Denton City Council is facing increasing pressure to reconsider the addition of fluoride to the city's drinking water following recent public health concerns raised by community members. During the December 3, 2024, meeting, speakers highlighted the potential risks associated with fluoride, particularly its impact on children's neurological health.

Dr. Joseph Lapidau, Florida's Surgeon General, was cited by a resident who urged the council to act swiftly, stating that fluoride in water could lead to neuropsychiatric diseases in children and lower IQ levels. The speaker emphasized that discontinuing fluoride use is a straightforward decision that could significantly benefit public health.

Michaela Rogers, a special education teacher in Denton, echoed these concerns, sharing her observations of the growing body of research linking fluoride exposure to neurological risks. She urged the council to prioritize the health of children, particularly those who are pregnant or planning families, arguing that the potential risks of fluoride outweigh its benefits.

The discussions reflect a broader movement advocating for safer drinking water practices in Denton. As the council considers these testimonies, the implications of their decisions could shape the health landscape for future generations in the community. The urgency expressed by residents suggests that immediate action may be necessary to address these public health concerns.