City of Malden asks customers not to make any changes to the county's sewer system

MALDEN, Missouri (KFVS) – The City of Malden released a statement Wednesday urging residents not to make any changes to the county's sewer system.

According to the city, some Dunklin County Sewer District customers are making unauthorized alterations and bypassing the sewer district's system.

Malden Mayor Denton Kooyman is currently leading the sewer district after a state audit found more than $160,000 missing or misappropriated from the district's previous leaders. The audit also found thousands of dollars in damage to the system.

And that has left a huge mess in the city, with many customers struggling with sewage flooding their yards and homes.

“While we understand customers' desire to take matters into their own hands, these changes may cause permanent damage to the user's system,” the city administration said in a statement.

The statement also noted that anyone who intentionally damages sewer district property or makes changes to the system that require the replacement of parts will be charged with tampering with a public utility with law enforcement.

In addition, the perpetrators must also bear the costs for the spare parts.

The city government said it will continue to work with local, state and federal agencies to raise funds for the repairs and will provide an update shortly.

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