A state-requested approach to encourage water conservation led to the adoption of a resolution Nov. 6 by Palmetto City Council. New rates affect only top end water usage by residential and commercial customers.

The rate structure for residential water customers remained the same at $10.75 for the first 2,000 gallons and $3.35 per 1,000 gallons for usage of 3,000 to 8,000 gallons.

New for Palmetto was the establishment of usage rates that exceeded 8,000 per month. Residential customers using 9,000-20,000 gallons will pay $4 per 1,000 gallons while those using 21,000 gallons or more will pay $4.80 per 1,000 gallons.

The resolution also established a commercial category for water use. As with residential customers, commercial use for the first 2,000 gallons will be $10.75. Commercial customers will pay $3.35 per 1,000 gallons for usage of 3,000-10,000 gallons and $4.20 per 1,000 gallons for usage of 11,000 or more.

The resolution’s effective date was Nov. 6.

The resolution was an cooperation with requests that metro Atlanta water providers to adopt a three-tier water rate plan.