THAT’S DEBATABLE: How to handle our water supply?

Is the City Council correct to request a delay until MWD responds to concerns raised by citizens about fluoridating? water?

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City Council is correct to request a delay until MWD responds to concerns raised by citizens.

Councilwoman Nancy Gardner and I will be meeting with MWD officials next week to discuss the city’s request.

On a personal note, due to regular topical application of fluoride, as a kid I frequently proclaimed the famous Crest slogan — look ma! No Cavities! MWD should demonstrate that dental health in this service region is lagging behind service regions where fluoride is ingested. It’s our teeth — not our kidneys — that need fluoride.

COUNCILWOMAN LESLIE DAIGLE

Newport Beach

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It appears to me that litigation initiated by the city would be the only potential option to pursue at this time, since it is not feasible for the city to terminate its purchases of water from Metropolitan Water District. However, my understanding is that MWD is mandated under State of California law to proceed with the fluoridation in the event that specified conditions are met.

Therefore, I do not see how litigation can be a viable solution and do not recommend it.

Citizens should focus their efforts on changing state law, and if there are opportunities for the vcity to be helpful in that process, I would be open to considering them.

COUNCILMAN MIKE HENN

Newport Beach

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It is MWD’s decision to fluoridate or not. The City Council has tried to address the concerns of residents in a responsible manner. Our only recourse now is to not buy water from MWD. With 18% of our water supply coming from MWD, that is not a very realistic option.

COUNCILMAN ED SELICH

Newport Beach