices of the SEC: New York Regional Office, 7 World Trade Center,
Suite 1300, New York, New York 10048 and Chicago Regional Office, 500 West
Madison Street, Suite 1400, Chicago, Illinois 60661. Copies of such information
can also be obtained by mail from the Public Reference Section of the Commission
at 450 Fifth Street, N.W. Judiciary Plaza, 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20549-1004, at prescribed rates. The Commission maintains a web site
(http://www.sec.gov) that contains reports, proxy statements and other
information regarding registrants, such as SJW, that file electronically with
the Commission. This material may also be inspected at the offices of American
Stock Exchange (the "AMEX") at 86 Trinity Place, Floor 8, New York, New York.

     No person is authorized to give any information or to make any
representations, other than as contained in this Proxy Statement, in connection
with the Merger, and, if given or made, such information or representations must
not be relied on as having been authorized by SJW. The delivery of this Proxy
Statement shall not, under any circumstances, create an implication that there
has been no change in the affairs of SJW or the information set forth herein
since the date of this Proxy Statement.

                                        v
<PAGE>   10

                                    SUMMARY

     The following is a summary of certain information contained elsewhere in
this Proxy Statement qualified in its entirety by reference to the more detailed
information contained elsewhere in this Proxy Statement, including the Annexes
hereto and the documents incorporated by reference herein. A copy of the Merger
Agreement is set forth as Annex A to this Proxy Statement, and reference is made
thereto for a complete description of the Merger. Shareholders are urged to read
carefully the entire Proxy Statement, including the Annexes. As used in this
Proxy Statement, the terms "SJW," "American Water Works" and "Merger Sub" refer
to such corporations, respectively, and where the context requires, such
corporations and their respective subsidiaries.

SJW CORP.

     SJW Corp. was incorporated in California on February 8, 1985. SJW is a
holding company with two wholly-owned subsidiaries, San Jose Water Company and
SJW Land Company.

     San Jose Water Company was originally incorporated under the laws of the
State of California in 1866. The company was later reorganized and
reincorporated as the San Jose Water Works. San Jose Water Works was
reincorporated in 1985 as San Jose Water Company, with SJW Corp. as the parent
holding company. The headquarters of SJW and its subsidiaries is at 374 West
Santa Clara Street, San Jose, California 95113 and their telephone number is
(408) 279-7800.

     SJW Land Company was incorporated in October, 1985.

     San Jose Water Company is a public utility in the business of providing
water service to a population of approximately 979,000 in an area comprising
about 138 square miles in the metropolitan San Jose area.

     The principal business of San Jose Water Company consists of the
production, purchase, storage, purification, distribution and retail sale of
water. San Jose Water Company provides water service to customers in portions of
the cities of Cupertino and San Jose and in the cities of Campbell, Monte
Sereno, Saratoga and the Town of Los Gatos, and adjacent unincorporated
territory, all in the County of Santa Clara in the State of California. It
distributes water to customers in accordance with accepted water utility
methods, which include pumping from storage and gravity feed from high elevation
reservoirs.

AMERICAN WATER WORKS COMPANY, INC.

     American Water Works, a Delaware corporation, is the largest investor-owned
and most geographically diverse water utility business in the United States. The
company, through its 26 utility subsidiaries, is primarily engaged in the
collection, treatment, distribution and sale of water. As of December 31, 1998,
American Water Works' total water system production capacity was approximately
1.4 billion gallons a day. The company currently serves more than 900
communities with a total population of approximately 10 million in 23 states
from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Kentucky and Tennessee in the East and Southeast
to Indiana, Missouri, California and New Mexico in the Midwest and West.

     In fiscal year 1999, American Water Works had consolidated operating
revenues of $1,260,857,000, and net income to common stock of $134,965,000.
American Water Works has experienced 5-year compound annual growth rates of 10%
in dividends per common share, 4% in earnings per common share, 9% in book value
per common share and 6% in consolidated operating revenues.

     Merger Sub, a Delaware corporation, and a wholly-owned subsidiary of
American Water Works, was organized in connection with the merger and has not
engaged in any business activities other than those related to the merger. The
executive offices of American Water Works and Merger Sub are located at 1025
Laurel Oak Road, Voorhees, New Jersey 08043 and their telephone number is (856)
346-8200.

                                        1
<PAGE>   11

THE ANNUAL MEETING

     Date, Time and Place.  The Annual Meeting of the Shareholders of SJW will
be held at 374 West Santa Clara Street, San Jose, California 95113 on April 20,
2000 commencing at 10:00 a.m. local time.

     Purpose of the Annual Meeting.  The purpose of the Annual Meeting is to
consider and vote on proposals to (i) approve and adopt the Merger Agreement,
pursuant to which, among other things, Merger Sub will be merged with and into
SJW, SJW will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of American Water Works and the
shareholders of SJW will receive the consideration described in this Proxy
Statement; (ii) elect nine directors for the Board of Directors to serve until
the next annual meeting of the shareholders and until their successors are
chosen; (iii) ratify the selection of KPMG LLP as independent auditors of SJW
for calendar year 2000; (iv) act on the shareholder proposal set forth in the
enclosed proxy statement; and (v) transact such other business as may properly
come before the meeting and any postponements or adjournments thereof.

     Voting Rights.  The Board of Directors has fixed the close of business on
March 13, 2000 as the record date (the "Record Date") for the determination of
SJW's shareholders entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the Annual Meeting. As
of March 7, 2000, SJW had 3,045,147 shares of Common Stock outstanding. Holders
of shares of Common Stock are entitled to one vote for each share of Common
Stock held of record at the close of business on the Record Date. See "THE
ANNUAL MEETING -- Voting Rights."

     Vote Required.  The adoption of the Merger Agreement will require the
affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the shares of Common Stock
issued and outstanding as of the Record Date. The election of the Board of
Director's nominees will require a plurality of the votes present in person
pursuant to cumulative voting or by the affirmative vote of a majority of the
shares present in person or represented by proxy without cumulative voting. The
ratification of the approval of independent auditors will require the
affirmative vote of a majority of the shares present in person or represented by
proxy at the annual meeting and entitled to vote. The approval of the
shareholder proposal will require the affirmative vote of a majority of the
shares present in person or represented by proxy at the annual meeting and
entitled to vote. See "THE ANNUAL MEETING -- Vote Required," "APPROVAL AND
ADOPTION OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT -- Interests of Certain Persons in the Merger,"
"ELECTION OF DIRECTORS," "RATIFICATION OF APPROVAL OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS," and
"SHAREHOLDER PROPOSAL."

     THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT THE SHAREHOLDERS VOTE
"FOR" APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT; "FOR" THE ELECTION OF THE
NINE CURRENT DIRECTORS WHO ARE NOMINATED FOR REELECTION; "FOR" RATIFICATION OF
THE APPROVAL OF KPMG LLP AS INDEPENDENT AUDITORS; AND "AGAINST" APPROVAL OF THE
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSAL.

     Dissenters' Rights.  Each SJW shareholder may demand appraisal of his or
her shares as provided in Section 1301 of the California General Corporation Law
("CGCL"). In order to exercise dissenters' rights, (i) the shareholder must
deliver to SJW, prior to the vote being taken on the Merger at the Special
Meeting, written notice of his or her intent to demand appraisal of his or her
shares of Common Stock if the Merger is effected and (ii) the shareholder must
vote against adoption of the Merger Agreement. See "THE ANNUAL
MEETING -- Dissenters' Rights," "DISSENTERS' RIGHTS" and Annex C.

     Voting of Proxies.  All shares of Common Stock represented by a properly
executed proxy received in time for the Annual Meeting will be voted in the
manner specified in the proxy. Proxies that do not contain any instruction to
vote for or against or to abstain from voting on a particular matter will be
voted in accordance with the recommendation of the Board of Directors. See "THE
ANNUAL MEETING -- Voting and Revocation of Proxies."

     It is not expected that any matter other than that referred to herein will
be brought before the shareholders at the Annual Meeting. If, however, other
matters are properly presented, the persons named as proxies will vote in
accordance with their best judgment with respect to such matters.

                                        2
<PAGE>   12

     Adjournments; Revocability of Proxies.  If the Annual Meeting is adjourned,
for whatever reason, the approval of the Merger proposal shall be considered and
voted upon by shareholders at the subsequent, reconvened meeting, if any.

     You may revoke your proxy at any time prior to its exercise (i) by
attending the Annual Meeting and voting in person (although attendance at the
Annual Meeting will not in and of itself constitute revocation of a proxy), (ii)
by giving notice of revocation of your proxy at the Annual Meeting or (iii) by
delivering (a) a written notice of revocation of your proxy or (b) a duly
executed proxy relating to the matter to be considered at the Annual Meeting,
bearing a date later than the proxy previously executed, to the Secretary of
SJW, 374 West Santa Clara Street, San Jose, California 95113. Unless revoked in
one of the manners set forth above, proxies in the form enclosed will be voted
at the Annual Meeting in accordance with your instructions.

     Solicitation of Proxies.  The cost of soliciting proxies will be borne by
SJW. Arrangements will be made to furnish copies of proxy materials to
fiduciaries, custodians and brokerage houses for forwarding to beneficial owners
of Common Stock. Such persons will be paid reasonable out-of-pocket expenses.
See "THE ANNUAL MEETING -- Solicitation of Proxies."

     HOLDERS OF COMMON STOCK SHOULD NOT SEND STOCK CERTIFICATES WITH THEIR PROXY
CARDS.

THE MERGER

     Effect of the Merger.  At the effective time of the Merger (the "Effective
Time"), Merger Sub will be merged with and into SJW and SJW will continue as the
surviving corporation in the Merger. Subject to the terms and conditions of the
Merger Agreement, in the Merger each issued and outstanding share of Common
Stock (other than Dissenting Shares (as defined herein)) will automatically be
canceled and cease to exist and will be converted into the right to receive the
Merger Consideration of $128.00 per share in cash, without interest. As a result
of the Merger, SJW will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of American Water
Works.

     Recommendation of the Board of Directors.  The Board of Directors has
approved the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby,
determined that the Merger is advisable, fair to, and in the best interests of
SJW and its shareholders, and recommends that the shareholders of SJW vote "FOR"
the adoption of the Merger Agreement. For a discussion of the factors considered
by the Board of Directors in reaching its decision, see "APPROVAL AND ADOPTION
OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT -- Background" and "-- Reasons for the Merger."

     Opinion of SJW's Financial Adviser.  Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated
("Morgan Stanley"), SJW's financial advisor, has delivered a written opinion,
dated October 28, 1999, to SJW's Board of Directors to the effect that, as of
the date of such opinion and based upon and subject to certain matters stated
therein, the Merger Consideration to be received by the holders of the Common
Stock pursuant to the Merger Agreement was fair, from a financial point of view,
to such holders. The full text of the written opinion of Morgan Stanley, which
sets forth the assumptions made, matters considered and review undertaken, is
attached as Annex B to this Proxy Statement and should be read carefully and in
its entirety. See "APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT -- Opinion of
SJW's Financial Advisor."

     Regulatory Approvals.  Under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements
Act of 1976, as amended (the "HSR Act"), and the rules promulgated thereunder by
the Federal Trade Commission (the "FTC"), the Merger may not be consummated
until notifications have been given and certain information has been furnished
to the FTC and the Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice (the
"Antitrust Division") and the applicable waiting period has expired or been
terminated. On December 16, 1999, SJW and American Water Works filed
Notification and Report Forms under the HSR Act with the FTC and the Department
of Justice's Antitrust Division. See "APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE MERGER
AGREEMENT -- Regulatory Approvals."

     SJW's wholly-owned utility subsidiary, San Jose Water Company, is regulated
by the California Public Utilities Commission (the "CPUC"). Under applicable
state laws, the Merger may not be consummated until the CPUC has approved the
Merger. SJW and American Water Works expect to file a joint application for

                                        3
<PAGE>   13

approval of the Merger with the CPUC in March 2000. See "APPROVAL AND ADOPTION
OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT -- Regulatory Approvals."

     Federal Income Tax Consequences.  The receipt of the Merger Consideration
by SJW shareholders upon cancellation of shares of Common Stock pursuant to the
Merger will be taxable transactions for U.S. federal income tax purposes under
the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), and may also be
taxable transactions under applicable state, local, foreign and other tax laws.
SHAREHOLDERS ARE URGED TO CONSULT THEIR OWN TAX ADVISERS TO DETERMINE THE
PARTICULAR TAX CONSEQUENCES TO THEM (INCLUDING THE APPLICATION AND EFFECT OF ANY
STATE, LOCAL OR FOREIGN INCOME OR OTHER TAX LAWS) RESULTING FROM THE MERGER. See
"APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT -- Federal Income Tax
Consequences."

     Interests of Certain Persons in the Merger.  Certain directors and
executive officers of SJW have interests, described herein, that may present
them with potential conflicts of interest in connection with the Merger. The
Board of Directors is aware of the conflicts described below and considered them
in addition to the other matters described under "APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE
MERGER AGREEMENT -- Reasons for the Merger."

     Shares of Common Stock held by officers and directors of SJW will be
converted into the right to receive the same consideration as shares of Common
Stock held by other shareholders. The President and Chief Executive Officer and
directors of SJW, the owners as a group of approximately 1,040,704 shares of
Common Stock, have indicated that they intend to vote in favor of the proposal
to adopt the Merger Agreement. Two directors of SJW, Roscoe Moss and George
Moss, entered into a voting agreement that requires them to vote all shares of
Common Stock held or controlled by them in favor of the Merger Agreement. See
"APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT -- Interests of Certain Persons
in The Merger" and "SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND
MANAGEMENT."

     Under the SJW Corp. Transaction Incentive and Retention Program for Key
Employees (the "Transaction Incentive and Retention Program"), all of the
executive officers of SJW are eligible for retention bonus awards and certain
executive officers are eligible for incentive bonus awards.

     Under the Transaction Incentive and Retention Program, each officer
eligible for a retention bonus award and incentive bonus award, as applicable,
who either (i) continues as an employee through the later of (a) 12 months
following the execution date of the definitive acquisition agreement or (b) the
closing of the acquisition following the requisite approval of the acquisition
by the CPUC (the "Bonus Payment Date"), (ii) terminates his or her employment
for "Good Reason" (as defined in the Transaction Incentive and Retention
Program) following the closing of the acquisition and before the Bonus Payment
Date or (iii) is terminated by reason of an "Involuntary Termination" (as
defined in the Transaction Incentive and Retention Program) before the Bonus
Payment Date shall receive a retention bonus award and incentive bonus award, as
applicable. The retention bonus awards and incentive bonus awards shall be
payable on the Bonus Payment Date. See "APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE MERGER
AGREEMENT -- Interests of Certain Persons."

     Under the Merger Agreement, approval or consummation of the Merger will
constitute a "Change in Control" for purposes of the SJW employee benefits
plans. As a result, the benefits provided in such employee benefits plans for
officers of SJW will be affected. See "THE MERGER -- Interests of Certain
Persons" and "THE MERGER AGREEMENT -- Employee Benefit Plans."

     Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, SJW and American Water Works have agreed
for six years after the Effective Time to indemnify all present directors,
officers and employees of SJW and its subsidiaries and SJW will, subject to
certain limitations, maintain for six years current policies of directors' and
officers' liability insurance and fiduciary liability insurance or substitute
policies containing terms and conditions which are, in the aggregate, no less
advantageous with respect to claims arising from facts or events occurring at or
prior to the Effective Time. See "APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE MERGER
AGREEMENT -- Interests of Certain Persons in the Merger" and "THE MERGER
AGREEMENT -- Indemnification and Insurance."

                                        4
<PAGE>   14

THE MERGER AGREEMENT

     Closing and Effective Time.  Subject to the conditions set forth in the
Merger Agreement, Merger Sub will be merged with and into SJW at the Effective
Time. The Closing will take place as soon as practicable, but in any event not
later than the third business day, after the satisfaction or waiver of the
conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement, unless another date is agreed to
by the parties. If the Effective Time does not occur on or before October 28,
2000 (or, under certain circumstances, April 28, 2001), the Merger Agreement is
subject to termination by either party, subject to certain exceptions. See "THE
MERGER AGREEMENT -- Closing and Effective Time of the Merger."

     Representations and Warranties.  The Merger Agreement contains customary
representations and warranties by each of the parties. See "THE MERGER
AGREEMENT -- Representations and Warranties."

     Preclosing Covenants.  SJW has agreed that prior to Closing, it will carry
on its businesses in the usual, regular and ordinary course, in substantially
the same manner as previously conducted, and that it will limit the sale of
certain assets, continue current accounting and tax practices and refrain from
entering into certain specified transactions out of the ordinary course of
business without the consent of American Water Works. See "THE MERGER
AGREEMENT -- Certain Pre-Closing Covenants."

     Conditions to Closing.  The obligations of SJW, American Water Works and
Merger Sub to consummate the Merger are subject to various conditions,
including, without limitation, obtaining requisite SJW shareholder approval,
obtaining the required regulatory approvals, the absence of any injunction or
other legal restraint or prohibition preventing the consummation of the Merger,
the validity of representations concerning the corporate structure, capital
structure, corporate authority, board and shareholder approval and financial
advisor's fees. See "THE MERGER AGREEMENT -- Conditions to the Consummation of
the Merger."

     Termination.  The Merger Agreement may be terminated by SJW or American
Water Works under certain circumstances, some of which require SJW to pay
American Water Works a termination fee of $17.5 million (the "Termination Fee").
See "THE MERGER AGREEMENT -- Termination" and "THE MERGER AGREEMENT -- Expenses
and Certain Required Payments."

     Amendment.  The Merger Agreement may be amended by the parties by written
instrument at any time before or after shareholder approval; provided, however,
that after shareholder approval, no amendment shall be made which by law or the
rules of a relevant stock exchange requires further approval by the shareholders
without such further approval.

                                        5
<PAGE>   15

                               THE ANNUAL MEETING

     This Proxy Statement is being furnished in connection with the solicitation
of proxies by the Board of Directors of SJW for use at the Annual Meeting.

DATE, TIME AND PLACE

     The Annual Meeting of the Shareholders of SJW will be held at 374 West
Santa Clara Street, San Jose, California 95113, on April 20, 2000 commencing at
10:00 a.m. local time.

PURPOSE OF THE ANNUAL MEETING

     At the Annual Meeting, SJW's shareholders will consider and vote upon
proposals to (i) approve and adopt the Merger Agreement, pursuant to which among
other things Merger Sub will be merged with and into SJW, SJW will become a
wholly-owned subsidiary of American Water Works and the shareholders of SJW will
receive the consideration described in this Proxy Statement; (ii) elect nine
directors for the Board of Directors to serve until the next annual meeting of
the shareholders and until their successors are chosen; (iii) ratify the
selection of KPMG LLP as independent auditors of SJW for calendar year 2000;
(iv) act on the shareholder proposal set forth in this Proxy Statement; and (v)
transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting and any
postponements or adjournments thereof.

VOTING RIGHTS

     The Board of Directors has fixed the close of business on March 13, 2000 as
the Record Date. Only holders of record of shares of Common Stock at the close
of business on the Record Date will be entitled to notice of and to vote at the
Annual Meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof.

     As of March 7, 2000, SJW had 3,045,147 shares of Common Stock outstanding.
Holders of shares of outstanding Common Stock are entitled to one vote for each
share of Common Stock held of record at the close of business on the Record
Date. The presence, in person or by properly executed proxy, of the holders of a
majority of the shares of outstanding Common Stock entitled to vote at the
Annual Meeting is necessary to constitute a quorum at the Annual Meeting. For
purposes of determining the presence of a quorum, abstentions and shares
represented by a proxy from a broker or nominee indicating that such person has
not received instructions from the beneficial owner or other person entitled to
vote shares ("broker non-votes") will be counted as shares present. Neither
abstentions nor broker non-votes will be counted as votes cast for purposes of
determining whether the Merger Agreement has received sufficient votes for
approval and, therefore, will have the effect of a vote against the proposal
that shareholders approve and adopt the Merger Agreement. Abstentions, which may
be specified on all proposals other than the election of directors, are counted
as votes cast on all proposals presented to shareholders except for approval and
adoption of the Merger Agreement; whereas broker non-votes are not counted for
purposes of determining whether a proposal has been approved. All shares
represented by duly executed proxies will be voted "FOR" the election as
directors of each of the nominees named in this Proxy Statement unless the proxy
is marked to indicate that such authority is withheld. Though not anticipated,
in the event any of the nominees should be unavailable to serve as a director,
it is the intention of the persons named on the enclosed proxy to vote "FOR" the
election of such other person or persons as the Board of Directors may designate
as a nominee.

     Proxies in the form accompanying this Proxy Statement are solicited by
SJW's Board of Directors. Shares of Common Stock represented by properly
executed proxies, if such proxies are received in time and are not revoked, will
be voted in accordance with the instructions indicated on the proxies. If no
instructions are indicated, such proxies will be voted "FOR" approval and
adoption of the Merger Agreement, "FOR" election of the Board of Director's
nominees, and "FOR" ratification of the selection of KPMG LLP as independent
auditors of SJW, "AGAINST" the shareholder proposal and in the proxyholder's
discretion with respect to such other business or matters which might otherwise
properly come before the meeting

     If SJW does not receive by the time scheduled for the Annual Meeting a
sufficient number of signed proxies to enable approval of the proposals
described in this Proxy Statement SJW may propose one or more

                                        6
<PAGE>   16

adjournments or postponements of the Annual Meeting to permit continued
solicitation of proxies with respect to such approval. Adjournment or
postponement of the Annual Meeting will be proposed only if the Board of
Directors believes that additional time to solicit proxies might permit the
receipt of sufficient votes to approve the proposals. It is anticipated that any
such adjournment or postponement would be for a relatively short period of time,
but in no event for more than 90 days. Any shareholder may revoke such
shareholder's proxy during any period of adjournment or postponement in the
manner described below.

VOTE REQUIRED

     The affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares
of Common Stock entitled to vote thereon is required to approve and adopt the
Merger Agreement. A plurality of the votes present in person pursuant to
cumulative voting or by the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares present
in person or represented by proxy without cumulative voting is required for the
election of the Board of Director's nominees. The affirmative vote of a majority
of the shares present in person or represented by proxy at the annual meeting
and entitled to vote is required for the ratification of the approval of
independent auditors and for approval of the shareholder proposal. As of
December 31, 1999, directors and executive officers of SJW and their affiliates
as a group beneficially held 1,044,102 shares representing 34.3% of the
outstanding shares of Common Stock entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting. The
directors and President and Chief Executive Officer of SJW have indicated that
they intend to vote such shares of Common Stock in favor of the proposal to
adopt the Merger Agreement. Roscoe Moss and George Moss, directors of SJW who
together beneficially hold 1,021,690 shares representing 33.5% of the
outstanding shares of Common Stock, have entered into voting agreements that
require them to vote all shares of Common Stock held or controlled by them in
favor of the Merger Agreement. See "THE ANNUAL MEETING -- Vote Required,"
"APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT -- Interests of Certain Persons
in the Merger", "ELECTION OF DIRECTORS, RATIFICATION OF APPROVAL OF INDEPENDENT
DIRECTORS, SHAREHOLDER PROPOSAL" and "SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL
OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT."

RECOMMENDATION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

     The Board of Directors of SJW has unanimously approved the Merger and the
Merger Agreement and determined that the Merger is advisable, fair to, and in
the best interests of SJW and its shareholders. The determination by the Board
of Directors that the Merger is advisable, fair to and in the best interests of
SJW and its shareholders was based on a number of factors, including most
significantly an evaluation of the business and prospects of SJW and the
determination by the Board of Directors that the Merger was the best of the
strategic alternatives available to enhance shareholder value. For a description
of the material factors considered by the Board of Directors in connection with
the Merger, see "APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF MERGER -- Reasons for the Merger." THE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS THAT THE SHAREHOLDERS VOTE "FOR" APPROVAL AND
ADOPTION OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT, "FOR" ELECTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS'
NOMINEES, "FOR" RATIFICATION OF THE SELECTION OF KPMG LLP AS INDEPENDENT
AUDITORS OF SJW AND "AGAINST" APPROVAL OF THE SHAREHOLDER PROPOSAL.

VOTING AND REVOCATION OF PROXIES

     All shares of Common Stock represented by properly executed proxies will be
voted at the Annual Meeting in accordance with the directions indicated on the
proxies unless the proxies have been previously revoked. Unless contrary
direction is given, all shares represented by such proxies will be voted "FOR"
approval and adoption of the Merger Agreement, "FOR" election of the Board of
Directors' nominees, "FOR" ratification of the selection of KPMG LLP as
independent auditors of SJW, "AGAINST" approval of the shareholder proposal and
in the proxy holders' discretion as to such other matters incident to the
conduct of the Annual Meeting as may properly come before the shareholders.

     The Board of Directors is not aware of any matters other than those
specifically stated in this Proxy Statement that are to be presented for action
at the Annual Meeting. If any other matters are properly presented at the Annual
Meeting for action, including a question of adjourning the Annual Meeting from
time
                                        7
<PAGE>   17

to time, the persons named in the proxies and acting thereunder will have
discretion to vote on those matters in accordance with their best judgment. Any
adjournment of the Annual Meeting will require the affirmative vote of the
holders of at least a majority of the shares of Common Stock represented at the
Annual Meeting (regardless of whether those shares of Common Stock constitute a
quorum).

     A shareholder of SJW executing and returning a proxy has the power to
revoke it at any time before it is voted. A shareholder who wishes to revoke a
proxy can do so by (i) executing a later-dated proxy relating to the same shares
of Common Stock and delivering it to the Secretary of SJW at or before the
Annual Meeting, (ii) delivering to the Secretary of SJW a written notice of
revocation bearing a later date than the proxy, or (iii) appearing in person at
the Annual Meeting and voting in person the shares of Common Stock to which the
proxy relates (attendance at the Annual Meeting in and of itself will not
constitute revocation of a proxy). Any written notice of revocation should be
sent to SJW at 374 West Santa Clara Street, San Jose, California 95113,
Attention: Corporate Secretary, at or before the taking of the vote at the
Annual Meeting.

DISSENTERS' RIGHTS

     Each holder of record of Common Stock has a right to dissent with respect
to the Merger, and, if the Merger is consummated, subject to certain conditions,
to receive cash payment equal to the fair market value of his or her shares by
complying with the provisions of California law, including Section 1301 of the
CGCL. A shareholder wishing to do so must vote against adoption of the Merger
Agreement and must deliver to SJW, prior to the vote being taken on the Merger
at the Annual Meeting, written demand to purchase his or her dissenting shares
if the Merger is effected. If demands for purchase are not filed with respect to
five percent or more of the outstanding shares of Common Stock, no shareholder
of SJW, other than a holder of shares that are restricted by SJW or applicable
law or regulation as to transfer, will have dissenters' rights. The full text of
Section 1301 of the CGCL is attached as Annex C hereto. See "DISSENTERS' RIGHTS"
for a further discussion of such rights.

SOLICITATION OF PROXIES

     SJW will bear the cost of the solicitation of Proxies and the cost of
printing and mailing this Proxy Statement. Arrangements will also be made with
brokerage houses and other custodians, nominees and fiduciaries for the
forwarding of solicitation material to the beneficial owners of shares held of
record by such persons and SJW will reimburse such custodians, nominees and
fiduciaries for their reasonable out-of-pocket expenses in connection therewith.

     HOLDERS OF SJW COMMON STOCK SHOULD NOT SEND STOCK CERTIFICATES WITH THEIR
PROXY CARDS. IF THE MERGER IS CONSUMMATED, THE PROCEDURE FOR THE EXCHANGE OF
CERTIFICATES REPRESENTING SHARES OF COMMON STOCK WILL BE AS SET FORTH IN THIS
PROXY STATEMENT. See "APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE MERGER
AGREEMENT -- PROCEDURES FOR SURRENDER OF CERTIFICATES OF COMMON STOCK."

                                        8
<PAGE>   18

                 APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT

     At the Annual Meeting, SJW's shareholders will also consider and vote upon
a proposal to approve and adopt the Merger Agreement.

BACKGROUND

     Approximately 41.7% of the Common Stock is beneficially held by two
directors, Roscoe Moss and George Moss (the "Moss Brothers"), and by entities
and persons related to them. The remainder of the Common Stock is widely held.

     The latter part of 1998 and the early first half of 1999 has been a period
of unprecedented acquisition activity in the water industry, and the Moss
Brothers and the officers and other directors of SJW have been aware of that
activity.

     In January of 1999, the Moss Brothers were approached by an investment
banker representing a very large foreign business enterprise with extensive
holdings in the water business. The investment banker proposed a two-step
approach to the acquisition of SJW. The first step would have involved locking
up the Moss Brothers' stock, and the second step would have involved extending
the purchase offer on the same terms to other shareholders. At that time the
Common Stock was trading around $60 per share. The Moss Brothers consulted with
their own counsel concerning, among other things, their fiduciary duties in
connection with any possible sale of SJW. After some discussion the Moss
Brothers did not elect to pursue the proposal as it did not seem to provide the
maximum possible benefits to the shareholders, and because of concerns about the
sale procedure. After the announcement of a transaction in March 1999, involving
the purchase of another public water company, the Moss Brothers held discussions
with investment bankers concerning methods and procedures by which they and
other shareholders of SJW could obtain maximum value for their shares. In early
June 1999, an acquisition of a domestic U.S. water company by a foreign company
was announced at a very favorable valuation. Following the announcement of that
acquisition, the Common Stock price moved from the mid to high $70's. After
consulting with their own legal counsel, the Moss Brothers advised the Chairman
of the Board of SJW that, in light of the acquisition activity in the water
industry and the prices being paid for water companies, they believed that SJW
should engage an investment banker to determine the best manner in which
shareholder values could be maximized, including the consideration of a possible
sale of SJW.

     Accordingly, a special meeting of the Board of Directors of SJW was held on
June 15, 1999 so that the directors could directly hear the views of the Moss
Brothers on this matter, and make a determination with respect to a course of
action. George Moss noted for the Board that in the last year there had been
unprecedented consolidation in the water industry, and the sales value of water
companies had increased considerably. He noted that there were relatively few
investor owned water companies, and expressed the view that the time was
appropriate to consider taking advantage of the acquisition activity going on in
the industry. Mr. Moss also reviewed for the Board the January 1999 approach
which had been made by the investment banker to the Moss Brothers to acquire the
Moss Brothers' interest, and stated their conclusion that if there was to be a
sale of their interest it should be in conjunction with the sale of SJW, so that
all shareholders could share on the same terms in the sale proceeds. He urged
the Board to consider retaining an investment banker to advise the Board on the
best method for maximizing shareholder value. The Board then appointed a
Strategic Alternatives Committee consisting of Messrs. Roscoe Moss, George Moss,
Drew Gibson, Charles Toeniskoetter, Philip DiNapoli and Mark L. Cali with the
instructions that such committee should retain an investment banker to advise
SJW, and bring back to the Board of Directors a recommendation on the strategic
alternatives available to SJW.

     On June 23, 1999, the Strategic Alternatives Committee held a meeting at
which it received presentations from three investment banking firms. The three
firms separately advised the Board on how they would proceed in determining the
value of SJW, exploring the strategic alternatives available, and the process of
achieving maximum shareholder value.

                                        9
<PAGE>   19

     On June 30, 1999, the Strategic Alternatives Committee held another meeting
at which it reviewed the terms of an engagement proposed by the investment
banking firms with which they had earlier met, and determined to engage Morgan
Stanley & Co. Incorporated ("Morgan Stanley"). Accordingly, the Strategic
Alternatives Committee instructed the management to proceed with the engagement
of Morgan Stanley, and to ask that investment banking firm to prepare an
analysis of strategic alternatives available and a recommendation concerning a
course of action. The Common Stock closed at $79.625 on June 30, 1999. On July
13, 1999, SJW entered into an Engagement Letter with Morgan Stanley.

     On July 29, 1999, the entire Board of Directors met with representatives of
Morgan Stanley to hear the results of Morgan Stanley's preliminary analysis of
potential strategic alternatives for SJW. Morgan Stanley discussed with the
Board certain of its preliminary analyses based on a sale of SJW, including an
analysis of the premiums obtained in precedent transactions. Morgan Stanley and
the Board of Directors also reviewed the possibility of internal growth by SJW,
but discussed that such a plan was less likely to achieve in any reasonable
period the potential values then currently available to shareholders through a
sale of SJW. Accordingly, the Board of Directors decided to proceed with an
auction process. The auction would involve the solicitation of indications of
interest followed by the distribution of a confidential offering memorandum to
those potential buyers who were willing to enter into confidentiality
agreements, culminating in the submission of preliminary bids in mid-September
1999 at the end of the first phase. If the Board was satisfied with the level of
preliminary bids, the qualified bidders would be invited to participate in phase
two, which would consist of full management presentations, due diligence, and
the negotiation of definitive agreements. The Board authorized Morgan Stanley to
proceed with the first phase of this process and to report back to the Board of
Directors on September 22, 1999. On July 29, 1999, the Common Stock closed at
$80.875.

     Morgan Stanley, in carrying out its assignment for SJW and on SJW's behalf,
contacted 15 potential bidders, which included all of the major companies which
had been identified in precedent transactions as bidders interested in acquiring
water properties like SJW. Of the companies contacted, 12 signed confidentiality
agreements and received copies of the confidential offering memorandum. In
mid-September, eight companies submitted phase one proposals which included
non-binding indications of a range of price for the purchase of SJW. Based on
those indications, five bidders were selected by the Board of Directors to
continue on with phase two of the process, which involved full management
presentations, due diligence and the distribution of a draft of the Merger
Agreement.

     On September 28, 1999, SJW received an inquiry from the American Stock
Exchange which noted unusually high trading volumes and price volatility in the
Common Stock, and stated that the exchange had suspended trading pending a
statement from SJW. In response to that action by the American Stock Exchange,
SJW issued a press release on September 28 stating that the Board of Directors
had retained Morgan Stanley to assist it in exploring the strategic
alternatives, including the possible sale of SJW. The closing price of the
Common Stock on September 27, 1999, was $87.25.

     In early October, an additional bidder expressed an interest in SJW, signed
a confidentiality agreement and was admitted into the phase two process. At
about the same time, another additional bidder contacted Morgan Stanley, signed
a confidentiality agreement and received a confidential offering memorandum.

     On October 25, the Board of Directors held a telephonic Board Meeting at
which Morgan Stanley presented a summary of the bids received and legal counsel
presented a summary of changes to the draft Merger Agreement that had been
proposed by each bidder. American Water Works' bid had the highest price and the
Moss Brothers expressed their willingness to sell their shares at the price
offered by American Water Works. Based on those presentations the Board of
Directors authorized management, Morgan Stanley, and legal counsel to proceed
immediately with the negotiations of a definitive merger agreement with American
Water Works. The Common Stock closed at $104.875 on October 25, 1999.

     Executives of American Water Works, its legal counsel and its investment
bankers assembled with representatives of SJW, Morgan Stanley and SJW's legal
counsel in San Francisco on October 26, 1999. Negotiations continued into the
evening of October 26 and throughout the day on October 27. The parties were
aware in these negotiations that SJW's Board would be holding its regular
meeting on the morning of October 28. Based on the progress made through October
27, SJW's management asked the Board of
                                       10
<PAGE>   20

Directors to schedule a continuation of the regularly scheduled meeting to the
afternoon of October 28 for the purpose of receiving a presentation on the terms
of the definitive transaction expected to be reached with American Water Works.
Agreement on the terms of transaction was reached on the morning of October 28.
The final form of the Merger Agreement, Morgan Stanley's analysis and opinion as
to the fairness of the Merger Consideration to be received by the holders of
Common Stock pursuant to the Merger Agreement from a financial point of view,
and an analysis of the terms of the transaction by legal counsel, were presented
to the Board on the afternoon of October 28. Following that presentation, the
Board unanimously approved the Merger in which each share of the Common Stock
would be converted into $128.00, and the Merger Agreement and determined that
the Merger is advisable, fair to and in the best interests of SJW and its
shareholders. The definitive Merger Agreement was signed following that
approval. The Common Stock closed at $106 on October 28.

REASONS FOR THE MERGER

     The Board of Directors of SJW unanimously approved the Merger and the
Merger Agreement and determined that the Merger is advisable, fair to and in the
best interests of SJW and its shareholders. The Board recommends that holders of
Common Stock vote FOR adoption of the Merger Agreement. In the course of
reaching its decision to approve the Merger Agreement and the Merger, the Board
of Directors consulted with SJW's legal and financial advisors and considered a
number of factors, including the following:

          (1) The fact that the value to be received by the shareholders of SJW
     in the Merger is substantially greater than the values to shareholders that
     could be achieved in any reasonable period by continued holding of the
     Common Stock.

          (2) The presentation of Morgan Stanley at the October 28, 1999 Board
     meeting and the opinion of Morgan Stanley delivered at the October 28, 1999
     Board meeting to the effect that, as of such date, and based upon the
     assumptions made, matters considered and limits of review set forth in such
     opinion, the Merger Consideration to be received by the holders of Common
     Stock pursuant to the Merger Agreement was fair, from a financial point of
     view, to such holders. SJW chose Morgan Stanley as its financial adviser
     based on its qualifications, expertise and reputation. See "THE
     MERGER -- Opinion of SJW's Financial Adviser."

          (3) The relationship of the merger consideration of $128 per share to
     the historical and current market prices for the shares of Common Stock
     preceding the announcement of the Merger, including the fact that the
     merger price of $128 per share represents a premium of approximately 21%
     over the $106 closing sale price of the shares of Common Stock on October
     28, 1999, the last trading day before the announcement that SJW had entered
     into the Merger Agreement, and a premium of approximately 47% over the
     $87.25 closing price of the shares of Common Stock on September 27, 1999,
     the last trading day before the announcement that SJW had retained Morgan
     Stanley to explore the possible sale of SJW. See "PRICE OF SJW COMMON
     STOCK."

          (4) The expressed willingness of the Moss Brothers to sell their
     shares at the price offered, and the fact that the Merger Agreement
     provided a way for all SJW shareholders to participate in the control
     premium available on sale of ownership control of SJW.

          (5) The process undertaken by SJW with the assistance of Morgan
     Stanley to obtain acquisition proposals, which was designed to result in
     obtaining the highest values reasonably available for SJW, and the
     conclusion that the American Water Works bid satisfied that objective. See
     "THE MERGER -- Background."

          (6) The Board of Directors' assessment that American Water Works has
     the financial capability to acquire SJW for the Merger Consideration,
     coupled with the fact that there are no financing conditions relating to
     the Merger. Furthermore, based on American Water Works' operating history,
     its reputation in the industry (including its reputation for customer
     service) and its good relations with regulatory authorities, and the
     limited conditions to closing set forth in the Merger Agreement, the Board
     of

                                       11
<PAGE>   21

     Directors believed, in its selection of American Water Works, that an
     acquisition transaction could be effected relatively quickly and in an
     orderly manner. See "THE MERGER AGREEMENT."

          (7) The Board of Directors' belief that the regulatory approval
     necessary to consummate the Merger could be obtained. In forming such
     belief, the Board recognized that the CPUC will consider whether American
     Water Works is financially, technologically and managerially suitable to
     control SJW and the ability of the SJW to continue to provide safe,
     adequate and reliable service to the public through its plant, equipment
     and manner of operation if the application before the CPUC is approved. The
     Board believed that American Water Works will satisfy CPUC concerns.

          (8) The fact that the Merger Agreement requires that the Merger be
     submitted to the shareholders of SJW for approval, which allows for an
     informed vote of shareholders on the merits of the transaction without
     requiring a tender of shares or other potentially coercive transaction
     structure and the fact that the Merger Agreement provides that it may be
     terminated by SJW if such approval is not received.

          (9) The fact that California law provides for dissenters' rights in
     the case of the transaction contemplated by the Merger Agreement. See "THE
     ANNUAL MEETING -- Dissenters' Rights," "DISSENTERS' RIGHTS" and Annex C.

          (10) The other terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement, including
     (i) those relating to fees payable to American Water Works upon termination
     of the Merger Agreement as a result of competing offers and (ii) those
     relating to the ability of the Board to consider unsolicited offers from
     third parties prior to the adoption by SJW's shareholders of the Merger
     Agreement.

          (11) The fact that the consideration provided by the American Water
     Works bid was superior to that offered in competing bids.

     The foregoing discussion of the information and factors considered by the
Board of Directors is not intended to be exhaustive but is believed to include
all material factors considered by the Board of Directors. In view of the
variety of factors considered in connection with its evaluation of the Merger,
the Board of Directors did not find it practicable to, and did not, quantify or
otherwise attempt to assign relative weight to the specific factors considered
in reaching its determination. In addition, individual members of the Board of
Directors may have given different weights to different factors. In the course
of its deliberations, the Board of Directors did not establish a range of values
for SJW; however, based on the factors outlined above, the Board of Directors,
by the unanimous vote of the directors, approved the Merger and the Merger
Agreement and determined that the Merger is advisable, fair to, and in the best
interest of SJW and its shareholders.

DESCRIPTION OF THE MERGER

     Pursuant to the Merger Agreement and on the terms and subject to the
conditions set forth therein, Merger Sub will be merged with and into SJW. As a
result of the Merger, the separate corporate existence of Merger Sub will cease
and SJW will continue as a wholly-owned subsidiary of American Water Works. See
"THE MERGER AGREEMENT."

     At the Effective Time, except with respect to Dissenting Shares (see
"DISSENTERS' RIGHTS"), each issued and outstanding share of Common Stock will
automatically be canceled and cease to exist and will be converted into the
right to receive the Merger Consideration of $128.00 in cash, without interest.
As a result of the Merger, SJW will be a wholly-owned subsidiary of American
Water Works.

OPINION OF SJW'S FINANCIAL ADVISOR

     Under a letter agreement dated July 13, 1999 SJW engaged Morgan Stanley to
provide financial advisory services in connection with a review of SJW's
strategic options and any related transaction. The SJW Board of Directors
selected Morgan Stanley as SJW's financial advisor based on Morgan Stanley's
qualifications, expertise and reputation. At the meeting of the Board of
Directors of SJW on October 28, 1999, Morgan Stanley delivered to the Board of
Directors its opinion, subsequently confirmed in writing, that as of October 28,
1999 and based upon and subject to the various considerations described in its
opinion, the merger

                                       12
<PAGE>   22

consideration to be received by holders of shares of Common Stock pursuant to
the merger agreement was fair, from a financial point of view, to the holders of
shares of Common Stock.

     THE FULL TEXT OF MORGAN STANLEY'S WRITTEN OPINION, DATED OCTOBER 28, 1999,
WHICH DESCRIBES, AMONG OTHER THINGS, ASSUMPTIONS MADE, PROCEDURES FOLLOWED,
MATTERS CONSIDERED AND LIMITATIONS ON THE SCOPE OF THE REVIEW UNDERTAKEN BY
MORGAN STANLEY IN RENDERING ITS OPINION, IS ATTACHED AS ANNEX B TO THIS PROXY
STATEMENT. SJW'S SHAREHOLDERS ARE URGED TO READ THE OPINION CAREFULLY AND IN ITS
ENTIRETY. MORGAN STANLEY'S OPINION IS DIRECTED TO THE SJW BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND
ADDRESSES ONLY THE FAIRNESS OF THE MERGER CONSIDERATION TO BE RECEIVED BY
HOLDERS OF SHARES OF STOCK PURSUANT TO THE MERGER AGREEMENT FROM A FINANCIAL
POINT OF VIEW TO SUCH HOLDERS AS OF THE DATE OF THE OPINION. IT DOES NOT ADDRESS
ANY OTHER ASPECT OF THE MERGER AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A RECOMMENDATION TO ANY
HOLDER OF COMMON STOCK AS TO HOW TO VOTE AT THE ANNUAL MEETING. THIS SUMMARY OF
MORGAN STANLEY'S OPINION IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO THE FULL
TEXT OF THE OPINION.

     In connection with rendering its opinion, Morgan Stanley, among other
things:

     - reviewed certain publicly available financial statements and other
       information of SJW;

     - reviewed certain internal financial statements and other financial and
       operating data concerning SJW prepared by the management of SJW;

     - analyzed certain financial projections prepared by the management of SJW;

     - discussed the past and current operations and financial condition and the
       prospects of SJW, including the strategic rationale for the merger, with
       senior executives of SJW;

     - reviewed the reported prices and trading activity for the common stock;

     - compared the financial performance of SJW and the prices and trading
       activity of the common stock with that of certain other comparable
       publicly-traded companies and their securities;

     - reviewed the financial terms, to the extent publicly available, of
       certain comparable acquisition transactions;

     - participated in discussions and negotiations among representatives of SJW
       and American Water Works and their financial and legal advisors;

     - reviewed the draft merger agreement and certain related documents; and

     - performed such other analyses and considered such factors as Morgan
       Stanley deemed appropriate.

     Morgan Stanley assumed and relied upon without independent verification the
accuracy and completeness of the information reviewed by it for the purposes of
its opinion. With respect to the financial projections, Morgan Stanley has
assumed that they have been reasonably prepared on bases reflecting the best
currently available estimates and judgments of the future financial performance
of SJW. In addition, Morgan Stanley has assumed that the Merger will be
consummated in accordance with the terms set forth in the merger agreement.
Morgan Stanley has not made any independent valuation or appraisal of the assets
or liabilities of SJW, nor has it been furnished with any such appraisals.
Morgan Stanley's opinion is necessarily based on financial, economic, market and
other conditions as in effect on, and the information made available to Morgan
Stanley as of October 28, 1999.

     The following is a brief summary of the material analyses performed by
Morgan Stanley in connection with the preparation of its opinion letter dated
October 28, 1999. Certain of these summaries of financial analyses include
information presented in a tabular format. In order to understand fully the
financial analyses used by Morgan Stanley, the tables must be read together with
the text of each summary. The tables alone do not constitute a complete
description of the financial analyses.

     Comparative Stock Price Performance.  Morgan Stanley reviewed the recent
stock price performance of SJW and compared its performance with that of the
following group of peer companies:

     - American States Water Company ("American States Water")

     - American Water Works

     - California Water Service Company ("California Water Service")

                                       13
<PAGE>   23

     - Connecticut Water Service, Inc. ("Connecticut Water Service")

     - E'Town Corporation ("E'Town")

     - Middlesex Water Company ("Middlesex Water")

     - Philadelphia Suburban Water Company ("Philadelphia Suburban")

     In addition, Morgan Stanley compared the stock price performance of SJW
with that of the Standard & Poor's 500 Index.

     The following table presents the increase in the stock prices for these
groups, as compared to the change in the stock prices for SJW's Common Stock,
from October 22, 1998 to October 22, 1999.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                PERCENTAGE
                                                                 INCREASE
                                                                ----------
<S>                                                             <C>
SJW.........................................................       102%
SJW Peer Group (as listed above)............................         7%
S&P 500 Index...............................................        21%
</TABLE>

     Peer Companies Comparison.  Morgan Stanley reviewed financial information,
including the price to forecasted fiscal 1999 earnings multiples, the price to
book value multiples, and the aggregate value to earnings before interest,
taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA") multiples for companies with
some shared characteristics to SJW.

     The financial information was based on a compilation of earnings
projections by securities research analysts, the book value as of June 30, 1999
and the EBITDA for the 12-month period ended June 30, 1999. The stock price for
the peer companies and SJW is as of October 22, 1999. The table below summarizes
these analyses and the relevant statistics for SJW.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                           AGGREGATE
                                                                          PRICE TO 1999    VALUE/LTM
                                                              1999 P/E     BOOK VALUE       EBITDA
                                                              --------    -------------    ---------
                                                                      (AS OF JUNE 30, 1999)
<S> <C>                                                       <C>         <C>              <C>
    Unaffected Large Cap. Water Companies
    American Water Works                                        17.4           1.81x          11.1x
    Philadelphia Suburban                                       20.2           2.54           10.3
    MEDIAN                                                      18.8           2.17X          10.7X
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Unaffected West Coast Companies
    California Water Service                                    16.5           1.95x           8.1x
    American States Water                                       19.0           1.98            8.7
    MEDIAN                                                      17.8           1.97X           8.4X
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Unaffected East Coast Companies
    E'Town                                                      17.5           1.75x          13.2x
    Connecticut Water Service                                   17.9           2.18           10.0
    Middlesex Water                                             20.4           2.16           13.1
    MEDIAN                                                      17.9           2.16X          13.1X
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Affected Companies
    United Water Resources                                      26.5           2.75x          13.9x
    Aquarion Company ("Aquarion")                               23.6           2.72            8.5
    Dominguez Services Corporation ("Dominguez")                18.8           2.63           11.4
    MEDIAN                                                      23.6           2.72X          11.4X
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    SJW                                                         20.4           2.36X           9.8X
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

     No company utilized in the SJW peer companies comparison analysis is
identical to SJW. In evaluating the peer companies, Morgan Stanley made
judgments and assumptions with regard to industry performance,

                                       14
<PAGE>   24

general business, economic, market and financial conditions and other matters,
many of which are beyond SJW's control, including the impact of competition on
SJW's business and the industry generally, industry growth and the absence of
any material adverse change in the financial condition and prospects of SJW or
the industry or in the financial markets in general. Mathematical analysis (such
as determining the average or median) is not in itself a meaningful method of
using peer group data. Based upon Morgan Stanley's peer companies analysis, the
range of per share values for the common stock was between $77.56 and $107.23.
As of October 28, 1999, the Common Stock price of the Company was $106.00 and
the merger consideration was $128 per share.

     Analysis of Selected Precedent Transactions.  Morgan Stanley reviewed the
following water transactions:

                               ACQUIROR/ACQUIREE
           ----------------------------------------------------------
           American Water Works/Citizens Water Resources
           Suez Lyonnaise des Eaux Group/United Water Resources
           Kelda Group plc/Aquarion
           California Water Service/Dominguez
           American Water Works/National Enterprises, Inc.
           Philadelphia Suburban/Consumers Water Company
           Northern Indiana Public Service Company
           ("NIPSCO")/Indianapolis Water

     Morgan Stanley compared certain publicly available statistics for these
transactions to the relevant financial statistics for SJW in connection with its
proposed merger with American Water Works.

     The following table presents a comparison, as of June 30, 1999, of the
median and mean earnings multiples for the last 12 months and implied premium to
offer price based on the closing price of the relevant stock one day and one
month before the announcement of the relevant transaction against the respective
earnings multiple and implied premium for the Merger.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           EQUITY
                                                         VALUE/LTM     PREMIUM TO UNAFFECTED PRICE
                                                         ----------    ----------------------------
                                                         NET INCOME    1 MONTH PRIOR    1 DAY PRIOR
                                                         ----------    -------------    -----------
<S>                                                      <C>           <C>              <C>
American Water Works/Citizens Water Resources(1).......  N.A....           N.A.            N.A.
Suez/United Water Resources............................     34.1           48.5            12.7
Kelda Group plc/Aquarion...............................     24.9           42.5            19.3
California Water/Dominguez.............................     33.8           52.7            32.5
American Water Works/National Enterprises..............     25.6       N.A.....            N.A.
Philadelphia Suburban/Consumers Water..................     22.8           42.9            26.0
NIPSCO/Indianapolis Water..............................     23.6           44.6            23.1
</TABLE>

- ---------------
Note: (1) Asset sale (not publicly traded).

     No transaction utilized as a comparison in the precedent transactions
analysis is identical to the merger. In evaluating the precedent transactions,
Morgan Stanley made judgments and assumptions with regard to industry
performance, general business, economic, market and financial conditions and
other matters, many of which are beyond SJW's control, such as the impact of
competition on SJW and the industry generally, industry growth or consolidation
and the absence of any material adverse change in the financial condition and
prospects of SJW or the industry or in the financial markets in general.
Mathematical analysis (such as determining the average or median) is not in
itself a meaningful method of using comparable transaction data. Based upon
Morgan Stanley's precedent transactions analysis, the range of values for SJW's
common stock was between $123.95 and $141.39 per share.

     Discounted Equity Value.  Morgan Stanley performed an analysis of the
present value per share of SJW from SJW's cash flow projections. Morgan Stanley
calculated terminal values by applying a range of perpetual growth rates to the
unlevered free cash flow in fiscal 2008. The cash-flow streams and terminal
values were then discounted to the present using a range of discount rates of
5.5% -- 6.5%.
                                       15
<PAGE>   25

     The following table presents the ranges of discount rates and present
values per share of stock as of October 22, 1999:

                        DISCOUNTED EQUITY VALUE ANALYSIS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                         RANGE OF PRESENT
                                                                        VALUES PER SHARE OF
                                             RANGE OF DISCOUNT RATES           STOCK
                                             -----------------------    -------------------
<S>                                          <C>                        <C>
SJW stand-alone (based on SJW's cash flow
  projections).............................       6.0% - 6.5%           $105.24 - $121.64
SJW (sum-of-the-parts)(1)..................   5.75%(2) - 12.5%(3)       $109.72 - $125.66
</TABLE>

     --------------------
     Notes: (1) Represents sum of value from water, real estate, and California
                Water investment.

             (2) Represents discount rate for regulated water utility only.

             (3) Represents discount rate for real estate.

     In connection with the review of the Merger by the Board of Directors,
Morgan Stanley performed a variety of financial and comparative analyses for
purposes of its opinion. The preparation of a fairness opinion is a complex
process and is not necessarily susceptible to partial analysis or summary
description. In arriving at its opinion, Morgan Stanley considered the results
of all of its analyses as a whole and did not attribute any particular weight to
any analysis or factor. Furthermore, Morgan Stanley believes that selecting any
portion of its analyses, without considering all analyses, would create an
incomplete view of the process underlying its opinion. In addition, Morgan
Stanley may have given various analyses and factors more or less weight than
other analyses and factors, and may have deemed various assumptions more or less
probable than other assumptions, so that the ranges of valuations resulting from
any particular analysis described above should not be taken to be Morgan
Stanley's view of the actual value of SJW.

     In performing its analyses, Morgan Stanley made numerous assumptions with
respect to industry performance, general business and economic conditions and
other matters, many of which are beyond the control of SJW. Any estimates
contained in Morgan Stanley's analyses are not necessarily indicative of future
results or actual values, which may be significantly more or less favorable than
those suggested by the estimates. The analyses performed were prepared solely as
part of Morgan Stanley's analysis of the fairness of the merger consideration to
be received by the holders of shares of common stock pursuant to the merger
agreement from a financial point of view to such holders and were conducted in
connection with the delivery of Morgan Stanley's opinion to the Board of
Directors. The analyses do not purport to be appraisals or to reflect the prices
at which SJW common stock might actually trade.

     The merger consideration and the terms of the merger agreement were
determined through arm's-length negotiations between SJW and American Water
Works and were approved by the SJW Board of Directors. Morgan Stanley did not
recommend any specific consideration to SJW or that any specific consideration
constituted the only appropriate consideration for the merger. In addition, as
described above, Morgan Stanley's opinion and presentation to SJW's Board of
Directors was one of the many factors taken into consideration by SJW's board in
making its decision to approve the merger. Consequently, Morgan Stanley's
analyses as described above should not be viewed as determinative of the opinion
of SJW's Board of Directors with respect to the value of SJW or of whether the
Board of Directors would have been willing to agree to a different form of
consideration.

     SJW's Board of Directors retained Morgan Stanley based upon Morgan
Stanley's qualifications, experience and expertise. Morgan Stanley is an
internationally recognized investment banking and advisory firm. Morgan Stanley,
as part of its investment banking and financial advisory business, is
continuously engaged in the valuation of businesses and securities in connection
with mergers and acquisitions, negotiated underwritings, competitive biddings,
secondary distributions of listed and unlisted securities, private placements
and valuations for corporate and other purposes. In the ordinary course of
Morgan Stanley's trading and brokerage activities, Morgan Stanley or its
affiliates may at any time hold long or short positions, may trade or

                                       16
<PAGE>   26

otherwise effect transactions, for its own account or for the account of
customers, in the equity or debt securities or senior loans of SJW or American
Water Works.

     Pursuant to its letter agreement with SJW, Morgan Stanley provided
financial advisory services and financial opinions in connection with the
merger, and SJW agreed to pay Morgan Stanley's customary fees, including a
transaction fee contingent upon the consummation of the merger. SJW has also
agreed to reimburse Morgan Stanley for its out-of-pocket expenses incurred in
performing its services.

     In addition, SJW has agreed to indemnify Morgan Stanley and its affiliates,
their respective directors, officers, agents and employees and each person, if
any, controlling Morgan Stanley or any of its affiliates against certain
liabilities and expenses, including certain liabilities under the federal
securities laws, related to or arising out of Morgan Stanley's engagement and
any related transactions.

REGULATORY APPROVALS

     Certain aspects of the Merger will require notification to, and filings
with, the CPUC and the California Department of Health Services.

     Antitrust Regulation.  Under the HSR Act and the rules promulgated
thereunder by the FTC, the Merger may not be consummated until notifications
have been given and certain information has been furnished to the FTC and the
Department of Justice's Antitrust Division. On December 16, 1999, SJW and
American Water Works filed Notification and Report Forms under the HSR Act with
the FTC and the Antitrust Division. At any time before or after consummation of
the Merger, notwithstanding that early termination of the waiting period under
the HSR Act has been granted, the Antitrust Division or the FTC could take such
action under the antitrust laws as it deems necessary or desirable in the public
interest, including seeking to enjoin the consummation of the Merger or seeking
divestiture of substantial assets of SJW. At any time before or after the
Effective Time, and notwithstanding that early termination of the waiting period
under the HSR Act has been granted, any state could take such action under the
antitrust laws as it deems necessary or desirable in the public interest. Such
action could include seeking to enjoin the consummation of the Merger or seeking
divestiture of substantial assets of SJW. Private parties may also seek to take
legal action under the antitrust laws under certain circumstances.

     While there can be no assurance that the Merger will not be challenged by a
governmental authority or private party on antitrust grounds, SJW and American
Water Works believe that the Merger can be effected in compliance with federal
and state antitrust laws.

     Utilities Regulation.  Sections 851, 852 and 854(a) of the California
Public Utilities Code provide, in summary, that the merger or acquisition of a
California public utility shall be void without first obtaining the prior
authorization of the CPUC. Under Section 853(a), the applicable standard is a
finding by the CPUC that the acquisition is in "the public interest." A
significant criterion applied by the CPUC to such proceedings is whether the
acquisition will adversely affect the ratepayers of either the acquiring or
acquired utility.

     Under the provisions of the Public Water System Investment and
Consolidation Act of 1997 (Public Utilities Code Sections 2718, 2720), the
California Legislature has created incentives to encourage such acquisitions
where their resulting economies of scale will provide benefits to ratepayers.
Under Section 2720(d), the CPUC retains all powers and responsibilities granted
to it pursuant to Sections 851 and 852. Under this Act the CPUC is mandated to
apply a fair market value standard to establish the rate base for the merged
entities for ratesetting purposes. The CPUC, in applying the "public interest"
standard, may be expected to look to the potential savings accruing as a result
of the economies of scale from such acquisitions and the impact on the financial
condition, quality of service, quality of management, employees, shareholders
and local economies, of the respective companies.

     SJW and American Water expect to file in March 2000 a joint application for
CPUC approval. SJW and American Water believe that application will fully comply
with the requirements of California law and will include information intended to
demonstrate such compliance. Formal protests to that application are likely. If
those protests cannot be resolved by an agreement approved by the CPUC, the
matter will proceed to a formal
                                       17
<PAGE>   27

evidentiary hearing and decision by the CPUC. SJW and American Water can give no
assurance that the necessary CPUC approval will be obtained in a timely manner
or at all. Moreover, it is possible the CPUC approval will include conditions
that, if accepted, will result in a material adverse affect on SJW or American
Water. If so, the parties will not be obligated to consummate the Merger.

FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES

     The receipt of the Merger Consideration by each holder of shares of Common
Stock upon the cancellation of Common Stock pursuant to the Merger will be
taxable transactions for U.S. federal income tax purposes under the Code and may
also be taxable transactions under applicable state, local, foreign and other
tax laws.

     Generally, a shareholder of SJW who receives cash in exchange for shares of
Common Stock pursuant to the Merger will, for U.S. federal income tax purposes,
recognize gain or loss equal to the difference between the amount of cash
received and such shareholder's adjusted tax basis in the Common Stock exchanged
therefor. If the Common Stock is held by a shareholder as a capital asset, gain
or loss recognized by the shareholder will be a long-term capital gain or loss
if the shareholder's holding period for the Common Stock exceeds one year. In
the case of a noncorporate taxpayer, the current maximum U.S. federal income tax
rate on net long-term capital gains generally is 20%.

     Payments of cash to a holder of shares of Common Stock will generally be
subject to information reporting requirements. "Backup" withholding at a rate of
31% will apply to such payments, unless the holder furnishes its taxpayer
identification number in the manner prescribed in the applicable U.S. Treasury
regulations, certifies that such number is correct and meets certain other
conditions. Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules will be
allowed as a refund or credit against the holder's U.S. federal income tax
liability, provided that the required information is furnished to the Internal
Revenue Service. Such "backup" withholding can be avoided if a shareholder
properly completes the letter of transmittal that the exchange agent in
connection with the Merger ("Exchange Agent") will mail to each shareholder as
soon as reasonably practicable after the Effective Time, and includes in such
letter the shareholder's correct taxpayer identification number. See "APPROVAL
AND ADOPTION OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT -- Procedures for Surrender of Certificates
of Common Stock."

     The discussion set forth above as to the material federal income tax
consequences of the Merger is based upon the provisions of the Code, applicable
U.S. Treasury regulations thereunder, judicial decisions and current
administrative rulings, all as in effect on the date hereof and all of which are
subject to change at any time possibly with retroactive effect. Special tax
consequences not described herein may be applicable to particular classes of
taxpayers, such as financial institutions, insurance companies, persons that
hold Common Stock as part of a straddle or conversion transaction, or persons
who are not citizens or residents of the United States. The discussion does not
address any aspect of state, local or foreign taxation. No rulings have been, or
will be, requested from the Internal Revenue Service with respect to any of the
matters discussed herein. There can be no assurances that future legislation,
regulations, administrative rulings or court decisions will not alter the tax
consequences as set forth above.

     The aforementioned discussion does not purport to be a complete analysis or
discussion of all potential tax effects relevant to the Merger. The foregoing
discussion may not be applicable with respect to certain shares received as
compensation or with respect to holders of shares who are subject to special tax
treatment under the Code, such as non-U.S. persons, life insurance companies,
tax-exempt organizations and financial institutions, and may not apply to a
holder of shares in light of its individual circumstances. Shareholders are
urged to consult their own tax advisers to determine the particular tax
consequences to them (including the application and effect of any state, local
or foreign income and other tax laws) of the Merger.

ACCOUNTING TREATMENT

     The Merger will be accounted for as a purchase for financial reporting
purposes. Under the purchase method of accounting, the assets and liabilities of
SJW will be recorded at their fair values at the Effective

                                       18
<PAGE>   28

Time, with the difference between such fair value and the value of the
consideration paid in the Merger allocated to goodwill.

MERGER CONSIDERATION

     Subject to the terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement, in the Merger
each issued and outstanding share of Common Stock (other than Dissenting Shares)
will automatically be canceled and cease to exist and will be converted into the
right to receive $128.00 per share in cash, without interest.

CLOSING AND EFFECTIVE TIME OF THE MERGER

     The Merger will become effective, and Merger Sub will be merged with and
into SJW, upon the filing of the agreements of merger (or like instruments) with
the Secretaries of State of the States of California and Delaware or such later
date as is specified in such agreements of merger. The filing of the Certificate
of Merger will be made on the Closing Date, which will take place as soon as
practicable, but in any event not later than the third business day, after the
satisfaction or waiver of the conditions to the Merger set forth in the Merger
Agreement unless another date is agreed to in writing by the parties. Subject to
certain limitations, the Merger Agreement may be terminated by either American
Water Works or SJW if, among other reasons, the Merger has not occurred on or
before October 28, 2000 (or, under certain circumstances, April 28, 2001). See
"THE MERGER AGREEMENT -- Conditions to the Consummation of the Merger" and "THE
MERGER AGREEMENT -- Termination."

PROCEDURES FOR SURRENDER OF CERTIFICATES OF COMMON STOCK

     The conversion of shares of Common Stock (other than Dissenting Shares)
into the right to receive the Merger Consideration following the Merger will
occur at the Effective Time.

     As soon as practicable as of or after the Effective Time, the Exchange
Agent will send a letter of transmittal to each holder of Common Stock. The
letter of transmittal will contain instructions with respect to the surrender of
certificates representing shares of Common Stock in exchange for the Merger
Consideration.

     SHAREHOLDERS SHOULD NOT FORWARD STOCK CERTIFICATES TO THE EXCHANGE AGENT
UNTIL THEY HAVE RECEIVED THE LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL.

     As soon as practicable after the Effective Time, each holder of an
outstanding certificate or certificates at such time which prior thereto
represented shares of Common Stock shall, upon surrender to the Exchange Agent
of such certificate or certificates and acceptance thereof by the Exchange
Agent, be entitled to the amount of cash into which the number of shares of
Common Stock previously represented by such certificate or certificates
surrendered shall have been converted pursuant to the Merger Agreement. The
Exchange Agent will accept such certificates upon compliance with such
reasonable terms and conditions as the Exchange Agent may impose to effect an
orderly exchange thereof in accordance with normal exchange practices. After the
Effective Time, there will be no further transfer on the records of SJW or its
transfer agent of certificates representing shares of Common Stock which have
been converted pursuant to the Merger Agreement into the right to receive the
Merger Consideration, and if such certificates are presented to SJW for
transfer, they will be canceled against delivery of the Merger Consideration.
Until surrendered as contemplated by the Merger Agreement, each certificate
formerly representing shares of Common Stock will be deemed at any time after
the Effective Time to represent only the right to receive upon such surrender
the Merger Consideration. No interest will be paid or will accrue on the Merger
Consideration.

INTERESTS OF CERTAIN PERSONS IN THE MERGER

     In considering the Merger, shareholders should be aware that certain
directors and executive officers of SJW have interests, described herein, that
may present them with potential conflicts of interest in connection with the
Merger. SJW's Board of Directors is aware of the conflicts described below and
considered them in addition to the other matters described under "APPROVAL AND
ADOPTION OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT -- Reasons for the Merger."

                                       19
<PAGE>   29

     Shares of Common Stock held by officers and directors of SJW will be
converted into the right to receive the same Merger Consideration as shares of
Common Stock held by other shareholders. See "SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN
BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT."

     On September 22, 1999, SJW's Board of Directors adopted the Transaction
Incentive and Retention Program. The Transaction Incentive and Retention Program
is intended to promote the interest of SJW by providing members of SJW's senior
management with a special incentive to remain with SJW during any period in
which SJW may be subject to an acquisition offer and during a limited transition
period following such an acquisition. Under the Transaction Incentive and
Retention Program, the following executive officers are eligible for the
following bonus awards:

     RETENTION BONUS AWARD
     Jay Weinhardt, Chairman of the Board
     Richard Roth, President and Chief Executive Officer
     Angela Yip, Vice President, Finance, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
     Scott Yoo, Vice President of Water Quality
     R. Balocco, Vice President of Corporate Communications
     G. Belhumeur, Vice President of Operations
     R. Pardini, Vice President, Chief Engineer
     J. Johansson, Vice President of Human Resources
     D. Drysdale, Vice President of Information Systems
     R. Loehr, Secretary
     A. Elliott, Controller

     INCENTIVE BONUS AWARD
     Richard Roth, President and Chief Executive Officer
     Angela Yip, Vice President, Finance, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
     Scott Yoo, Vice President of Water Quality

     Under the Transaction Incentive and Retention Program, each officer
eligible for a retention bonus award who either (i) continues as an employee
through the date which is the later of one year from the execution of the
definitive agreement for the acquisition or the closing of the acquisition
following the requisite approval by the CPUC (the "Bonus Payment Date"), (ii)
terminates his or her employment for Good Reason following the closing of the
acquisition and before the Bonus Payment Date or (iii) is terminated by reason
of an Involuntary Termination before the Bonus Payment Date shall receive a
retention bonus award. Retention bonus awards will be an amount equal to the
employee's base salary at the time of the closing of the acquisition, except
that the retention bonus award for Messrs. Roth and Weinhardt shall be
$1,250,000.

     Under the Transaction Incentive and Retention Program, each officer
eligible for an incentive bonus award who either (i) continues as an employee
through the Bonus Payment Date, (ii) terminates his or her employment for Good
Reason following the closing of the acquisition and before the Bonus Payment
Date or (iii) is terminated by reason of an Involuntary Termination before the
Bonus Payment Date shall receive an incentive bonus award. Incentive bonus
awards will be determined based upon the acquisition proceeds received by the
shareholders of SJW. The retention bonus award and incentive bonus award shall
be payable on the Bonus Payment Date. If the Merger is consummated, Mr. Roth,
Ms. Yip and Mr. Yoo will be eligible for incentive bonus awards of approximately
$1,575,000, $630,000 and $450,000, respectively.

     If any bonus awards under the Transaction Incentive and Retention Program
to an executive officer who is eligible for both an incentive bonus award and a
retention bonus award constitutes an excess parachute payment under Section 280G
of the Code, SJW will reimburse such officers on an after tax-basis for
resulting excise tax imposed on such officer under Section 4999 of the Code so
that such officer does not incur any out-of-pocket cost with respect to his or
her bonus awards.

     Under the Merger Agreement, approval or consummation of the Merger will
constitute a "Change in Control" for purposes of the SJW employee benefits
plans. Under the SJW Corp. Executive Severance Plan, dated January 28, 1999,
amended September 22, 1999 (the "Severance Plan") and the Supplemental

                                       20
<PAGE>   30

Executive Retirement Plan, dated January 1, 1992, amended September 22, 1999
(the "SERP") (collectively, "Plans"), a Change of Control shall affect any
officer of SJW who has been elected as such by the Board of Directors and is
serving as such upon a Change of Control. In the event of a Change of Control
under the Plans, if such officers' employment is terminated within two years of
such Change in Control by the employer for any reason other than "Good Cause"
(as defined in such Plans) or by such officers for "Good Reason" (as defined in
such Plans) or by Mr. Roth during the sixty (60) day period beginning on the one
year anniversary of a Change in Control, such officers will be entitled, among
other things, to benefits consisting of (i) three years' annual base salary and
(ii) shall be deemed to be three (3) years of age older at the time of
retirement and be given three (3) additional Years of Service (as defined in
SERP) for consideration of Retirement Benefits (as defined in SERP) (in the case
of Mr. Roth, Mr. Roth will be entitled to a minimum Retirement Benefit). Mr.
Roth alone shall be entitled to a Retirement Benefit at the later of his
attainment of fifty-five (55) years of age or his actual retirement in an amount
equal to the greater of (i) the benefit to which he would otherwise be entitled
under SERP or (ii) fifty-five percent (55%) of Final Average Compensation (as
defined in SERP) less benefits payable to him from the San Jose Water Company
Retirement Plan, revised January 1999 ("Retirement Plan"). Retirement Benefits
under SERP shall be an amount equal to the following: two and two tenths percent
(2.2%) of the Final Average Compensation of such officer multiplied by the
officer's Year' of Service (not to exceed twenty (20) years) plus one and
one-tenth percent (1.1%) of the Final Average Compensation of an officer
multiplied by the officer's Years of Service in excess of 20 years (not to
exceed an additional ten (10) years) up to a total not to exceed fifty-five
(55%) of Final Average Compensation; less benefits payable to the officer from
the Retirement Plan. Under the Severance Plan, such officers and their eligible
dependents would also be entitled to continued medical, dental, vision and life
insurance coverage pursuant to COBRA for up to the specified multiple of years.

     If any payment made in connection with the termination of the employment
would be subject to excise tax under Section 4999 of the Code (the "Excise
Tax"), then the aggregate present value measured at the date of the payments and
benefits to which the officer is entitled shall be limited as specified in the
Severance Plan (except in the case of Mr. Roth for whom if any payment made in
connection with benefits under the Severance Plan is subject to Excise Tax or
constitutes an excess parachute payment under Section 280G of the Code, then
such payment will be grossed up to ensure that Mr. Roth does not incur any
out-of-pocket cost with respect to such Excise Tax or that Mr. Roth receives the
same net after-tax benefit he would have received if such Section 280G had not
been applicable). American Water Works has agreed to provide the benefits under
the SJW Corp. Transaction Incentive and Retention Program for Key Employees and
the SJW Corp. Severance Plan , including the Supplemental Executive Retirement
Plan benefits provided under the Severance Plan, to those individuals covered by
those plans at the Effective Time. See "THE MERGER AGREEMENT -- Employee Benefit
Plans."

     Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, SJW and American Water Works have agreed
for six years after the Effective Time to indemnify all present directors,
officers and employees of SJW and its subsidiaries and SJW will, subject to
certain limitations, maintain for six years current policies of directors' and
officers' liability insurance and fiduciary liability insurance or substitute
policies containing terms and conditions which are, in the aggregate, no less
advantageous to the insured with respect to claims arising from facts or events
occurring at or prior to the Effective Time. See "THE MERGER
AGREEMENT -- Indemnification and Insurance."

                                       21
<PAGE>   31

                              THE MERGER AGREEMENT

     The following is a summary of certain provisions of the Merger Agreement,
which appears as Annex A to this Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by
reference. Such summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the Merger
Agreement.

THE MERGER

     The Merger Agreement provides that, following the adoption of the Merger
Agreement by the vote of a majority of the shares of Common Stock entitled to
vote thereon and the satisfaction or waiver of the other conditions to the
Merger, Merger Sub will be merged with and into SJW, and SJW will continue as
the surviving corporation in the Merger.

     If the conditions to the Merger are satisfied or waived, the parties will
file with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware and the State of
California a duly executed Certificate of Merger, and the Merger will become
effective upon the filing and acceptance thereof or at such date thereafter as
is provided in the Certificate of Merger.

     Each share of Common Stock issued and outstanding at the Effective Time
(other than Dissenting Shares) will automatically be canceled and will cease to
exist and will be converted into the right to receive the Merger Consideration.
See "APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT -- Merger Consideration."

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

     The Merger Agreement contains customary representations and warranties of
SJW relating, with respect to SJW and its subsidiaries, to, among other things,
(a) organization, standing and power; (b) SJW's capital structure; (c) the
authorization, execution, delivery, performance and enforceability of the Merger
Agreement; (d) documents filed by SJW with the Commission and the accuracy of
information contained therein; (e) the absence of undisclosed liabilities; (f)
compliance with any laws or orders; (g) environmental matters; (h) employee
benefit plans and other matters relating to the Employee Retirement Income
Security Act of 1974, as amended ("ERISA"), and employment matters; (i) the
absence of certain changes or events since June 30, 1999, including material
adverse changes with respect to SJW; (j) year 2000 preparedness; (k) filing of
tax returns and payment of taxes; (l) insurance; (m) title to owned property,
valid leasehold and subleasehold interests in leased property, possession of
required permits, and the other real-estate-related matters; (n) water quality;
(o) the recommendation of the Board of Directors with respect to the Merger
Agreement and the Merger and related transactions; (p) the shareholder vote
required to approve the Merger; (q) brokers' fees and expenses; (r) the opinion
of SJW's financial advisor; (s) regulation as a utility; (t) pending or
threatened litigation; (u) ownership of American Water Works' capital stock; (v)
material contracts; (w) real estate holdings; (x) intellectual property; (y)
product liability; and (z) condition of assets.

     The Merger Agreement also contains customary representations and warranties
of American Water Works and Merger Sub relating to, among other things, (a)
organization, standing, and power; (b) the authorization, execution, delivery,
performance and enforceability of the Merger Agreement; (c) board approval and
approval by Merger Sub's sole shareholder; (d) that no vote of American Water
Works' shareholders is required; (e) brokers' fees and expenses; (f) litigation;
(g) ownership of SJW's capital stock; and (h) funds sufficient for the Merger
Consideration.

CERTAIN PRE-CLOSING COVENANTS

     Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, SJW and American Water Works have agreed
to certain restrictions on their respective actions during the period from the
date of the Merger Agreement through the date of the Merger unless, in the case
of action by SJW, American Water Works has consented thereto in writing.

     SJW has agreed that SJW and each of its subsidiaries will carry on their
respective businesses in the usual, regular and ordinary course in all material
respects.

                                       22
<PAGE>   32

     SJW has agreed that SJW will not, and will not permit any of its
subsidiaries to enter into any new material line of business or incur or commit
to any capital expenditures other than (i) capital expenditures contemplated in
SJW's capital budget, (ii) reasonable amounts required to meet emergencies and
(iii) such additional amounts as may be required to comply with any laws and
orders then in effect or required by a governmental entity not in excess of an
agreed upon aggregate amount.

     SJW has agreed that SJW will not, and will not permit any of its
subsidiaries to, and shall not propose to, (i) declare, set aside or pay any
dividends on or make other distributions (whether in cash or otherwise) in
respect of any of its capital stock, except (a) dividends by wholly-owned
subsidiaries of SJW to such subsidiary's parent or another wholly-owned
subsidiary of SJW and (b) the regular quarterly dividends on SJW Common Stock in
the amount of $0.60 per share of Common Stock payable in the third and fourth
quarter of 1999, and $0.615 per share of SJW Common Stock per quarter
thereafter, (ii) split, combine, subdivide or reclassify any of its capital
stock or issue or authorize or propose the issuance of any other securities in
respect of, in lieu of or in substitution for, shares of its capital stock,
except for any such transaction by a wholly-owned subsidiary of SJW which
remains a wholly-owned subsidiary of SJW after consummation of such transaction,
(iii) adopt a plan of complete or partial liquidation or resolutions providing
for or authorizing such liquidation or a dissolution, merger, consolidation,
restructuring, recapitalization or other reorganization or (iv) directly or
indirectly repurchase, redeem or otherwise acquire any shares of its capital
stock or any securities convertible into or exercisable for any shares of its
capital stock.

     SJW has agreed that SJW will not, and will not permit any of its
subsidiaries to, issue, deliver or sell, pledge or encumber, or authorize or
propose the issuance, delivery or sale, pledge or encumbrance of, any shares of
its capital stock of any class or voting debt other than in connection with
issuances by a wholly-owned subsidiary of SJW of capital stock to such
subsidiary's parent or another wholly-owned subsidiary of SJW.

     SJW has agreed that except to the extent required to comply with their
respective obligations hereunder or legally requirements, SJW will not, and will
not permit any of its subsidiaries to, amend or propose to amend their
respective articles of incorporation, by-laws or other governing documents.

     SJW has agreed that, other than with the consent of American Water Works,
which shall not be unreasonably withheld, SJW shall not, and shall not permit
any of its subsidiaries to, acquire or agree to acquire by merging or
consolidating with, or by purchasing a substantial equity interest in or a
substantial portion of the assets of, or by any other manner, any business or
any corporation, partnership, association or other business organization or
division thereof, or otherwise acquire or agree to acquire any assets other than
the acquisition of assets as are used in the operations of the business of SJW
and its subsidiaries in the ordinary course consistent with past practices.

     SJW has agreed that other than (i) with the consent of American Water
Works, which shall not be unreasonably withheld, (ii) an existing loan of
approximately $4.4 million to fund the construction of an office building at 450
West Santa Clara, San Jose, California (negotiated by the 444 Partnership) and
up to $20 million of long-term indebtedness by San Jose Water Company to repay
short-term indebtedness and to finance construction of a utility plant and (iii)
transfers between SJW and its wholly-owned subsidiaries and between the
wholly-owned subsidiaries of SJW, SJW shall not, and shall not permit any of its
subsidiaries to, sell, lease, transfer, encumber or otherwise dispose of, or
agree to sell, lease, transfer, encumber or otherwise dispose of, any of its
assets (including capital stock of SJW's subsidiaries) which are material to
SJW. SJW has agreed that it shall not, and shall not permit any of its
subsidiaries to, (i) other than an existing loan of approximately $4.4 million
to fund the construction of an office building at 450 West Santa Clara, San
Jose, California (negotiated by the 444 Partnership) and up to $20 million of
long-term indebtedness by San Jose Water Company to repay short-term
indebtedness and to finance construction of a utility plant, make any loans,
advances or capital contributions to, or investments in, any other person, other
than loans, advances, capital contributions and investments by SJW or a
subsidiary to or in SJW or any wholly-owned subsidiary of SJW, (ii) pay,
discharge, settle or satisfy any claims, liabilities or obligations (absolute,
accrued, asserted or unasserted, contingent or otherwise), other than payments,
discharges, settlements or satisfactions incurred or committed to in the
ordinary course of business consistent with past practice or reflected in the
most recent

                                       23
<PAGE>   33

consolidated financial statements (or the notes thereto) of SJW included in the
most recent reports filed with the CPUC by SJW filed prior to the date of the
Merger Agreement or (iii) other than an existing loan of approximately $4.4
million to fund the construction of an office building at 450 West Santa Clara,
San Jose, California (negotiated by the 444 Partnership) and up to $20 million
of long-term indebtedness by San Jose Water Company to repay short-term
indebtedness and to finance construction of a utility plant, create, incur,
assume or suffer to exist any indebtedness, guarantees, loans or advances or any
debt securities or any warrants or rights to acquire any debt securities not in
existence as of the date of the Merger Agreement except for short-term
indebtedness incurred under SJW's current short-term facilities (and any
replacements thereof) in the ordinary course of business, consistent with past
practices, and which shall not exceed $20 million in the aggregate without the
consent of American Water Works, which shall not be unreasonably withheld, in
each case as such facilities and other existing indebtedness may be amended,
extended, modified, refunded, renewed, refinanced or replaced after the date of
the Merger Agreement, but only if the aggregate principal amount thereof is not
increased thereby, the term thereof is not extended thereby (or, in the case of
replacement indebtedness, the term of such indebtedness is not for a longer
period of time than the period of time applicable to the indebtedness so
replaced) and the other terms and conditions thereof, taken as a whole, are not
less advantageous to SJW and its subsidiaries than those in existence as of the
date of the Merger Agreement.

     Except as otherwise agreed between American Water Works and SJW, SJW has
agreed that SJW shall not, and shall not permit any of its subsidiaries to, (i)
materially increase the amount of compensation of any executive officer,
director or employee, (ii) make any material increase in or commitment to
increase any employee benefits, (iii) issue any equity-based awards or shares of
SJW Common Stock pursuant to SJW's benefit plans, adopt or make any commitment
to enter into, adopt, amend in any material manner or terminate any SJW benefit
plan, or any other agreement, arrangement, plan or policy between SJW or one of
its subsidiaries and one or more of its directors, officers or employees, or
(iv) make any contribution, other than regularly scheduled contributions, to any
SJW benefit plan.

     SJW has agreed that SJW shall not, and shall not permit any of its
subsidiaries to take any action that would, or fail to take any action which
failure would, or that could reasonably be expected to result in, (i) a material
breach of any provision of the Merger Agreement, or (ii) any of the conditions
to the Merger not being satisfied.

     SJW has agreed that except as disclosed in the reports filed by SJW with
the CPUC prior to the date of the Merger Agreement, or as required by a
governmental entity, SJW shall not, nor shall it permit any of its subsidiaries
to change its methods of accounting or accounting practices in effect at
December 31, 1998, except as required by changes in general accepted accounting
principles. In addition, SJW shall not, nor shall it permit any of its
subsidiaries to (i) change its fiscal year, (ii) make or rescind any material
tax election, (iii) settle or compromise any claim, action, suit, litigation,
proceeding, arbitration, investigation, audit, or controversy in respect of
taxes for any amount in excess of the amount reserved therefor and reflected in
the most recent consolidated financial statements (or the notes thereto) of SJW
included in the most recent report filed by SJW with the CPUC, or (iv) change in
any material respect any of its methods of reporting income, deductions or
accounting for federal income tax purposes from those employed in the
preparation of its federal income tax return for the taxable year ending
December 31, 1998.

     SJW has agreed that it shall not, nor shall it permit any of its
subsidiaries, except in the ordinary course of business consistent with past
practice (i) to modify, amend, terminate or fail to use commercially reasonable
efforts to renew any material contract or waive, release or assign any material
rights or claims under a contract to which SJW or any of its subsidiaries is a
party or (ii) to enter into any new material contracts.

     SJW has agreed that except for filings in the ordinary course of business
consistent with past practice that would not have a Material Adverse Effect (as
defined in the Merger Agreement) on SJW, SJW shall inform American Water Works
reasonably in advance of making a filing to implement any changes in any of its
subsidiaries' rates or surcharges for water service or executing any agreement
with respect thereto that is otherwise permitted under the Merger Agreement. SJW
will, and will cause its subsidiaries to, make all such

                                       24
<PAGE>   34

filings (i) only in the ordinary course of business consistent with past
practice or (ii) as required by a governmental entity.

     SJW has agreed that neither it nor any of its subsidiaries shall settle or
compromise any pending or threatened claims or arbitrations (other than any
claims or arbitrations relating to matters set forth in the reports filed by SJW
with the CPUC), other than settlements which involve solely the payment of money
(without admission of liability) that would not result in an uninsured payment
by or liability of SJW in excess of $300,000 in the aggregate above the reserves
established specifically therefor on the books of SJW as of the date hereof.

     American Water Works has agreed that it will not, and will not permit any
of its subsidiaries to, take any action that would, or fail to take any action
which failure would impair American Water Works' ability to have available
sufficient funds to pay the Merger Consideration pursuant to this Agreement and
otherwise to satisfy its obligations hereunder.

     SJW and American Water Works have agreed to confer on a regular and
frequent basis with one another regarding matters relevant to the Merger and
regarding operational matters of SJW and its subsidiaries. SJW has further
agreed to advise American Water Works promptly of any material change or event
affecting its business or operations, including any complaint, investigation or
hearing by any governmental entity or the institution or threat of material
litigation.

     SJW and American Water Works have agreed to appoint three officers each to
serve as their representatives on a committee that will be responsible for
coordinating transition planning and implementation relating to the Merger. The
initial representatives of SJW shall be W. Richard Roth, Angela Yip and Scott
Yoo and the initial representatives of American Water Works shall be Daniel
Kelleher, W. Timothy Pohl and Ellen Wolf. In addition, SJW has agreed to permit
American Water Works to locate up to two of its representatives at SJW's offices
to observe SJW's business.

NO SOLICITATION OF TRANSACTIONS

     Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, SJW has agreed that it will, and will
instruct each of its subsidiaries and representatives to, immediately cease all
existing discussions or negotiations, if any, with any parties conducted
heretofore with respect to any Acquisition Proposal (as defined below). SJW
shall not directly or indirectly, and it shall cause its Subsidiaries, officers,
directors, employees, representatives, agents or affiliates, including any
investment bankers, attorneys or accountants retained by SJW or any of its
subsidiaries or affiliates, not to, directly or indirectly, through any person,
(i) solicit, initiate, encourage or otherwise facilitate (including by way of
furnishing information) any inquiries or proposals that constitute, or could
reasonably be expected to lead to, any inquiry, proposal or offer (or any
improvement, restatement, amendment, renewal or reiteration thereof) from any
person relating to any direct or indirect acquisition or purchase of SJW or any
of its subsidiaries, a merger, recapitalization, consolidation, business
combination, sale of a significant portion of the assets of SJW and its
subsidiaries, taken as a whole, sale of 10% or more of the shares of capital
stock (including by way of a tender offer, share exchange or exchange offer) or
similar or comparable transactions involving SJW or any of its subsidiaries,
other than the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (any such inquiry,
proposal or offer or improvement, restatement, amendment, renewal or reiteration
thereof, other than made by American Water Works or an affiliate thereof, being
herein referred to as an "Acquisition Proposal"), or (ii) engage in negotiations
or discussions concerning, or provide any non-public information to any person
relating to, any Acquisition Proposal. The Board of Directors of SJW may,
however, at any time prior to adoption of the Merger Agreement by the
shareholders of SJW, furnish information (pursuant to a customary
confidentiality agreement no more favorable, in the aggregate, to the party
receiving information than the confidentiality agreement entered into between
American Water Works and SJW (it being understood that SJW may enter into a
confidentiality agreement without a standstill or with a standstill provision
less favorable to SJW if it waives or similarly modifies the standstill
provision in the confidentiality agreement entered into between American Water
Works and SJW; provided that in no circumstances shall any such standstill
provision in any such further confidentiality agreement be more favorable to the
other party with respect to the purchase of shares of SJW Common Stock)) to, or
engage in discussions or negotiations

                                       25
<PAGE>   35

with, any person in response to a "Superior Proposal" that did not otherwise
result from a breach of the Merger Agreement made by such person if, and only to
the extent that, prior to taking such action, (i) the Board of Directors of SJW
consults in good faith with its independent legal counsel as to the advisability
of furnishing information to, or engaging in discussions or negotiations with,
such person and determines in good faith based upon the advice of its
independent legal counsel that the failure to take such action would constitute
a breach by the Board of Directors of SJW of their fiduciary duties to SJW's
shareholders under applicable law, and (ii) SJW provides reasonable advance
notice to American Water Works to the effect that it is taking such action. A
"Superior Proposal" is defined as an unsolicited bona fide written Acquisition
Proposal that the Board of Directors of SJW concludes in good faith (after
consultation with its financial advisors) would, if consummated, provide greater
aggregate value to SJW's shareholders, from a financial point of view, than the
transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement and for which any required
financing is committed or which, in the good faith judgment of the Board of
Directors of SJW (after consultation with its financial advisors), is reasonably
capable of being financed by the person making such Acquisition Proposal
(provided that for purposes of this provision the meaning assigned to such term
is modified such that (i) the reference to "10% or more of the shares" in the
definition of "Acquisition Proposal" is deemed to be a reference to "sale of 50%
or more of the shares" and (ii) "Acquisition Proposal" is only deemed to refer
to a transaction involving SJW, or with respect to assets (including the shares
of any subsidiary of SJW) of SJW and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole, and not
any of its subsidiaries alone).

     Except and only to the extent provided below, neither the Board of
Directors of SJW nor any committee thereof will (i) withdraw, modify or change,
or propose to withdraw, modify or change, in any manner adverse to American
Water Works, the approval or recommendation by such Board of Directors or such
committee of the Merger or the Merger Agreement, (ii) approve or recommend, or
propose to approve or recommend, any Acquisition Proposal, or (iii) cause SJW to
enter into any agreement (other than a permitted confidentiality agreement),
letter of intent, agreement in principle, acquisition agreement or other similar
agreement relating to any Acquisition Proposal.

     In response to a Superior Proposal and after consulting in good faith with
its independent legal counsel as to the advisability of such action and
determines in good faith based upon the advice of its independent legal counsel
that the failure to take such action would constitute a breach by the Board of
Directors of SJW of their fiduciary duties to SJW's shareholders under
applicable law, SJW's Board of Directors is permitted, at any time prior to the
adoption of the Merger Agreement by the shareholders of SJW, (i) to withdraw,
modify or change, or propose to withdraw, modify or change, the approval or
recommendation by the Board of Directors of the Merger Agreement, the Merger or
the other transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement or (ii) to approve
or recommend, or propose to approve or recommend, any Superior Proposal, but
only in each case referred to in clauses (i) and (ii), after the third business
day following American Water Works' receipt of written notice advising American
Water Works that the Board of Directors of SJW has received a Superior Proposal,
specifying the principal terms and conditions of such Superior Proposal,
identifying the person making such Superior Proposal and stating that it intends
to take any action described in clause (i) or (ii) above. After providing such
notice, SJW must provide a reasonable opportunity to American Water Works within
such three business day period to make such adjustments in the terms and
conditions of the Merger Agreement as would enable SJW to proceed with its
recommendation to the shareholders of SJW without taking any action described in
clauses (i) or (ii) of the preceding sentence; provided that any such
adjustments will be at the discretion of American Water Works at such time.

     SJW will immediately advise American Water Works orally and in writing of
any request for information or any Acquisition Proposal, the material terms and
conditions of such request or Acquisition Proposal and the identity of the
person making such request or Acquisition Proposal. SJW will keep American Water
Works reasonably informed of the status and details (including amendments or
proposed amendments) of any such request or Acquisition Proposal.

EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

     Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, American Water Works will cause the
surviving corporation to assume all employment and other related agreements with
respect to any current employee of SJW, which
                                       26
<PAGE>   36

shall be performed in accordance with the terms of such agreements. In addition,
the obligations under each SJW employee benefit plan as to which SJW or any of
its subsidiaries has any obligation with respect to any current or former
employee will become the obligations of American Water Works and the surviving
corporation at the Effective Time. Thereafter, American Water Works shall, or
shall cause the surviving corporation to, provide benefits, to SJW employees
under those of American Water Works's employee benefit plans that provide
benefits that are most closely analogous to those provided by the SJW employee
benefit plans, on terms and conditions substantially similar, in the aggregate,
to those that apply to similarly situated employees of American Water Works'
subsidiaries.

     Pursuant to any benefit plans of American Water Works or any American Water
Works subsidiary in which SJW employees participate effective as of the Closing
Date, American Water Works will, or will cause the surviving corporation to: (i)
not impose any limitations more onerous than those currently in effect under a
comparable SJW benefit plan as to pre-existing conditions, exclusions and
waiting periods with respect to participation and coverage requirements
applicable to SJW employees under any benefit plan of American Water Works or
any subsidiary of American Water Works in which such employees may be eligible
to participate after the Effective Time, (ii) provide each SJW employee with
credit for any co-payments and deductibles paid prior to the Effective Time in
satisfying any applicable deductible or out-of-pocket requirements under any
welfare benefit plan of American Water Works or any subsidiary of American Water
Works in which such employees may be eligible to participate after the Effective
Time, and (iii) recognize all service of SJW employees with SJW for purposes of
eligibility to participate, vesting credit, eligibility for benefits and the
amount of any such benefits (other than accruals under any defined benefit
pension plan) in any benefit plan of American Water Works or any subsidiary of
American Water Works in which such employees may be eligible to participate
after the Effective Time, to the same extent taken into account under a
comparable SJW benefit plan immediately prior to the Closing Date.

     Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, SJW and American Water Works agree that,
for purposes of the SJW employee benefit plans, the approval or consummation of
the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement, as applicable, shall
constitute a "Change in Control" under such employee benefit plans. In addition,
American Water Works agreed to provide the benefits under the SJW Corp.
Transaction Incentive and Retention Program for Key Employees and the SJW Corp.
Executive Severance Plan, as amended (the "Severance Plan"), including the
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan benefits provided under the Severance
Plan, to those individuals covered by those plans at the Effective Time in
accordance with the forms of such plans as of October 28, 1999. See "THE
MERGER -- Interests of Certain Persons in the Merger."

ACCESS TO INFORMATION

     Subject to applicable provisions regarding confidentiality and any
applicable law or order, SJW has agreed in the Merger Agreement to, and to cause
its subsidiaries to, upon reasonable notice, afford American Water Works and its
representatives reasonable access during normal business hours to all its
facilities, operations, officers, employees, agents and accountants and its
properties, books, contracts, commitments, personnel and records and to furnish
American Water Works with each report, schedule, registration statement and
other document required by applicable federal or state securities laws or filed
with any other governmental entity and to furnish American Water Works with all
other information concerning its business, properties and personnel as American
Water Works may from time to time reasonably request.

COOPERATION AND REASONABLE BEST EFFORTS

     Pursuant to the Merger Agreement and subject to certain conditions and
limitations described therein, the parties have agreed to cooperate with each
other and to use their respective reasonable best efforts to take certain
specified and other actions so that the transactions contemplated by the Merger
Agreement may be consummated.

                                       27
<PAGE>   37

INDEMNIFICATION AND INSURANCE

     Following the Merger, the Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws of SJW will
contain for a period of six years after the Effective Time SJW's current
provisions with respect to elimination of liability of directors and
indemnification of, and advancement of expenses to, officers, directors and
employees contained in the Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws of SJW on the
date of the Merger Agreement.

     In addition, the Merger Agreement provides that SJW will maintain, with
certain limitations, in effect for six years from the Effective Time the current
policies of directors' and officers' liability insurance and fiduciary liability
insurance with respect to claims arising from facts or events that occurred on
or before the Effective Time.

CONDITIONS TO THE CONSUMMATION OF THE MERGER

     The respective obligations of SJW and American Water Works to effect the
Merger are subject to various conditions which include, in addition to certain
other customary closing conditions such as the continued correctness of
representations and warranties in all material respects and due performance of
the obligations of the parties under the Merger Agreement, the following: (i)
the Merger Agreement has been approved by the requisite vote of holders of
outstanding shares of Common Stock; (ii) no federal, state, local or foreign, if
any, law has been adopted or promulgated, and no temporary restraining order,
preliminary or permanent injunction or other order issued by a court or other
governmental entity of competent jurisdiction is in effect, having the effect of
making the Merger illegal or otherwise prohibiting consummation of the Merger;
(iii) required governmental approvals have been obtained and (iv) the waiting
period (and any extension thereof) applicable to the Merger under the HSR Act
shall have been terminated or shall have expired. In addition, the obligations
of American Water Works are subject to the following conditions: (a) the
required governmental approvals shall not impose terms or conditions that could
reasonably be expected to cause a material adverse effect on SJW or American
Water Works and (b) no event shall have occurred which could reasonably be
likely to result in any liability of SJW in the death or serious injury with
respect to any product or service sold by SJW, such that the reputation of SJW
or American might be significantly impaired. See "APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE
MERGER AGREEMENT -- Regulatory Approvals."

TERMINATION

     The Merger Agreement may be terminated at any time prior to the Effective
Time by action taken or authorized by the Board of Directors of the terminating
party or parties, and except as provided below, whether before or after the
adoption of the Merger Agreement by the shareholders of SJW or Merger Sub:

          (a) by mutual written consent of American Water Works and SJW by
     action of their respective Boards of Directors;

          (b) by either SJW or American Water Works if:

             (i) the Merger shall not have been consummated on or before October
        28, 2000 (the "Termination Date"); provided that if on such date all
        required governmental approvals have not been satisfied or waived, but
        all other conditions to the Merger have been satisfied, waived or can
        readily be satisfied, and all required governmental approvals are being
        pursued diligently and in good faith, then the Termination Date will be
        extended to the earlier of April 28, 2001 or the date that such
        approvals are no longer being pursued diligently and in good faith by
        any necessary party.

             (ii) any governmental entity (a) has issued an order, decree or
        ruling or taken any other action permanently restraining, enjoining or
        otherwise prohibiting the Merger and such order, decree, ruling or other
        action has become final and nonappealable or (b) has failed to issue an
        order, decree or ruling or to take any action that is necessary to
        obtain required governmental approvals or fulfill the requirements under
        the HSR Act and such denial of a request to issue such order, decree,
        ruling or take such other action shall have become final and
        nonappealable; or

                                       28
<PAGE>   38

             (iii) if the approval by the shareholders of SJW required for the
        consummation of the Merger has not been obtained by reason of the
        failure to obtain the required vote upon the taking of such vote at a
        duly held meeting of the shareholders of SJW, or at any adjournment
        thereof;

          (c) by American Water Works if the Board of Directors of SJW has (i)
     withdrawn, modified or changed or proposed to withdraw, modify or change,
     in a manner adverse to American Water Works, its approval or recommendation
     of the Merger or the Merger Agreement, or (ii) approved or recommended, or
     proposed to approve or recommend, any Acquisition Proposal from a person
     other than American Water Works or its affiliates;

          (d) by American Water if the Board of Directors of SJW shall have
     refused to affirm its recommendation of the Merger and the transactions
     contemplated by the Merger Agreement as promptly as practicable (but in any
     case within ten business days) after receipt of written request from
     American Water Works therefor;

          (e) by SJW at any time prior to adoption of the Merger Agreement by
     the shareholders of SJW if the Board of Directors of SJW (i) shall have
     approved a Superior Proposal or (ii) shall have entered into a definitive
     agreement with respect to a Superior Proposal; provided, however, that SJW
     shall have complied with the requirements of the Merger Agreement with
     respect to such Superior Proposal and shall have paid American Water Works
     the Termination Fee (as defined below);

          (f) by American Water Works, upon a breach of any representation,
     warranty, covenant or agreement on the part of SJW set forth in the Merger
     Agreement, or if any representation or warranty of SJW shall have become
     untrue, incomplete or incorrect, in either case such that the conditions to
     the obligations of American Water Works would not be satisfied (a
     "Terminating SJW Breach"); provided, however, that if such Terminating SJW
     Breach is curable by SJW through the exercise of its reasonable efforts
     within 10 days, American Water Works may not terminate the Merger Agreement
     until the expiration of such 10 day period or the time SJW fails to
     maintain reasonable efforts, whichever occurs earlier; and provided,
     further, that the cure period shall not in any event be deemed to extend
     any other termination date; or

          (g) by SJW, upon breach of any representation, warranty, covenant or
     agreement on the part of American Water Works or Merger Sub set forth in
     the Merger Agreement, or if any representation or warrant of American Water
     Works shall have become untrue, incomplete or incorrect, in either case
     such that the conditions to the obligations of SJW would not be satisfied
     ("Terminating American Water Works Breach"); provided, however, that if
     such Terminating American Water Works Breach is curable by American Water
     Works through the exercise of its reasonable efforts within 10 days and for
     so long as American Water Works continues to exercise such reasonable
     efforts, SJW may not terminate this Agreement until the expiration of such
     10 day period or the time SJW fails to maintain reasonable efforts,
     whichever occurs earlier; and provided, further, that the cure period shall
     not in any event be deemed to extend any other termination date.

EXPENSES AND CERTAIN REQUIRED PAYMENTS

     Under the Merger Agreement, generally all expenses incurred in connection
with the Merger Agreement and the transaction contemplated thereby will be paid
by the party incurring such expenses.

     SJW has agreed to pay American Water Works the sum of $17.5 million
("Termination Fee") if:

          (i) (A) SJW or American Water Works terminates the Merger Agreement
     due to the failure of SJW's shareholders to adopt the Merger Agreement, (B)
     at any time after the date of the Merger Agreement and at or before the
     time of the event giving rise to such termination there exists an
     Acquisition Proposal with respect to SJW or any of its subsidiaries and (C)
     within 18 months following such termination SJW enters into a definitive
     agreement with a third party with respect to an Acquisition Proposal or an
     Acquisition Proposal is consummated;

                                       29
<PAGE>   39

          (ii) (A) American Water Works terminates the Merger Agreement because
     the Board of Directors of SJW has (x) withdrawn, modified or changed, or
     proposed to withdraw, modify or change, in a manner adverse to American
     Water Works, its approval or recommendation of the Merger or the Merger
     Agreement, (y) approved or recommended, or proposed to approve or recommend
     any Acquisition Proposal from a person other than American Water Works or
     its affiliates or (z) refused to affirm its recommendation of the Merger
     and the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement as promptly as
     practicable (but in any case within ten business days) after receipt of
     written request from American Water Works, (B) at any time after the date
     of the Merger Agreement and at or before the time of the event giving rise
     to such termination there exists an Acquisition Proposal with respect to
     SJW or any of its subsidiaries and (C) within 18 months following such
     termination SJW enters into a definitive agreement with a third party with
     respect to an Acquisition Proposal or an Acquisition Proposal is
     consummated; or

          (iii) (A) SJW terminates the Merger Agreement because the Board of
     Directors of SJW shall have approved a Superior Proposal, (B) at any time
     after the date of the Merger Agreement and at or before the time of the
     event giving rise to such termination there exists an Acquisition Proposal
     with respect to SJW or any of its subsidiaries and (C) within 18 months
     following such termination SJW enters into a definitive agreement with a
     third party with respect to an Acquisition Proposal or an Acquisition
     Proposal is consummated; or

          (iv) SJW terminates the Merger Agreement because, at any time prior to
     the adoption of the Merger Agreement by the shareholders of SJW, the Board
     of Directors of SJW enters into a definitive agreement with respect to a
     Superior Proposal.

AMENDMENT AND WAIVER

     The Merger Agreement may be amended by the parties by action taken or
authorized by their respective Boards of Directors at any time; provided,
however, that, after the adoption of the Merger Agreement by the shareholders of
SJW, no amendment may be made which would require further approval by such
shareholders without such further approval.

                                       30
<PAGE>   40

                            SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

     The following table sets forth selected consolidated historical financial
data of SJW and has been derived from and should be read in conjunction with the
audited consolidated financial statements of SJW for each of the years in the
five-year period ended December 31, 1999, including the respective notes
thereto.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                         YEAR ENDED     YEAR ENDED     YEAR ENDED     YEAR ENDED     YEAR ENDED
                                        DECEMBER 31,   DECEMBER 31,   DECEMBER 31,   DECEMBER 31,   DECEMBER 31,
                                            1999           1998           1997           1996           1995
                                        ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------
<S>                                     <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT DATA:
Operating Revenue.....................    $117,001       $106,010       $110,084       $102,593       $ 97,385
Operating Income......................      19,739         18,847         19,314         17,606         15,314
Net Income............................      15,884         16,018         15,216         18,560         11,535
Basic Earnings Per Share..............        5.20           5.05           4.80           5.75           3.55
Weighted Average Common Shares
  Outstanding.........................       3,055          3,170          3,170          3,227          3,251
Dividends Declared Per Common Share...        2.40           2.34           2.28           2.22           2.16
BALANCE SHEET DATA (AT END OF THE
  PERIOD):
Total Assets..........................     372,427        359,380        323,223        296,536        280,497
Long-term Obligations.................      90,000         90,000         75,000         76,500         77,500
Shareholder's Equity..................     143,894        143,149        133,553        120,028        108,854
Book Value Per Common Share...........       47.25          45.19          42.13          37.86          33.49
</TABLE>

- ---------------
(1) Operating income is defined as operating revenue less total cost of
    operations, depreciation, and income taxes, excluding interest expense.

                      PRICE OF SJW COMMON STOCK; DIVIDENDS

     The Common Stock is listed and traded on the AMEX under the symbol "SJW."
The following table shows, for the fiscal periods indicated, the high and low
sale prices of a share of Common Stock on the AMEX Composite Transactions Tape
as well as dividends paid.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                               HIGH       LOW     DIVIDENDS
                                                              -------   -------   ---------
<S>                                                           <C>       <C>       <C>
Fiscal 1997
  First Quarter (ended March 31, 1997)......................  $ 52.87   $46.00      $.57
  Second Quarter (ended June 30, 1997)......................    56.75    48.00       .57
  Third Quarter (ended September 30, 1997)..................    57.75    51.75       .57
  Fourth Quarter (ended December 31, 1997)..................    60.50    56.375      .57
Fiscal 1998
  First Quarter (ended March 31, 1998)......................    71.00    56.875      .585
  Second Quarter (ended June 30, 1998)......................    70.375   58.375      .585
  Third Quarter (ended September 30, 1998)..................    59.375   50.50       .585
  Fourth Quarter (ended December 31, 1998)..................    62.75    48.50       .585
Fiscal 1999
  First Quarter (ended March 31, 1999)......................    65.00    57.25       .60
  Second Quarter (ended June 30, 1999)......................    81.50    60.375      .60
  Third Quarter (ended September 30, 1999)..................    93.50    75.50       .60
  Fourth Quarter (ended December 31, 1999)..................   121.00    87.75       .60
Fiscal 2000
  First Quarter (through March 1, 2000).....................   119.75   110.75       .615
</TABLE>

     On October 28, 1999, the last trading day before public announcement of the
execution of the Merger Agreement, the last sale price of Common Stock on the
AMEX Composite Transactions Tape was $106 per share.

     On March 1, 2000, the most recent practicable date prior to the printing of
this Proxy Statement, the last sale price of Common Stock as reported on the
AMEX Composite Transactions Tape was $113.75 per share.

     SJW shareholders should obtain current market prices for Common Stock.

                                       31
<PAGE>   41

                                      SJW

GENERAL

     SJW was incorporated in California on February 8, 1985. SJW is a holding
company with two wholly-owned subsidiaries, San Jose Water Company and SJW Land
Company.

     San Jose Water Company was originally incorporated under the laws of the
State of California in 1866. The company was later reorganized and
reincorporated as the San Jose Water Works. San Jose Water Works was
reincorporated in 1985 as San Jose Water Company, with SJW Corp. as the parent
holding company. The headquarters of SJW and its subsidiaries is at 374 West
Santa Clara Street, San Jose, California 95113 and their telephone which is
(408) 279-7800

     SJW Land Company was incorporated in October, 1985.

     San Jose Water Company is a public utility in the business of providing
water service to a population of approximately 979,000 people in an area
comprising about 138 square miles in the metropolitan San Jose area.

     The principal business of San Jose Water Company consists of the
production, purchase, storage, purification, distribution and retail sale of
water. San Jose Water Company provides water service to customers in portions of
the cities of Cupertino and San Jose and in the cities of Campbell, Monte
Sereno, Saratoga and the Town of Los Gatos, and adjacent unincorporated
territory, all in the County of Santa Clara in the State of California. It
distributes water to customers in accordance with accepted water utility
methods, which include pumping from storage and gravity feed from high elevation
reservoirs.

     In October 1997, San Jose Water Company commenced operation of the City of
Cupertino municipal water system under the terms of a 25-year lease. The system
is adjacent to the existing San Jose Water Company service area and has 4,200
service connections. Under the terms of the lease, San Jose Water Company made
an up-front $6.8 million lease payment to the City which will be amortized over
the lease term. The Company is responsible for all aspects of system operation
including capital improvements.

WATER SUPPLY

     San Jose Water Company's water supply is obtained from wells, surface
run-off or diversion and by purchases from the Santa Clara Valley Water District
(SCVWD). Surface supplies, which during a year of normal rainfall satisfy about
6% to 8% of San Jose Water Company's current annual needs, provide approximately
1% of its water supply in a dry year and approximately 14% in a wet year. In dry
years the decrease in water from surface run-off and diversion, and the
corresponding increase in purchased and pumped water increases production costs
substantially.

     Groundwater levels in 1999 remained at a high level reflecting the impact
of the last rainfall season. SCVWD's reservoir storage of approximately 125,399
acre feet (74% of capacity) was reported on February 22, 2000.

     Until the drought of 1989, San Jose Water Company had never found it
necessary to impose mandatory water rationing. Except in a few isolated cases
when service had been interrupted or curtailed because of power or equipment
failures, construction shutdowns or other operating difficulties, San Jose Water
Company had not at any prior time in its history interrupted or imposed
mandatory curtailment of service to any type or class of customer. During the
summer of 1989 through March 1993, rationing was imposed intermittently on all
customers based on requests from SCVWD.

REGULATION AND RATES

     San Jose Water Company's rates, service and other matters affecting its
business are subject to regulation by the CPUC.

     Ordinarily, there are two types of rate increases, general and offset. The
purpose of the latter is to compensate utilities for increases in specific
expenses, such as those for purchased water or power.

                                       32
<PAGE>   42

     The most recent general rate case decision authorized an initial increase
followed by two annual step increases designed to maintain the authorized return
on equity over a three-year period. General rate applications are normally filed
and processed during the last year covered by the most recent rate case in an
attempt to avoid regulatory lag.

     Pursuant to Section 792.5 of the California Public Utilities Code, a
balancing account is kept for all expense items for which revenue offsets have
been authorized. A separate balancing account must be maintained for each offset
expense item. The purpose of a balancing account is to track the
under-collection or over-collection associated with expense changes and the
revenue authorized by the CPUC to offset those expense changes. At December 31,
1999 the balancing account had a net over-collected balance to be refunded of
$51,000.

FRANCHISES

     San Jose Water Company holds such franchises or permits in the communities
it serves as it judges necessary to operate and maintain its facilities in the
public streets.

SEASONAL FACTORS

     Water sales are seasonal in nature. The demand for water, especially by
residential customers, is generally influenced by weather conditions. The timing
of precipitation and climatic conditions can cause seasonal water consumption by
residential customers to vary significantly.

COMPETITION AND CONDEMNATION

     San Jose Water Company is a public utility regulated by the CPUC and
operates within a service area approved by the CPUC. The laws of the State of
California provide that no other investor owned public utility may operate in
San Jose Water Company's service area without first obtaining from the CPUC a
certificate of public convenience and necessity. Past experience shows such a
certificate would be issued only after demonstrating San Jose Water Company's
service in such area is inadequate.

     California law also provides that whenever a public agency constructs
facilities to extend utility service to the service area of a privately owned
public utility (like San Jose Water Company), such an act constitutes the taking
of property and is conditioned upon payment of just compensation to the private
utility.

     Under the constitution and statutes of the State of California,
municipalities, water districts and other public agencies have been authorized
to engage in the ownership and operation of water systems. Such agencies are
empowered to condemn properties operated by privately owned public utilities
upon payment of just compensation and are further authorized to issue bonds
(including revenue bonds) for the purpose of acquiring or constructing water
systems. To the Company's knowledge, no municipality, water district or other
public agency has pending any action to condemn any part of San Jose Water
Company's system.

ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS

     San Jose Water Company maintains procedures to produce potable water in
accordance with all applicable county, state and federal environmental rules and
regulations. Additionally, San Jose Water Company is subject to environmental
regulation by various other governmental authorities.

EMPLOYEES

     As of December 31, 1999, San Jose Water Company had 285 employees, of whom
59 were executive, administrative and supervisory personnel, and of whom 226
were members of unions. San Jose Water Company reached a two-year collective
bargaining agreement with the Utility Workers of America, representing the
majority of employees and the International Union of Operating Engineers,
representing certain employees in the engineering department covering the years
1999 and 2000. Both groups are affiliated with the AFL-CIO.

                                       33
<PAGE>   43

PROPERTIES

     The properties of San Jose Water Company consist of a unified system of
water production, storage, purification and distribution located in the County
of Santa Clara in the State of California. In general, the property is comprised
of franchise rights, water rights, necessary rights-of-way, approximately 7,000
acres of land held in fee (which is primarily nondevelopable watershed),
impounding reservoirs with a capacity of approximately 2.256 billion gallons,
diversion facilities, wells, distribution storage of approximately 240 million
gallons and all water facilities, equipment and other property necessary to
supply its customers.

     San Jose Water Company maintains all of its properties in good operating
condition in accordance with customary proper practice for a water utility. San
Jose Water Company's well pumping stations have a production capacity of
approximately 264 million gallons per day and the present capacity for taking
purchased water is approximately 172 million gallons per day. The gravity water
collection system has a physical delivery capacity of approximately 25 million
gallons per day. During 1999, a maximum and average of 207 million gallons and
136 million gallons of water per day, respectively, were delivered to the
system.

     San Jose Water Company holds all its principal properties in fee, subject
to current tax and assessment liens, rights-of-way, easements, and certain minor
clouds or defects in title which do not materially affect their use.

     SJW Land Company owns approximately nine acres of property adjacent to San
Jose Water Company's general office facilities, approximately another five
undeveloped acres and a commercial building in the San Jose metropolitan area.
Eight of the nine acres of land adjacent to San Jose Water Company are used as
surface parking facilities and generate the majority of SJW Land Company's
revenue.

                       AMERICAN WATER WORKS COMPANY, INC.

     American Water Works, a Delaware corporation, is the largest investor-owned
and most geographically diverse water utility business in the United States. The
company, through its 26 utility subsidiaries, is primarily engaged in the
collection, treatment, distribution and sale of water. As of December 31, 1998,
American Water Works' total water system production capacity was approximately
1.4 billion gallons a day. The company currently serves more than 900
communities with a total population of approximately 10 million in 23 states
from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Kentucky and Tennessee in the East and Southeast
to Indiana, Missouri, California and New Mexico in the Midwest and West.

     In fiscal year 1999, American Water Works had consolidated operating
revenues of $1,260,857,000, and net income to common stock of $134,965,000.
American Water Works has experienced 5-year compound annual growth rates of 10%
in dividends per common share, 4% in earnings per common share, 9% in book value
per common share and 6% in consolidated operating revenues.

     Merger Sub, a Delaware corporation, and a wholly-owned subsidiary of
American Water Works, was organized in connection with the merger and has not
engaged in any business activities other than those related to the merger. The
executive offices of American Water Works and Merger Sub are located at 1025
Laurel Oak Road, Voorhees, New Jersey 08043 and their telephone number is (856)
346-8200.

                               DISSENTERS' RIGHTS

     Record holders of Common Stock will have the right to dissent with respect
to the Merger and, subject to certain conditions, receive a cash payment equal
to the fair market of their shares under the CGCL, but, except in the case of
shares which are restricted by SJW, or applicable law or regulation as to
transfer, only if demand for payment is made with respect to five percent or
more of the outstanding Common Stock. In order to perfect his or her dissenter's
rights, a record holder of Common Stock must (i) vote his or her dissenting
shares against the Merger, (ii) make written demand to purchase his or her
dissenting shares upon SJW not later than the date of the Annual Meeting, (iii)
submit the stock certificates representing his or her dissenting shares to SJW
or its transfer agent, for notation that they represent dissenting shares,
within 30 days after the

                                       34
<PAGE>   44

mailing by SJW to shareholders who voted against the Merger of a notice stating
that the Merger Agreement has been approved and adopted by the shareholders (the
"Approval Notice"), and (iv) file an action in court within six months after the
date on which notice stating that the Merger Agreement has been approved and
adopted by the shareholders is mailed to SJW shareholders who voted against the
Merger Agreement, but only if SJW and the shareholder are unable to reach
agreement on the price to be paid for the dissenting shares, all as more
particularly described below. If demands for payment referred to in clause (ii)
above are not filed with respect to five percent or more of the outstanding
Common Stock, no shareholder of SJW, other than a holder of shares which are
restricted by SJW, or applicable law or regulation as to transfer, will have
dissenters' rights, even if all of the above conditions are otherwise satisfied.
Dissenters' rights cannot be validly exercised by persons other than the record
holders of Common Stock, regardless of the beneficial ownership thereof. Persons
who are beneficial owners of Common Stock but whose shares are held of record by
another person, such as a broker, a bank or a nominee, should instruct the
record holder to follow the procedure outlined below if they wish to dissent
from the Merger with respect to any or all of their shares.

     Under Sections 1300 to 1312 of the CGCL, any shareholder of record of SJW
who votes any and all of his or her shares against the Merger and who intends to
enforce his or her dissenter's rights must, on or before the date of the Annual
Meeting, which is to be held on April 20, 2000, submit to SJW at its principal
executive offices, 374 W. Santa Clara St., San Jose, CA, 95113, Attention:
Corporate Secretary or to SJW's transfer agent, Equiserve at Shareholder
Services Division, P.O. Box 644, M/S 45-02-09, Boston, MA 02102-0644, a written
demand that SJW purchase for cash some or all of his or her shares voted against
the Merger, which demand shall state the number and class of shares which he or
she demands that SJW purchase and the amount which the shareholder claims to be
the fair market value of those shares as of October 28, 1999, the first business
day before the announcement of the terms of the proposed Merger, excluding any
appreciation or depreciation in consequence of the proposed Merger.

     Dissenters' rights may not be perfected with respect to any shares unless
such shares are voted against the Merger. A record shareholder may vote part of
the shares which he or she is entitled to vote in favor of or in abstention with
respect to the Merger without jeopardizing dissenter's rights as to shares voted
against the Merger, however, if a record shareholder votes part of the shares he
or she is entitled to vote in favor of the Merger and fails to specify the
number of shares he or she is voting in favor of the Merger, it is conclusively
presumed under the CGCL that his or her approving vote is with respect to all
shares which he or she is entitled to vote. A vote to abstain will not
constitute a vote against the Merger for purposes of dissenters' rights.
Further, voting against the Merger will not of itself, absent compliance with
the provisions summarized herein, satisfy the requirements of the CGCL for
exercise of dissenters' rights.

     If any shareholder of SJW has a right to require SJW to purchase his or her
shares for cash under the provisions of the CGCL, SJW will mail to each such
shareholder an Approval Notice within ten (10) days after approval of the
Merger, stating the price determined by SJW to represent the fair market value
of the dissenting shares and briefly describing the procedure to be followed if
the shareholder desires to exercise his or her dissenters' rights. A dissenting
shareholder must, within 30 days after SJW mails to him or her the Approval
Notice, submit to SJW or its transfer agent at the addresses set forth above
certificates representing the dissenting shares which he or she demands that SJW
purchase so that such certificates may be stamped or endorsed with a statement
that the shares are dissenting shares or exchanged for certificates of
appropriate denomination so stamped or endorsed. The Approval Notice will
specify the date by which the submission of certificates for endorsement must be
made to SJW and a submission made after such date will not be effective for any
purpose. If SJW and a dissenting shareholder agree that the shares are
dissenting shares entitled to receive payment therefor and agree upon the price
of such shares, SJW, upon surrender of the certificates evidencing such shares,
will make payment of such amount (plus interest thereon from the date of such
agreement) within 30 days after such agreement. Any agreement fixing the fair
market value of any dissenting shares between a dissenting shareholder and SJW
shall be filed with the Secretary of the Company.

     If SJW denies that the shares are dissenting shares entitled to receive
payment therefor, or SJW and the dissenting shareholder fail to agree respecting
the fair market value of the shares, the dissenting shareholder may, within six
months after the date on which the Approval Notice was mailed to the
shareholder, but not thereafter, file a complaint in the Superior Court of the
County of Santa Clara, State of California, requesting
                                       35
<PAGE>   45

that the Court determine whether the shares are dissenting shares and/or the
fair market value of such dissenting shares. The costs of the action will be
assessed or apportioned as the Court considers equitable, but, if the fair
market value is determined to exceed the price offered to the shareholder by
SJW, SJW will be required to pay the costs of the action and may be required to
pay counsel fees. A dissenting shareholder may not withdraw his or her dissent
or demand for payment without the consent of the SJW Board. The rights of
dissenting shareholders to demand payment terminate if, among other things, the
Merger is abandoned or if the shares are transferred prior to submission for
endorsement as dissenting shares.

     The foregoing is a brief summary of the rights of dissenting shareholders,
does not purport to be a complete statement thereof and is qualified in its
entirety by reference to the applicable statutory provisions of the CGCL which
are set forth in Annex C hereto.

                             ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

     At the Annual Meeting nine (9) directors, constituting the entire board,
are to be elected. They are each to hold office until the next annual meeting of
the SJW's shareholders and until a successor for such director is elected and
qualified, or until the death, resignation or removal of such director.

     A brief biography of each nominee, including the nominee's business
experience during the past 5 years, is set forth below. All nominees are
currently directors of SJW, and have been so for at least five (5) years.
Furthermore, all nominees are also directors of San Jose Water Company, the
wholly-owned public utility water corporation subsidiary of SJW, and of SJW Land
Company, the wholly-owned real estate development company subsidiary of SJW. It
is SJW's intention to appoint all persons elected as directors of the SJW at the
annual meeting to be the directors of San Jose Water Company and SJW Land
Company for a concurrent term.

     In the unanticipated event that a nominee is unable or declines to serve as
a director at the time of the annual meeting, proxies will be voted for any
nominee named by the present Board of Directors to fill the vacancy. As of the
date of this Proxy Statement, the SJW is not aware of any nominee who is unable
or will decline to serve as a director.

     MARK L. CALI, Attorney at Law, with the firm Clark, Cali and Negranti, LLP
since December 1996. Formerly, he was with the firm Bledsoe, Cathcart, Diestel,
Livingston, and Pedersen from October 1994 through November 1996, with Jencks &
Hunt from May 1994 through October 1994, and prior to that with Ropers, Majeski,
Kohn, Bently, Wagner and Kane from October 1990 through May 1994. Mr. Cali, age
34, has served as a director of San Jose Water Company since 1992.

     J. PHILIP DINAPOLI, Attorney at Law, Chairman of Comerica California Inc.
(California bank holding company). He serves as a director of Comerica, Inc.
(bank holding company) and Comerica Bank-California (bank). He served as
Chairman of Citation Insurance Company (Workers Compensation specialty carrier)
until November 20, 1996. He is also the owner of DiNapoli Development Company
(real estate development company). Mr. DiNapoli, age 60, is a member of the
Audit Committee and has served as a director of the San Jose Water Company since
1989.

     DREW GIBSON, Principal of the Gibson Speno Company (real estate development
and investment company) and Chairman of the Board of the Gibson Speno Management
Company (real estate management company). He is a director of Celluphone, Inc.
(California based cellular agent) and served as a director of Comerica
Bank-California (bank) until December 31, 1998. Mr. Gibson, age 57, is a member
of the Audit and Compensation Committees and has served as a director of San
Jose Water Company since 1986.

     RONALD R. JAMES, President Emeritus of the San Jose Chamber of Commerce
(business promotion organization), formerly President and Chief Executive
Officer of the Chamber. Mr. James, age 71, is a member of the Audit and
Compensation Committees and has served as a director of San Jose Water Company
since 1974.

     GEORGE E. MOSS, Vice Chairman of the Board of Roscoe Moss Manufacturing
Company (manufacturer of steel water pipe and well casing). Mr. Moss was
formerly President of the Roscoe Moss Company
                                       36
<PAGE>   46

(holding company). Mr. Moss, age 68, is a member of the Executive and
Compensation Committees and has served as a director of San Jose Water Company
since 1984.

     ROSCOE MOSS, JR., Chairman of the Board of Roscoe Moss Manufacturing
Company (manufacturer of steel water pipe and well casing). Mr. Moss was
formerly Chairman of the Board of Roscoe Moss Company (holding company). Mr.
Moss, age 70, is a member of SJW's Executive and Compensation Committees and has
served as a director of San Jose Water Company since 1980.

     W. R. ROTH, President and Chief Executive Officer of SJW. President since
October 1996 and Chief Executive Officer since September, 1999, he was Vice
President from April 1992 until October 1996 and Chief Financial Officer and
Treasurer of SJW from January 1990 until October 1996. He has been President of
San Jose Water Company since October 1994 and Chief Executive Officer since
October 1996. Prior to that he was Chief Operating Officer from October 1994
until October 1996. He was Vice President of San Jose Water Company from April
1992 until July 1994 and Senior Vice President from July 1994 until October
1994. He served as Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer from January 1990 until
October 1994. Mr. Roth, age 47, serves on the Corporation's Executive Committee
and has served as a director of San Jose Water Company since 1994.

     CHARLES J. TOENISKOETTER, President of Toeniskoetter & Breeding Inc.
(construction and real estate development company). He also serves as a director
of Redwood Trust, Inc. (real estate investment trust). Mr. Toeniskoetter, age
55, is a member of the Audit Committee and has served as a director of San Jose
Water Company since 1991.

     J.W. WEINHARDT, Chairman of SJW. Prior to becoming Chairman in October 1996
he was President and Chairman of the Board of San Jose Water Company. Prior to
his election to Chairman of the Board in October 1994, he was President of the
San Jose Water Company. He also served as Chief Executive Officer of the San
Jose Water Company until October 1996, and as Chief Executive Officer of SJW
until September, 1999. Mr. Weinhardt, age 68, is a member of the SJW's Executive
Committee and has served as a director of San Jose Water Company since 1975. Mr.
Weinhardt also serves as a director of California Water Service Group. Until
November 30, 1997, Mr. Weinhardt served as a director of SJNB Financial Corp.
and its subsidiary San Jose National Bank.

     Nominees Roscoe Moss, Jr. and George Moss are brothers. With that
exception, no nominee has any family relationship with any other nominee or with
any executive officer. Other than Mr. Weinhardt and Mr. Roth, whose employment
relationships with San Jose Water Company and SJW Land Company are described
above, no nominee is or has been employed in his principal occupation or
employment during the past 5 years by SJW or its subsidiaries.

         SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

     The following table sets forth, as of December 31, 1999, certain
information concerning ownership of shares of Common Stock by each director of
SJW, each of the Chief Executive Officer of SJW and the four most highly
compensated executive officers of SJW and its subsidiaries for the year ended
December 31, 1999 and all directors and executive officers of SJW and its
subsidiaries as a group. Unless otherwise indicated, the

                                       37
<PAGE>   47

beneficial ownership consists of sole voting and investment power with respect
to the shares indicated, except to the extent that authority is shared by
spouses under applicable law.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              SHARES BENEFICIALLY
                                                               OWNED DIRECTLY OR     PERCENT
                            NAME                               INDIRECTLY(1)(3)       CLASS
                            ----                              -------------------    -------
<S>                                                           <C>                    <C>
Directors:
  Mark L. Cali..............................................           4,514             *
  J. Philip DiNapoli........................................             600             *
  Drew Gibson...............................................           1,000             *
  Ronald R. James...........................................             200             *
  George E. Moss(1)(2)......................................         497,812          16.3%
  Roscoe Moss, Jr.(2).......................................         523,878          17.2%
  W. R. Roth................................................           6,350             *
  Charles J. Toeniskoetter..................................             300             *
  J.W. Weinhardt............................................           6,050             *
Executive Officers:
  G.J. Belhumeur............................................             918             *
  R.J. Pardini..............................................             514             *
  Angela Yip................................................             250             *
  R.S. Yoo..................................................               0             *
All directors and executive officers as a group (18
  individuals)..............................................       1,044,102          34.3%
</TABLE>

- ---------------
 *  Denotes an amount less than 1% of outstanding Common Stock of SJW, based
    upon 3,045,147 shares then outstanding.

(1) Includes 119,139 shares held by the John Kimberly Moss Trust for which Mr.
    George Moss is trustee or co-trustee.

(2) The address for George Moss and Roscoe Moss is 4360 Worth Street, Los
    Angeles, CA 90063.

(3) Information with respect to beneficial ownership is based upon reports
    furnished by the directors and officers.

     The Board of Directors has an Executive Committee, an Executive
Compensation Committee and an Audit Committee. The Audit Committee reviews the
results of the annual audit, the financial statements, any supplemental
management information submitted by the auditors, and internal accounting and
control procedures. It also recommends the selection of auditors to SJW's
shareholders. The Executive Compensation Committee reviews and recommends to the
Board of Directors appropriate compensation for executive officers of the
corporation. There is no standing nominating committee. During 1999, there were
4 regular meetings of the Board of Directors, 3 regular meetings of the Audit
Committee and 1 regular meeting of the Executive Compensation Committee. All
directors attended 100% of all regular Board and applicable committee meetings,
except Mr. Gibson who was unavailable for one regular meeting.

     In addition and due entirely to the merger activity, there were four
special meetings of the Board of Directors, two of the Strategic Alternatives
Committee and two of the Executive Compensation Committee. Roscoe Moss Jr. was
unavailable for one each of the special Executive Compensation and Strategic
Alternative Committee meetings.

     Until September, 1999, SJW, San Jose Water Company and SJW Land Company
each paid their non-employee directors annual retainers in the amounts of
$3,000, $13,200 and $0, respectively. In addition, all directors of SJW and San
Jose Water Company were paid $1,000 for each Board or committee meeting
attended. SJW Land Company directors were paid $500 for each Board meeting
attended. Effective September, 1999 the annual retainers were increased for SJW,
San Jose Water Company and SJW Land Company to $6,000, $16,000 and $5,000,
respectively.

                                       38
<PAGE>   48

     Upon ceasing to serve as a director of SJW, San Jose Water Company or SJW
Land Company, as the case may be, directors or their estate are currently
entitled to receive from the respective corporation an annual benefit equal to
the annual retainer paid to its directors. This benefit will be paid for the
number of years the director served on the board up to a maximum of 10 years.

          COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION

     No member of the Executive Compensation Committee was at any time during
the 1999 fiscal year or at any other time an officer or employee of SJW or any
of its subsidiaries. No executive officer of SJW serves as a member of the board
of directors or compensation committee of any entity which has one or more
executive officers serving as a member of SJW's Board of Directors or Executive
Compensation Committee. The following non-employee directors served on the
Executive Compensation Committee during fiscal 1999: Drew Gibson, Ronald R.
James, Roscoe Moss, Jr. and George E. Moss.

                             EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

     The following table contains certain summary information regarding cash
compensation, paid by SJW and its subsidiaries for each of SJW's last three
completed fiscal years, to the Chairman and the Chief Executive Officer and to
the next four highest compensated executive officers.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                LONG TERM COMPENSATION(1)
                                       ANNUAL COMPENSATION(1)           -----------------------------------------
                                -------------------------------------    AWARDS
                                                              OTHER     ---------              PAYOUTS      ALL
                                                              ANNUAL    RESTRICT-              --------    OTHER
      NAME AND PRINCIPAL                                     COMPEN-    ED STOCK    OPTIONS/     LTIP     COMPEN-
           POSITION             YEAR    SALARY     BONUS      SATION    AWARD(S)     SAR'S     PAYOUTS    SATION
      ------------------        ----   --------   --------   --------   ---------   --------   --------   -------
<S>                             <C>    <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>         <C>        <C>        <C>
J. W. Weinhardt...............  1999   $147,596                                                           $19,404(2)
  Chairman SJW Corp.,           1998   $126,442                                                           $16,793(2)
  San Jose Water Company        1997   $ 95,513                                                           $ 9,090(2)
  and SJW Land Company
W. R. Roth....................  1999   $347,596                                                           $19,900(2)
  President and CEO             1998   $324,038                                                           $17,800(2)
  SJW Corp. and San Jose Water  1997   $214,903                                                           $11,400(2)
  Company; President SJW Land
  Company
G. J. Belhumeur...............  1999   $158,557                                                           $ 6,342(3)
  Vice-President                1998   $148,558                                                           $ 4,289(3)
  San Jose Water Company        1997   $122,833                                                           $ 3,685(3)
R. J. Pardini.................  1999   $148,558                                                           $ 5,942(3)
  Vice President                1998   $138,577                                                           $ 4,002(3)
  San Jose Water Company        1997   $117,064                                                           $ 3,512(3)
R. J. Balocco.................  1999   $148,558                                                           $ 5,942(3)
  Vice President                1998   $138,172                                                           $ 4,002(3)
  San Jose Water Company        1997   $113,991                                                           $ 3,512(3)
</TABLE>

- ---------------
(1) Long Term Compensation Award or Payout Plans are not provided to employees
    of SJW or its subsidiaries.

(2) Represents matching contributions paid by the San Jose Water Company under
    its Salary Deferral Plan of $4,800 in both 1997 and 1998 and $6,400 in 1999.
    Mr. Weinhardt who received deferred compensation of $2,490 in 1997 and
    $3,793 in 1998 and $5,904 in 1999. The balances are amounts received for
    Directors fees.

(3) Represents matching contributions paid by the San Jose Water Company under
    its Salary Deferral Plan.

     The foregoing table does not include benefits provided under San Jose Water
Company's Retirement Plan (the "Retirement Plan") or Supplemental Executive
Retirement Plan (SERP).

     All employees of San Jose Water Company participate in the Retirement Plan.
Although subject to adjustment to comply with Internal Revenue Code
requirements, the regular benefit formula of the plan provides for a monthly
retirement benefit equal to 1.6% of the employee's average monthly compensation
for

                                       39
<PAGE>   49

each year of credited service. Compensation means the employee's regular salary
prior to reduction under the Deferral Plan. The plan also contains a minimum
benefit formula which, although also subject to adjustment, provides for a
monthly retirement benefit equal to up to 55% of the employee's average
compensation for the highest 36 consecutive months of compensation, less 50% of
primary social security benefits. This minimum monthly benefit is reduced by
1/30th for each year of credited service less than 30 years. Benefits vest after
5 years of service or at age 65 and there are provisions for early retirement.
In 1992 the Board of Directors of San Jose Water Company adopted a nonqualified,
unfunded Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (SERP) for certain executives
and officers of the San Jose Water Company. It is intended that the SERP in
combination with the Retirement Plan will provide the covered executives and
officers with a total retirement benefit commensurate with executives and
officers of other comparable private water utilities. A minimum of ten years of
service is required for vesting in the SERP. The amounts contributed to the
Retirement Plan by San Jose Water Company to fund retirement benefits with
respect to any individual employee cannot be readily ascertained. The following
table sets forth combined estimated retirement benefits, payable as a straight
life annuity, assuming retirement at age 65 using the minimum benefit formula
and the SERP:

                               PENSION PLAN TABLE

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                 YEARS OF SERVICE
  AVERAGE      ----------------------------------------------------
COMPENSATION   15 YEARS   20 YEARS   25 YEARS   30 YEARS   35 YEARS
- ------------   --------   --------   --------   --------   --------
<S>            <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>
  $150,000     $ 49,500   $ 66,000   $ 78,000   $ 90,000   $ 90,000
  $175,000     $ 57,750   $ 77,000   $ 91,000   $105,000   $105,000
  $200,000     $ 66,000   $ 88,000   $104,000   $120,000   $120,000
  $225,000     $ 74,250   $ 99,000   $117,000   $135,000   $135,000
  $250,000     $ 82,500   $110,000   $130,000   $150,000   $150,000
  $275,000     $ 90,750   $121,000   $143,000   $165,000   $165,000
  $300,000(1)  $165,000   $165,000   $165,000   $180,000   $180,000
  $325,000(1)  $178,750   $178,750   $178,750   $195,000   $195,000
  $350,000(1)  $192,500   $192,500   $192,500   $210,000   $210,000
  $375,000(1)  $206,250   $206,250   $206,250   $225,000   $225,000
</TABLE>

- ---------------
(1) Applies to Mr. Roth only.

     The number of years of credited service and covered compensation at
December 31, 1999 is for Mr. Roth, 10 years, $347,596; Mr. Belhumeur, 29 years,
$158,557; Mr. Pardini, 12 years, $148,558 and Mr. Balocco, 17 years, $148,558.
Applicable laws and regulations may limit the amounts which may be paid. Mr.
Roth shall be entitled to a retirement benefit hereunder, payable to him on a
monthly basis, at the later of his attainment of fifty-five (55) years of age or
his actual retirement in an amount equal to the greater of (i) the benefit to
which he would otherwise be entitled under the SERP or (ii) fifty-five percent
(55%) of the highest average monthly compensation during 36 calendar months of
Mr. Roth's employment.

     Effective January 1, 1997, Mr. Weinhardt commenced receiving benefits under
the Retirement Plan and SERP.

                    EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT

     As members of the Executive Compensation Committee it is our duty to review
compensation levels of the executive officers of SJW and its subsidiaries and to
make appropriate recommendations to the Board of Directors.

     The compensation policy of SJW, as recommended by the Committee and
approved by the Board of Directors, requires that a portion of the annual
compensation of each officer relate to and must be contingent upon, the
long-term total return to shareholders of the corporation, within the
constraints imposed upon the San Jose Water Company by the regulatory process,
as well as the individual contribution of each officer. A goal of this process
is to attract, develop and retain high-quality senior management through
competitive

                                       40
<PAGE>   50

compensation. The committee reviews with the Board of Directors all aspects of
compensation for the Chairman J. W. Weinhardt and that of the Chief Executive
Officer and President W.R. Roth. In January, 1999, the Committee met and
recommended and the Board of Directors approved that Mr. Weinhardt's salary as
Chairman of the Board of Directors be set at $150,000, effective January 1,
1999. Mr. Roth's salary as President of SJW was at the same time set at $350,000
effective January 1, 1999.

     Also in January, 1999 the Committee reviewed the reasonableness of
compensation paid to executive officers of SJW based in part on information
provided by the Chief Executive Officer and President. In doing so, the
Committee took into account how the particular compensation compares to
compensation paid by other similarly situated companies, individual performance,
tenure and internal comparability considerations. The Committee also recommended
to the Board the adoption of an Executive Severance Plan which is described
under "Approval and Adoption of the Merger Agreement -- Interest of Certain
Persons in the Merger." The Committee's recommendations were found to be
reasonable and the Board of Directors approved the compensation schedule for the
executive officers.

     In September 1999 the Committee recommended to the Board of Directors the
Transactions Incentive and Retention Program and certain amendments to the
Executive Severance Plan, which are described under "Approval of the
Merger -- Interest of Certain Persons in the Merger."

                                          Executive Compensation Committee
                                          DREW GIBSON
                                          RONALD R. JAMES
                                          GEORGE E. MOSS
                                          ROSCOE MOSS, JR.
Dated: January 27, 2000

                                       41
<PAGE>   51

                               PERFORMANCE GRAPH

     The following performance graph compares the changes in the cumulative
shareholder return on the Common Stock of SJW with the cumulative total return
on the Water Utility Index and the S&P 500 Index during the last five years
ended December 31, 1999. The comparison assumes $100 was invested on January 1,
1994 in the Common Stock of SJW and in each of the foregoing indices and assumes
reinvestment of dividends.

                  SJW CORP. FIVE YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN
                               1/1/95 TO 12/31/99
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                  1995     1996     1997     1998     1999
                                  ----     ----     ----     ----     ----
      <C>                          <S>      <S>      <S>      <S>      <S>
      SJW Corp.                    124      164      221      223      472
      Water Utility Index          129      156      214      269      278
      S&P 500                      138      169      225      290      351
</TABLE>

     1. The Water Utility Index is the 14 company Water Utility Index prepared
by Edward D. Jones & Co.

     The preceding Compensation Committee Report on Executive Compensation and
the preceding SJW Corp. Stock Performance Graph shall not be deemed incorporated
by reference into any previous filings under the Securities Act of 1933 or the
Exchange Act that might incorporate future filings, including this Proxy
Statement, in whole or in part, nor are such Report or Graph to be incorporated
by reference into any future filings.

                RATIFICATION OF APPROVAL OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

     The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors has recommended the continued
use by the Corporation of the services of KPMG LLP as the independent auditors
for SJW. KPMG LLP has been the independent auditor for San Jose Water Company
and its predecessor San Jose Water Works since 1936. The Board of Directors
recommends a vote "FOR" the adoption of the proposal to ratify the selection of
KPMG LLP, certified public accountants, to audit the accounts of SJW for the
year 2000.

     Representatives of KPMG LLP are expected to be present at the annual
meeting. They have been offered the opportunity to make a statement if they
desire to do so and are expected to be available to respond to appropriate
questions.

                                       42
<PAGE>   52

                              SHAREHOLDER PROPOSAL

     SJW has been advised that James J. Palma, 6590 Little Falls Dr., San Jose,
California 95120, the owner of 800 shares, intends to submit the following
proposal at the Annual Meeting:

     The Directors of SJW Corp. will join with James J. Palma solely for the
     purposes to FIRE Board of Directors and the CEO and President (Foy and
     Nelson) of "CWT."

Statement Supporting Proposal:

James J. Palma submitted the following statement in support of above proposal:

     "Acquisition by California Water Service ("CWT"), Group of Dominguez
Service ("Domz"), Harbor Water Company and South Sound Utility Company (these
are proposed acquisitions) are disastrous to the 14% interest of SJW, Inc. in
"CWT." Read Federal Accounting Standard Board statement on pooling of interest
accounting dated 090898. In part, page 2 is stated:

        '- The pooling of method provides investors with less information -- and
           less relevant information -- than the purchase method.

         - The pooling method ignores the values exchanged in a business
           combination, while the purchase method reflects them.

         - It is difficult for investors to compare companies when they have
           used difference methods of accounting for what is essentially the
           same transaction.

         - Business combinations are acquisitions and should be accounted for as
           such, based on the value of what is given up in exchange, regardless
           of whether it is cash, other assets, debt, or equity shares.

         - Because cash flows are the same no matter what accounting method is
           used, the boost in earnings under the pooling method reflects
           artificial accounting differences rather than real economic
           differences.

         After the comment period and public hearings, the Board will consider
        all comment letters and testimony as it reconsiders each issue during
        public meetings to be held over several months in 2000. "We estimate
        that our process will be complete and a final Statement issued by the
        end of 2000," Mr. Jenkins said. If adopted as a final Statement, the
        standard would be effective for business combinations initiated after
        the Statement is published. Copies of the proposal are available on the
        FASB's website at www.fasb.org and through the Board's Order Department,
        401 Merritt 7, PO Box 511, Norwalk, CT 06856-5116, telephone
        203-847-0700, ext. 555.'

     Paying 53 times earnings for "Domz" is ridiculous.

     Accordingly, directors of SJW Corporation will join with James J. Palma
solely for the purpose to FIRE Directors and CEO and President(Foy and Nelson)
of "CWT."

                                            Sincerely,

                                            James J. Palma"

                                       43
<PAGE>   53

Statement in Opposition to Proposal

     The Board of Directors of SJW recommends a vote AGAINST this proposal. The
Board of Directors of SJW believes that the merger of California Water Service
Group ("CWT") and Dominguez Water Company ("Dominguez") is part of the pattern
of consolidation recently developing in the water utility industry. The Board of
Directors also believes that CWT would consider approval of this shareholder
proposal an action hostile to its interests. In addition, the Board of Directors
considers opposition to the CWT-Dominguez merger inconsistent with the
recommendation of the Board of Directors of SJW in favor of the approval and
adoption of the Merger Agreement.

                                       44
<PAGE>   54

                 CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

     In 1999, SJW Land Company retained Toeniskoetter & Breeding, Inc. (TBI) to
construct tenant improvements for one office suite to implement the relocation
of a tenant in SJW's recently acquired office building at 1265 South Bascom
Avenue in San Jose, California. SJW Land Company paid TBI $24,900, which
included a fee for TBI's services in the amount of $1,342.

     In 1999, SJW Land Company and Toeniskoetter & Breeding, Inc. formed a
limited partnership whose sole purpose is to construct and manage a new office
building on the Company's property at 450 West Santa Clara Street in San Jose,
California. The project consists of 22,080 square feet of office space scheduled
to be completed in May, 2000 and is fully committed for lease. The partnership
executed a contract with Toeniskoetter & Breeding, Inc. Construction to
construct the building shell for $2,300,000. The construction contract includes
a fee for TBI of approximately $129,775. Toeniskoetter & Breeding, Inc.
Development will also receive an annual management fee of approximately $120,000
from the partnership.

     In 1999, San Jose Water Company sold its Blossom Hill Station real property
to Gibson Speno Company-Blossom Hill. Gibson Speno Company-Blossom Hill is an
entity owned and controlled by Gibson Speno Company, LLC. Three independent MAI
appraisals were obtained by San Jose Water Company, indicating a fair market
value of $5,250,000 for the approximately 5 acre site. Gibson Speno Company-
Blossom Hill paid the full appraised price in cash.

                 SECTION 16(a) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP COMPLIANCE

     Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 requires SJW's
executive officers and directors, and persons who own more than ten percent of a
registered class of the Corporation's equity securities, to file reports of
ownership and changes in ownership with the Securities and Exchange Commission
(the "SEC") and the American Stock Exchange. Officers, directors and greater
than ten percent shareholders are required by SEC regulation to furnish the
Company with copies of all Section 16(a) forms they file.

     Based solely on its review of the copies of such reports received by it,
and written representations from certain reporting persons that no other reports
were required during 1999, SJW believes that as of December 31, 1999 all
officers, directors and greater than ten percent beneficial owners are current
with all Section 16(a) filing requirements.

                                       45
<PAGE>   55

                INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN DOCUMENTS BY REFERENCE

     This Proxy Statement incorporates by reference documents which are not
presented herein or delivered herewith. Copies of any such documents relating to
SJW, other than exhibits to such documents (unless such exhibits specifically
are incorporated by reference in such documents), are available without charge,
upon written or oral request, from SJW Corp., 374 West Santa Clara Street, San
Jose, California 95113, Attention: Corporate Secretary, telephone: (408)
279-7961. In order to ensure timely delivery of the documents requested, any
such request should be made by April 3, 2000.

     The following documents previously filed by SJW with the Commission are
incorporated in this Proxy Statement by reference:

          (1) Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31,
     1998;

          (2) Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31,
     1999;

          (3) Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1999;

          (4) Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30,
     1999;

          (5) Current Report on Form 8-K filed November 5, 1999; and

          (6) Form 8-B dated July 31, 1985.

     All reports and other documents subsequently filed by SJW pursuant to
Sections 13(a), 13(c), 14 and 15(d) of the Exchange Act prior to the date of the
Annual Meeting shall be deemed to be incorporated by reference herein and to be
part hereof from the date of the filing of such reports and documents.

     Any statement contained in a document incorporated or deemed to be
incorporated by reference herein shall be deemed to be modified or superseded
for purposes of this Proxy Statement to the extent that a statement contained
herein, or in any other subsequently filed document that also is or is deemed to
be incorporated by reference herein, modifies or supersedes such statement. Any
such statement so modified or superseded shall not be deemed, except as so
modified or superseded, to constitute part of this Proxy Statement.

               REPRESENTATIVES OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

     The SJW Board has selected KPMG LLP as SJW's independent public accountants
for the current fiscal year. Representatives of that firm are expected to be
present at the Annual Meeting and will have the opportunity to make a statement
if they desire to do so and will be available to respond to appropriate
questions.

                             SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS

     Shareholder proposals intended to be presented at next year's annual
meeting of shareholders scheduled for April 19, 2001, must be received by SJW by
November 12, 2000, for inclusion in the SJW's proxy materials relating to that
meeting. Proposals which comply with all rules and regulations of the SEC and
are timely received will be included in next year's Proxy Statement.

                                 OTHER MATTERS

     The Board of Directors is not aware of any matters to come before the
meeting other than as set forth herein. If any other matters should be brought
before the meeting, the persons named in the enclosed form of proxy will have
discretionary authority to vote all proxies with respect thereto in accordance
with their judgment. Whether or not you intend to be present at the meeting, you
are urged to complete, sign and return your proxy promptly.

     To present other matters to the meeting, you must provide advance written
notice to SJW. For purposes of the 2000 Annual Meeting, that notice must be
received by January 27, 2000.

                                       46
<PAGE>   56

                                                                         ANNEX A

                          AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER
                          DATED AS OF OCTOBER 28, 1999
                                     AMONG
                      AMERICAN WATER WORKS COMPANY, INC.,
                             SJW ACQUISITION CORP.
                                      AND
                                   SJW CORP.
<PAGE>   57

                               TABLE OF CONTENTS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                PAGE
                                                                ----
<S>                                                             <C>
ARTICLE I THE MERGER........................................     A-1
  1.1.   The Merger.........................................     A-1
  1.2.   Closing............................................     A-1
  1.3.   Effective Time.....................................     A-1
  1.4.   Effects of the Merger..............................     A-2
  1.5.   Articles of Incorporation..........................     A-2
  1.6.   By-Laws............................................     A-2
  1.7.   Officers and Directors of Surviving Corporation....     A-2
  1.8.   Effect on Capital Stock............................     A-2
  1.9.   Further Assurances.................................     A-3
ARTICLE II EXCHANGE OF CERTIFICATES.........................     A-3
  2.1.   Exchange Fund......................................     A-3
  2.2.   Exchange Procedures................................     A-3
  2.3.   No Further Ownership Rights in SJW Common Stock....     A-3
  2.4.   Termination of Exchange Fund.......................     A-4
  2.5.   No Liability.......................................     A-4
  2.6.   Investment of the Exchange Fund....................     A-4
  2.7.   Lost Certificates..................................     A-4
  2.8.   Withholding Rights.................................     A-4
  2.9.   Stock Transfer Books...............................     A-4
ARTICLE III REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES..................     A-5
  3.1.   Representations and Warranties of SJW..............     A-5
  3.2.   Representations and Warranties of Parent...........    A-14
  3.3.   Representations and Warranties of Parent and Merger
         Sub................................................    A-15
ARTICLE IV COVENANTS RELATING TO CONDUCT OF BUSINESS........    A-16
  4.1.   Covenants of SJW...................................    A-16
  4.2.   Covenants of Parent................................    A-18
  4.3.   Advice of Changes; Governmental Filings............    A-19
  4.4.   Transition Planning; Continued Operations of SJW...    A-19
  4.5.   Control of SJW's Business..........................    A-19
ARTICLE V ADDITIONAL AGREEMENTS.............................    A-19
  5.1.   Preparation of SJW Proxy Statement; SJW
         Shareholders Meeting...............................    A-19
  5.2.   Access to Information..............................    A-20
  5.3.   Reasonable Best Efforts............................    A-21
  5.4.   Acquisition Proposals..............................    A-22
  5.5.   Employee Benefits Matters..........................    A-23
  5.6.   Fees and Expenses..................................    A-24
  5.7.   Directors' and Officers' Indemnification and
         Insurance..........................................    A-24
  5.8.   Public Announcements...............................    A-25
  5.9.   Disclosure Schedule Supplements....................    A-25
ARTICLE VI CONDITIONS PRECEDENT.............................    A-26
  6.1.   Conditions to Each Party's Obligation to Effect the
         Merger.............................................    A-26
  6.2.   Additional Conditions to Obligations of Parent and
         Merger Sub.........................................    A-27
  6.3.   Additional Conditions to Obligations of SJW........    A-27
</TABLE>

                                       A-i
<PAGE>   58

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                PAGE
                                                                ----
<S>                                                             <C>
ARTICLE VII TERMINATION AND AMENDMENT.......................    A-27
  7.1.   Termination........................................    A-27
  7.2.   Effect of Termination..............................    A-29
  7.3.   Amendment..........................................    A-29
  7.4.   Extension; Waiver..................................    A-29
ARTICLE VIII GENERAL PROVISIONS.............................    A-30
  8.1.   Non-Survival of Representations, Warranties and
         Agreements.........................................    A-30
  8.2.   Notices............................................    A-30
  8.3.   Interpretation.....................................    A-30
  8.4.   Counterparts.......................................    A-31
  8.5.   Entire Agreement; No Third Party Beneficiaries.....    A-31
  8.6.   Governing Law......................................    A-31
  8.7.   Severability.......................................    A-31
  8.8.   Assignment.........................................    A-31
  8.9.   Submission to Jurisdiction; Waivers................    A-31
  8.10.  Enforcement........................................    A-32
  8.11.  Definitions........................................    A-32
  8.12.  Other Agreements...................................    A-33
</TABLE>

                                      A-ii
<PAGE>   59

                           GLOSSARY OF DEFINED TERMS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DEFINITION                                                      LOCATION OF DEFINITION
- ----------                                                      ----------------------
<S>                                                             <C>
1935 Act....................................................    Section 3.1(t)
Acquisition Proposal........................................    Section 5.4
Agreement...................................................    Preamble
AMEX........................................................    Section 3.1(c)(iii)
Benefit Plans...............................................    Section 8.11(a)
Board of Directors..........................................    Section 8.11(b)
Business Day................................................    Section 8.11(c)
CCC.........................................................    Section 1.1
Certificate.................................................    Section 1.8(b)
Closing.....................................................    Section 1.2
Closing Date................................................    Section 1.2
Code........................................................    Section 2.8
Confidentiality Agreement...................................    Section 5.2
Contracts...................................................    Section 3.1(c)(ii)
Delaware Certificate of Merger..............................    Section 1.3
Delaware General Corporation Law............................    Section 1.1
Dissenting Shares...........................................    Section 1.8(e)
DOJ.........................................................    Section 5.3(b)
DRIP........................................................    Section 3.1(b)(i)
Encumbrances................................................    Section 3.1(b)(iv)
Effective Time..............................................    Section 1.3
Environmental Claim.........................................    Section 3.1(g)(v)(A)
Environmental Law...........................................    Section 3.1(g)(v)(B)
ERISA.......................................................    Section 3.1(h)(i)
Exchange Act................................................    Section 3.1(c)(iii)
Exchange Agent..............................................    Section 2.1
Exchange Fund...............................................    Section 2.1
Expenses....................................................    Section 5.6
Final Order.................................................    Section 6.1(c)
GAAP........................................................    Section 3.1(d)
Governmental Entity.........................................    Section 3.1(c)(iii)
Hazardous Materials.........................................    Section 3.1(g)(v)(C)
Health Agencies.............................................    Section 3.1(c)(iii)
HSR Act.....................................................    Section 3.1(c)(iii)
Indemnified Parties.........................................    Section 5.7(a)
knowledge...................................................    Section 8.11(d)
Laws........................................................    Section 3.1(c)(ii)
Material Adverse Effect.....................................    Section 8.11(e)
Merger......................................................    Recitals
Merger Consideration........................................    Section 1.8(a)
Merger Sub..................................................    Preamble
Orders......................................................    Section 3.1(c)(ii)
Parent......................................................    Preamble
Parent Financial Advisor....................................    Section 3.2(e)
Parent Ordinary Shares......................................    Section 3.1(v)
Person......................................................    Section 8.11(g)
</TABLE>

                                      A-iii
<PAGE>   60

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DEFINITION                                                      LOCATION OF DEFINITION
- ----------                                                      ----------------------
<S>                                                             <C>
PUCs........................................................    Section 3.1(c)(iii)
Release.....................................................    Section 3.1(g)(v)(D)
Required SJW Vote...........................................    Section 3.1(p)
Rights......................................................    Section 3.1(b)(i)
Rights Plan.................................................    Section 3.1(b)(i)
SEC.........................................................    Section 3.1(d)
Significant Subsidiary......................................    Section 8.11(h)
SJW.........................................................    Preamble
SJW Board Approval..........................................    Section 3.1(o)
SJW Common Stock............................................    Recitals
SJW Disclosure Schedule.....................................    Section 3.1
SJW Employees...............................................    Section 5.5(b)(i)
SJW Financial Advisor.......................................    Section 3.1(r)
SJW Proxy Statement.........................................    Section 5.1(a)
SJW Required Consents.......................................    Section 3.1(c)(iii)
SJW SEC Reports.............................................    Section 3.1(d)
SJW Shareholders Meeting....................................    Section 5.1(b)
SJW Voting Debt.............................................    Section 3.1(b)(ii)
Subsidiary..................................................    Section 8.11(h)
Superior Proposal...........................................    Section 8.11(i)
Surviving Corporation.......................................    Section 1.1
Tax Return..................................................    Section 3.1(k)(vi)
Taxes.......................................................    Section 3.1(k)(vi)
Termination Date............................................    Section 7.1(b)
Termination Fee.............................................    Section 7.2(b)
Violation...................................................    Section 3.1(c)(ii)
</TABLE>

                                      A-iv
<PAGE>   61

                          AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER

     AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER, dated as of October 28, 1999 (this
"Agreement"), among American Water Works Company, Inc., a Delaware corporation
("Parent"), SJW Acquisition Corp., a Delaware corporation and a wholly-owned
subsidiary of Parent ("Merger Sub"), and SJW Corp., a California corporation
("SJW").

                             W I T N E S S E T H :

     WHEREAS, the respective Boards of Directors of the Parent, Merger Sub and
SJW have each determined that this Agreement and the merger of Merger Sub with
and into SJW (the "Merger") in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement
are advisable and in the best interests of their respective shareholders, and
such Boards of Directors have approved such Merger, upon the terms and subject
to the conditions set forth in this Agreement, pursuant to which the holders of
shares of common stock, $3.125 par value, of SJW ("SJW Common Stock") will be
converted into the right to receive the Merger Consideration (as defined in
Section 1.8) for each share of SJW Common Stock issued and outstanding
immediately prior to the Effective Time (as defined in Section 1.3) (other than
shares of SJW Common Stock that are owned or held directly or indirectly by
Parent or SJW which shall be canceled as provided in Section 1.8, and Dissenting
Shares (as defined in Section 1.8)), and SJW will become a wholly owned
subsidiary of Parent;

     WHEREAS, Parent, Merger Sub and SJW desire to make certain representations,
warranties, covenants and agreements in connection with the transactions
contemplated hereby and also to prescribe various conditions to the transactions
contemplated hereby;

     WHEREAS, as an inducement for Parent to enter into this Agreement, certain
stockholders of SJW have entered into voting support agreements; and

     NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and the respective
representations, warranties, covenants and agreements set forth herein, and
intending to be legally bound hereby, the parties hereto agree as follows:

                                   ARTICLE I

                                   THE MERGER

     1.1.  The Merger.  Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth
in this Agreement, and in accordance with the California Corporation Code (the
"CCC") and Delaware General Corporation Law (the "DGCL"), Merger Sub shall be
merged with and into SJW at the Effective Time. Following the Merger, the
separate corporate existence of Merger Sub shall cease and SJW shall continue as
the surviving corporation (the "Surviving Corporation").

     1.2.  Closing.  The closing of the Merger (the "Closing") will take place
at 10:00 a.m., Pacific time, as soon as practicable, but in any event not later
than the third Business Day, after the satisfaction or waiver (subject to any
applicable Law or Order (each as defined in Section 3.1(c)) of the conditions
(excluding conditions that, by their terms, cannot be satisfied until the
Closing Date) set forth in Article VI (the "Closing Date"), unless another time
or date is agreed to in writing by the parties hereto. The Closing shall be held
at the offices of Brobeck, Phleger & Harrison LLP, Spear Street Tower, One
Market, San Francisco, CA 94105, unless another place is agreed to in writing by
the parties hereto.

     1.3.  Effective Time.  On the Closing Date, the parties shall (i) file
agreements of merger (or like instruments) (collectively, the "Agreement of
Merger") in such form as is required by and executed in accordance with the
relevant provisions of the CCC and DGCL and (ii) make all other filings or
recordings required under the CCC and DGCL. The Merger shall become effective at
such time as the Agreement of Merger has been duly filed with the California
Secretary of State and the Delaware Secretary of State or at such subsequent
time as Parent and SJW shall agree and be specified in the Agreement of Merger
(the date and time the Merger becomes effective being the "Effective Time").

                                       A-1
<PAGE>   62

     1.4.  Effects of the Merger.  At and after the Effective Time, the Merger
will have the effects set forth in the CCC. Without limiting the generality of
the foregoing, and subject thereto, at the Effective Time all the property,
rights, privileges, powers and franchises of SJW and Merger Sub shall be vested
in the Surviving Corporation, and all debts, liabilities and duties of SJW and
Merger Sub shall become the debts, liabilities and duties of the Surviving
Corporation.

     1.5.  Articles of Incorporation.  At the Effective Time, the articles of
incorporation of the Surviving Corporation shall be amended in accordance with
the CCC to read in its entirety as set forth in Exhibit 1.5 hereto until
thereafter amended as provided therein and under the CCC.

     1.6.  By-Laws.  The by-laws of Merger Sub as in effect at the Effective
Time shall be the by-laws of the Surviving Corporation until thereafter changed
or amended as provided therein and under applicable Law or Order.

     1.7.  Officers and Directors of Surviving Corporation.  The officers of SJW
as of the Effective Time shall be the officers of the Surviving Corporation,
until the earlier of their resignation or removal or otherwise ceasing to be an
officer or until their respective successors are duly elected and qualified, as
the case may be. The directors of Merger Sub as of the Effective Time shall be
the directors of the Surviving Corporation until the earlier of their
resignation or removal or otherwise ceasing to be a director or until their
respective successors are duly elected and qualified.

     1.8.  Effect on Capital Stock.

          (a) At the Effective Time, by virtue of the Merger and without any
     action on the part of the holder thereof, each share of SJW Common Stock
     issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time (other than
     shares of SJW Common Stock that are 100% owned or held directly or
     indirectly by Parent or SJW, which shall be canceled as provided in Section
     1.8(c) and Dissenting Shares) shall be converted into the right to receive,
     subject to the provisions of Article II, $128.00 in cash (the "Merger
     Consideration"), without any interest or dividends thereon, except as
     provided in Section 2.3.

          (b) As a result of the Merger and without any action on the part of
     the holders thereof, at Effective Time, all shares of SJW Common Stock
     shall cease to be outstanding and shall be canceled and shall cease to
     exist, and each holder of a certificate which immediately prior to the
     Effective Time represented any such shares of SJW Common Stock (a
     "Certificate") shall thereafter cease to have any rights with respect to
     such shares of SJW Common Stock, except the right to receive the applicable
     Merger Consideration, other than with respect to SJW Common Stock to be
     canceled in accordance with Section 1.8(c) and Dissenting Shares, in
     accordance with Article II upon the surrender of such Certificate.

          (c) Each share of SJW Common Stock issued that is 100% owned or held
     directly or indirectly by Parent or SJW at the Effective Time shall, by
     virtue of the Merger, cease to be outstanding and shall be canceled and no
     payment or other consideration shall be delivered in exchange therefor.

          (d) Each share of common stock, par value $.01 per share, of Merger
     Sub issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time, shall
     be converted into one share of common stock, par value $.01 per share, of
     the Surviving Corporation as of the Effective Time.

          (e) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, shares of
     SJW Common Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective
     Time and held by a holder who has voted against the approval of this
     Agreement and who has demanded the payment of such shares at fair value in
     accordance with Section 1301 of the CCC ("Dissenting Shares") shall not be
     converted into a right to receive the Merger Consideration but shall be
     converted into the right to receive such consideration as may be determined
     to be due to such holder pursuant to the CCC, unless such holder fails to
     perfect such demand for payment within the period prescribed by the CCC or
     withdraws or otherwise loses such holder's right to payment under the CCC.
     If, after the Effective Time, such holder fails to perfect such demand for
     payment or withdraws or loses such holder's right to payment, such
     Dissenting Shares shall be treated as if they had been converted as of the
     Effective Time into the right to receive the Merger

                                       A-2
<PAGE>   63

     Consideration, without interest or dividends thereon, except as provided in
     Section 2.3. SJW shall give Merger Sub prompt notice of any written demands
     received by SJW for payment of fair value for shares of SJW Common Stock,
     withdrawals of such demands, and other instruments served pursuant to the
     CCC and received by SJW and relating thereto. Parent shall direct all
     negotiations and proceedings with respect to such demands for payment.
     Prior to the Effective Time, SJW shall not, except with the prior written
     consent of Merger Sub or as required under applicable law, make any payment
     with respect to, or settle or offer to settle, any such demands.

     1.9.  Further Assurances.  At and after the Effective Time, the officers
and directors of the Surviving Corporation will be authorized to execute and
deliver, in the name and on behalf of SJW or Merger Sub, any deeds, bills of
sale, assignments or assurances and to take and do, in the name and on behalf of
SJW or Merger Sub, any other actions and things to vest, perfect or confirm of
record or otherwise in the Surviving Corporation any and all right, title and
interest in, to and under any of the rights, properties or assets acquired or to
be acquired by the Surviving Corporation as a result of, or in connection with,
the Merger.

                                   ARTICLE II

                            EXCHANGE OF CERTIFICATES

     2.1.  Exchange Fund.  Prior to the Effective Time, Parent shall designate a
commercial bank or trust company selected by Parent and reasonably acceptable to
SJW to act as exchange agent hereunder for the purpose of exchanging
Certificates for the Merger Consideration (the "Exchange Agent"). At or prior to
the Effective Time, Parent shall deposit or cause to be deposited with the
Exchange Agent, in trust for the benefit of holders of shares of SJW Common
Stock, the aggregate amount of cash to be paid pursuant to Section 1.8 in
exchange for outstanding shares of SJW Common Stock (other than shares of SJW
Common Stock that are 100% owned or held directly or indirectly by Parent or SJW
which shall be canceled as provided in Section 1.8(c) and Dissenting Shares).
Parent shall, or shall cause the Surviving Corporation to make available to the
Exchange Agent from time to time as needed, cash sufficient to pay any dividends
pursuant to Section 2.3. Any cash deposited with the Exchange Agent shall
hereinafter be referred to as the "Exchange Fund".

     2.2.  Exchange Procedures.  As soon as reasonably practicable after the
Effective Time, the Surviving Corporation shall cause the Exchange Agent to mail
to each holder of a Certificate (i) a letter of transmittal which shall specify
that delivery shall be effected, and risk of loss and title to the Certificates
shall pass, only upon delivery of the Certificates to the Exchange Agent, and
which letter shall be in customary form and have such other provisions as Parent
may reasonably specify and (ii) instructions for effecting the surrender of such
Certificates in exchange for the Merger Consideration. Upon surrender of a
Certificate to the Exchange Agent together with such letter of transmittal, duly
executed and completed in accordance with the instructions thereto, and such
other documents as may reasonably be required by the Exchange Agent, the holder
of such Certificate shall be entitled to receive in exchange therefor a check in
the aggregate amount equal to (A) the Merger Consideration multiplied by the
number of shares of SJW Common Stock formerly represented by such Certificate
and (B) any dividends payable in accordance with Section 2.3 less any required
withholding of taxes as provided in Section 2.8. No interest will be paid or
will accrue on any cash payable pursuant to the preceding sentence. In the event
of a transfer of ownership of SJW Common Stock which is not registered in the
transfer records of SJW, a check in the proper amount of cash for the
appropriate Merger Consideration and any dividends payable in accordance with
Section 2.3 may be paid with respect to such SJW Common Stock to such a
transferee if the Certificate formerly representing such shares of SJW Common
Stock is presented to the Exchange Agent, accompanied by all documents required
to evidence and effect such transfer and to evidence that any applicable stock
transfer taxes have been paid or are not payable. The Exchange Fund shall not be
used for any purpose other than as set forth in this Article II.

     2.3.  No Further Ownership Rights in SJW Common Stock.  Cash paid upon
conversion of shares of SJW Common Stock in accordance with the terms of Article
I and this Article II shall be deemed to have been paid in full satisfaction of
all rights pertaining to the shares of SJW Common Stock, subject, however, to
the Surviving Corporation's obligation, if any, to pay any dividends or make any
other distributions with a

                                       A-3
<PAGE>   64

record date prior to the Effective Time which may have been declared or made by
SJW on such shares of SJW Common Stock prior to the date of this Agreement and
which remain unpaid at the Effective Time.

     2.4.  Termination of Exchange Fund.  Any portion of the Exchange Fund which
remains undistributed to the holders of Certificates for twelve months after the
Effective Time shall be delivered to the Surviving Corporation or otherwise on
the instruction of the Surviving Corporation, and any holders of the
Certificates who have not theretofore complied with this Article II shall
thereafter look only to the Surviving Corporation and Parent for the Merger
Consideration with respect to the shares of SJW Common Stock formerly
represented thereby to which such holders are entitled pursuant to Section 1.8
and Section 2.2, and any dividends on shares of SJW Common Stock to which such
holders are entitled pursuant to Section 2.3.

     2.5.  No Liability.  None of Parent, Merger Sub, SJW, the Surviving
Corporation or the Exchange Agent shall be liable to any Person in respect of
any Merger Consideration or dividends from the Exchange Fund delivered to a
public official pursuant to any applicable abandoned property, escheat or
similar Law.

     2.6.  Investment of the Exchange Fund.  The Exchange Agent shall invest any
cash included in the Exchange Fund only in one or more of the following
investments as directed by the Surviving Corporation from time to time: (i)
obligations of the United States government maturing not more than 180 days
after the date of purchase; (ii) certificates of deposit maturing not more than
180 days after the date of purchase issued by a bank organized under the laws of
the United States or any state thereof having a combined capital and surplus of
at least $500,000,000; (iii) a money market fund having assets of at least
$3,000,000,000; or (iv) tax-exempt or corporate debt obligations maturing not
more than 180 days after the date of purchase given the highest investment grade
rating by Standard & Poor's and Moody's Investor Service. Any interest and other
income resulting from such investments shall promptly be paid to the Surviving
Corporation.

     2.7.  Lost Certificates.  If any Certificate shall have been lost, stolen
or destroyed, upon the making of an affidavit of that fact by the Person
claiming such Certificate to be lost, stolen or destroyed and, if required by
the Surviving Corporation, the posting by such Person of a bond in such
reasonable amount as the Surviving Corporation may direct as indemnity against
any claim that may be made against it with respect to such Certificate, the
Exchange Agent will deliver in exchange for such lost, stolen or destroyed
Certificate the applicable Merger Consideration with respect to the shares of
SJW Common Stock formerly represented thereby and unpaid dividends, if any, on
shares of SJW Common Stock deliverable in respect thereof, pursuant to this
Agreement.

     2.8.  Withholding Rights.  Each of the Surviving Corporation and Parent
shall be entitled to deduct and withhold from the consideration otherwise
payable pursuant to this Agreement to any holder of shares of SJW Common Stock
such amounts as it is required to deduct and withhold with respect to the making
of such payment under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the
rules and regulations promulgated thereunder (the "Code"), or any provision of
state, local or foreign tax Law or Order. To the extent that amounts are so
withheld by the Surviving Corporation or Parent, as the case may be, such
withheld amounts shall be treated for all purposes of this Agreement as having
been paid to the holder of the shares of SJW Common Stock in respect of which
such deduction and withholding was made by the Surviving Corporation or Parent,
as the case may be.

     2.9.  Stock Transfer Books.  At the close of business, Pacific time, on the
day Effective Time occurs, the stock transfer books of SJW shall be closed and
there shall be no further registration of transfers of shares of SJW Common
Stock thereafter on the records of SJW. From and after the Effective Time, the
holders of Certificates shall cease to have any rights with respect to such
shares of SJW Common Stock formerly represented thereby, except as otherwise
provided herein or by Law. On or after the Effective Time, any Certificates
presented to the Exchange Agent or Parent for any reason shall be exchanged for
the Merger Consideration with respect to the shares of SJW Common Stock formerly
represented thereby and any dividends to which the holders thereof are entitled
pursuant to Section 2.3.

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                                  ARTICLE III

                         REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

     3.1.  Representations and Warranties of SJW.  Except as set forth in the
Disclosure Schedule delivered by SJW to Parent prior to the execution of this
Agreement (the "SJW Disclosure Schedule"), SJW represents and warrants to Parent
as follows:

          (a) Organization, Standing and Power.  Each of SJW and its
     Subsidiaries (as defined in Section 8.11(h)) is a corporation duly
     incorporated or otherwise organized, validly existing and in good standing
     under the Laws of its jurisdiction of incorporation or organization, has
     all requisite power and authority to own, lease and operate its properties
     and to carry on its business as now being conducted. Each of SJW and its
     Subsidiaries is duly qualified and in good standing to do business in each
     jurisdiction in which the nature of its business or the ownership or
     leasing of its properties makes such qualification necessary other than in
     such jurisdictions where the failure so to qualify or be in good standing
     would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect
     (as defined in Section 8.11(e)) on SJW. Section 3.1(a) of the SJW
     Disclosure Schedule sets forth a complete and accurate list of each direct
     and indirect Subsidiary of SJW. The copies of the articles of incorporation
     and by-laws of SJW and its Subsidiaries that were previously furnished to
     Parent are true, complete and correct copies of such documents as in effect
     on the date of this Agreement.

          (b) Capital Structure.

             (i) As of the date of this Agreement, the authorized capital stock
        of SJW consisted of 6,000,000 shares of SJW Common Stock. As of October
        28, 1999, 3,045,147 shares of SJW Common Stock were issued and
        outstanding. All issued and outstanding shares of SJW Common Stock are
        duly authorized, validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable, and
        holders of SJW Common Stock are not entitled to preemptive rights. There
        are outstanding no options, warrants or other rights to acquire capital
        stock from SJW. No options or warrants or other rights to acquire
        capital stock from SJW have been issued or granted and remain
        outstanding.

             (ii) No bonds, debentures, notes or other indebtedness of SJW or
        any of its Subsidiaries having the right to vote (or convertible into,
        or exchangeable for, securities having the right to vote) on any matters
        on which shareholders may vote ("SJW Voting Debt") are issued or
        outstanding.

             (iii) There are no securities, options, warrants, calls, rights,
        commitments, agreements, arrangements or undertakings of any kind to
        which SJW or any of its Subsidiaries is a party, or by which any of them
        is bound, obligating SJW or any of its Subsidiaries to issue, deliver or
        sell, or cause to be issued, delivered or sold, additional shares of
        capital stock or other securities of SJW or any of its Subsidiaries or,
        securities convertible into or exchangeable for shares of capital stock
        or securities of SJW or any of its Subsidiaries, or obligating SJW or
        any of its Subsidiaries to issue, grant, extend or enter into any such
        security, option, warrant, call, right, commitment, agreement,
        arrangement or undertaking. There are no outstanding obligations of SJW
        or any of its Subsidiaries to repurchase, redeem or otherwise acquire
        any shares of capital stock of SJW or any of its Subsidiaries or to
        provide funds to, or make any investment in any other Person, other than
        a wholly owned Subsidiary of SJW, or to vote or to dispose of any shares
        of the capital stock of any of the Subsidiaries.

             (iv) All of the outstanding shares of capital stock of each
        Subsidiary of SJW are duly authorized, validly issued, fully paid and
        nonassessable and, along with any equity interest in any Subsidiary that
        is a partnership, limited liability company or other similar entity, are
        owned, beneficially and of record, by SJW or a Subsidiary, which is
        wholly owned, directly or indirectly, by SJW, free and clear of any
        liens, claims, mortgages, encumbrances, pledges, security interests, or
        any other restrictions with respect to the transferability or
        assignability thereof (collectively, "Encumbrances").

          (c) Authority; No Violations.

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<PAGE>   66

             (i) SJW has all requisite corporate power and authority to execute
        and deliver this Agreement, to perform its obligations hereunder and to
        consummate the transactions contemplated hereby, subject in the case of
        the consummation of the Merger to the approval of this Agreement by the
        Required SJW Vote (as defined in Section 3.1(p)). The execution and
        delivery of this Agreement and the consummation of the transactions
        contemplated hereby have been duly and validly authorized by all
        necessary corporate action on the part of SJW, and no other corporate or
        shareholder proceedings on the part of SJW are necessary to authorize
        this Agreement or to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby
        (other than in the case of the consummation of the Merger, the approval
        of this Agreement by the Required SJW Vote). This Agreement has been
        duly and validly executed and delivered by SJW and constitutes a valid
        and binding agreement of SJW, enforceable against it in accordance with
        its terms.

             (ii) The execution and delivery of this Agreement by SJW do not or
        will not, as the case may be, and the performance of the Agreement and
        the consummation of the Merger by SJW and the other transactions
        contemplated hereby will not, result in any violation of, conflict with
        or constitute a default (with or without notice or lapse of time, or
        both) under, or give rise to a right of termination, amendment,
        cancellation or acceleration of any obligation or the loss of a benefit
        under, or the creation of an Encumbrance on any assets of SJW or any of
        its Subsidiaries (any such violation, default, right of termination,
        amendment, cancellation or acceleration, loss or creation, a
        "Violation") pursuant to: (A) any provision of the articles of
        incorporation or by-laws or similar organizational document of SJW or
        any Subsidiary of SJW or (B) except as would not, individually or in the
        aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect on SJW, subject to obtaining
        or making the consents, approvals, orders, authorizations,
        registrations, declarations and filings referred to in paragraph (iii)
        below, any loan or credit agreement, note, mortgage, bond, indenture,
        lease, benefit plan or other agreement, obligation, instrument, permit,
        concession, franchise, or license to which SJW or any of its
        Subsidiaries is a party or by which any of them or any of their
        properties or assets may be bound (collectively, "Contracts"), or any
        statute, law, ordinance, rule, regulation, whether federal, state, local
        or foreign (collectively, "Laws"), or any judgment, order, writ,
        injunction or decree, whether federal, state, local or foreign
        (collectively, "Orders") applicable to SJW or any Subsidiary of SJW or
        their respective properties or assets.

             (iii) No consent, approval, permit, order or authorization of, or
        registration, declaration or filing with, or notice to, any foreign,
        supranational, national, state, municipal or local government, any
        instrumentality, subdivision, court, administrative agency or commission
        or other authority thereof, or any quasi-governmental or private body
        exercising any regulatory, taxing, importing or other governmental or
        quasi governmental authority (a "Governmental Entity"), is required by
        or with respect to SJW or any Subsidiary of SJW in connection with the
        execution and delivery of this Agreement by SJW or the performance of
        this Agreement and the consummation of the Merger and the other
        transactions contemplated hereby, except for those required under or in
        relation to (A) the Hart Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of
        1976, as amended (the "HSR Act"), (B) the Securities Exchange Act of
        1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), (C) the CCC with respect to the
        filing of the Agreement of Merger, (D) Laws, practices and Orders of any
        state public utility control or public service commissions or similar
        state regulatory bodies ("PUCs"), each of which is identified in Section
        3.1(c)(iii)(D) of the SJW Disclosure Schedule, (E) Laws, practices and
        Orders of any state or local departments of public health or departments
        of health or similar state or local regulatory bodies or of any federal,
        state or local regulatory body having jurisdiction over environmental
        protection or environmental conservation or similar matters ("Health
        Agencies"), each of which is identified in Section 3.1(c)(iii)(E) of the
        SJW Disclosure Schedule, (F) rules and regulations of the American Stock
        Exchange, Inc. (the "AMEX"), and (G) such consents, approvals, permits,
        Orders, authorizations, registrations, declarations and filings the
        failure of which to make or obtain would not, individually or in the
        aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect on SJW and would not
        reasonably be expected to prevent or materially delay the consummation
        of the Merger. Consents, approvals, permits, Orders, authorizations,
        registrations, declarations and filings required under or in relation to
        any of the foregoing clauses (A) through (F) are hereinafter referred

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<PAGE>   67

        to as "SJW Required Consents." The parties hereto agree that references
        in this Agreement to "obtaining" SJW Required Consents means obtaining
        such consents, approvals or authorizations, making such registrations,
        declarations or filings, giving such notices, and having such waiting
        periods expire as are necessary to avoid a violation of Law or an Order.

          (d) Reports and Financial Statements.  SJW has filed all required
     reports, schedules, forms, statements and other documents required to be
     filed by it under the Exchange Act or the Securities Act (together with the
     rules and regulations thereunder) with the Securities and Exchange
     Commission (the "SEC") since January 1, 1998 (collectively, including all
     exhibits thereto, the "SJW SEC Reports"). No Subsidiary of SJW is required
     to file any form, report or other document with the SEC, any stock exchange
     or any comparable Governmental Entity. None of SJW SEC Reports including,
     without limitation, any financial statements or schedules included therein,
     as of their respective dates (and, if amended or superseded by a filing
     prior to the date of this Agreement, then on the date of such filing),
     contained or will contain any untrue statement of a material fact or
     omitted or will omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein
     or necessary to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances
     under which they were made, not misleading. Each of the audited
     consolidated financial statements and unaudited interim financial
     statements (including the related notes) included in the SJW SEC Reports
     presents fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial
     position and consolidated results of operations and cash flows of SJW and
     its Subsidiaries as of the respective dates or for the respective periods
     set forth therein, all in conformity with United States generally accepted
     accounting principles ("GAAP") consistently applied during the periods
     involved except as otherwise noted therein, and subject, in the case of the
     unaudited interim financial statements, to normal and recurring year-end
     adjustments that have not been and are not expected to be material in
     amount. All of such SJW SEC Reports, as of their respective dates (and as
     of the date of any amendment to the respective SJW SEC Report), complied in
     all material respects with the applicable requirements of the Securities
     Act of 1933, as amended, and the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations
     promulgated thereunder.

          (e) Absence of Liabilities.  Except for liabilities or obligations
     which are accrued or reserved against in SJW's most recent financial
     statements dated prior to the date hereof (or in the related notes thereto)
     included in the SJW SEC Reports or which were incurred in the ordinary
     course of business and consistent with past practices since the date of
     SJW's most recent financial statements included in the SJW SEC Reports, SJW
     and each of its Subsidiaries do not have any material, known liabilities or
     obligations (whether absolute, accrued, contingent or otherwise) of a
     nature required by GAAP to be reflected in a consolidated balance sheet (or
     reflected in the notes thereto) of SJW.

          (f) Compliance.

             (i) Except as set forth in the SJW SEC Reports filed prior to the
        date hereof, neither SJW nor any of its Subsidiaries is in violation of,
        is, to the knowledge of SJW, under investigation with respect to any
        violation of, or has been given notice or threatened with any violation
        of, any Laws or Orders (excluding for purposes of this Section 3.1(f)
        Environmental Laws), except for violations or possible violations which
        would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse
        Effect on SJW. SJW and its Subsidiaries have all permits, licenses,
        franchises and other governmental authorizations, consents and approvals
        ("Permits") necessary to conduct their businesses as presently
        conducted, except for such Permits, the absence of which would not,
        individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect on SJW.
        Neither SJW nor any of its Subsidiaries is in breach or violation of, or
        in default in the performance or observance of (i) any provision of its
        article of incorporation or by-laws, or (ii) except as would not,
        individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect on SJW
        or would not reasonably be expected to prevent or materially delay the
        consummation of the Merger, any Contract or Permit applicable to SJW or
        any Subsidiaries of SJW or their respective properties or assets.

             (ii) All filings required to be made by SJW or any of its
        Subsidiaries since December 31, 1997, under any applicable Laws or
        Orders relating to the regulation of public utilities, have been filed
        with the appropriate PUC or Health Agency or any other appropriate
        Governmental Entity (including,

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<PAGE>   68

        without limitation, to the extent required, the state public utility
        regulatory agencies in California), as the case may be, including all
        forms, statements, reports, agreements (oral or written) and all
        documents, exhibits, amendments and supplements appertaining thereto,
        including but not limited to all rates, tariffs, franchises, service
        agreements and related documents and all such filings complied, as of
        their respective dates, in all material respects with all applicable
        requirements of the appropriate Laws or Orders, except for such filings
        or such failures to comply that would not, individually or in the
        aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect on SJW.

          (g) Environmental Matters.

             (i) SJW and each of its Subsidiaries are in compliance with all
        applicable Environmental Laws (as defined in Section 3.1(g)) (which
        compliance includes, but is not limited to, the possession by SJW of all
        Permits and other governmental authorizations required under applicable
        Environmental Laws ("Environmental Permits"), and compliance with the
        terms and conditions thereof), except where the failure to be in
        compliance would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material
        Adverse Effect on SJW. SJW has not received any written communication,
        whether from a Governmental Entity, citizens group, employee or
        otherwise, alleging that SJW or any of its Subsidiaries are not in such
        compliance, and there are no past or present (or to the knowledge of
        SJW, future) actions, activities, circumstances, conditions, events or
        incidents that may prevent or interfere with such compliance in the
        future, except for such failure to be in compliance and such actions,
        activities, circumstances, conditions, events or incidents that would
        not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect on
        SJW.

             (ii) There are no Environmental Claims (as defined in Section
        3.1(g)) pending or, to the knowledge of SJW, threatened, against SJW or
        any of its Subsidiaries, or any Person whose liability for any such
        Environmental Claim SJW or any of its Subsidiaries has retained or
        assumed either contractually or by operation of Law or Order.

             (iii) To the knowledge of SJW, there are no past or present
        actions, activities, circumstances, conditions, events or incidents,
        including, without limitation, the Release (as defined in Section
        3.1(g)), threatened Release or presence of any Hazardous Material (as
        defined in Section 3.1(g)), that could form the basis of any
        Environmental Claim against SJW or any of its Subsidiaries, or to the
        best knowledge of SJW against any Person whose liability for any
        Environmental Claim SJW or any of its Subsidiaries has or may have
        retained or assumed either contractually or by operation of Law or
        Order, except for such liabilities which would not, individually or in
        the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect on SJW.

             (iv) As used in this Agreement:

                (A) "Environmental Claim" means any suit, proceeding, action,
           cause of action, investigation or written claim or notice by any
           Person alleging potential liability (including, without limitation,
           potential liability for investigatory costs, cleanup costs,
           governmental response costs, natural resources damages, property
           damages, diminution of value, personal injuries, or penalties)
           arising out of, based on or resulting from (a) the presence, or
           Release of any Hazardous Materials at any location, whether or not
           owned or operated by SJW, or (b) circumstances forming the basis of
           any violation, or alleged violation, of any Environmental Law.

                (B) "Environmental Law" means all Laws relating to pollution or
           protection of human health or the environment, including without
           limitation, Laws relating to Releases or threatened Releases of
           Hazardous Materials or otherwise relating to the manufacture,
           processing, distribution, use, treatment, storage, Release, disposal,
           transport or handling of Hazardous Materials and all Laws with regard
           to recordkeeping, notification, disclosure and reporting requirements
           respecting Hazardous Materials.

                (C) "Hazardous Materials" means all substances defined as
           Hazardous Substances, Oils, Pollutants or Contaminants in the
           National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contin-

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<PAGE>   69

           gency Plan, 40 C.F.R. (S) 300.5, natural gas, liquified natural gas,
           natural gas liquids, gas useable fuels, or Hazardous Substances,
           Oils, Pollutants or Contaminants defined as such by, or regulated as
           such under, any Environmental Law.

                (D) "Release" means any release, spill, emission, discharge,
           leaking, pumping, injection, deposit, disposal, dispersal, leaching
           or migration into the indoor or outdoor environment (including,
           without limitation, ambient air, surface water, groundwater and
           surface or subsurface strata) or into or out of any property or
           structure, including the movement of Hazardous Materials through or
           in the air, soil, surface water, groundwater or property.

          (h) Employee Benefit Plans; ERISA.

             (i) Section 3.1(h)(i) of the SJW Disclosure Schedule contains a
        true and complete list of each deferred compensation and each bonus or
        other incentive compensation, stock purchase, stock option and other
        equity compensation or ownership plan, program, agreement or
        arrangement, each severance or termination pay, medical, surgical,
        hospitalization, life insurance and other "welfare" plan, fund or
        program (within the meaning of Section 3(1) of the Employee Retirement
        Income Security Act of 1974, as amended, and the rules and regulations
        promulgated thereunder ("ERISA")) (excluding any payroll practices,
        compensation arrangements and fringe benefits or perquisites which,
        individually or in the aggregate, are not material); each
        profit-sharing, stock bonus or other "pension" plan, fund or program
        (within the meaning of Section 3(2) of ERISA); each employment,
        retention, consulting, termination or severance agreement with any
        officer or director or any other employee (if the cash severance amount
        payable to such employee under such agreement could be reasonably
        expected to exceed $200,000); and each other material employee benefit
        plan, fund, program, agreement or arrangement, in each case, that is
        sponsored, maintained or contributed to or required to be contributed to
        by SJW or by any trade or business, whether or not incorporated (an
        "ERISA Affiliate"), that together with SJW would be deemed a "single
        employer" within the meaning of section 4001(b) of ERISA, or to which
        SJW or an ERISA Affiliate is party for the benefit of any employee or
        former employee of SJW or any Subsidiary of SJW, in respect of which SJW
        or any Subsidiary of SJW will have continuing liability on or after the
        Effective Time (the "SJW Benefit Plans"). Notwithstanding the foregoing,
        at any time prior to the twentieth Business Day following the date of
        this Agreement, SJW may amend or supplement the list set forth in
        Section 3.1(h)(i) of the SJW Disclosure Schedule, so long as such
        changes are made in respect of actions permitted in accordance with
        Section 4.1(h).

             (ii) With respect to each SJW Benefit Plan, (A) no amendments have
        been made thereto since the date hereof, or in the case of a pension
        benefit plan intended to be "qualified" under Section 401(a) of the
        Code, since the date of its most recent favorable determination letter
        from the Internal Revenue Service (other than as required by applicable
        Law or as would not result in any increased cost that would have a
        Material Adverse Effect), and (B) SJW has heretofore delivered or made
        available to Parent true and complete copies of the SJW Benefit Plans,
        any related trust or other funding vehicle, the most recent annual
        report on Form 5500, the current summary plan description and the most
        recent determination letter received from the IRS with respect to each
        SJW Benefit Plan intended to qualify under Section 401 of the Code.

             (iii) No liability under Title IV has been incurred by SJW or any
        ERISA Affiliate that has not been satisfied in full, and, to the
        knowledge of SJW, no condition exists that presents a material risk to
        SJW or any ERISA Affiliate of incurring any such liability, other than
        liability for premiums due the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation
        (which premiums have been paid when due), where any such liability has
        had, or would have a Material Adverse Effect.

             (iv) No SJW Benefit Plan that is subject to Title IV (a "SJW Title
        IV Plan") is a "multiemployer pension plan," as defined in section 3(37)
        of ERISA, nor is any SJW Title IV Plan a plan described in section
        4063(a) of ERISA. At no time since December 31, 1992, have SJW or any
        ERISA Affiliate, been required to contribute to, or incurred any
        withdrawal liability, within the meaning of Section 4201 of ERISA to any
        multiemployer pension plan nor does SJW or any ERISA

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        Affiliate have any potential withdrawal liability arising from a
        transaction described in Section 4204 of ERISA. Any withdrawal liability
        incurred with respect to any multiemployer plan has been fully paid as
        of the date hereof.

             (v) Each SJW Benefit Plan has been operated and administered in
        accordance with its terms, the terms of any applicable collective
        bargaining agreement and applicable Law, including but not limited to
        ERISA and the Code, except as would not be reasonably expected to result
        in a Material Adverse Effect, and each SJW Benefit Plan intended to be
        "qualified" within the meaning of Section 401(a) of the Code has
        received a favorable determination letter from the Internal Revenue
        Service.

             (vi) None of the terms of the SJW Benefit Plans provide that the
        consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement will,
        either alone or in combination with another event, (A) entitle any
        current or former employee or officer of SJW or any ERISA Affiliate to
        severance pay, unemployment compensation or any other payment, except as
        expressly provided in this Agreement, or (B) accelerate the time of
        payment or vesting, or increase the amount of compensation due any such
        employee or officer.

             (vii) There are no pending, or to the knowledge of SJW, threatened
        or anticipated claims by or on behalf of any SJW Benefit Plan, by any
        employee or beneficiary covered under any such SJW Benefit Plan, or
        otherwise involving any such SJW Benefit Plan (other than routine claims
        for benefits) that would be reasonably expected to result in liability
        that would have a Material Adverse Effect.

             (viii) Neither the Company nor any ERISA Affiliate has incurred or
        is reasonably likely to incur any liability with respect to any plan or
        arrangement that would be included within the definition of "Benefit
        Plan" hereunder but for the fact that such plan or arrangement was
        terminated before the date of this Agreement.

          (i) Absence of Certain Changes or Events.  Except as disclosed in the
     SJW SEC Reports filed with the SEC prior to the date hereof, since June 30,
     1999 (a) the businesses of SJW and its Subsidiaries have been conducted in
     the ordinary course, consistent with past practices and (b) there has not
     been any event, occurrence, development or state of circumstances or facts
     that has had, or would have, individually or in the aggregate, a Material
     Adverse Effect on SJW.

          (j) Year 2000.  The computer software operated by SJW and its
     Subsidiaries which is used in the conduct of their businesses is, as of the
     date hereof, capable of providing or being adapted to provide, and as of
     the Effective Time will provide, uninterrupted millennium functionality to
     record, store, process and present calendar dates falling on or after
     January 1, 2000 in substantially the same manner and with the same
     functionality as such software records, stores, processes and presents such
     calendar dates falling on or before December 31, 1999, other than such
     interruptions in millennium functionality that would not, individually or
     in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse
     Effect on SJW. SJW believes that the remaining cost of adaptions referred
     to in the foregoing sentence is not reasonably likely to have a Material
     Adverse Effect on SJW.

          (k) Taxes.

             (i) SJW and its Subsidiaries have (A) duly filed (or there has been
        filed on their behalf) with the appropriate Governmental Entities all
        Tax Returns (as defined in Section 3.1(k)(vii)(B)) required to be filed
        by them on or prior to the date hereof, other than those Tax Returns the
        failure of which to file would not, individually or in the aggregate,
        result in a Material Adverse Effect on SJW, and such Tax Returns are
        true, correct and complete in all material respects, and (B) duly paid
        in full (or there has been paid) all Taxes (as defined in Section
        3.1(k)(vii)(A)) shown to be due on such Tax Returns.

                                      A-10
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             (ii) Except as set forth in Section 3.1(k) of the SJW Disclosure
        Schedule, there are no ongoing federal, state, local or foreign audits
        or examinations of any Tax Return of SJW or any of its Subsidiaries.

             (iii) There are no outstanding requests, agreements, consents or
        waivers to extend the statutory period of limitations applicable to the
        assessment of any Taxes or deficiencies against SJW or any of its
        Subsidiaries, and no power of attorney granted by either SJW or any of
        its Subsidiaries with respect to any Taxes is currently in force.

             (iv) Neither SJW nor any of its Subsidiaries is a party to any
        agreement providing for the allocation or sharing of Taxes.

             (v) No consent under Section 341(f) of the Code has been filed with
        respect to SJW or any of its Subsidiaries.

             (vi) The accruals for Taxes reflected in SJW's most recent balance
        sheet included in the SJW SEC Reports are adequate to cover all
        liabilities for Taxes of SJW and its Subsidiaries for all periods ending
        on or before the date of such balance sheet and nothing has occurred
        subsequent to the date of such balance sheet to make any of such
        accruals inadequate.

             (vii) For purposes of this Agreement: (A) "Taxes" means any and all
        federal, state, local, foreign or other taxes of any kind (together with
        any and all interest, penalties, additions to tax and additional amounts
        imposed with respect thereto) imposed by any taxing authority,
        including, without limitation, taxes or other charges on or with respect
        to income, franchises, windfall or other profits, gross receipts,
        property, sales, use, capital stock, payroll, employment, social
        security, workers' compensation, unemployment compensation or net worth,
        and taxes or other charges in the nature of excise, withholding, ad
        valorem or value added, and (B) "Tax Return" means any return, report or
        similar statement (including the attached schedules) required to be
        filed with respect to any Tax, including, without limitation, any
        information return, claim for refund, amended return or declaration of
        estimated Tax.

          (l) Insurance.  Each of SJW and its Subsidiaries is, and has been
     continuously since January 1, 1994, insured with financially responsible
     insurers in such amounts and against such risks and losses as are customary
     in all material respects for companies in the United States conducting the
     business conducted by SJW and its Subsidiaries during such time period,
     except for such insurance the absence of which would not have a Material
     Adverse Effect. Neither SJW nor any of its Subsidiaries has received any
     notice of cancellation or termination with respect to any material
     insurance policy of SJW or any Subsidiary of SJW. SJW has fulfilled all of
     its obligations under each material insurance policy, including the timely
     payment of premiums, other than such failures to fulfill its obligations
     that would not reasonably be expected, individually or in the aggregate, to
     reduce or nullify the benefits under such policy.

          (m) Property Franchises.  SJW and its Subsidiaries own or have
     sufficient rights and consents to use under existing franchises, easements,
     leases, and license agreements all properties, rights and assets necessary
     for the conduct of their businesses and operations as currently conducted,
     except where the failure to own or have sufficient rights and consents to
     use such properties, rights and assets would not, individually or in the
     aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on SJW.

          (n) Water Quality.  The quality of water supplied by SJW and its
     Subsidiaries to their respective customers complies in all material
     respects with all applicable standards for quality and safety of water
     imposed by applicable Laws and Orders.

          (o) Board Approval.  The Board of Directors of SJW, by resolutions
     duly and unanimously adopted at a meeting duly called and held and not
     subsequently rescinded or modified in any way (the "SJW Board Approval"),
     has duly (i) determined that this Agreement and the Merger are advisable
     and in the best interests of SJW and its shareholders, (ii) approved this
     Agreement and the Merger and (iii) recommended that the shareholders of SJW
     approve and adopt this Agreement. Assuming the

                                      A-11
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     accuracy of the representations and warranties set forth in Sections 3.2(g)
     and 3.3(e), the Board of Directors of SJW has taken the necessary action to
     make inapplicable the restrictions on business combinations set forth in
     Section 203 of the CCC and any other similar applicable antitakeover Laws.

          (p) Vote Required.  The affirmative vote of the holders of a majority
     of the outstanding shares of SJW Common Stock to adopt this Agreement (the
     "Required SJW Vote") is the only vote of the holders of any class or series
     of SJW capital stock necessary to adopt this Agreement and approve the
     transactions contemplated hereby.

          (q) Brokers or Finders.  No agent, broker, investment banker,
     financial advisor or other firm or Person is or will be entitled to any
     broker's or finder's fee or financial advisor's fee or any other similar
     commission or fee in connection with any of the transactions contemplated
     by this Agreement, except Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated (the "SJW
     Financial Advisor"), whose fees and expenses will be paid by SJW in
     accordance with SJW's agreement with such firm, based upon arrangements
     made by or on behalf of SJW and previously disclosed to Parent in writing.

          (r) Opinion of SJW Financial Advisor.  SJW has received the opinion of
     SJW Financial Advisor, dated the date of this Agreement, to the effect
     that, as of such date, the Merger Consideration is fair, from a financial
     point of view, to the holders of SJW Common Stock and such opinion has not
     been withdrawn or modified.

          (s) Regulation as a Utility.  Certain Subsidiaries of SJW are
     regulated as public utilities in California. Neither SJW nor any
     "subsidiary company" or "affiliate" (as such terms are defined in the
     Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935, as amended (the "1935 Act")) of
     SJW is subject to regulation as a public utility or public service company
     (or similar designation) by any other state in the United States, by the
     United States or any agency or instrumentality of the United States or by
     any foreign country. SJW is not a holding company under the 1935 Act. From
     December 31, 1989 to the date of this Agreement no Governmental Entity has
     denied the request of SJW or any of its Subsidiaries to include any asset
     then in utility service in rate base for recovery in the amount of $500,000
     or more.

          (t) Litigation.  Except for claims, actions, suits, proceedings or
     investigations that would not have a Material Adverse Effect on SJW
     (collectively, "Claims"), there are no claims, actions, suits, proceedings
     or investigations pending or, to SJW's knowledge, threatened against SJW or
     any of its Subsidiaries, or any properties or rights of SJW or any of its
     Subsidiaries, by or before any Governmental Entity. Section 3.1(a) of the
     SJW Disclosure Schedule sets forth all Claims which are pending or, to
     SJW's knowledge, threatened against any of SJW or its Subsidiaries. Neither
     SJW nor any of its Subsidiaries is subject to any outstanding Order that
     could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on SJW or
     prevent or materially delay the consummation of the Merger.

          (u) No Parent Capital Stock.  SJW does not own or hold directly or
     indirectly any capital stock of Parent, or any options, warrants or other
     rights to acquire any capital stock of Parent, or in each case, any
     interests therein.

          (v) Contracts.  All contracts which are material to the Company and
     its Subsidiaries ("Material Contracts") have been provided to Parent. All
     Material Contracts to which SJW or any of its Subsidiaries are a party or
     by which its assets are bound are a valid and binding obligation of SJW or
     such Subsidiary and, to the knowledge of SJW, the valid and binding
     obligation of each other party thereto. Neither SJW nor any of its
     Subsidiaries, nor to the knowledge of SJW or any other party thereto, is in
     violation of or in default under (nor does there exist any condition which
     upon the passage of time or the giving of notice would cause such a
     violation or default under) any Material Contract, except for such
     violations or defaults that could not be reasonably expected to result in a
     Material Adverse Effect.

          (w) Real Estate.  Except for such matters that would not, individually
     or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect on SJW:

             (i) All structures and other improvements on such properties are
        within the lot lines and do not encroach on the properties of any other
        person. Neither SJW nor any of its Subsidiaries has received

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<PAGE>   73

        any written or oral notice for assessments for public improvements
        against SJW Real Property which remains unpaid, and to the knowledge of
        SJW, no such assessment has been proposed.

             (ii) SJW and each of its Subsidiaries has obtained all
        authorizations, permits, easements and rights of way, including proof of
        dedication ("Access Rights"), which are necessary to ensure continued
        uninterrupted (1) vehicular and pedestrian ingress and egress to and
        from SJW Real Property and (2) continued use, operation, maintenance,
        repair and replacement of all existing and currently committed water
        lines used by SJW and each of its Subsidiaries in connection with their
        respective businesses. All Access Rights are in full force and effect.
        Neither SJW nor any of its Subsidiaries is in breach or default under
        the easement rights and rights of way enjoyed by SJW or its
        Subsidiaries, and to the knowledge of SJW, none of the grantors of such
        rights are in breach or default thereunder. There are no restrictions on
        entrance to or exit from SJW Real Property to adjacent public streets,
        and no conditions exist which will or with the giving of notice, the
        passage of time or both, could materially and adversely affect such
        Access Rights.

             (iii) As of the Effective Time, SJW Real Property will be adequate
        to operate the businesses of SJW and its Subsidiaries consistent with
        past practice.

             (iv) SJW Real Property has adequate arrangements for supplies of
        electricity, gas, oil, coal and sewer for all operations at the 1998 or
        current operating levels, whichever is greater. There are no actions or
        proceedings pending or, to SJW's knowledge, threatened that would
        adversely affect the supply of electricity, gas, coal or sewer to SJW
        Real Property.

             (v) There are no pending, or to SJW's knowledge, threatened eminent
        domain, condemnation or other governmental action affecting or taking of
        any SJW Real Property.

          (x) Intellectual Property.  SJW or its Subsidiaries owns, leases or
     licenses free and clear of all Encumbrances all Intellectual Property
     Rights necessary to conduct the business of SJW, except where the failure
     to own, lease or license would not have, individually or in the aggregate,
     a Material Adverse Effect on SJW. Except for such claims, infringements and
     misappropriations that would not have, individually or in the aggregate, a
     Material Adverse Effect on SJW, (i) there has been no claim made against
     SJW or any of its Subsidiaries asserting the invalidity, misuse or
     unenforceability of any Intellectual Property Rights, (ii) SJW is not aware
     of any infringement or misappropriation of any of the Intellectual Property
     Rights, and (iii) neither SJW nor any of its Subsidiaries has infringed or
     misappropriated any intellectual property or proprietary right of any other
     entity. As used herein, "Intellectual Property Rights" mean any trademark,
     servicemark, registration therefor or application for registration
     therefor, trade name, invention, patent, patent application, trade secret,
     know-how, copyright, copyright registration, application for copy
     registration, or any other similar type of proprietary intellectual
     property, in each case owned, leased or licensed and used or held for use
     by the SJW or any Subsidiary.

          (y) Product Liability.  Except for such matters that would not,
     individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect on SJW,
     there are no (i) liabilities of SJW or any of its Subsidiaries, fixed or
     contingent, asserted or, to the knowledge of SJW, unasserted, with respect
     to any product liability or similar claim that relates to any product or
     service sold by SJW or any of its Subsidiaries or (ii) liabilities of SJW
     or any of its Subsidiaries, fixed or contingent, asserted or, to the
     knowledge of SJW unasserted, with respect to any claim for the breach of
     any express or implied product warranty or a similar claim with respect to
     any product or service sold by SJW or any of its Subsidiaries to others.

          (z) Condition of Assets.  The buildings, machinery, equipment, tools,
     furniture, improvements and other fixed intangible assets of SJW and its
     Subsidiaries are structurally sound and free from known defects, subject to
     ordinary wear and tear, and shall be maintained by SJW or such Subsidiaries
     in such good operating condition and repair through the Effective Time so
     as to have the capacity to permit the operation of SJW's or such
     Subsidiaries' business as presently conducted. The assets and properties of
     SJW and its Subsidiaries include all assets, rights, properties and
     contracts, the use of which is necessary

                                      A-13
<PAGE>   74

     to the continued conduct after the Effective Time of SJW's and each of its
     Subsidiaries' business by the Surviving Corporation substantially in the
     manner as it is presently conducted.

     3.2.  Representations and Warranties of Parent.  Parent represents and
warrants to SJW as follows:

          (a) Organization, Standing and Power.  Parent is a corporation duly
     incorporated and validly existing under the Laws of its jurisdiction of
     incorporation or organization, has all requisite power and authority to
     own, lease and operate its properties and to carry on its business as now
     being conducted, and is duly qualified to do business in each jurisdiction
     in which the nature of its business or the ownership or leasing of its
     properties makes such qualification necessary other than in such
     jurisdictions where the failure so to qualify or to be in good standing
     would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect
     on Parent.

          (b) Authority; No Violations.

             (i) Parent has all requisite corporate power and authority to
        execute and deliver this Agreement, to perform its obligations hereunder
        and to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby. The execution
        and delivery of this Agreement and the consummation of the transactions
        contemplated hereby have been duly and validly authorized by all
        necessary corporate action on the part of Parent. This Agreement has
        been duly and validly executed and delivered by Parent and constitutes a
        valid and binding agreement of Parent, enforceable against it in
        accordance with its terms.

             (ii) The execution and delivery of this Agreement by Parent do not
        or will not, as the case may be, and the performance of this Agreement
        and the consummation by Parent of the Merger and the other actions
        contemplated hereby will not, result in a Violation pursuant to: (A) any
        provision of the articles of incorporation or by-laws of Parent or any
        Subsidiary of Parent or (B) except as would not, individually or in the
        aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect on Parent, subject to
        obtaining or making the consents, approvals, orders, authorizations,
        registrations, declarations and filings referred to in paragraph (iii)
        below, any Contract, Laws or Orders applicable to Parent or any
        Subsidiary of Parent or their respective properties or assets.

             (iii) No consent, approval, order or authorization of, or
        registration, declaration or filing with, or notice to, any Governmental
        Entity is required by or with respect to Parent or any Subsidiary of
        Parent in connection with the execution and delivery of this Agreement
        by Parent or the performance of this Agreement and the consummation of
        the Merger and the other transactions contemplated hereby, except for
        those required under or in relation to (A) the HSR Act, (B) Laws of any
        PUCs and set forth in Section 3.1 (c)(iii)(D) of the SJW Disclosure
        Schedule, (C) rules and regulations of the New York Stock Exchange, and
        (D) such consents, approvals, orders, authorizations, registrations,
        declarations and filings the failure of which to make or obtain would
        not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect on
        Parent. Consents, approvals, orders, authorizations, registrations,
        declarations and filings required under or in relation to the foregoing
        clauses (A) through (D) are hereinafter referred to as the "Parent
        Required Consents". The parties hereto agree that references in this
        Agreement to "obtaining" Parent Required Consents means obtaining such
        consents, approvals or authorizations, making such registrations,
        declarations or filings, giving such notices; and having such waiting
        periods expire as are necessary to avoid a violation of Law or an Order.

          (c) Board Approval.  The Board of Directors of Parent, by resolutions
     duly adopted at a meeting duly called and held and not subsequently
     rescinded or modified in any way, has duly (i) determined that this
     Agreement and the Merger are in the best interests of Parent and its
     shareholders and (ii) approved this Agreement and the Merger.

          (d) Vote Required.  No vote of the holders of any class or series of
     Parent capital stock is necessary to approve this Agreement, the Merger or
     the other transactions contemplated hereby.

                                      A-14
<PAGE>   75

          (e) Brokers or Finders.  No agent, broker, investment banker,
     financial advisor or other firm or Person is or will be entitled to any
     broker's or finder's fee or any other similar commission or fee in
     connection with any of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement
     based upon arrangements made by or on behalf of Parent, except Greenhill &
     Company (the "Parent Financial Advisor"), whose fees and expenses will be
     paid by Parent in accordance with Parent's agreement with such firm based
     upon arrangements made by or on behalf of Parent.

          (f) Litigation.  As of the date hereof, there are no claims, actions,
     suits, proceedings or investigations pending or, to Parent's knowledge,
     threatened against Parent or any of its Subsidiaries, or any properties or
     rights of Parent or any of its Subsidiaries, before any Governmental Entity
     that (i) seek to materially delay or prevent the consummation of the Merger
     or the other transactions contemplated hereby or (ii) could reasonably be
     expected to affect adversely the ability of Parent to fulfill its
     obligations hereunder, including Parent's obligations under Article I and
     Article II.

          (g) No SJW Capital Stock.  Except for 400 shares of SJW Common Stock,
     Parent does not own or hold directly or indirectly any shares of SJW Common
     Stock or any other capital stock of SJW, or any options, warrants or other
     rights to acquire any shares of SJW Common Stock or any other capital stock
     of SJW, or in each case, any interests therein, other than pursuant to the
     Merger as contemplated by this Agreement.

          (h) Financing.  Parent has or will have available, prior to the
     Effective Time, sufficient funds to pay the Merger Consideration pursuant
     to this Agreement and otherwise to satisfy its obligations hereunder.

     3.3.  Representations and Warranties of Parent and Merger Sub.  Parent and
Merger Sub represent and warrant to SJW as follows:

          (a) Organization, Standing and Power.  Merger Sub is a corporation
     duly incorporated, validly existing and in good standing under the Laws of
     Delaware. Merger Sub is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Parent.

          (b) Authority; No Violations.

             (i) Merger Sub has all requisite corporate power and authority to
        execute and deliver this Agreement, to perform its obligations hereunder
        and to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby. The execution,
        delivery and performance by Merger Sub of this Agreement and the
        consummation by Merger Sub of the transactions contemplated hereby have
        been duly and validly authorized by all necessary corporate and
        shareholder action on the part of Merger Sub. This Agreement has been
        duly and validly executed and delivered by Merger Sub and constitutes a
        valid and binding agreement of Merger Sub, enforceable against it in
        accordance with its terms.

             (ii) The execution and delivery of this Agreement by Merger Sub do
        not or will not, as the case may be, and the performance of this
        Agreement and the consummation by Merger Sub of the Merger and the other
        transactions contemplated hereby will not, result in a Violation
        pursuant to: (A) any provision of the articles of incorporation or
        by-laws of Merger Sub or (B) except as would not, individually or in the
        aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect on Parent, subject to
        obtaining or making the consents, approvals, orders, authorizations,
        registrations, declarations and filings referred to in paragraph (iii)
        below, any Contract, Laws or Orders applicable to Merger Sub or its
        properties or assets.

             (iii) No consent, approval, order or authorization of, or
        registration, declaration or filing with, any Governmental Entity is
        required by or with respect to Merger Sub in connection with the
        execution and delivery of this Agreement by Merger Sub or the
        consummation of the Merger and the other transactions contemplated
        hereby, except for the Parent Required Consents, the filing of the
        Agreement of Merger pursuant to the CCC and DGCL and such consents,
        approvals, orders, authorizations, registrations, declarations and
        filings the failure of which to make or obtain would not, individually
        or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect on Parent.

                                      A-15
<PAGE>   76

          (c) Board and Shareholder Approval.  The Board of Directors of Merger
     Sub, by resolutions duly adopted without a meeting by unanimous consent
     thereto in writing and not subsequently rescinded or modified in any way,
     has duly (i) determined that this Agreement and the Merger are advisable
     and in the best interest of Merger Sub and its shareholder, (ii) approved
     this Agreement and the Merger and (iii) recommended that the shareholder of
     Merger Sub adopt this Agreement. Following the adoption of such resolutions
     by the Board of Directors of Merger Sub, the sole shareholder of Merger
     Sub, without a meeting by consent in writing, has duly adopted this
     Agreement.

          (d) No Business Activities.  Merger Sub has not conducted any
     activities other than in connection with its organization, the negotiation
     and execution of this Agreement and the consummation of the transactions
     contemplated hereby. Merger Sub has no Subsidiaries.

          (e) No SJW Capital Stock.  Merger Sub does not own or hold directly or
     indirectly any shares of SJW Common Stock or any other capital stock of
     SJW, or any options, warrants or other rights to acquire any shares of SJW
     Common Stock or any other capital stock of SJW, or in each case, any
     interests therein.

                                   ARTICLE IV

                   COVENANTS RELATING TO CONDUCT OF BUSINESS

     4.1.  Covenants of SJW.  During the period from the date of this Agreement
and continuing until the Effective Time, SJW agrees as to itself and its
Subsidiaries that (except as expressly contemplated or permitted by this
Agreement or as otherwise indicated in Section 4.1 of the SJW Disclosure
Schedule or as required by a Governmental Entity of competent jurisdiction
(written notice of which will be given promptly to Parent) or to the extent that
Parent shall otherwise consent in writing):

          (a) Ordinary Course.

             (i) SJW and each of its Subsidiaries shall carry on their
        respective businesses in the usual, regular and ordinary course, in all
        material respects, in substantially the same manner as heretofore
        conducted, and shall use all reasonable efforts to preserve intact their
        present lines of business, business organizations and reputations,
        maintain their rights, franchises and permits, keep available the
        services of their officers and key employees, maintain their assets and
        properties in good working order and condition, ordinary wear and tear
        excepted, and preserve their relationships with customers, suppliers and
        others having business dealings with them to the end that their ongoing
        businesses shall not be impaired in any material respect at the
        Effective Time; provided, however, that no action by SJW or its
        Subsidiaries with respect to matters specifically addressed by any other
        provision of this Section 4.1 shall be deemed a breach of this Section
        4.1(a)(i) unless such action would constitute a breach of one or more of
        such other provisions.

             (ii) Other than with the consent of Parent, which shall not be
        unreasonably withheld, SJW shall not, and shall not permit any of its
        Subsidiaries to, (A) enter into any new material line of business or (B)
        incur or commit to any capital expenditures other than capital
        expenditures contemplated in SJW's capital budget, reasonable amounts
        required to meet emergencies, and such additional amounts as may be
        required to comply with Laws and Orders then in effect or required by a
        Governmental Entity.

          (b) Dividends; Changes in Share Capital.  SJW shall not, and shall not
     permit any of its Subsidiaries to, and shall not propose to, (i) declare,
     set aside or pay any dividends on or make other distributions (whether in
     cash or otherwise) in respect of any of its capital stock, except (x)
     dividends by wholly owned Subsidiaries of SJW to such Subsidiary's parent
     or another wholly owned Subsidiary of SJW and (y) the regular quarterly
     dividends on SJW Common Stock in the amount of $0.60 per share of SJW
     Common Stock payable in the third and fourth quarter of 1999, and $0.615
     per share of SJW Common Stock per quarter thereafter, (ii) split, combine,
     subdivide or reclassify any of its capital stock or issue or authorize or
     propose the issuance of any other securities in respect of, in lieu of or
     in

                                      A-16
<PAGE>   77

     substitution for, shares of its capital stock, except for any such
     transaction by a wholly owned Subsidiary of SJW which remains a wholly
     owned Subsidiary of SJW after consummation of such transaction, (iii) adopt
     a plan of complete or partial liquidation or resolutions providing for or
     authorizing such liquidation or a dissolution, merger, consolidation,
     restructuring, recapitalization or other reorganization or (iv) directly or
     indirectly repurchase, redeem or otherwise acquire any shares of its
     capital stock or any securities convertible into or exercisable for any
     shares of its capital stock.

          (c) Issuance of Securities.  SJW shall not, and shall not permit any
     of its Subsidiaries to, issue, deliver or sell, pledge or encumber, or
     authorize or propose the issuance, delivery or sale, pledge or encumbrance
     of, any shares of its capital stock of any class, any SJW Voting Debt or
     any securities convertible into or exercisable for, or any rights, warrants
     or options to acquire, any such shares or SJW Voting Debt, or enter into
     any agreement with respect to any of the foregoing, other than issuances by
     a wholly owned Subsidiary of SJW of capital stock to such Subsidiary's
     Parent or another wholly owned Subsidiary of SJW.

          (d) Governing Documents.  Except to the extent required to comply with
     their respective obligations hereunder or, following written notice to
     Parent, as may be required by Law or Order or required by the rules and
     regulations of the AMEX, SJW shall not, and shall not permit any of its
     Subsidiaries to, amend or propose to amend their respective articles of
     incorporation, by-laws or other governing documents.

          (e) No Acquisitions.  Other than with the consent of Parent, which
     shall not be unreasonably withheld, SJW shall not, and shall not permit any
     of its Subsidiaries to, acquire or agree to acquire by merging or
     consolidating with, or by purchasing a substantial equity interest in or a
     substantial portion of the assets of, or by any other manner, any business
     or any corporation, partnership, association or other business organization
     or division thereof, or otherwise acquire or agree to acquire any assets
     other than the acquisition of assets as are used in the operations of the
     business of SJW and its Subsidiaries in the ordinary course, consistent
     with past practice.

          (f) No Dispositions.  Other than (i) with the consent of Parent, which
     shall not be unreasonably withheld, (ii) as set forth in Section 4.1(f) of
     the Disclosure Schedule and (iii) transfers between SJW and the
     wholly-owned Subsidiaries of SJW and between the wholly-owned Subsidiaries
     of SJW. SJW shall not, and shall not permit any Subsidiary of SJW to, sell,
     lease, transfer, encumber or otherwise dispose of, or agree to sell, lease,
     transfer, encumber or otherwise dispose of, any of its assets (including
     capital stock of Subsidiaries of SJW) which are material to SJW.

          (g) Investments; Indebtedness.  SJW shall not, and shall not permit
     any of its Subsidiaries to, (i) other than as set forth on Schedule 4.1(g)
     of the Disclosure Schedule, make any loans, advances or capital
     contributions to, or investments in, any other Person, other than loans,
     advances, capital contributions and investments by SJW or a Subsidiary of
     SJW to or in SJW or any wholly owned Subsidiary of SJW, (ii) pay,
     discharge, settle or satisfy any claims, liabilities or obligations
     (absolute, accrued, asserted or unasserted, contingent or otherwise), other
     than payments, discharges, settlements or satisfactions incurred or
     committed to in the ordinary course of business consistent with past
     practice or reflected in the most recent consolidated financial statements
     (or the notes thereto) of SJW included in the most recent SJW SEC Reports
     filed prior to the date of this Agreement or (iii) other than as set forth
     on Schedule 4.1(g) of the Disclosure Schedule, create, incur, assume or
     suffer to exist any indebtedness, guarantees, loans or advances or any debt
     securities or any warrants or rights to acquire any debt securities not in
     existence as of the date of this Agreement except for short-term
     indebtedness incurred under SJW's current short-term facilities (and any
     replacements thereof) in the ordinary course of business, consistent with
     past practices, and which shall not exceed $20,000,000 in the aggregate
     without the consent of Parent, which shall not be unreasonably withheld, in
     each case as such facilities and other existing indebtedness may be
     amended, extended, modified, refunded, renewed, refinanced or replaced
     after the date of this Agreement, but only if the aggregate principal
     amount thereof is not increased thereby, the term thereof is not extended
     thereby (or, in the case of replacement indebtedness, the term of such
     indebtedness is not for a longer period of time than the period of time
     applicable to the

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<PAGE>   78

     indebtedness so replaced) and the other terms and conditions thereof, taken
     as a whole, are not less advantageous to SJW and its Subsidiaries than
     those in existence as of the date of this Agreement.

          (h) Compensation.  Except as otherwise agreed by Parent, SJW shall
     not, and shall not permit any of its Subsidiaries to, (i) materially
     increase the amount of compensation of any executive officer, director or
     employee, (ii) make any material increase in or commitment to increase any
     employee benefits, (iii) issue any equity-based awards or shares of SJW
     Common Stock pursuant to SJW Benefit Plans, adopt or make any commitment to
     enter into, adopt, amend in any material manner or terminate any SJW
     Benefit Plan, or any other agreement, arrangement, plan or policy between
     SJW or one of its Subsidiaries and one or more of its directors, officers
     or employees, or (iv) make any contribution, other than regularly scheduled
     contributions, to any SJW Benefit Plan.

          (i) Other Actions.  SJW shall not, and shall not permit any of its
     Subsidiaries to take any action that would, or fail to take any action
     which failure would, or that could reasonably be expected to, result in,
     (i) a material breach of any provision of this Agreement, or (ii) any of
     the conditions to the Merger set forth in Article VI not being satisfied.

          (j) Accounting Methods; Income Tax Matters.  Except as disclosed in
     the SJW SEC Reports filed prior to the date of this Agreement, or as
     required by a Governmental Entity, SJW shall not, nor shall it permit any
     of its Subsidiaries to, change its methods of accounting or accounting
     practices in effect at December 31, 1998, except as required by GAAP. SJW
     shall not, nor shall it permit any of its Subsidiaries to, (i) change its
     fiscal year, (ii) make or rescind any material tax election, (iii) settle
     or compromise any claim, action, suit, litigation, proceeding, arbitration,
     investigation, audit, or controversy in respect of Taxes for any amount in
     excess of the amount reserved therefor and reflected in the most recent
     consolidated financial statements (or the notes thereto) of SJW included in
     the most recent SJW SEC Report, or (iv) change in any material respect any
     of its methods of reporting income, deductions or accounting for federal
     income Tax purposes from those employed in the preparation of its federal
     income Tax Return for the taxable year ending December 31, 1998.

          (k) Contracts.  SJW shall not, nor shall it permit any of its
     Subsidiaries, except in the ordinary course of business consistent with
     past practice (i) to modify, amend, terminate or fail to use commercially
     reasonable efforts to renew any material Contract or waive, release or
     assign any material rights or claims under a Contract to which SJW or any
     of its Subsidiaries is a party or (ii) to enter into any new material
     Contracts.

          (l) Regulatory Matters.  Except for filings in the ordinary course of
     business consistent with past practice that would not have a Material
     Adverse Effect on SJW, SJW shall inform Parent reasonably in advance of
     making a filing to implement any changes in any of its or its Subsidiaries'
     rates or surcharges for water service or executing any agreement with
     respect thereto that is otherwise permitted under this Agreement and shall,
     and shall cause its Subsidiaries to, deliver to Parent a copy of each such
     filing or agreement. SJW shall, and shall cause its Subsidiaries to, make
     all such filings (A) only in the ordinary course of business consistent
     with past practice or (B) as required by a Governmental Entity.

          (m) Compromise; Settlement.  Neither SJW nor any of its Subsidiaries
     shall settle or compromise any pending or threatened claims or arbitrations
     (other than any Claims or arbitrations relating to matters set forth in the
     SJW SEC Reports), other than settlements which involve solely the payment
     of money (without admission of liability) that would not result in an
     uninsured payment by or liability of SJW in excess of $300,000 in the
     aggregate above the reserves established specifically therefor on the books
     of SJW as of the date hereof.

     4.2.  Covenants of Parent.  During the period from the date of this
Agreement and continuing until the Effective Time, Parent agrees as to itself
and its Subsidiaries that (except as expressly contemplated or permitted by this
Agreement or as required by a Governmental Entity of competent jurisdiction
(written notice of which will be given promptly to SJW) or to the extent that
SJW shall otherwise consent in writing) Parent shall not, and shall not permit
any of its Subsidiaries to, take any action that would, or fail to take any

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<PAGE>   79

action which failure would impair Parent's ability to have available sufficient
funds to pay the Merger Consideration pursuant to this Agreement and otherwise
to satisfy its obligations hereunder.

     4.3.  Advice of Changes; Governmental Filings.  Each party shall (a) confer
on a regular and frequent basis with the other, with respect to matters relevant
to the Merger and (b) report (to the extent permitted by Law, Order or any
applicable confidentiality agreement) on operational matters with respect to SJW
and its Subsidiaries, and SJW shall promptly advise Parent, orally and in
writing, of any material change or event affecting its business or operations,
including any complaint, investigation or hearing by any Governmental Entity (or
communication indicating the same may be contemplated) or the institution or
threat of material litigation. SJW shall timely file all reports required to be
filed by it with the SEC (and all other Governmental Entities) between the date
of this Agreement and the Effective Time and shall (to the extent permitted by
Law, Order or any applicable confidentiality agreement) deliver to Parent copies
of all such reports, announcements and publications promptly after the same are
filed. Except as otherwise required by Section 4.1(l) and subject to applicable
Laws and Orders relating to the exchange of information, each of SJW and Parent
shall have the right to review in advance, and will consult with the other with
respect to, all the information relating to the other party and each of their
respective Subsidiaries, which appears in any filings, announcements or
publications made with, or written materials submitted to, any third party or
any Governmental Entity in connection with the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement. In exercising the foregoing right, each of the parties hereto agrees
to act reasonably and as promptly as practicable. Each party agrees that, to the
extent practicable and as timely as practicable, it will consult with, and
provide all appropriate and necessary assistance to, the other party with
respect to the obtaining of all permits, consents, approvals and authorizations
of all third parties and Governmental Entities necessary or advisable to
consummate the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and each party will
keep the other party apprised of the status of matters relating to completion of
the transactions contemplated hereby.

     4.4.  Transition Planning; Continued Operations of SJW.

          (a) SJW and Parent shall each appoint three (3) officers to serve from
     time to time as their respective representatives on a committee that will
     be responsible for coordinating transition planning and implementation
     relating to the Merger. The initial representatives of SJW shall be W.
     Richard Roth, Angela Yip and Scott Yoo. The initial representatives of
     Parent shall be Daniel Kelleher, W. Timothy Pohl and Ellen Wolf.

          (b) Between the date of this Agreement and the Effective Time, Parent
     at its discretion may locate up to two of its representatives at the
     offices of SJW (it being understood that such representatives shall not
     interfere with the business and operations of SJW or its Subsidiaries and
     shall have no authority whatsoever with respect to the operation of the
     business of SJW or any of its subsidiaries). During such period SJW shall
     cause one or more of its designated representatives to consult as requested
     by Parent with such representatives of Parent and to discuss the general
     status of the business of SJW and its Subsidiaries consistent with Sections
     4.4 and 5.2 hereof.

     4.5.  Control of SJW's Business.  Nothing contained in this Agreement shall
be deemed to give Parent, directly or indirectly, the right to control or direct
SJW's operations prior to the Effective Time. Prior to the Effective Time, SJW
shall exercise, consistent with the terms and conditions of this Agreement,
complete control and supervision over its operations.

                                   ARTICLE V

                             ADDITIONAL AGREEMENTS

     5.1.  Preparation of SJW Proxy Statement; SJW Shareholders Meeting.

          (a) As promptly as practicable following the date hereof, SJW shall,
     in cooperation with Parent, prepare and file with the SEC preliminary proxy
     materials relating to the SJW Shareholders Meeting (such proxy statement,
     and any amendments or supplements thereto, the "SJW Proxy Statement"). The
     SJW Proxy Statement shall comply as to form in all material respects with
     the applicable provisions of

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<PAGE>   80

     the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations thereunder, and shall
     include a statement that the Board of Directors finds the Merger to be
     advisable, fair to and in the best interests of SJW. Each of SJW and Parent
     shall use all reasonable efforts to have the SJW Proxy Statement cleared by
     the SEC as promptly as practicable after filing with the SEC. SJW shall, as
     promptly as practicable after receipt thereof, provide copies of any
     written comments received from the SEC with respect to the SJW Proxy
     Statement to Parent and advise Parent of any oral comments with respect to
     the SJW Proxy Statement received from the SEC. If at any time prior to the
     SJW Shareholders Meeting there shall occur any event that should be set
     forth in an amendment or supplement to the SJW Proxy Statement, SJW shall
     promptly prepare and mail to its shareholders such an amendment or
     supplement. SJW shall cause the SJW Proxy Statement to be mailed to its
     shareholders at the earliest practicable date following clearance of the
     SJW Proxy Statement by the SEC and, subject to Section 5.4, shall include
     in the SJW Proxy Statement the recommendation of the Board of Directors of
     SJW that the shareholders of SJW vote in favor of the approval of the
     Merger Agreement.

     Parent agrees that none of the information supplied or to be supplied by
     Parent for inclusion or incorporation by reference in the SJW Proxy
     Statement and each amendment or supplement thereto, at the time of mailing
     thereof and at the time of SJW Shareholders Meeting, will contain an untrue
     statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to
     be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein, in light of
     the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading. SJW agrees
     that none of the information supplied or to be supplied by SJW for
     inclusion or incorporation by reference in the SJW Proxy Statement and each
     amendment or supplement thereto, at the time of mailing thereof and at the
     time of SJW Shareholders Meeting, will contain an untrue statement of a
     material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated
     therein or necessary to make the statements therein, in light of the
     circumstances under which they were made, not misleading. SJW will provide
     Parent and its counsel with a reasonable opportunity to review and comment
     on the SJW Proxy Statement and all responses to requests for additional
     information by and replies to comments of the SEC prior to filing such
     with, or sending such to, the SEC, and will provide Parent and its counsel
     with a copy of all such filings made with the SEC. No amendment or
     supplement to the information supplied by Parent for inclusion in the SJW
     Proxy Statement shall be made without the approval of Parent, which
     approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed.

          (b) Subject to Sections 5.4 and 7.1(f), SJW shall, as promptly as
     practicable following the execution of this Agreement, duly call, give
     notice of, convene and hold a meeting of its shareholders (the "SJW
     Shareholders Meeting") for the purpose of obtaining the Required SJW Vote
     with respect to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, shall take
     all lawful action to solicit the adoption of this Agreement by the Required
     SJW Vote and the Board of Directors of SJW shall recommend adoption of this
     Agreement by the shareholders of SJW.

     5.2.  Access to Information.  Upon reasonable notice, SJW shall (and shall
cause its Subsidiaries to) afford to the officers, employees, accountants,
counsel, financial advisors and other representatives of Parent reasonable
access during normal business hours, during the period prior to the Effective
Time, to all its facilities, operations, officers, employees, agents and
accountants and its properties, books, contracts, commitments and records
(including, without limitation, Environmental Permits and environmental reports,
audits and assessments) and, during such period, SJW shall (and shall cause its
Subsidiaries to) furnish promptly to Parent (or in the case of the documents
referred to in clause (a)(ii) below, make available to any representatives of
Parent): (a)(i) a copy of each report, schedule, registration statement and
other document filed, published, announced or received by it during such period
pursuant to the requirements of Federal or state securities Laws, as applicable;
and (ii) each report, schedule, statement and other document filed with or
received by any other Governmental Entity (other than, in the case of clause (i)
or (ii), documents which such party is not permitted to disclose under
applicable Law or Orders), and (b) all other information concerning its
business, properties and personnel as Parent may reasonably request; provided,
however, that SJW may restrict the foregoing access to the extent that (x) a
Governmental Entity requires SJW or any of its Subsidiaries to restrict access
to any properties or information reasonably related to any such contract on the
basis of applicable Laws or Orders with respect to national security matters or
(y) any Law or Order of any

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<PAGE>   81

Governmental Entity applicable to SJW requires SJW or its Subsidiaries to
restrict access to any properties or information. Parent will hold any
information provided under this Section 5.2 or Sections 4.3 or 4.4 that is
non-public in confidence to the extent required by, and in accordance with, the
provisions of the letter dated August 5, 1999 between SJW and Parent (the
"Confidentiality Agreement"). Any investigation by Parent shall not affect the
representations and warranties of SJW.

     5.3.  Reasonable Best Efforts.

          (a) Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, each party
     will use its reasonable best efforts to take, or cause to be taken, all
     actions and to do, or cause to be done, and to assist and cooperate with
     the other parties in doing, all things necessary, proper or advisable to
     consummate the Merger and the other transactions contemplated by this
     Agreement as soon as practicable after the date hereof and to cause the
     conditions set forth in Article VI to be satisfied on or prior to Closing.
     In furtherance and not in limitation of the foregoing, each party hereto
     agrees to make an appropriate filing of a Notification and Report Form
     pursuant to the HSR Act with respect to the transactions contemplated
     hereby as promptly as practicable after the date hereof and to supply as
     promptly as practicable any additional information and documentary material
     that may be requested pursuant to the HSR Act and to take all other actions
     necessary to cause the expiration or termination of the applicable waiting
     periods under the HSR Act as soon as practicable. Nothing contained in this
     Agreement (including but not limited to Sections 5.3(a) and 5.3(d)) will
     require or obligate the Parent or any of its Subsidiaries (i) to agree to
     or otherwise become subject to any adjustment in, or forbearance from
     requesting changes in, authorized rates of Parent or any of its respective
     Subsidiaries, or to any material limitations on (A) the right of Parent,
     Merger Sub, SJW or their affiliates to acquire, hold or effectively to
     control or operate the business, assets or operations of SJW or (B) the
     right of Parent to exercise full rights of ownership of the SJW Common
     Stock acquired by Parent including, without limitation, the right to vote
     any SJW Common Stock held by Parent on all matters properly presented to
     the shareholders, or (ii) to agree or otherwise be required to sell or
     otherwise dispose of, hold separate (through the establishment of a trust
     or otherwise), or divest itself of all or any portion (other than a de
     minimis portion) of the business, assets, or operations of SJW, Parent or
     any of their respective subsidiaries. Notwithstanding anything to the
     contrary contained herein, in no event will any party or their respective
     subsidiaries be required to waive any of the conditions to the Merger set
     forth in Article VI of this Agreement as they apply to such party.

          (b) Each of Parent and SJW shall, in connection with the efforts
     referenced in Section 5.3(a) to obtain all requisite approvals and
     authorizations for the transactions contemplated by this Merger Agreement
     under the HSR Act or any other applicable Law or Order, use its reasonable
     best efforts to (i) make all appropriate filings and submissions with any
     PUC, Health Agency or other Governmental Entity that may be necessary,
     proper or advisable under applicable Laws or Orders in respect of any of
     the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, (ii) cooperate in all
     respects with each other in connection with any such filing or submission
     and in connection with any investigation or other inquiry, including any
     proceeding initiated by a private party, (iii) promptly inform the other
     party of any communication received by such party from, or given by such
     party to, PUCs, Health Agencies, the Antitrust Division of the Department
     of Justice (the "DOJ") or any other Governmental Entity and of any material
     communication received or given in connection with any proceeding by a
     private party, in each case regarding any of the transactions contemplated
     hereby and (iv) permit the other party to review any communication given by
     it to, and consult with each other in advance of any meeting or conference
     with, PUCs, Health Agencies, the DOJ or any such other Governmental Entity
     or, in connection with any proceeding by a private party, with any other
     Person, in each case regarding any of the transactions contemplated hereby,
     and to the extent permitted by PUCs, Health Agencies, the DOJ or such other
     applicable Governmental Entity or other Person, give the other party the
     opportunity to attend and participate in such meetings and conferences.

          (c) In furtherance and not in limitation of the covenants of the
     parties contained in Sections 5.3(a) and 5.3(b), if any administrative or
     judicial action or proceeding, including any proceeding by a private party,
     is instituted (or threatened to be instituted) challenging any transaction
     contemplated by this Agreement as violative of any applicable Law or Order,
     each of Parent and SJW shall cooperate in all

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<PAGE>   82

     respects with each other and use its respective reasonable best efforts to
     contest and resist any such action or proceeding and to have vacated,
     lifted, reversed or overturned any decree, judgment, injunction or other
     order, whether temporary, preliminary or permanent, that is in effect and
     that prohibits, prevents or restricts consummation of the transactions
     contemplated by this Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing or any other
     provision of this Agreement, nothing in this Section 5.3 shall limit a
     party's right to terminate this Agreement pursuant to Section 7.1(b) or
     7.1(c) so long as such party has up to then complied in all respects with
     its obligations under this Section 5.3.

          (d) If any objections are asserted with respect to the transactions
     contemplated hereby under any applicable Law or Order or if any suit is
     instituted by any Governmental Entity or any private party challenging any
     of the transactions contemplated hereby as violative of any applicable Law
     or Order, each of Parent and SJW shall use its reasonable best efforts to
     resolve any such objections or challenge as such Governmental Entity or
     private party may have to such transactions under such Law or Order so as
     to permit consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

     5.4.  Acquisition Proposals.

          (a) SJW shall, and shall instruct each of its Subsidiaries and
     Representatives (as defined below) to, immediately cease all existing
     discussions or negotiations, if any, with any parties conducted heretofore
     with respect to any Acquisition Proposal (as defined below). SJW shall not
     directly or indirectly, and it shall cause its Subsidiaries, officers,
     directors, employees, representatives, agents and affiliates, including any
     investment bankers, attorneys and accountants ("Representatives") retained
     by SJW or any of its Subsidiaries or affiliates, not to, directly or
     indirectly, (i) solicit, initiate, encourage or otherwise facilitate
     (including by way of furnishing information) any inquiries or proposals
     that constitute, or could reasonably be expected to lead to, any inquiry,
     proposal or offer (or any improvement, restatement, amendment, renewal or
     reiteration thereof) from any Person relating to any direct or indirect
     acquisition or purchase of SJW or any of its Subsidiaries, a merger,
     recapitalization, consolidation, business combination, sale of a
     significant portion of the assets of SJW and its Subsidiaries, taken as a
     whole, sale of 10% or more of the shares of capital stock (including by way
     of a tender offer, share exchange or exchange offer) or similar or
     comparable transactions involving SJW or any of its Subsidiaries, other
     than the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (any such inquiry,
     proposal or offer (or improvement, restatement, amendment, renewal or
     reiteration thereof) (other than made by Parent or an affiliate thereof)
     being herein referred to as an "Acquisition Proposal"), or (ii) engage in
     negotiations or discussions concerning, or provide any non-public
     information to any Person relating to, any Acquisition Proposal.
     Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, the Board of
     Directors of SJW may, at any time prior to approval of this Agreement by
     the shareholders of SJW, furnish information (pursuant to a customary
     confidentiality agreement no more favorable, in the aggregate, to the party
     receiving information than the Confidentiality Agreement (it being
     understood that SJW may enter into a confidentiality agreement without a
     standstill or with a standstill provision less favorable to SJW if it
     waives or similarly modifies the standstill provision in the
     Confidentiality Agreement; provided that in no circumstances shall any such
     standstill provision in any such further confidentiality agreement be more
     favorable to the other Person with respect to the purchase of shares of SJW
     Common Stock)) to, or engage in discussions or negotiations with, any
     Person in response to such Person's Superior Proposal that did not
     otherwise result from a breach of this Section 5.4 (as defined in Section
     8.11(i)) made by such Person if, and only to the extent that, prior to
     taking such action, (A) the Board of Directors of SJW consults in good
     faith with its independent legal counsel as to the advisability of
     furnishing information to, or engaging in discussions or negotiations with,
     such Person and determines in good faith based upon the advice of its
     independent legal counsel that the failure to take such action would
     constitute a breach by the Board of Directors of SJW of their fiduciary
     duties to the Company's shareholders under applicable law, and (B) SJW
     provides reasonable advance notice to Parent to the effect that it is
     taking such action.

          (b) Except and only to the extent provided in paragraph (c) below,
     neither the Board of Directors of SJW nor any committee thereof shall (i)
     withdraw, modify or change, or propose to withdraw, modify or change, in
     any manner adverse to Parent, the approval or recommendation by such Board
     of Directors or such committee of the Merger or this Agreement, (ii)
     approve or recommend, or propose to approve

                                      A-22
<PAGE>   83

     or recommend, any Acquisition Proposal, or (iii) cause SJW to enter into
     any agreement (other than a confidentiality agreement entered into in
     accordance with Section 5.4(a)), letter of intent, agreement in principle,
     acquisition agreement or other similar agreement relating to any
     Acquisition Proposal.

          (c) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, in response
     to a Superior Proposal and after consulting in good faith with its
     independent legal counsel as to the advisability of such action and
     determines in good faith based upon the advice of its independent legal
     counsel that the failure to take such action would constitute a breach by
     the Board of Directors of SJW of their fiduciary duties to the Company's
     shareholders under applicable law, SJW's Board of Directors shall be
     permitted (subject to this and the following sentences), at any time prior
     to the adoption of this Agreement by the shareholders of SJW, (i) to
     withdraw, modify or change, or propose to withdraw, modify or change, the
     approval or recommendation by the Board of Directors of this Agreement, the
     Merger or the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement or (ii) to
     approve or recommend, or propose to approve or recommend, any Superior
     Proposal, but only in each case referred to in clauses (i) and (ii), after
     the third Business Day following Parent's receipt of written notice
     advising Parent that the Board of Directors of SJW has received a Superior
     Proposal, specifying the principal terms of such Superior Proposal and
     stating that it intends to take any action described in clause (i) or (ii)
     above. After providing such notice, SJW shall provide a reasonable
     opportunity to Parent within such three Business Day-period to make such
     adjustments in the terms and conditions of this Agreement as would enable
     SJW to proceed with its recommendation to the shareholders of SJW without
     taking any action described in clauses (i) or (ii) of the preceding
     sentence; provided that any such adjustments shall be at the discretion of
     Parent at such time.

          (d) SJW shall immediately advise Parent of any request for information
     or any Acquisition Proposal, the material terms of such request or
     Acquisition Proposal (and in the case of a Superior Proposal, the identity
     of such Person making such proposal). SJW will keep Parent reasonably
     informed of the status and material terms (including amendments or proposed
     amendments) of any such request or Acquisition Proposal.

          (e) Nothing contained in this Section 5.4 shall prohibit SJW or its
     Board of Directors (i) from taking and disclosing to its shareholders a
     position contemplated by Rule 14d-9 and Rule 14e-2(a) promulgated under the
     Exchange Act or from making any legally required disclosure to the
     shareholders of SJW with regard to an Acquisition Proposal or (ii) prior to
     the adoption of this Agreement by the shareholders of SJW, from taking any
     action as contemplated by Section 7.1(f). Nothing in this Section 5.4 shall
     (x) permit SJW to terminate this Agreement (except as specifically provided
     in Article VII hereof) or (y) affect any other obligation of SJW under this
     Agreement.

     5.5.  Employee Benefits Matters.

          (a) Employee Benefits.

             (i) Obligations of Parent; Comparability of Benefits.  Parent shall
        cause the Surviving Corporation to assume all employment and other
        related Agreements with respect to any current employee of SJW, which
        shall be performed in accordance with their terms. In addition, the
        obligations under each SJW Benefit Plan (as defined in Section 8.11(a))
        as to which SJW or any of its Subsidiaries has any obligation with
        respect to any current or former employee (the "SJW Employees") shall
        become the obligations of Parent and the Surviving Corporation at the
        Effective Time. Thereafter, Parent shall, or shall cause the Surviving
        Corporation to, provide benefits to SJW Employees under those of
        Parent's Benefit Plans that provide benefits that are most closely
        analogous to those provided by the SJW Benefit Plans, on terms and
        conditions substantially similar, in the aggregate, to those that apply
        to similarly situated employees of Parent's Subsidiaries. Nothing herein
        shall require the continuation of any particular SJW Benefit Plan or
        prevent the amendment or termination thereof (subject to the
        maintenance, in the aggregate, of the benefits as provided in the
        preceding sentence).

                                      A-23
<PAGE>   84

             (ii) Pre-Existing Limitations; Deductible; Service Credit.  With
        respect to any Benefit Plans of Parent or any Subsidiary of Parent in
        which SJW Employees participate effective as of the Closing Date, Parent
        shall, or shall cause the Surviving Corporation to: (A) not impose any
        limitations more onerous than those currently in effect as to
        pre-existing conditions, exclusions and waiting periods with respect to
        participation and coverage requirements applicable to SJW Employees
        under any Benefit Plan of Parent or any Subsidiary of Parent in which
        such employees may be eligible to participate after the Effective Time,
        (B) provide each SJW Employee with credit for any co-payments and
        deductibles paid prior to the Effective Time in satisfying any
        applicable deductible or out-of-pocket requirements under any welfare
        Benefit Plan of Parent or any Subsidiary of Parent in which such
        employees may be eligible to participate after the Effective Time, and
        (C) recognize all service of SJW Employees with SJW for purposes of
        eligibility to participate, vesting credit, eligibility for benefits and
        the amount of any such benefits (other than accruals under any defined
        benefit pension plan) in any Benefit Plan of Parent or any Subsidiary of
        Parent in which such employees may be eligible to participate after the
        Effective Time, to the same extent taken into account under a comparable
        SJW Benefit Plan immediately prior to the Closing Date.

             (iii) Change of Control.  SJW and Parent agree that, for purposes
        of the SJW Benefit Plans, the approval or consummation of the
        transactions contemplated by this Agreement, as applicable, shall
        constitute a "Change in Control", as applicable under such SJW Benefit
        Plans.

             (iv) Certain Plans.  Notwithstanding any other provision hereof,
        Parent shall, or shall cause the Surviving Corporation to, provide the
        benefits under the SJW Corp. Transaction Incentive and Retention Program
        for Key Employees and the SJW Corp. Executive Severance Plan, as amended
        ("Severance Plan"), including the Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan
        benefits provided under the Severance Plan, to those individuals covered
        by those plans on the Effective Time in accordance with the terms of
        such plans as of the date hereof.

     5.6.  Fees and Expenses.  Whether or not the Merger is consummated, all
Expenses (as defined below) incurred in connection with this Agreement and the
transactions contemplated hereby shall be paid by the party incurring such
Expenses, except (a) if the Merger is consummated, the Surviving Corporation
shall pay, or cause to be paid, any and all property or transfer taxes imposed
on SJW or its Subsidiaries and (b) as provided in Section 7.2. As used in this
Agreement, "Expenses" includes all out-of-pocket expenses (including all fees
and expenses of counsel, accountants, investment bankers, experts and
consultants to a party hereto and its affiliates) incurred by a party or on its
behalf in connection with or related to the authorization, preparation,
negotiation, execution and performance of this Agreement and the transactions
contemplated hereby, including the preparation, printing, filing and mailing of
the SJW Proxy Statement and the solicitation of shareholder approvals and all
other matters related to the transactions contemplated hereby.

     5.7.  Directors' and Officers' Indemnification and Insurance.

          (a) After the Effective Time through the sixth anniversary of the
     Effective Time, Parent and the Surviving Corporation shall, jointly and
     severally, indemnify and hold harmless each present (as of the Effective
     Time) or former officer, director or employee of SJW and its Subsidiaries
     (the "Indemnified Parties"), against all claims, losses, liabilities,
     damages, judgments, fines and reasonable fees, costs and expenses
     (including attorneys' fees and expenses) incurred in connection with any
     claim, action, proceeding or investigation, whether civil, criminal,
     administrative or investigative, arising out of or pertaining to (i) the
     fact that the Indemnified Party is or was an officer, director or employee
     of SJW or any of its Subsidiaries to the extent that such claim, action,
     proceeding or investigation pertains to matters existing or occurring at or
     prior to the Effective Time (including this Agreement and the transactions
     and actions contemplated hereby) (a "Claim"), whether asserted or claimed
     prior to, at or after the Effective Time, to the fullest extent permitted
     under applicable Law or Order; provided that no Indemnified Party may
     settle any such claim without the prior approval of Parent (which approval
     shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed). Each Indemnified Party will
     be entitled to advancement of expenses incurred in the defense of any
     claim, action, proceeding or investigation from Parent or the Surviving
     Corporation within ten Business Days of receipt by Parent or the Surviving
     Corporation from

                                      A-24
<PAGE>   85

     the Indemnified Party of a request therefor to the extent permitted under
     the CCC; provided that any Person to whom expenses are advanced provides an
     undertaking, to the extent required by the CCC, to repay such advances if
     it is ultimately determined that such Person is not entitled to
     indemnification.

          (b) Unless a modification is required by law, the Surviving
     Corporation shall cause to be maintained in effect (i) in its articles of
     incorporation and by-laws for a period of six years after the Effective
     Time, the current provisions regarding elimination of liability of
     directors and indemnification of, and advancement of expenses to, officers,
     directors and employees contained in the articles of incorporation and
     by-laws of SJW on the date of this Agreement (provided that the Surviving
     Corporation may make any amendments or other modifications to such
     provisions that would not adversely affect the rights thereunder of persons
     who at any time prior to the Effective Time were identified as indemnitees
     under the articles of incorporation or by-laws of SJW with respect to
     matters existing or occurring at or prior to the Effective Time, and (ii)
     for a period of six years after the Effective Time, the current policies of
     directors' and officers' liability insurance and fiduciary liability
     insurance maintained by SJW (provided that the Surviving Corporation may
     substitute therefor policies of at least the same coverage and amounts
     containing terms and conditions which are, in the aggregate, no less
     advantageous to the insured) with respect to claims arising from facts or
     events that occurred on or before the Effective Time; provided, however,
     that in no event shall the Surviving Corporation be required to expend in
     any one year an amount in excess of 200% of the annual premiums currently
     paid by SJW for such insurance; and, provided, further, that if the annual
     premiums of such insurance coverage exceed such amount, the Surviving
     Corporation shall be obligated to obtain a policy with the greatest
     coverage available for a cost not exceeding such amount.

          (c) Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, if any claim,
     action, proceeding or investigation (whether arising before, at or after
     the Effective Time) is made against any Indemnified Party on or prior to
     the sixth anniversary of the Effective Time, the provisions of this Section
     5.7 shall continue in effect until the final disposition of such claim,
     action, proceeding or investigation. Parent or the Surviving Corporation
     shall have the right to assume the defense of any Claim for which
     indemnification is provided herein, and neither Parent nor the Surviving
     Corporation will be liable to such Indemnified Parties for any legal
     expenses of other counsel or any other expenses subsequently incurred
     thereafter by such Indemnified Parties in connection with the defense
     thereof, except that an Indemnified Party will have the right to retain
     separate counsel, reasonably acceptable to Parent, at the expense of the
     indemnifying party if the named parties to any such proceeding include both
     the Indemnified Party and the Parent (or Surviving Corporation), or their
     respective successors, and counsel for Parent determines that the
     representation of such parties by the same counsel would be inappropriate
     due to a conflict of interest between them based upon the standards of
     professional responsibility applicable thereto.

          (d) In the event that the Surviving Corporation or any of its
     successors or assigns (i) consolidates with or merges into any other Person
     and shall not be the continuing or surviving corporation or entity of such
     consolidation or merger or (ii) transfers or conveys all or substantially
     all of its properties and assets to any Person, then, and in each such
     case, proper provision shall be made so that the successors or assigns of
     the Surviving Corporation shall succeed to the obligations set forth in
     Section 5.5 and this Section 5.7.

     5.8.  Public Announcements.  SJW and Parent shall use all reasonable
efforts to develop a joint communications plan. Each of the parties agrees that
it shall not, nor shall any of their respective affiliates, issue or cause to be
issued, any press releases and other public statements with respect to this
Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby unless otherwise required by
applicable Law or by obligations pursuant to any listing agreement with or rules
of any securities exchange, provided that, if such disclosure is required by
applicable law or by obligations pursuant to any listing agreement with or rules
of any securities exchange, each of the parties agrees to consult with each
other before issuing any press release or otherwise making any public statement
with respect to this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby.

     5.9.  Disclosure Schedule Supplements.  From time to time after the date of
this Agreement and prior to the Effective Time, SJW will promptly supplement or
amend the SJW Disclosure Schedule with respect to

                                      A-25
<PAGE>   86

any matter hereafter arising which, if existing or occurring at or prior to the
date of this Agreement, would have been required to be set forth or described in
the SJW Disclosure Schedule or which is necessary to correct any information in
a schedule or in any representation and warranty of SJW which has been rendered
inaccurate thereby. From time to time after the date of this Agreement and prior
to the Effective Time, Parent will promptly disclose in writing to SJW any
matter hereafter arising which, if existing or occurring at or prior to the date
of this Agreement, would have been required to be set forth or described in a
disclosure schedule or which is necessary to correct any information in a
schedule or in any representation and warranty of Parent or Merger Sub which has
been rendered inaccurate thereby (including, for purposes of this Section 5.9
only, any representation or warranty set forth in Section 3.2(f) without regard
to the words "As of the date hereof" therein). Each of SJW and Parent shall,
within a reasonable period of time following any such disclosure, supplement or
amendment, negotiate in good faith with respect to the consequences of any such
disclosure, supplement or amendment. For purposes of determining the accuracy of
the representations and warranties of SJW contained in this Agreement in order
to determine the fulfillment of the conditions set forth in Section 6.2(a), the
SJW Disclosure Schedule shall be deemed to include only that information
contained therein on the date of this Agreement and shall be deemed to exclude
any information contained in any subsequent supplement or amendment thereto. For
purposes of determining the accuracy of the representations and warranties of
Parent contained in this Agreement in order to determine the fulfillment of the
conditions set forth in Section 6.3(a), there shall be deemed to be no
disclosure schedule of Parent, and the information contained in any written
disclosure by Parent pursuant to this provision shall not be considered.

                                   ARTICLE VI

                              CONDITIONS PRECEDENT

     6.1.  Conditions to Each Party's Obligation to Effect the Merger.  The
respective obligations of SJW, Parent and Merger Sub to effect the Merger are
subject to the satisfaction or waiver at or prior to the Closing of the
following conditions:

          (a) Shareholder Approval.  SJW shall have obtained the Required SJW
     Vote for the adoption of this Agreement by the shareholders of SJW.

          (b) No Injunctions or Restraints; Illegality.  No federal, state,
     local or foreign, if any, Law shall have been adopted or promulgated, and
     no temporary restraining Order, preliminary or permanent injunction or
     other Order issued by a court or other Governmental Entity of competent
     jurisdiction shall be in effect, having the effect of making the Merger
     illegal or otherwise prohibiting consummation of the Merger.

          (c) Governmental Approvals.  All Parent Required Consents and the SJW
     Required Consents shall have been obtained prior to the Effective Time, and
     shall have become Final Orders. The Final Orders shall not, individually or
     in the aggregate, impose terms and conditions that materially impair the
     ability of the parties to complete the Merger or the other transactions
     contemplated hereby. "Final Order" for purposes of this Agreement means
     action by the relevant regulatory authority which has not been reversed,
     stayed, enjoined, set aside or annulled, and with respect to which any
     waiting period prescribed by any Law or Order before the Merger and other
     transactions contemplated hereby may be consummated has expired, and as to
     which all conditions to be satisfied before the consummation of such
     transactions prescribed by Law or Order have been satisfied.

          (d) HSR Act.  The waiting period (and any extension thereof)
     applicable to the Merger under the HSR Act shall have been terminated or
     shall have expired.

                                      A-26
<PAGE>   87

     6.2.  Additional Conditions to Obligations of Parent and Merger Sub.  The
obligations of Parent and Merger Sub to effect the Merger are subject to the
satisfaction of, or waiver by Parent, at or prior to the Closing of the
following additional conditions:

          (a) Representations and Warranties.  At the time of Closing:

             (i) Each of the representations and warranties of SJW set forth in
        the first and last sentence of Section 3.1(a) and Sections 3.1(b),
        3.1(c)(i), 3.1(o), 3.1(p) and 3.1(r) shall be true and correct in all
        material respects; and

             (ii) Each of the other representations and warranties of SJW set
        forth in the Agreement shall be true and correct without giving effect
        to any qualification for Material Adverse Effect, materiality or
        correlative term, except to the extent that such failure to be true and
        correct would not, in the aggregate and when taken together with all
        such failures, have a Material Adverse Effect;

     as if such representations and warranties referred to in clauses (i) and
     (ii) above were made at the Effective Time except (A) to the extent any
     such representation or warranty speaks by its terms as of a certain date,
     and (B) for changes specifically permitted by this Agreement; and Parent
     shall have received a certificate of the chief executive officer and the
     chief financial officer of SJW to such effect.

          (b) Performance of Obligations of SJW.  SJW shall have performed or
     complied in all material respects with all agreements and covenants
     required to be performed by it under this Agreement at or prior to the
     Closing Date, and Parent shall have received a certificate of the chief
     executive officer and the chief financial officer of SJW to such effect.

          (c) Final Orders.  The Final Orders referred to in Section 6.1(c)
     shall not, individually or in the aggregate, impose terms and conditions
     that could reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect on
     SJW or Parent.

          (d) Product Liability.  No event has occurred which could reasonably
     be likely to result in any liability of SJW or its Subsidiaries for death
     or serious personal injury, fixed or contingent, asserted or unasserted,
     with respect to any product or service sold by SJW or its Subsidiaries such
     that the reputation of SJW, Parent or any of their Subsidiaries might be
     significantly impaired.

     6.3.  Additional Conditions to Obligations of SJW.  The obligations of SJW
to effect the Merger are subject to the satisfaction of, or waiver by SJW, at or
prior to the Closing of the following additional conditions:

          (a) Representations and Warranties.  Each of the representations and
     warranties of Parent and Merger Sub set forth in this Agreement shall be
     true and correct (other than any representation or warranty, or any portion
     of a representation or warranty, that is not qualified as to Material
     Adverse Effect, which representations and warranties shall be true and
     correct in all material respects), as if such representations or warranties
     were made as of the Effective Time, except (i) to the extent given as of a
     certain date and (ii) for changes specifically permitted by this Agreement,
     and SJW shall have received a certificate of the chief executive officer
     and the chief financial officer of Parent to such effect.

          (b) Performance of Obligations of Parent.  Parent shall have performed
     or complied in all material respects with all agreements and covenants
     required to be performed by it under this Agreement at or prior to the
     Closing Date, and SJW shall have received a certificate of the chief
     executive officer and the chief financial officer of Parent to such effect.

                                  ARTICLE VII

                           TERMINATION AND AMENDMENT

     7.1.  Termination.  This Agreement may be terminated at any time prior to
the Effective Time, by action taken or authorized by the Board of Directors of
the terminating party or parties, and except as provided

                                      A-27
<PAGE>   88

below, whether before or after approval of the matters presented in connection
with the Merger by the shareholders of SJW or Merger Sub:

          (a) By mutual written consent of Parent and SJW, by action of their
     respective Boards of Directors;

          (b) By either SJW or Parent, by written notice to the other party, if
     the Effective Time shall not have occurred on or before the first
     anniversary of the date of this Agreement (the "Termination Date");
     provided, however, that the right to terminate this Agreement under this
     Section 7.1(b) shall not be available to any party whose failure to fulfill
     any obligation under this Agreement (including without limitation Section
     5.3) has been the cause of, or resulted in, the failure of the Effective
     Time to occur on or before the Termination Date; provided further that if,
     on such first anniversary, (i) the condition set forth in Section 6.1(c)
     has not been satisfied or waived, (ii) all of the other conditions to the
     consummation of the Merger set forth in Article VI have been satisfied or
     waived or can readily be satisfied and (iii) any approvals required in
     order for the condition set forth in Section 6.1(c) to be satisfied that
     have not yet been obtained are being pursued diligently and in good faith,
     then the Termination Date shall, without any action by any of the parties,
     be extended to the earlier of (x) the date that is six months after the
     first anniversary of the date hereof and (y) the date that such approvals
     are no longer being pursued diligently and in good faith by any party
     necessary to the prosecution thereof;

          (c) By either SJW or Parent if any Governmental Entity (i) shall have
     issued an order, decree or ruling or taken any other action (which the
     parties shall have used their reasonable best efforts to resist, resolve or
     lift, as applicable, in accordance with Section 5.3) permanently
     restraining, enjoining or otherwise prohibiting the transactions
     contemplated by this Agreement, and such order, decree, ruling or other
     action shall have become final and nonappealable or (ii) shall have failed
     to issue an order, decree or ruling or to take any other action (which
     order, decree, ruling or other action the parties shall have used their
     reasonable best efforts to obtain, in accordance with Section 5.3), in each
     case (i) and (ii) that is necessary to fulfill the conditions set forth in
     subsections 6.1(c) and (d), as applicable, and such denial of a request to
     issue such order, decree, ruling or take such other action shall have
     become final and nonappealable; provided, however, that the right to
     terminate this Agreement under this Section 7.1(c) shall not be available
     to any party whose failure to comply with Section 5.3 has been the cause of
     such action or inaction;

          (d) By either SJW or Parent if the approval by the shareholders of SJW
     required for the consummation of the Merger shall not have been obtained by
     reason of the failure to obtain the Required SJW Vote upon the taking of
     such vote at a duly held meeting of shareholders of SJW, or at any
     adjournment thereof;

          (e) By Parent if the Board of Directors of SJW shall have taken or
     resolved to take any of the actions set forth in clauses (i) or (ii) of
     Section 5.4(b) or if the Board of Directors of SJW shall have refused to
     affirm its recommendation of the Merger and the transactions contemplated
     by this Agreement as promptly as practicable (but in any case within ten
     business days) after receipt of written request from Parent therefor;

          (f) By SJW at any time prior to adoption of this Agreement by the
     shareholders of SJW if the Board of Directors of SJW (i) shall have
     approved a Superior Proposal or (ii) shall have entered into a definitive
     agreement with respect to a Superior Proposal; provided, however, that SJW
     shall have complied with Section 5.4;

          (g) By Parent, upon a breach of any representation, warranty, covenant
     or agreement on the part of SJW set forth in this Agreement, or if any
     representation or warranty of SJW shall have become untrue, incomplete or
     incorrect, in either case such that the conditions set forth in Section
     6.2(a) would not be satisfied (a "Terminating SJW Breach"); provided,
     however, that if such Terminating SJW Breach is curable by SJW through the
     exercise of its reasonable efforts within 10 days, Parent may not terminate
     this Agreement under this Section 7.1(g) until the expiration of such 10
     day period or the time SJW fails to maintain reasonable efforts, whichever
     occurs earlier; and provided, further, that the preceding proviso shall not
     in any event be deemed to extend any date set forth in paragraph (b) of
     this Section 7.1; or

                                      A-28
<PAGE>   89

          (h) By SJW, upon breach of any representation, warranty, covenant or
     agreement on the part of Parent or Merger Sub set forth in this Agreement,
     or if any representation or warrant of Parent shall have become untrue,
     incomplete or incorrect, in either case such that the conditions set forth
     in Section 6.3(a) would not be satisfied ("Terminating Parent Breach");
     provided, however, that if such Terminating Parent Breach is curable by
     Parent through the exercise of its reasonable efforts within 10 days and
     for so long as Parent continues to exercise such reasonable efforts,
     Company may not terminate this Agreement under this Section 7.1(h) until
     the expiration of such 10 day period or the time SJW fails to maintain
     reasonable efforts, whichever occurs earlier; and provided, further, that
     the preceding proviso shall not in any event be deemed to extend any date
     set forth in paragraph (b) of this Section 7.1.

     7.2.  Effect of Termination.

          (a) In the event of termination of this Agreement by either SJW or
     Parent as provided in Section 7.1, this Agreement shall forthwith become
     void and there shall be no liability or obligation on the part of Parent,
     Merger Sub or SJW or their respective officers or directors except with
     respect to the second sentence of Section 5.2, Section 5.6, this Section
     7.2 and Article VIII; provided, however, that nothing herein shall relieve
     any party from liability for the willful breach of any of its
     representations, warranties, covenants or agreements set forth in this
     Agreement.

          (b) Parent and SJW agree that SJW shall pay to Parent the sum of $17.5
     million (the "Termination Fee") if (i) SJW or Parent shall terminate this
     Agreement pursuant to Section 7.1(d), Section 7.1(e), or Section 7.1(f)(i),
     and at any time after the date of this Agreement and at or before the time
     of the event giving rise to such termination there shall exist an
     Acquisition Proposal with respect to SJW or any of its Subsidiaries and
     within 18 months following the termination of this Agreement, SJW enters
     into a definitive agreement with a third party with respect to an
     Acquisition Proposal or an Acquisition Proposal is consummated or (ii) SJW
     shall terminate this Agreement pursuant to Section 7.1(f)(ii).

          (c) The Termination Fee required to be paid to Parent pursuant to
     Section 7.2(b) shall be made to Parent not later than five Business Days
     after the entering into of a definitive agreement with respect to, or the
     consummation of, an Acquisition Proposal, as applicable. Payment under this
     Section 7.2 shall be made by wire transfer of immediately available funds
     to an account designated by Parent in the amount of the Termination Fee,
     plus interest, if any, accrued from the date when payment was due to the
     payment date at the prime rate in effect at Wells Fargo Bank, San
     Francisco.

     7.3.  Amendment.  This Agreement may be amended by the parties hereto, by
action taken or authorized by their respective Boards of Directors, at any time
before or after approval of the matters presented in connection with the Merger
by the shareholders of SJW and Merger Sub, but, after any such approval, no
amendment shall be made which by Law or in accordance with the rules of any
relevant stock exchange requires further approval by such shareholders without
such further approval. This Agreement may not be amended except by an instrument
in writing signed on behalf of each of the parties hereto.

     7.4.  Extension; Waiver.  At any time prior to the Effective Time, the
parties hereto, by action taken or authorized by their respective Boards of
Directors, may, to the extent legally allowed, (i) extend the time for the
performance of any of the obligations or other acts of the other parties hereto,
(ii) waive any inaccuracies in the representations and warranties contained
herein or in any document delivered pursuant hereto and (iii) waive compliance
with any of the agreements or conditions contained herein. Any agreement on the
part of a party hereto to any such extension or waiver shall be valid only if
set forth in a written instrument signed on behalf of such party. The failure of
any party to this Agreement to assert any of its rights under this Agreement or
otherwise shall not constitute a waiver of those rights.

                                      A-29
<PAGE>   90

                                  ARTICLE VIII

                               GENERAL PROVISIONS

     8.1.  Non-Survival of Representations, Warranties and Agreements.  None of
the representations, warranties, covenants and other agreements in this
Agreement or in any instrument delivered pursuant to this Agreement, including
any rights arising out of any breach of such representations, warranties,
covenants and other agreements, shall survive the Effective Time, except for
those covenants and agreements contained herein and therein that by their terms
apply or are to be performed in whole or in part after the Effective Time and
this Article VIII. Nothing in this Section 8.1 shall relieve any party for any
breach of any representation, warranty, covenant or other agreement in this
Agreement occurring prior to termination.

     8.2.  Notices.  All notices and other communications hereunder shall be in
writing (including telecopy or other similar writing) and shall be deemed duly
given (a) on the date of delivery if delivered personally, or by telecopy or
telefacsimile, upon confirmation of receipt, (b) on the first Business Day
following the date of dispatch if delivered by a recognized next-day courier
service, (c) on the tenth Business Day following the date of mailing if
delivered by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, postage
prepaid or (d) if given by any other means, when received at the address
specified in this Section 8.2, except, in each case, for a notice of a change of
address, which shall be effective only upon receipt thereof. All notices
hereunder shall be delivered as set forth below, or pursuant to such other
instructions as may be designated in writing by the party to receive such
notice:

        (a) if to Parent or Merger Sub, to
          American Water Works Company, Inc.
          1025 Laurel Oak Road
          P.O. Box 1770
          Voorhees, NJ 08043
          Fax: 856-346-8299
          Attention: W. Timothy Pohl
          with a copy to
          Dechert Price & Rhoads
          4000 Bell Atlantic Tower
          1717 Arch Street
          Philadelphia, PA 19103
          Fax: 215-994-2
          Attention: John LaRocca

        (b) if to SJW to
           SJW Corp.
           374 W. Santa Clara St.
           San Jose, CA 95113 (courier) or 95196 (mail)
           Fax: (408) 279-7932
           Attention: Richard Roth
           with a copy to
           Brobeck, Phleger & Harrison LLP
           One Market, Spear Street Tower
           San Francisco, CA 94105
           Fax: (415) 442-1010
           Attention: Ronald B. Moskovitz

     8.3.  Interpretation.  When a reference is made in this Agreement to
Sections, Exhibits or Schedules, such reference shall be to a Section of or
Exhibit or Schedule to this Agreement unless otherwise indicated. The table of
contents, glossary of defined terms and headings contained in this Agreement are
for reference purposes only and shall not affect in any way the meaning or
interpretation of this Agreement. Whenever the

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<PAGE>   91

words "include", "includes" or "including" are used in this Agreement, they
shall be deemed to be followed by the words "without limitation". The inclusion
of any matter in the SJW Disclosure Schedule in connection with any
representation, warranty, covenant or agreement that is qualified as to
materiality or "Material Adverse Effect" shall not be an admission by SJW that
such matter is material or would have a Material Adverse Effect. Notwithstanding
anything to the contrary, in no event shall any risk factors or similar
cautionary language included in any SJW SEC Reports under the heading
"Forwarding Looking Statements" be disclosed or deemed disclosed for purposes of
the representations, warranties, or covenants contained in this Agreement except
as otherwise specifically disclosed herein or therein.

     8.4.  Counterparts.  This Agreement may be executed in two or more
counterparts, all of which shall be considered one and the same agreement and
shall become effective when each party shall have received counterparts hereof
signed by all other parties hereto, it being understood that the parties need
not sign the same counterpart.

     8.5.  Entire Agreement; No Third Party Beneficiaries.

          (a) This Agreement together with the SJW Disclosure Schedule, and
     exhibits hereto constitutes the entire agreement and supersedes all prior
     agreements and understandings, both written and oral, among the parties
     with respect to the subject matter hereof, other than the Confidentiality
     Agreement, which shall survive the execution and delivery of this
     Agreement.

          (b) This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure solely to the
     benefit of each party hereto, and nothing in this Agreement, express or
     implied, is intended to or shall confer upon any other Person any right,
     benefit or remedy of any nature whatsoever under or by reason of this
     Agreement, other than Section 5.7 (which is intended to be for the benefit
     of the Persons covered thereby and may be enforced by such Persons).

     8.6.  Governing Law.  This Agreement shall be governed and construed in
accordance with the laws of the State of California, without regard to
principles of conflict of laws.

     8.7.  Severability.  If any term or other provision of this Agreement is
invalid, illegal or incapable of being enforced by any Law, Order or public
policy, all other terms and provisions of this Agreement shall nevertheless
remain in full force and effect so long as the economic or legal substance of
the transactions contemplated hereby is not affected in any manner materially
adverse to any party. Upon such determination that any term or other provision
is invalid, illegal or incapable of being enforced, the parties hereto shall
negotiate in good faith to modify this Agreement so as to effect the original
intent of the parties as closely as possible in an acceptable manner in order
that the transactions contemplated hereby are consummated as originally
contemplated to the greatest extent possible.

     8.8.  Assignment.  Neither this Agreement nor any of the rights, interests
or obligations hereunder shall be assigned by any of the parties hereto, in
whole or in part (whether by operation of Law, Order or otherwise), without the
prior written consent of the other parties, and any attempt to make any such
assignment without such consent shall be null and void. Subject to the preceding
sentence, this Agreement will be binding upon, inure to the benefit of and be
enforceable by the parties and their respective successors and assigns. SJW
agrees that, at the request of Parent and Merger Sub at any time prior to
adoption of this Agreement by the shareholders of SJW, SJW will take all actions
required by the CCC in order to effect, after all actions required by the CCC
and DGCL are taken by Parent and Merger Sub, the substitution of another direct
or indirect wholly owned Subsidiary of Parent for Merger Sub in this Agreement;
provided that each of Parent and such substitute Subsidiary shall represent and
warrant to SJW, on the date such substitution is to be effective, the
representations and warranties set forth in Section 3.3; and provided, further,
that no action shall be taken that would require SJW to amend or supplement the
SJW Proxy Statement at any time after the SJW Proxy Statement has first been
mailed to SJW's shareholders.

     8.9.  Submission to Jurisdiction; Waivers.  Each of Parent, Merger Sub and
SJW irrevocably agrees that any legal action or proceeding with respect to this
Agreement or for recognition and enforcement of any judgment in respect hereof
brought by any party hereto or its successors or assigns may be brought and
determined in the Santa Clara County Superior Court of the State of California,
or in the United States

                                      A-31
<PAGE>   92

Courts in or for the Northern District of California, in each case having
subject matter jurisdiction, and each of Parent, Merger Sub and SJW hereby
irrevocably submits with regard to any such action or proceeding for itself and
in respect to its property, generally and unconditionally, to the nonexclusive
jurisdiction of the aforesaid courts. Each of the parties hereto hereby agrees
that service of any process, summons, notice or document by U.S. registered mail
to its respective address set forth in Section 8.2 shall be effective service of
process for any such legal action or proceeding brought against it in any such
court. Each of Parent, Merger Sub and SJW hereby irrevocably waives, and agrees
not to assert, by way of motion, as a defense, counterclaim or otherwise, in any
action or proceeding with respect to this Agreement, (a) any claim that it is
not personally subject to the jurisdiction of the above-named courts for any
reason other than the failure to serve process in accordance with this Section
8.9, (b) that it or its property is exempt or immune from jurisdiction of any
such court or from any legal process commenced in such courts (whether through
service of notice, attachment prior to judgment, attachment in aid of execution
of judgment, execution of judgment or otherwise) and (c) to the fullest extent
permitted by applicable Law or Order, that (i) the suit, action or proceeding in
any such court is brought in an inconvenient forum, (ii) the venue of such suit,
action or proceeding is improper and (iii) this Agreement, or the subject matter
hereof, may not be enforced in or by such courts. Notwithstanding anything
contained herein to the contrary, SJW understands and agrees that this Section
8.9 is not intended to and shall not be deemed to be a consent by Parent to
jurisdiction for any purpose other than the limited purpose of enforcing this
Agreement in accordance with its terms.

     8.10.  Enforcement.  The parties agree that irreparable damage would occur
in the event that any of the provisions of this Agreement were not performed in
accordance with their specific terms. It is accordingly agreed that the parties
shall be entitled to specific performance of the terms hereof, this being in
addition to any other remedy to which they are entitled at Law, Order or in
equity.

     8.11.  Definitions.  As used in this Agreement:

          (a) "Benefit Plans" means, with respect to any Person, each employee
     or director benefit plan, program, arrangement and contract (including any
     "employee benefit plan," as defined in Section 3(3) of ERISA, and any
     bonus, deferred compensation, stock bonus, stock purchase, restricted
     stock, stock option, employment, termination, stay agreement or bonus,
     change in control and severance plan, program, arrangement and contract) in
     effect on the date of this Agreement or disclosed on Section 4.1(c) of the
     SJW Disclosure Schedule, to which such Person or its Subsidiary is a party,
     which is maintained or contributed to by such Person, or with respect to
     which such Person could incur material liability under Section 4069, 4201
     or 4212(c) of ERISA.

          (b) "Board of Directors" means the Board of Directors of any specified
     Person and any committees thereof.

          (c) "Business Day" means any day on which banks are not required or
     authorized to close in the city of San Francisco.

          (d) "knowledge" when used with respect to any party means the
     knowledge of any executive officer of such party after reasonable inquiry.

          (e) "Material Adverse Effect" means, with respect to any Person, any
     change, circumstance or effect that would reasonably be expected to result
     in a materially adverse effect on the business, financial condition or
     results of operations of such Person and its Subsidiaries taken as a whole,
     other than any change, circumstance or effect relating (i) to reductions in
     consumer demand or reductions in supply sources solely as a result of
     unusual climatic conditions in the watersheds or in the areas serviced by
     SJW or any of its Subsidiaries or (ii) to actions or omissions by either
     Parent or SJW, or any of their Subsidiaries, as the case may be, taken with
     the written permission of the other party in connection with the
     transactions contemplated hereby.

          (f) "the other party" means, with respect to SJW, Parent and means,
     with respect to Parent, SJW.

          (g) "Person" means an individual, corporation, limited liability
     company, partnership, association, trust, unincorporated organization,
     other entity or group (as defined in the Exchange Act).

                                      A-32
<PAGE>   93

          (h) "Subsidiary" when used with respect to any party means any
     corporation or other organization, whether incorporated or unincorporated,
     (i) of which such party or any other Subsidiary of such party is a general
     partner (excluding partnerships, the general partnership interests of which
     held by such party or any Subsidiary of such party do not have a majority
     of the voting interests in such partnership) or (ii) at least a majority of
     the securities or other interests of which having by their terms ordinary
     voting power to elect a majority of the Board of Directors or others
     performing similar functions with respect to such corporation or other
     organization is directly or indirectly owned or controlled by such party or
     by any one or more of its Subsidiaries, or by such party and one or more of
     its Subsidiaries.

          (i) "Superior Proposal" means an unsolicited bona fide written
     Acquisition Proposal that the Board of Directors of SJW concludes in good
     faith (after consultation with its financial advisors) would, if
     consummated, provide greater aggregate value to SJW's shareholders (in
     their capacities as shareholders), from a financial point of view, than the
     transactions contemplated by this Agreement and for which any required
     financing is committed or which, in the good faith judgment of the Board of
     Directors of SJW (after consultation with its financial advisors), is
     reasonably capable of being financed by the Person making such Acquisition
     Proposal (provided that for purposes of this definition the term
     Acquisition Proposal shall have the meaning assigned to such term in
     Section 5.4 except that (x) the reference to "10% or more of the shares" in
     the definition of "Acquisition Proposal" shall be deemed to be a reference
     to "sale of 50% or more of the shares" and (y) "Acquisition Proposal" shall
     only be deemed to refer to a transaction involving SJW, or with respect to
     assets (including the shares of any Subsidiary of SJW) of SJW and its
     Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, and not any of its Subsidiaries alone.

     8.12.  Other Agreements.  The parties hereto acknowledge and agree that,
except as otherwise expressly set forth in this Agreement, the rights and
obligations of SJW and Parent under any other agreement between the parties
shall not be affected by any provision of this Agreement.

                           [Intentionally Left Blank]

                                      A-33
<PAGE>   94

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Parent, SJW and Merger Sub have caused this Agreement
to be signed by their respective officers thereunto duly authorized, all as of
the day and year first above written.

                                          AMERICAN WATER WORKS COMPANY, INC.

                                          By: /s/ W. TIMOTHY POHL
                                            ------------------------------------
                                            Name: W. Timothy Pohl
                                            Title: Secretary and General Counsel

                                          SJW ACQUISITION CORP.

                                          By: /s/ W. TIMOTHY POHL
                                            ------------------------------------
                                            Name: W. Timothy Pohl
                                            Title: Vice President

                                          SJW CORP.

                                          By: /s/ RICHARD ROTH
                                            ------------------------------------
                                            Name: W. Richard Roth
                                            Title: President

                                      A-34
<PAGE>   95

                                                                         ANNEX B

Board of Directors
SJW Corp.
374 West Santa. Clara Street
San Jose, CA 95196

Members of the Board:

     We understand that SJW Corp. (the "Company"), American Water Works Company,
Inc. (the "Buyer") and American Acquisition Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of
Buyer ("Acquisition Sub") propose to enter into an Agreement and Plan of Merger
substantially in the form of the draft dated October 27, 1999 (the "Merger
Agreement") which provides, among other things, for the merger (the "Merger") of
Acquisition Sub with and into the Company. Pursuant to the Merger, the Company
will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Buyer and each outstanding share of the
common stock, $3.125 par value per share (the "Common Stock") of the Company,
other than shares held in treasury or held by Buyer or any affiliate of Buyer or
as to which dissenters' rights have been perfected, will be converted into the
right to receive $128.00 per share in cash (the "Consideration"). The terms and
conditions of the Merger are more fully set forth in the Merger Agreement.

     You have asked for our opinion as to whether the Consideration to be
received by the holders of shares of Common Stock pursuant to the Merger
Agreement is fair from a financial point of view to such holders.

     For purposes of the opinion set forth herein, we have:

          (i) reviewed certain publicly available financial statements and other
     information of the Company;

          (ii) reviewed certain internal financial statements and other
     financial and operating data concerning the Company prepared by the
     management of the Company;

          (iii) analyzed certain financial projections prepared by the
     management of the Company.

          (iv) discussed the past and current operations and financial condition
     and the prospects of the Company, including the strategic rationale for the
     Merger, with senior executives of the Company;

          (v) reviewed the reported prices and trading activity for the Common
     Stock;

          (vi) compared the financial performance of the Company and the prices
     and trading activity of the Common Stock with that of certain other
     comparable publicly-traded companies and their securities;

          (vii) reviewed the financial terms, to the extent publicly available,
     of certain comparable acquisition transactions;

          (viii) participated in discussions and negotiations among
     representatives of the Company and the Buyer and their financial and legal
     advisors;

          (ix) reviewed the draft Merger Agreement and certain related
     documents; and

          (x) performed such other analyses and considered such factors as we
     have deemed appropriate.

     We have assumed and relied upon without independent verification the
accuracy and completeness of the information reviewed by us for the purposes of
this opinion. With respect to the financial projections, we have assumed that
they have been reasonably prepared on bases reflecting the best currently
available estimates and judgments of the future financial performance of the
Company. In addition, we have assumed that the Merger will be consummated in
accordance with the terms set forth in the Merger Agreement. We have not made
any independent valuation or appraisal of the assets or liabilities office
Company, nor have we been furnished with any such appraisals. Our opinion is
necessarily based on financial, economic, market and other conditions as in
effect on, and the information made available to us as of, the date hereof.

     We have 'acted' as financial advisor to the Board of Directors of the
Company in connection with this transaction and will receive a fee for our
services.

                                       B-1
<PAGE>   96
Board of Directors
October 28, 1999
Page  2

     It is understood that this letter is for the information of the Board of
Directors of the Company, except that this opinion may be included in its
entirety in any filing made by the Company with the Securities and Exchange
Commission in respect of the transaction. In addition, Morgan Stanley expresses
no opinion or recommendation as to how the shareholders of the Company should
vote at the shareholders meeting held in connection with the Merger.

     Based upon and subject to the foregoing, we are of the opinion on the date
hereof that the Consideration to lie received by the holders of shares of Common
Stock pursuant to the Merger Agreement is fair from a financial point of view to
such holders.

                                          Very truly yours,

                                          MORGAN STANLEY & CO.
                                          INCORPORATED

                                          By: /s/ LYLE D. MILLER
                                            ------------------------------------
                                            Lyle D. Miller
                                            Principal

                                       B-2
<PAGE>   97

                                                                         ANNEX C

                  CHAPTER 13 OF THE GENERAL CORPORATION LAW OF
                            THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA
                               DISSENTERS' RIGHTS

                         LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE COMMENT
                               (1975) -- ASSEMBLY
                                  [CORRECTED]

     Dissenters' rights are generally eliminated for shares having a highly
liquid public market (i.e., listed on the New York or American stock exchange or
included on the OTC margin stock list published by the Federal Reserve Board).
However, dissenters' rights will exist with respect to such shares if they are
subject to certain restrictions upon transfer or a substantial proportion (5%)
of the holders of a particular class of shares demand appraisal rights.

     If dissenters' rights exist due to these exceptions, the holder is
generally required to vote against the reorganization and demand payment in cash
for the fair market value of his shares not later than the shareholder meeting
at which the reorganization is approved. The new law also requires the
corporation to include in the notice of such meeting a statement of the possible
existence of a procedure for perfecting dissenters' rights.

     The fair market value of the shares is determined as of the day before the
first announcement of the terms of the proposed merger. If an appraisal action
is initiated in court by a dissenter and the appraised price exceeds 125% of the
fair market value of the shares as determined by the corporation, the
corporation may be required to pay all of the costs of the action, including
attorney's and other fees.

     The provisions regulating corporate repurchases of its own shares apply to
the purchase of dissenting shares is prevented thereunder, the holder of such
shares becomes a creditor of the corporation but subordinated to all other
creditors of the corporation,

SEC. 1300. REORGANIZATION OR SHORT-FORM MERGER; DISSENTING SHARES; CORPORATE
           PURCHASE AT FAIR MARKET VALUE; DEFINITIONS

     (a) If the approval of the outstanding shares (Section 152) of a
corporation is required for a reorganization under subdivisions (a) and (b) or
subdivision (e) or (f) of Section 1201, each shareholder of the corporation
entitled to vote on the transaction and each shareholder of a subsidiary
corporation in a short-form merger may, by complying with this chapter, require
the corporation in which the shareholder holds shares to purchase for cash at
their fair market value the shares owned by the shareholder which are dissenting
shares as defined in subdivision (b). The fair market value shall be determined
as of the day before the first announcement of the terms of the proposed
reorganization or short-form merger, excluding any appreciation or depreciation
in consequence of the proposed action, but adjusted for any stock split, reverse
stock split, or share dividend which becomes effective thereafter.

     (b) As used in this chapter, "dissenting shares" means shares which come
within all of the following descriptions:

          (1) Which were not immediately prior to the reorganization or
     short-form merger either (A) listed on any national securities exchange
     certified by the Commissioner of Corporations under subdivision (o) of
     Section 215100 or (B) listed on the list of OTC margin stocks issued by the
     Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, and the notice of meeting
     of shareholders to act upon the reorganization summarizes this section and
     Sections 1301, 1302, 1303 and 1304; provided, however, that this provision
     does not apply to any shares with respect to which there exists any
     restriction on transfer imposed by the corporation or by any law or
     regulation; and provided, further, that this provision does not apply to
     any class of shares described in * * * subparagraph (A) or (B) if demands
     for payment are filed with respect to 5 percent or more of the outstanding
     shares of that class.

                                       C-1
<PAGE>   98

          (2) Which were outstanding on the date for the determination of
     shareholders entitled to vote on the reorganization and (A) were not voted
     in favor of the reorganization or, (B) if described in * * * subparagraph
     (A) or (B) of paragraph (1) (without regard to the provisos in that
     paragraph), were voted against the reorganization, or which were held of
     record on the effective date of a short-form merger; provided, however,
     that * * * subparagraph (A) rather than * * * subparagraph (B) of this
     paragraph applies in any case where the approval required by Section 1201
     is sought by written consent rather than at a meeting.

          (3) Which the dissenting shareholder has demanded that the corporation
     purchase at their fair market value, in accordance with Section 1301.

          (4) Which the dissenting shareholder has submitted for endorsement, in
     accordance with Section 1302.

     (c) As used in this chapter, "dissenting shareholder" means the
recordholder of dissenting shares and includes a transferee of record. (Added by
Stats. 1975, c. 682, sec. 7, eff. Jan. 1, 1977 Amended by Stats. 1976, c. 641,
sec. 21.3, eff. Jan. 1, 1977; Stats. 1982 c. 36, p. 69, sec. 3, eff. Feb. 17,
1982; Stats. 1990, c. 1018 (A.B. 2259), sec. 2; Stats. 1993, c. 543 (A.B. 2063),
sec. 13.)

                         LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE COMMENT
                               (1975) -- ASSEMBLY
                                  [CORRECTED]

     Source: New; Cal. sec. 4303. This section provides that each holder of
"dissenting shares" whose approval is required under subdivisions (a) and (b) or
(e) of sec. 1201 may require the issuing corporation to purchase such shares for
cash at their fair-market value in accordance with the provisions of this
chapter. This right to compel purchase also extends to the shares of each
shareholder of a disappearing corporation in a short-form merger.

     Under prior law market value is determined as of the day before the vote of
shareholders in a merger. On the theory that such a date for determination
obviously permits a market response in consequence of the proposed action, this
section provides that fair-market value shall be determined as of the day before
the first announcement of the terms of the proposed reorganization or short-form
merger. Obviously, any appreciation or depreciation resulting from the proposed
transaction should be excluded in the determination. Since a considerable time
differential may exist between the first announcement of the proposed
reorganization's terms and approval of the transaction, the fair-market value is
adjusted for any stock split, reverse stock split or share dividend which
becomes effective within that period of time.

     Dissenters' rights permit a shareholder to be "cashed out" in the event of
a reorganization which changes the nature of the business beyond that
contemplated by the shareholder. On the theory that a shareholder may cash out
by selling his shares in the market if a liquid market for his shares exists,
this section generally eliminates dissenters' rights in any case where the
shares are listed on certain national securities exchanges or the OTC margin
stock list issued by the Federal Reserve Board. This exclusion is not
appropriate and, accordingly, does not apply if the shares are subject to
restrictions upon transfer imposed by the corporation or by any law or
regulation or if 5% or more proportion of the shares of a class dissent.

     To perfect dissenters' rights, a holder of shares listed on certain
national securities exchanges or the OTC margin stocks list must vote against
the reorganization, make a demand upon the corporation for purchase pursuant to
sec. 1301 and submit his shares for endorsement pursuant to sec. 1302. Voting
against the reorganization is required in the public situation to inform the
corporation of the extent of objections to the reorganization and, consequently,
exposure to potential demand for cash. Since shareholders must vote against the
reorganization in this case or lose their right to dissent, the corporation is
required to inform the shareholders of these tights in the notice of the meeting
to act upon the reorganization. However, if a reorganization is approved by
written consent the holders of such listed shares need only not vote in favor of
the reorganization in order to preserve dissenters' rights. This provision is
intended to protect any shareholder whose consent has not been solicited.
                                       C-2
<PAGE>   99

     In all other cases, a shareholder to perfect dissenters' rights must not
vote in favor of the reorganization, must make a demand upon the corporation
pursuant to sec. 1301 and submit his shares for endorsement pursuant to sec.
1302.

SEC. 1301. NOTICE TO HOLDERS OF DISSENTING SHARES IN REORGANIZATIONS; DEMAND FOR
PURCHASE; TIME; CONTENTS

     (a) If, in the case of a reorganization, any shareholders of a corporation
have a right under Section 1300, subject to compliance with paragraphs (3) and
(4) of subdivision (b) thereof, to require the corporation to purchase their
shares for cash, such corporation shall mail to each such shareholder a notice
of the approval of the reorganization by its outstanding shares (Section 152)
within 10 days after the date of such approval, accompanied by a copy of
Sections 1300, 1302, 1303, 1304 and this section, a statement of the price
determined by the corporation to represent the fair market value of the
dissenting shares, and a brief description of the procedure to be followed if
the shareholder desires to exercise the shareholder's right under such sections.
The statement of price constitutes an offer by the corporation to purchase at
the price stated any dissenting, shares as defined in subdivision (b) of Section
1300, unless they lose their status as dissenting shares under Section 1309.

     (b) Any shareholder who has a right to require the corporation to purchase
the shareholder's shares for cash under Section 1300, subject to compliance with
paragraphs (3) and (4) of subdivision (b) thereof, and who desires the
corporation to purchase such shares shall make written demand upon the
corporation for the purchase of such shares and payment to the shareholder in
cash of their fair market value. The demand is not effective for any purpose
unless it is received by the corporation or any transfer agent thereof (1) in
the case of shares described in clause (i) or (ii) of paragraph (1) of
subdivision (b) of Section 1300 (without regard to the provisos in that
paragraph), not later than the date of the shareholders' meeting to vote upon
the reorganization, or (2) in any other case within 30 days after the date on
which the notice of the approval by the outstanding shares pursuant to
subdivision (a) or the notice pursuant to subdivision (i) of Section 1110 was
mailed to the shareholder.

     (c) The demand shall state the number and class of the shares held of
record by the shareholder which the shareholder demands that the corporation
Purchase and shall contain a statement of what such shareholder claims, to be
the fair market value of those shares as of the day before the announcement of
the proposed reorganization or short-form merger. The statement of fair market
value constitutes an offer by the shareholder to sell the shares at such price.
(Added by Stats. 1975, c, 682, sec. 7, eff. Jan. 1, 1977. Amended by Stats.
1976, c. 641, sec. 21.6, eff. Jan. 1, 1977; Stats. 1980, c. 501, p. 1052, sec.
5; Stats. 1980, c. 1155, p. 3831, sec. 1.)

                         LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE COMMENT
                               (1975) -- ASSEMBLY

     This section specifies the initial procedures relating to the exercise of
dissenters' rights. The corporation is required to notify the holders of
dissenting shares of the approval of a reorganization, provide such holders with
certain information relating to dissenters' rights and a statement of the price
determined by the corporation to represent the fair-market value of the
dissenting shares.

     A holder of dissenting shares who desires the corporation to purchase such
shares must make a written demand on the corporation for purchase in cash of the
shares at their fair-market value. If the shares are listed on certain national
securities exchanges, or the OTC margin stock list, the demand must be received
by the corporation (or its transfer agent) not later than the date of the
shareholders' meeting to vote upon the reorganization. In any other case the
demand must be received within 30 days after the date on which the corporation's
notice to dissenting shareholders was mailed.

SEC. 1302. SUBMISSION OF SHARE CERTIFICATES FOR ENDORSEMENT; UNCERTIFICATED
SECURITIES

     Within 30 days after the date on which notice of the approval by the
outstanding shares or the notice pursuant to subdivision (i) of Section 1110 was
mailed to the shareholder, the shareholder shall submit to the corporation at
its principal office or at the office of any transfer agent thereof, (a) if the
shares are certificated

                                       C-3
<PAGE>   100

securities, the shareholder's certificates representing any shares which the
shareholder demands that the corporation purchase, to be stamped or endorsed
with a statement that the shares are dissenting shares or to be exchanged for
certificates of appropriate denomination so stamped or endorsed or (b) if the
shares are uncertificated securities, written notice of the number of shares
which the shareholder demands that the corporation purchase. Upon subsequent
transfers of the dissenting shares on the books of the corporation, the new
certificates, initial transaction statement, and other written statements issued
therefor shall bear a like statement, together with the name of the original
dissenting holder of the shares. (Added by Stats. 1975, c. 682, sec. 7, eff.
Jan. 1, 1977 Amended by Stats. 1986, c. 766, sec. 23.)

SEC. 1303. PAYMENT OF AGREED PRICE WITH INTEREST; AGREEMENT FIXING FAIR MARKET
VALUE; FILING; TIME OF PAYMENT

     (a) If the corporation and the shareholder agree that the shares are
dissenting shares and agree upon the price of the shares, the dissenting
shareholder is entitled to the agreed price with interest thereon at the legal
rate on judgments from the date of the agreement. Any agreements fixing the fair
market value of any dissenting shares as between the corporation and the holders
thereof shall be filed with the secretary of the corporation.

     (b) Subject to the provisions of Section 1306, payment of the fair market
value of dissenting shares shall be made within 30 days after the amount thereof
has been agreed or within 30 days after any statutory or contractual conditions
to the reorganization are satisfied, whichever is later, and in the case of
certificated securities, subject to surrender of the certificates therefor,
unless provided otherwise by agreement. (Added by Stats. 1975, c. 682, sec. 7,
eff. Jan. 1, 1977 Amended by Stats. 1980, c. 501, p. 1053, sec. 6; Stats. 1986,
c. 766, sec. 24.)

SEC. 1304. ACTION TO DETERMINE WHETHER SHARES ARE DISSENTING SHARES OR FAIR
           MARKET VALUE; LIMITATION; JOINDER; CONSOLIDATION; DETERMINATION OF
           ISSUES; APPOINTMENT OF APPRAISERS

     (a) If the corporation denies that the shares are dissenting shares, or the
corporation and the shareholder fail to agree upon the fair market value of the
shares, then the shareholder demanding purchase of such shares as dissenting
shares or any interested corporation, within six months after the date on which
notice of the approval by the outstanding shares (Section 152) or notice
pursuant to subdivision (i) of Section 1110 was mailed to the shareholder, but
not thereafter, may file a complaint in the superior court of the proper county
praying the court to determine whether the shares are dissenting shares or the
fair market value of the dissenting shares or both or may intervene in any
action pending on such a complaint.

     (b) Two or more dissenting shareholders may join as plaintiffs or be joined
as defendants in any such action and two or more such actions may be
consolidated.

     (c) On the trial of the action, the court shall determine the issues. If
the status of the shares as dissenting shares is in issue, the court shall first
determine that issue. If the fair market value of the dissenting shares is in
issue, the court shall determine, or shall appoint one or more impartial
appraisers to determine, the fair market value of the shares. (Added by Stats.
1975, c. 682, sec. 7, eff. Jan. 7, 1977)

SEC. 1305. REPORT OF APPRAISERS; CONFIRMATION; DETERMINATION BY COURT; JUDGMENT;
PAYMENT; APPEAL; COSTS

     (a) If the court appoints an appraiser or appraisers, they shall proceed
forthwith to determine the fair market value per share. Within the time fixed by
the court, the appraisers, or a majority of them, shall make and file a report
in the office of the clerk of the court. Thereupon, on the motion of any party,
the report shall be submitted to the court and considered on such evidence as
the court considers relevant. If the court finds the report reasonable, the
court may confirm it.

     (b) If a majority of the appraisers appointed fail to make and file a
report within 10 days from the date of their appointment or within such further
time as may be allowed by the court or the report is not confirmed by the court,
the court shall determine the fair market value of the dissenting shares.

     (c) Subject to the provisions of Section 1306, judgment shall be rendered
against the corporation for payment of an amount equal to the fair market value
of each dissenting share multiplied by the number of
                                       C-4
<PAGE>   101

dissenting shares which any dissenting shareholder who is a party, or who has
intervened, is entitled to require the corporation to purchase, with interest
thereon at the legal rate from the date on which judgment was entered.

     (d) Any such judgment shall be payable forthwith with respect to
uncertificated securities and, with respect to certificated securities, only
upon the endorsement and delivery to the corporation of the certificates for the
shares described in the judgment. Any party may appeal from the judgment.

     (e) The costs of the action, including reasonable compensation to the
appraisers to be fixed by the court, shall be assessed or apportioned as the
court considers, equitable, but, if the appraisal exceeds the price offered by
the corporation, the corporation shall pay the costs (including in the
discretion of the court attorneys' fees, fees of expert witnesses and interest
at the legal rate on judgments from the date of compliance with Sections 1300,
1301 and 1302 if the value awarded by the court for the shares is more than 125
percent of the price offered by the corporation under subdivision (a) of Section
1301). (Added by Stats. 1975, c. 682, sec. 7, eff. Jan. 1, 1977. Amended by
Stats. 1976, c. 641, sec. 22, eff. Jan. 1, 1977, Stats. 1977, c. 235, p. 1068,
sec. 16; Stats. 1986, c. 766, sec. 25.)

                         LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE COMMENT
                               (1975) -- ASSEMBLY
                                  [CORRECTED]

     Source: Cal. sec. 4313 To encourage fair treatment of dissenters, prior law
requires the corporation to pay the costs of an appraisal action if the
appraisal amount exceeds the price offered by the corporation. This subdivision
[subd. (e)] expands that policy to provide that in the event the appraisal is
more than 125% of the price offered by the corporation the corporation may be
required in the discretion of the court to pay, in addition to the costs,
attorneys' and other fees, as well as interest thereon.

SEC. 1306. PREVENTION OF IMMEDIATE PAYMENT; STATUS AS CREDITORS; INTEREST

     To the extent that the provisions of Chapter 5 prevent the payment to any
holders of dissenting shares of their fair market value, they shall become
creditors of the corporation for the amount thereof together with interest at
the legal rate on judgments until the date of payment, but subordinate to all
other creditors in any liquidation proceeding, such debt to be payable when
permissible under the provisions of Chapter 5. (Added by Stats. 1975, c. 682,
sec. 7, eff. Jan. 1, 1977)

                         LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE COMMENT
                               (1975) -- ASSEMBLY

     Chapter 5 protects creditors of the corporation and certain classes of
shareholders from distributions detrimental to their interests. This section
extends the prohibitions of Chapter 5 to distributions resulting from corporate
purchases of dissenting shares.

     If the purchase of dissenting shares is prohibited by Chapter 5, holders of
dissenting shares so affected become creditors of the corporation until payment
is permissible under those provisions. Given the nature of their creditor
status, the holders of dissenting shares who are creditors of the corporation
pursuant to this section are subordinate to all other creditors in the event of
any liquidation proceedings.

SEC. 1307. DIVIDENDS ON DISSENTING SHARES

     Cash dividends declared and paid by the corporation upon the dissenting
shares after the date of approval of the reorganization by the outstanding
shares (Section 152) and prior to payment for the shares by the corporation
shall be credited against the total amount to be paid by the corporation
therefor. (Added by Stats. 1975, c. 682, sec. 7, eff. Jan. 1, 1977.)

                                       C-5
<PAGE>   102

SEC. 1308. RIGHTS OF DISSENTING SHAREHOLDERS PENDING VALUATION; WITHDRAWAL OF
DEMAND FOR PAYMENT

     Except as expressly limited in this chapter, holders of dissenting shares
continue to have all the rights and privileges incident to their shares, until
the fair market value of their shares is agreed upon or determined. A dissenting
shareholder may not withdraw a demand for payment unless the corporation
consents thereto. (Added by Stats. 1975, c. 682, sec. 7, eff. Jan. 1, 1977.)

SEC. 1309. TERMINATION OF DISSENTING SHARE AND SHAREHOLDER STATUS

     Dissenting shares lose their status as dissenting shares and the holders
thereof cease to be dissenting shareholders and cease to be entitled to require
the corporation to purchase their shares upon the happening of any of the
following:

     (a) The corporation abandons the reorganization. Upon abandonment of the
reorganization, the corporation shall pay on demand to any dissenting
shareholder who has initiated proceedings in good faith under this chapter all
necessary expenses incurred in such proceedings and reasonable attorneys' fees.

     (b) The shares are transferred prior to their submission for endorsement in
accordance with Section 1302 or are surrendered for conversion into shares of
another class in accordance with the articles.

     (c) The dissenting shareholder and the corporation do not agree upon the
status of the shares as dissenting shares or upon the purchase price of the
shares, and neither files a complaint or intervenes in a pending action as
provided in Section 1304, within six months after the date on which notice of
the approval by the outstanding shares or notice pursuant to subdivision (i) of
Section 1110 was mailed to the shareholder.

     (d) The dissenting shareholder, with the consent of the corporation,
withdraws the shareholder's demand for purchase of the dissenting shares. (Added
by Stats. 1975, c. 682, sec. 7, eff. Jan. 1, 1977.)

SEC. 1310. SUSPENSION OF RIGHT TO COMPENSATION OR VALUATION PROCEEDINGS;
LITIGATION OF SHAREHOLDERS' APPROVAL

     If litigation is instituted to test the sufficiency or regularity of the
votes of the shareholders in authorizing a reorganization, any proceedings under
Sections 1304 and 1305 shall be suspended until final determination of such
litigation. (Added by Stars. 1975, c. 682, sec. 7, eff. Jan. 1, 1977.)

SEC. 1311. EXEMPT SHARES

     This chapter, except Section 1312, does not apply to classes of shares
whose terms and provisions specifically set forth the amount to be paid in
respect to such shares in the event of a. reorganization or merger. (Added by
Stats. 1975, c. 682, sec. 7, eff. Jan. 1, 1977. Amended by Stats. 1988, c. 979,
sec. 8.)

SEC. 1312. RIGHT OF DISSENTING SHAREHOLDER TO ATTACK, SET ASIDE OR RESCIND
           MERGER OR REORGANIZATION; RESTRAINING ORDER OR INJUNCTION; CONDITIONS

     (a) No shareholder of a corporation who has a right under this chapter to
demand payment of cash for the shares held by the shareholder shall have any
right at law or in equity to attack the validity of the reorganization or
short-form merger, or to have the reorganization or short-form merger set aside
or rescinded, except in an action to test whether the number of shares required
to authorize or approve the reorganization have been legally voted in favor
thereof; but any holder of shares of a class whose terms and provisions
specifically set forth the amount to be paid in respect to them in the event of
a reorganization or short-form merger is entitled to payment in accordance with
those terms and provisions or, if the principal terms of the reorganization are
approved pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 1202, is entitled to payment in
accordance with the terms and provisions of the approved reorganization.

     (b) If one of the parties to a reorganization or short-form merger is
directly or indirectly controlled by, or under common control with, another
party to the reorganization or short-form merger, subdivision (a) shall not
apply to any shareholder of such party who has not demanded payment of cash for
such shareholder's shares pursuant to this chapter; but if the shareholder
institutes any action to attack the validity of the reorganization or short-form
merger or to have the reorganization or short-form merger set aside or
rescinded,
                                       C-6
<PAGE>   103

the shareholder shall not thereafter have any right to demand payment of cash
for the shareholder's shares pursuant to this chapter. The court in any action
attacking the validity of the reorganization or short-form merger or to have the
reorganization or short-form merger set aside or rescinded shall not restrain or
enjoin the consummation of the transaction except upon 10 days' prior notice to
the corporation and upon a determination by the court that clearly no other
remedy will adequately protect the complaining shareholder or the class of
shareholders of which such shareholder is a member.

     (c) If one of the parties to a reorganization or short-form merger is
directly or indirectly controlled by, or under common control with, another
party to the reorganization or short-form merger, in any action to attack the
validity of the reorganization or short-form merger or to have the
reorganization or short-form merger set aside or rescinded, (1) a party to a
reorganization or short-form merger which controls another party to the
reorganization or short-form merger shall have the burden of proving that the
transaction is just and reasonable as to the shareholders of the controlled
party, and (2) a person who controls two or more parties to a reorganization
shall have the burden of proving that the transaction is just and reasonable as
to the shareholders of any party so controlled. (Added by Stats. 1975, c. 682,
sec. 7, eff. Jan. 1, 1977. Amended by Stats. 1976, c. 641, sec. 22.5, eff. Jan.
1, 1977; Stats. 1988, c. 919, sec. 9.)

                                       C-7
<PAGE>   104

1790-PS-00
<PAGE>   105
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                                   SJW CORP.


SJW CORP.                                                     COMMON STOCK PROXY

                Annual Meeting of Shareholders - April 20, 2000

THIS PROXY IS SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

      J.W. Weinhardt and Robert A. Loehr, or either of them, with power of
substitution, are hereby appointed proxies of the undersigned to vote all shares
of common stock of SJW Corp. ("SJW") owned by the undersigned at the Annual
Meeting of Shareholders to be held at the offices of SJW, 374 West Santa Clara
Street, San Jose, California 95113 on April 20, 2000, or any adjournments or
postponements thereof, upon the matter listed on the reverse side, as more fully
set forth in the enclosed Notice of Annual Meeting of Shareholders and Proxy
Statement, and any other matters that may properly come before the meeting, or
any adjournments or postponements thereof, or are incident to the conduct
thereof.

      The shares represented hereby will be voted in accordance with the
directions given by the shareholder. If not otherwise directed, the shares

represented by this proxy will be voted "FOR" approval and adoption of the
Merger Agreement, "FOR" the election of each of management's nominees for
directors, "FOR" ratification of the selection of KPMG LLP as independent
auditors, "AGAINST" the shareholder proposal set forth on the reverse side, and
at the discretion of the proxy holders upon such other business as may properly
come before the meeting and any postponements or adjournments thereof. If any
of the nominees for director are unable to serve or for good cause will not
serve, the proxy holder will vote for such other person or persons as the Board
of Directors may recommend. The Board of Directors recommends voting as set
forth above in these matters

            (Continued and to be dated and signed, on reverse side)

                              FOLD AND DETACH HERE

            Please mark your choice as indicated in this sample:  X


THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS A VOTE FOR THE APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE
MERGER AGREEMENT WITH AMERICAN WATER WORKS COMPANY, INC., FOR THE ELECTION OF
THE NOMINEES LISTED BELOW AS DIRECTORS, FOR THE RATIFICATION OF THE SELECTION OF
KPMG LLP AS INDEPENDENT AUDITORS AND AGAINST THE SHAREHOLDER PROPOSAL SET FORTH
ON THE REVERSE SIDE.

<PAGE>   106
1.   Approval and adoption of the Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of
October 28, 1999 among American Water Works Company, Inc. ("American Water
Works"), SJW Acquisition Corp. ("Merger Sub") and SJW, pursuant to which Merger
Sub will be merged with and into SJW and SJW will become a wholly-owned
subsidiary of American Water Works.

             FOR _______      AGAINST _______      ABSTAIN _______

2.   Election of Directors: Nominees: M.L. Cali, J.P. DiNapoli, D. Gibson, R.R.
James, G. Moss, R. Moss Jr., W.R. Roth, C.J. Toeniskoetter and J.W. Weinhardt.


          FOR                      WITHHELD            FOR ALL NOMINEES
          ALL                      FROM ALL            EXCEPT AS NOTED
   ______ NOMINEES           _____ NOMINEES            HERE ___________


3.   Ratification of the selection of KPMG LLP as independent auditors of SJW.

             FOR _______      AGAINST _______      ABSTAIN _______

4.   Shareholder proposal that the directors of SJW Corp. will join with
James J. Palma solely for the purposes to FIRE Board of Directors and the CEO
and President (Foy and Nelson) of "CWT."

            FOR _______      AGAINST _______      ABSTAIN _______

The proxies are authorized to vote in accordance with their discretion on any
other matters that may properly come before the Annual Meeting of Shareholders,
or any adjournments or postponements thereof, or are incident to the conduct
thereof.

                   Dated: __________________________, 2000

                        _______________________________
                            Signature of shareholder

                        _______________________________
                          Signature (if jointly held)


Please mark, date, sign and return this proxy card promptly in the enclosed
envelope, which requires no postage if mailed in the U.S.A. When signing as
attorney, executor, trustee or guardian or in other representative capacities,
please give full title as such. By signing this proxy


                                       2

<PAGE>   107
card you also acknowledge receipt of the enclosed Notice of Annual Meeting of
Shareholders and Proxy Statement.

                              FOLD AND DETACH HERE

                                   SJW CORP.

                         Annual Meeting of Shareholders
                                 April 20, 2000
                                   10:00 a.m.

                                   SJW Corp.
                          374 West Santa Clara Street
                           San Jose, California 95113

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