The City of Ishpeming held a Special Council Meeting on July 9, 2025, at 6:00 P.M. to address various community concerns, with a significant focus on the contentious issue of water fluoridation.

The meeting began with public comments, where residents expressed their views on the addition of fluoride to the city’s water supply. One resident, Kelly from County Road, articulated her strong opposition to water fluoridation. She shared personal concerns about the health implications of ingesting fluoride, stating that while she might consider using fluoride toothpaste, she would not choose to consume it through drinking water. Kelly emphasized the challenges she faces as a single mother without a car, making it difficult to access alternative water sources. She highlighted the rising costs of water and expressed her belief that fluoridating a limited resource is not a viable solution for public health.

The discussion around fluoride was met with a call for alternative methods to promote dental health without compromising the quality of drinking water. Residents sought clarity on whether there are other effective strategies to maintain healthy teeth without the use of fluoride in the water supply.

The council acknowledged the concerns raised and indicated that further research and discussions would be necessary to address the community's health and safety needs. No immediate decisions were made regarding the fluoridation policy, but the council committed to exploring the issue further.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the community's apprehensions about water fluoridation and the need for continued dialogue on public health measures. The council plans to gather more information and engage with health professionals to consider alternative approaches to dental health in Ishpeming.