PASCO, Wash. – The Pasco City Council discussed a pressing issue on whether to remove fluoride from the city’s drinking water. City Manager Dave Zabell presented the topic, highlighting the historical debate surrounding fluoride in water.
Zabell stated, “You know, 60 years ago, the debate was about whether or not to add fluoride to drinking water in the U.S. The next few decades, public agencies, the predominant debate was centered around why, why I wouldn’t add fluoride to water. And then the last decade or so, the debate shifted to whether or not it’s a good idea that fluoride to drinking water.”
Council Member Blanche Barajas shared her personal experience, urging her colleagues to consider the impact on children. “Please take those children into consideration. Those families are struggling to put food on the table, but also struggling with many other barriers to take children to the dentist, barriers to to put proper things on the table that are rich in vitamins,” Barajas said.
Local dentists shared their opinions during the public comment period, with three supporting fluoride and one opposing it. Those against fluoride expressed concerns about its potential effects on children’s cognitive development. Council Member Charles Grimm addressed these concerns, referencing a study on the issue.
Grimm mentioned, “I think any any time you have and I think we saw this even through Covid and there’s a health risk anytime there is any type of, medical intervention. And I think it’s, come back to where I think those are decisions that individuals need to make in that sense.”
The council voted to proceed with the process, planning to inform the public about an official comment session at a future meeting. They also discussed the possibility of making this a ballot item.
