It is hereby declared that it is in the best interest and general welfare of the City that the water resources available to the City are utilized to the maximum extent possible and that the waste, unnecessary or unreasonable use, or unreasonable methods of use of water be prevented. Conservation of such water resources is to be extended with a view to the reasonable and beneficial use thereof in the interests of the people of the City and for the public welfare. (Code 1981 § 44-159. Code 1995 § 146-163.)