In the case of Spring Valley Water-Works v. Schottler and others, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled in favor of the Spring Valley Water-Works Company. The case involved the company's right to set and collect rates for water service in the city of San Francisco. The defendants, Schottler and others, argued that the rates charged by the company were excessive and sought to have them reduced.
The Supreme Court ultimately sided with the Spring Valley Water-Works Company, stating that the rates charged were reasonable and that the company was entitled to a fair return on its investment. This decision had a significant impact on water rights, as it established the principle that water companies have the right to set and collect rates that allow for a reasonable return on their investments. This ruling helped to ensure that companies would continue to invest in the infrastructure necessary to provide essential services such as water delivery. Additionally, it also set a precedent that corporations have the right to organize for the purpose of supplying cities and towns with water and have the right to set rates to cover the cost and make a profit.