In the heart of Ishpeming, the City Council convened on July 9, 2025, to address a pressing issue that has sparked passionate debate among residents: the fluoridation of the city’s water supply. As community members gathered in the council chamber, the air was thick with anticipation and concern over the health implications of fluoride, particularly for low-income families.

The meeting featured a series of compelling testimonies from local residents and health professionals, each sharing their perspectives on the importance of fluoride in preventing dental decay. Hillary Brandenburg, a registered nurse with over a decade of experience, highlighted the challenges faced by low-income families in accessing dental care. She pointed out that the only Medicaid-accepting dentist in Marquette County is currently booked for 18 months, underscoring the limited options available for those in need.

Dr. Peter Bell, a retired dentist, passionately defended the benefits of fluoride, sharing his personal experiences growing up in Ishpeming. He argued that fluoride has played a crucial role in reducing cavities and improving dental health in communities that utilize it. “There is a very dramatic, noticeable difference in people who live in fluoridated and non-fluoridated communities,” he stated, drawing on his extensive career in dentistry.

Marissa Meinl, a local nurse, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the interconnectedness of oral health and overall well-being. “The mouth affects the entire body,” she asserted, urging the council to consider the broader health implications of removing fluoride from the water supply.

However, not all voices in the room supported fluoridation. Jane Hendrick shared her personal struggle with her daughter’s sensitivity to fluoride, advocating for the right to choose what goes into their water. Her testimony highlighted the complexity of the issue, as it intertwines public health with individual health concerns.

Dr. Jim Hayward, another seasoned dentist, warned of a looming crisis if fluoride were to be removed. He recounted his experiences treating low-income patients and the alarming rates of dental decay he witnessed. “If we remove fluoride from the water here in Ishpeming and Negaunee, we’re going to see an increase in decay in mostly children, but also adults,” he cautioned, linking the potential decision to broader cuts in Medicaid dental care.

As the meeting progressed, the council members listened intently, weighing the testimonies against the backdrop of community health needs. The discussions illuminated the stark realities faced by many residents, particularly those from low-income backgrounds, who rely on public health measures to maintain their dental health.

The outcome of this meeting remains to be seen, but the voices of Ishpeming’s residents have made it clear: the debate over fluoride is not just about dental health; it is a reflection of the community’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to healthcare for all its members. As the council deliberates, the stakes are high, and the future of Ishpeming’s water supply hangs in the balance.