USA - City Council To Discuss Fluoride At Next Meeting

The Sheridan City Council will discuss putting a measure concerning fluoride on the 2020 ballot during the upcoming Dec. 17 city council session.

The measure will determine whether the city will continue using Hydrofluosilicic acid, commonly known as “fluoride,” in the city’s water.

City Attorney Brendon Kerns addressed the agenda item at the council’s last study session and described what the ballot measure would look like.

“It’s very simple,” Kerns said. “It mentions, of course, the fluoride, and it’s a simple yes or no request for voters.”

Kerns said that, if the resolution to include the ballot measure passes, city staff would submit the ballot measure to the county clerk at least 60 days before the general election. Kerns said that he does not suggest submitting a ballot measure much before that 60-day mark.

“I just get a little bit nervous about, honestly, doing that,” Kerns said. “Things get lost in the shuffle sometimes. I would feel much more comfortable if our staff has a hold of that.”

Mayor Roger Miller asked who the ballot measure would apply to. Kerns said that, unless additional steps are taken, only city residents would vote on the measure.

“If the county wanted to get on board, you could do it county-wide,” Kerns said. “Otherwise, this would be just for the city.”

This meeting will be open to the public.