Local residents warn Harnett County officials against fluoride removal's economic impact

Concerns over the potential economic impact of removing fluoride from Harnett County's water supply dominated discussions at the Board of Commissioners meeting on April 21, 2025. Local residents and health professionals voiced strong opposition to the proposal, citing significant risks to public health and local businesses.

One speaker highlighted alarming statistics from the CDC, noting that the U.S. loses approximately $4.2 billion annually due to dental caries. In Harnett County, this translates to an estimated $250 loss in productivity per worker, which could escalate if fluoride is removed. The speaker warned that a lack of fluoride could lead to a 20% increase in dental decay, exacerbating the already critical shortage of dentists in the area, where there are currently about 40 fewer than needed.

Lynn Marshbanks, daughter of a long-time local dentist, echoed these concerns, sharing personal anecdotes about the positive effects of fluoride on dental health. She warned that removing fluoride could disproportionately affect low-income families who struggle to access dental care, potentially leading to a rise in cavities and related health issues.

Marshbanks urged the commissioners to consider funding free dental clinics and providing fluoridated toothpaste to mitigate the negative consequences of fluoride removal. She emphasized that the costs of untreated dental issues would ultimately burden the community through increased insurance rates.

The meeting underscored a growing divide over public health policy in Harnett County, with residents calling for careful consideration of the long-term implications of fluoride removal on both health and economic productivity. As the debate continues, the commissioners face pressure to weigh the scientific evidence against community health needs and economic realities.