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Monroe board hears mixed testimony on water fluoridation, tables decision
Summary
City public-health officials and a local physician defended water fluoridation while residents urged the board to end the practice citing recent studies. The board agreed to table the matter and asked staff to publish a list of nearby jurisdictions' fluoridation practices.
The City of Monroe Board of Public Works heard more than an hour of public comment and expert testimony before agreeing to table a decision on whether to continue adding fluoride to the municipal water supply.
Public-health director Rowan Warden said the county provided materials on the benefits of community water fluoridation and offered to answer questions. Dr. Kelsey Schmidt, a family medicine physician serving Monroe, told the board, "Fluoride is not a medicine. It is a mineral," and argued that water fluoridation at recommended levels reduces dental cavities and helps ensure equitable access to preventive care. Opposing public commenter Deb Kredicker urged the board to stop fluoridation, citing studies she said link fluoride exposure to neurotoxic effects and lower IQ in children.
After hearing both sides and asking staff to compile a public list of which nearby communities fluoridate their water, the board agreed to table the item until members and the public can review the additional information. The city staff noted the practice is currently set by resolution and that options include forwarding a recommendation to the common council, taking no action, or requesting further analysis.
