05/12/2026
Last night, after careful consideration and a great deal of discussion, I cast the tie-breaking vote to remove fluoride from our community’s drinking water.
This was not a decision I made lightly. I understand there are strong opinions on both sides, and I respect everyone who took the time to speak, write, and share their perspective throughout this process.
My decision ultimately came down to this: the way families consume beverages today has changed dramatically over the years. Many children are no longer regularly drinking water directly from the spigot as previous generations did. Instead, many primarily consume bottled drinks, soda, sports drinks, juice, and other beverages. Because of that shift, I questioned whether adding fluoride to the public water supply remains the most effective or appropriate method for addressing dental health in today’s environment. Also many expressed personal concerns on why they should be forced to drink a chemical when they don't want to.
I also believe decisions involving fluoride are best made by parents and individuals in consultation with their dentists and healthcare providers. Fluoride products remain widely available through toothpaste, mouth rinses, professional dental treatments, and supplements.
My responsibility as Mayor is to make the decision I believe is best for our community based on the information presented, and tonight I feel I fulfilled that responsibility.
