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Commission directs staff to stop adding fluoride to Ormond Beach water system
Summary
Commissioner Travis Sargent moved and the commission voted to immediately halt fluoridation of the city’s public water supply while staff researches ordinance changes and public information needs.
At the end of Tuesday’s meeting the City Commission directed staff to stop adding fluoride to the municipal water system as soon as practically possible and to return with any ordinance changes needed to effect the policy.
Why it matters: Fluoridation of community water supplies has been routine in many U.S. cities since the mid‑20th century to reduce tooth decay. In recent years some Florida municipalities and civic groups have raised health, consent and chemical‑transparency concerns, and several nearby jurisdictions have moved to end fluoridation.
What the commission did: Commissioner Travis Sargent opened the discussion and moved that the city immediately halt adding fluoride to municipal water. The motion was seconded and the commission voted by roll call; the clerk recorded a unanimous affirmative vote. Commissioners asked staff to prepare public information explaining the change and to return with draft ordinance language if required.
Staff follow‑up: The city manager and public utilities staff will determine the practical timing and steps required to stop dosing the system, notify wholesale suppliers (if any), and return to the commission with an implementation timetable and an ordinance amendment if needed. Commission comments asked for clear public education about alternative fluoride exposures such as dental treatments and fluoridated toothpaste.
Ending: Commissioners said they expect staff to complete practical shutdown steps quickly and to provide materials explaining the change to residents.
