USA - Water fluoridation to referendum in November.?

By Doug Page
Staff Writer
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
TROY — A local group of health professionals wants to put the matter of water fluoridation to referendum in November.
City voters have twice rejected adding fluoride to city water, the last in 1970 when citizens voted to opt out of the state's requirement for such treatment.
Fluoride is added to water systems to help prevent cavities. Opponents claim fluoride poses a health risk.
Tuesday, Miami County Health Commissioner Jim Luken informed the City Council utilities committee of group's plan.
Lukens noted a 2002 community health survey found dental health the top unmet health need in the county. Troy and Covington are the only communities in the county without fluoridated water. Tipp City will have fluoridated water when its new water plant — built in conjunction with Vandalia — comes on line.
The committee will meet again after reviewing all the information. Luken would like the council to endorse the group's effort.
Contact this reporter at (937) 335-3838 or dpage@DaytonDailyNews.com.