Lynden City Council votes to repeal water fluoridation program

The Lynden City Council voted 5-2 on Monday night to repeal its fluoridation program, established in 1959. The two council members who opposed the repeal sought a citizen advisory vote, but a motion to place the issue on the November ballot failed by just one vote. Mayor Scott Korthuis has a 10-day window to either accept the repeal or veto it, with no response yet regarding his decision. Previously, the council voted to ban fluoride last summer, but Korthuis vetoed that decision, highlighting public support for the program in earlier meetings. Proponents of fluoridation argue that it promotes dental health, while opponents view it as involuntary medication that may be harmful.

The U. S. Secretary of Health, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. , announced plans to assemble a task force to study fluoridation and provide new recommendations.

If the council's decision holds, the removal of fluoride from the city's water supply will begin in late April. This significant policy change reflects ongoing debates about public health measures and community input.