Wichita City Council adds fluoride to November election ballot
After two hours of discussion with more than 30 speakers, the Wichita City Council voted unanimiously to put the issue of fluoridation on the Nov. 6 general election ballot.
The council heard from 32 local residents during their regular meeting Tuesday, and more than half were opposed to adding fluoride to the city's drinking water, saying it would have negative health impacts. There were speakers from the medical community who said fluoride is safe and effective, and it can reduce tooth decay in a community.
Some of the speakers who were against fluoride urged the council to put the issue on the election ballot for the people to decide. Council member James Clendenin said because the issue affects everyone in the community, it should go to a public vote.
Vice-mayor Janet Miller and council member Pete Meitzner wanted to take action to add fluoride, but Miller admitted there wasn't enough support on the council, so she moved to put the issue on the November ballot.
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