City Council closes public hearing on fluoride safety amid community concerns

The Aberdeen City Council meeting held on December 14, 2024, included a significant public hearing regarding the use of fluoride in the city’s water supply. The session began with an invitation for community members to share their thoughts on the topic, leading to a detailed commentary from Les Bolton, a representative from Ward 4.

Bolton expressed his appreciation for the scientific presentations shared earlier in the meeting, although he admitted that the complexity of the information was challenging for him to fully grasp. He recounted historical findings related to fluoride, referencing the early 1900s when residents of Colorado Springs experienced dental issues linked to high fluoride levels, known as Colorado Brown Stain. He noted that subsequent studies identified dental fluorosis as the cause and highlighted that research into fluoride has been ongoing since then.

Bolton emphasized the extensive studies conducted over the years, arguing that if fluoride posed significant health risks, major organizations such as the American Medical Association and the American Dental Association would not endorse its use in dental products. He pointed out that these organizations recommend fluoride levels of 0.7 parts per million, which is the standard maintained in Aberdeen's water supply.

Following Bolton's remarks, the council moved to close the public hearing. A motion was made and seconded, and the council members unanimously agreed to conclude the discussion on fluoride.

The meeting underscored the ongoing dialogue within the community regarding public health measures and the importance of scientific research in informing policy decisions. Further discussions on this topic may arise as the council continues to engage with public health issues in the future.