Longwood City Manager Calls to Pause Fluoridation Amid Safety Concerns

Concerns over water fluoridation took center stage at the North Miami Beach City Commission meeting on February 18, 2025, as a speaker urged immediate action to pause the practice. Citing a current fluoride level of 0.7 milligrams in the city’s water, the speaker emphasized that this level does not comply with Florida's administrative code, raising alarms about potential health risks, particularly for children.

The speaker called for a motion to halt fluoridation until a scheduled workshop, arguing that continuing the practice could expose the city to significant liability. "We are causing a huge amount of liability and danger to the health and safety of our children," they stated, highlighting support from various state health departments that would absolve the city of liability if fluoridation were discontinued.

Commissioner Chernoff echoed these concerns, pressing for a timely workshop to address the fluoride issue and seeking input from neighboring municipalities that receive North Miami Beach's water. "We need to answer what's going on, and it's the right thing to do," he asserted, urging for a swift resolution.

In addition to the fluoride discussion, the meeting included announcements of upcoming community events, such as a heart health 5K run and a free mammogram event, showcasing the city’s commitment to public health initiatives. The commission also highlighted the opening of small business grants, aimed at supporting local entrepreneurs with funding for improvements.

As the city grapples with the fluoride debate, the urgency for a workshop and community engagement remains a priority, with officials recognizing the potential implications for public health and safety.