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Feedback: Watertown's Water Supply & Fluoride

Story Published: Dec 7, 2012 at 6:07 PM EDT

Story Updated: Dec 7, 2012 at 7:17 PM EDT

Fluoride is added at the Watertown water plant and the water superintendent says it's for good reason.

"Every country of the world has found across the board that the fluoride ion in correct concentrations has improved the condition of oral health and it's been dramatic," said Mike Sligar, city water superintendent.

But, Jasmine Borreggine begs to differ.

She and several others say fluoride in water is linked to defects in teeth and bones. 

Fluoride rinses and toothpaste are fine, she says.

"I don't want it in the public water supply where we have no control over how much we're being exposed to," said Borreggine.

Fluoride has been added to Watertown's water for more than 50 years.

Borrggine wants a local study on its effects.

"Let's look and see how it's affecting the health of children in our area," she said.

The water superintendent welcomes more study, but predicts the answer.

"So when you want to know whether or not we should have a fluoride program in the city of Watertown, the answer is yes," said Sligar.

Mayor Jeff Graham says the city is unlikely to stop fluoridating its water anytime soon.

But he calls the issue perplexing and says the city council wants to hear more debate.

 

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Tuesday, May 21, 2013
, Watertown, NY

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