USA - It was nearly a year later before most residents became aware of the issue.

Fluoridation ready to flow, awaits only public notice By AARON NICODEMUS, Standard-Times staff writer NEW BEDFORD — The Board of Health has authorized the Department of Public Infrastructure to add fluoride to the city's water supply, as soon as it is feasible. Mayor Scott W. Lang, who publicly opposed fluoride, said that he would be sure to hold a public meeting about adding fluoride to the water, and give water customers ample notice before the fluoride flows. Robert F. Davis, the city's director of public health, said the soonest it could happen would be 30 days. Mr. Davis told the board that DPI superintendent Ronald Labelle ordered the fluoride immediately following the vote. The equipment is in place, and fluoridation could flow into the water at any time. "I was thrilled with the vote. I couldn't be happier," said Board of Health member Dr. Patricia Andrade. "I certainly was biting my nails on election day." In addition to notices in all water bills, notices regarding fluoridation will be sent out to all the city's dentists, pediatricians and pharmacists. The decision to add fluoride to the city's water began two years ago, when the Board of Health voted to add fluoride to the water in order to improve the dental health of the city's children. Although the board held a public meeting and posted its decision in a legal notice, it was nearly a year later before most residents became aware of the issue. The issue became contentious, with opponents equating fluoridating the water with mass medication, or expressing concern about possible side effects.