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Thorsby’s Town Council on Monday increased the fee associated with establishing water service in the town.

Most residents will pay a $1,700 ($1,850 for those outside town limits) “tapping fee,” while a commercial meter will cost $3,650 for new customers.

Depending on the diameter meter needed, the residential rate could be higher.

The rates are increased from a flat $750 fee for those inside town limits and $1,250 for out-of-towners.

Public Works Director Terry Jackson proposed the changes based on increased costs associated with providing the service.

“We can’t go in the hole,” council member Nicole Hilyer said.

In other business, the council:

•Adopted a policy that those purchasing plots in the town’s cemetery would be responsible for buying and installing corner markers to outline the plots. The markers cost about $25 each, Mayor Jean Nelson said.

•Gave Nelson permission to create a bank account for money donated to the town’s project to install a storm shelter. The donation of more than $2,400 from the United Way Governor’s Emergency Relief Fund will cover in-kind work the town was responsible for to obtain a grant for the shelter.

•Voted to donate $100 per player toward a North Chilton youth baseball team’s expenses associated with traveling to Southaven, Miss. for a World Series competition. Chris Jones with Thorsby Parks and Recreation said the trip will cost about $1,275 per child. The donation was pending legal clearance.

•Voted to purchase five hole sponsorships at $200 each for a golf tournament benefitting the Thorsby School athletic booster club. The tournament on Aug. 3 at Clanton Country Club is being held to help pay off a loan for construction of a new weight room and indoor practice facility.