Items such as wipes, rags and even masks are creating havoc in the City’s sanitary sewer collection system and wastewater treatment plant.

Because these items don’t break down the way toilet paper does, they clog sewer pipes, put stress on the City’s wastewater collection and treatment equipment, and cause the City to spend thousands of dollars on equipment repair and/or replacement. This can also result in the need to increase the City’s wastewater fees on your utility bill.

This picture shows compacted debris, consisting of wipes, rags, masks, and other miscellaneous items, that have made their way out to the City’s wastewater treatment plant. As you can see, the dumpster is full. The debris has been so bad that the pumps which process sewage coming into the treatment plant are failing. Crews once again had to make emergency repairs in order to avoid a serious sewer spill.

Please help us keep our sewer system functioning properly by advising children and everyone in your household to only flush toilet paper.