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Pasco council seeks legal and staff review before considering removal of fluoride from city water
Summary
Councilmembers expressed support for removing fluoride from Pasco’s water system but agreed to have city staff and the city attorney analyze legal, procedural and cost implications and return with recommendations by early July, including notice requirements to the Washington State Department of Health.
Councilmembers on Monday discussed whether to remove fluoride from the City of Pasco’s water supply and asked staff and the city attorney to prepare next steps and analysis.
Several councilmembers said they favor discontinuing fluoridation; others urged following a process that includes legal review and public engagement. City Attorney Ferguson told the council he had not yet reviewed legal ramifications and staff would need time to prepare advice. Councilmember Arcster (citing a quick check) noted a Washington State Department of Health notification requirement that may require 90 days advance notice for starting or stopping fluoridation.
Interim City Manager Dave Zabel said staff will prepare a plan and return to the council; councilmembers asked for a written review and process options by July 1. Councilmembers also noted that any policy change would generate community interest from both supporters and opponents of fluoridation, and they discussed the importance of allowing opportunity for public comment.
No formal vote occurred. The direction from council was procedural: staff and legal counsel will review statutory and regulatory requirements, cost implications and notification timelines and report back in July with recommended next steps, including whether notice to the state Department of Health is required and the timeline for a decision.
