Madison Utilities Plans Public Meeting on Fluoride Decision
Madison Utilities is set to hold a public meeting later this month following a recent decision to cease the addition of fluoride to the water supply, a move that has sparked significant community debate. The decision, made during a board meeting on Monday, came after over 30 attendees voiced their opinions, with around half advocating for a reversal. This meeting highlighted concerns regarding transparency and communication around the decision.
Effective June 16, Madison Utilities will stop fluoridating its water, impacting nearly 19,000 customers across the city and parts of Madison County. Fluoride has been a key public health recommendation since the 1940s, aimed at reducing tooth decay, especially among children. Madison’s water supply has been fluoridated since 1991.
Woody Sanderson, the utility’s attorney, ruled out the possibility of a referendum on the fluoride decision, noting that the board operates independently from city control. Nonetheless, Councilwoman Connie Spears, also a board member, proposed a public hearing prior to any final vote on the matter. This hearing has been tentatively scheduled for May 13 at 5:30 PM, with the venue still to be determined.
The sentiments expressed at the recent board meeting mirrored those from a prior Madison City Council meeting, during which utility officials were called to explain the fluoride cessation. Board Director Kerry Straub emphasized the need for enhanced communication with the public and suggested designating a staff member to ensure transparency moving forward. Meanwhile, the utility has acknowledged past shortcomings in providing timely information, particularly regarding financial reports.
As the debate continues, Madison Utilities is under scrutiny compared to its peers in Alabama’s larger cities, all of which maintain fluoridated water supplies, in line with state health recommendations.
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