State Auditor Opens Investigation Into Knox County Public Water Supply District No. 1
By Echo Menges
KNOX COUNTY, Mo. — Missouri State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick’s Office has opened an investigation into the Knox County Public Water Supply District No. 1 at the request of State Sen. Cindy O’Laughlin, the senator confirmed Thursday.
“The issues with the governance of the water district appear to be complex enough to warrant the oversight of the Auditor,” O’Laughlin told The Edina Sentinel. “He is best positioned to assess what needs to be fixed, and from there steps can be taken to get back on track. Local citizens deserve accountability.”
O’Laughlin said the Auditor’s Office will examine district records and financial documentation and issue a report identifying any issues discovered during its review.
The announcement follows months of growing public scrutiny surrounding the district’s operations, governance and compliance with Missouri’s Sunshine Law.
Since April, questions raised during public board meetings have included access to district records, financial practices, board procedures and transparency. Public interest intensified after a newly elected board member said he was repeatedly denied access to district records needed to fulfill his duties.
Public meeting videos published by The Edina Sentinel documenting the district’s April, May and June meetings have drawn significant public interest, with viewers raising additional questions about the board’s procedures and handling of public business.
Missouri’s Sunshine Law, Chapter 610 of the Missouri Revised Statutes, protects the public’s right to attend and record open meetings of governmental bodies and to inspect and obtain copies of public records, subject to certain statutory exceptions.
The Edina Sentinel sought comment from the Knox County Public Water Supply District No. 1 prior to publication. Any response received will be added to this story.
The Edina Sentinel will continue following the Auditor’s investigation as additional information becomes available.
Videos of the Knox County Public Water Supply District No. 1 board meetings are available on The Edina Sentinel YouTube channel.
April 20, 2026: https://youtu.be/F97UJSUn2Ak
May 18, 2026: https://youtu.be/gCeMehnYvlY
June 15, 2026: https://youtu.be/lHoc5Wr6l6E
Knox County Public Water Supply District No. 1 Superintendent/Manager Garry Mallett (far right), and other district staff attend the district’s June 15 board meeting in Knox City. Photo by Echo Menges
Knox County Public Water Supply District No. 1 Clerk Anngella Willard reads anonymous letters containing allegations about District 5 board member Mark Hunolt during the district’s June 15 board meeting in Knox City. No evidence supporting the allegations was presented during the meeting. Photo by Echo Menges
