Fluoride to Remain in Plattsburgh's Water
The City Council held its long-anticipated vote on the fluoridation issue on November 19th. Today, we remain a fluoridated community. Is the battle over? Yes, but not the war on fluoride. Councilor Jim Calnon, by his comments Thursday night, indicated that he believes that there is something to the fluoride opponents' arguments. He may be swayed by further evidence from the fluoride opposition. He argues that this fight should be taking place on the national stage, rather than on the local stage. I say, why can't we do both? Hundreds of U. S. cities and towns have rejected fluoridation. Why not Plattsburgh?
Councilor Tim Carpenter has stated that in his heart he knows that fluoride should be removed from the water. However, he says that he will defer to the Clinton County Board of Health. Maybe the Clinton County Board of Health can be swayed, but it will be hard for them. Many of its members have not read a research article on fluoride for decades - a fact they freely admitted in a public session. Sad really, when you think that these people are supposed to represent the health of all citizens. Too bad they're not a little more open to public comment. A Board of Health meeting is a highly controlled affair.
Many, many thanks go to Councilor Amy Valentine for introducing the resolution. Click here to view the original resolution. It was thoughtful and complete.
A great ally in this fight has been the Plattsburgh Press Republican. I would like to thank Joe LoTemplio for his excellent coverage throughout the months and months of debate. Read Joe's latest article here. Also, Pat Bradley at WAMC did a great radio piece on the debate in Plattsburgh.
