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Naples City Council Votes to End Water Fluoridation After 74 Years

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Naples News Now
December 17, 2024

A woman with blonde hair and blue jacket.

Naples City Council has voted to discontinue the practice of adding fluoride to the city’s water supply, ending a 74-year-old policy. The decision, made on December 4, 2024, came after months of debate and public input from residents and medical professionals on both sides of the issue.

The Decision

In a close 4-3 vote, the City Council approved the removal of fluoride from Naples’ public water system. The fluoridation process is set to end on or before January 1, 2025. This decision follows a similar move made by Collier County earlier in the year for unincorporated areas.

Reasons Behind the Change

Several factors influenced the council’s decision:

  1. Public demand: Many residents expressed concerns about potential health risks associated with fluoride, especially for children and the elderly.

  2. Recent federal ruling: A September 2024 federal court decision questioned the safety of current fluoridation levels.

  3. State guidance: Florida’s Surgeon General, Dr. Joseph A. Ladapo, issued a recommendation against fluoridating public water due to potential neuropsychiatric risks.

Opposing Views

The decision was not without controversy. Proponents of water fluoridation, including some dental professionals, argued that it is a cost-effective way to prevent tooth decay and benefit public health. The American Dental Association (ADA) has reaffirmed its support for community water fluoridation, contradicting the state surgeon general’s stance.

Impact on Residents

With this change, Naples residents will need to seek alternative sources of fluoride if they wish to continue receiving its benefits. Council member Bill Kramer suggested that those who want fluoridated water can purchase it separately or have it provided for children who need it.

Looking Ahead

As Naples prepares to implement this significant change to its water supply, residents and health professionals will be closely monitoring the effects on dental health in the community. The decision marks a shift in public health policy that could influence other municipalities across Florida and beyond.