Hillsborough County Commissioners vote to halt water fluoridation amid health concerns

Concerns over fluoride in drinking water took center stage at the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners meeting, as officials debated the potential health risks associated with the chemical. Commissioner Wolstol led the charge, citing a recent court ruling that deemed the fluoridation of water at 0.7 milligrams per liter as posing an "unreasonable risk of reduced IQ in children."

Wolstol expressed deep concern over the implications of continuing to add fluoride to the county's water supply, stating, "If there is even 1 iota of a chance that it could hurt children, I believe that’s something I could never have my conscience on supporting." He highlighted that the ruling was based on new scientific findings, which indicated that even lower levels of fluoride could be harmful, particularly to pregnant women and their unborn children.

The discussion was fueled by testimonies from community members who echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the lack of informed consent regarding fluoride consumption. Commissioner Cameron Cepeda supported the motion to terminate fluoride addition, referencing quotes from speakers who raised alarms about the chemical's safety and its potential effects on health.

The motion to cease fluoridation was seconded and is set to be voted on, marking a significant shift in public health policy for Hillsborough County. As the board weighs the decision, the community remains engaged, reflecting a growing concern over the safety of additives in public water supplies.