Port Orange council votes 3‑2 to continue fluoridating water while awaiting state action after lengthy public debate

Port Orange city council voted 3‑2 to continue fluoridating the municipal water supply while awaiting potential action by the Florida legislature or state agencies, following an extended public hearing that drew health professionals, residents and activists.

City staff opened the discussion noting the city currently fluoridates its water and that the Florida surgeon general recently recommended municipalities cease fluoridation. Council members, staff and more than two dozen members of the public offered testimony for and against continuance. After debate, a motion to continue the current practice until the state takes action carried 3‑2.

The public comment period drew opposing testimony. Several dental and public‑health professionals spoke in favor of continuing fluoridation, saying it reduces childhood tooth decay and benefits underserved residents. Endodontist Dr. Bruce Mann said his practice treats children who lack preventive care and that, in his experience, decay rates are higher where fluoridation is absent. Dentist Dr. Jack Goldie, who worked locally for decades, told council fluoridation has “worked” historically and prevents painful care and more invasive treatments.

Residents and activists opposed to fluoridation argued for individual informed‑consent rights and cited recent studies and a federal court ruling that directed the EPA to reevaluate fluoride risks. Tara Hill, identified with a statewide effort to end public water fluoridation, framed the issue as “a freedom issue” and urged council to honor informed‑consent principles. Other opponents pointed to recent research linking higher fluoride exposure with neurodevelopmental differences in children and urged removal of the additive.

Several residents raised equity and practical concerns. Jennifer (last name not provided), who said she is a single parent and works multiple jobs, said she would be forced to buy filtration or bottled water if fluoridation remains and that advanced filtration is unaffordable for some households. Other speakers urged the council to wait for the state legislature to act; Utah and several other jurisdictions were cited in public remarks as examples of recent policy shifts.

Staff and council discussed technical and legal issues. Public utilities staff explained the treatment chemical (hydrofluosilicic acid) is dosed and becomes fluoride in water chemistry; staff said the system is monitored hourly and the city’s raw groundwater already contains low levels of natural fluoride (about 0.18 mg/L), with final dosing adjusted to reach target public‑health levels. City attorney and staff also noted that Florida case law has considered the consent issue; members discussed pending state bills and a federal court order that directed a reevaluation of fluoride standards.

Council member comments reflected divided viewpoints. Some members said the decision should be made by voters or by the state because the issue is complex and statewide action is imminent; others said the city has a responsibility to provide safe water for all residents, especially children who benefit from fluoridation.

When council took a vote, the result was 3 in favor of continuing fluoridation and 2 opposed. Council recorded that it will reconsider the policy if state lawmakers or state agencies issue binding direction.

Key public and staff points recorded on the transcript: • Staff: the city currently fluoridates the public water system; the Florida surgeon general issued a recommendation to cease fluoridation. (staff remarks recorded on the public record) • Pro‑fluoride testimony: multiple local dentists and specialists argued fluoridation reduces childhood tooth decay and helps residents without regular access to dental care. • Anti‑fluoride testimony: speakers cited recent studies and a federal court order, argued for individual consent, and urged removing hydrofluosilicic acid from the municipal supply.

Council’s motion to continue the current practice was recorded and carried by roll call (three yes, two no). Council said it will monitor state legislative and regulatory developments and revisit the matter if the state issues definitive guidance or law.