Longwood commission votes unanimously to stop community water fluoridation

The Longwood City Commission voted unanimously Monday to stop community water fluoridation for the portion of the city served by the municipal utility.

The vote followed an extended public comment period in which more than a dozen residents, health professionals and activists urged the commission to end fluoridation, citing recent court rulings and scientific studies they say link fluoride exposure to neurological risks in children. Commissioner Matt Morgan moved to stop fluoridation; Commissioner Steven Boney seconded the motion. The roll call vote was Mayor McMillan — yes; Deputy Mayor Sackett — yes; Commissioner Boney — yes; Commissioner Morgan — yes. The motion passed 4-0.

Supporters of the motion pointed to a September federal court decision and subsequent guidance from the Florida Surgeon General, both of which speakers and some commissioners said changed the factual and policy calculus. Several speakers said fluoride added to municipal water in Longwood is an industrially sourced chemical, not a medical-grade product, and urged the commission to preserve individual choice and informed consent.

"I do not consent to fluoride being added to my drinking water," Joy Stricker told the commission during public comment. Registered nurse Nicole King said the issue is one of informed consent and described potential adverse outcomes she associated with fluoride exposure. Justin Harvey, who identified himself as an Orlando resident with business ties to Longwood, cited a seven-year federal court case and a collection of studies he said connect fluoride to lower IQ in children and pregnant women.

Commissioners who supported the motion framed the decision as one about customer choice rather than a finding of absolute scientific certainty. Commissioner Morgan said the city utility's mission is to supply water, not to medicate residents. Deputy Mayor Sackett likewise said the question ultimately rests with individual choice: "We can't do something that involves personal choice."

City staff had prepared a packet of studies and background materials for the commission. Planning and utility staff noted that not all water providers serving the same geographic area in and around Longwood add fluoride; staff said Sunshine Water currently does not fluoridate and that several neighboring municipalities have long declined the practice.

The commission moved the fluoridation discussion up on the agenda after public comment so the body could act the same night. The motion directed staff to cease community fluoridation for water produced by the city utility; commissioners said residents who want fluoride will still be able to obtain fluoridated toothpaste, mouth rinses or other topical products.

The decision applies to the municipal water system operated by the City of Longwood. The commission did not adopt an implementing ordinance on the dais; staff will carry out operational steps needed to stop adding fluoride and will return to the commission with any required implementation details.

What happens next: City staff will prepare the operational plan and notify affected customers. The commission did not specify an exact cutoff date in its motion; instead the vote instructs staff to end the practice and to report back with the plan to effect the change.

Community context: Several speakers said the cost and availability of point-of-use filtration are barriers for lower-income residents; others argued topical fluoride and dental care are preferable ways to maintain oral health. Commissioners emphasized that the vote followed community input and staff review, and framed the outcome as responsive to constituent preferences.

Commission record: The motion to stop fluoridation was made by Commissioner Matt Morgan and seconded by Commissioner Steven Boney. The vote was 4-0 in favor.