Fluoride

The 4-1 vote came the council heard public comments from he proposal's opponents and supporters, including Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo.

On Wednesday, the Naples City Council voted to stop the practice of adding fluoride to the city’s water supply. It was decided with a 4-to-3 vote following public comment from citizens on both sides of the issue.

Elected officials respond to Florida surgeon general’s recommendation that cities and counties remove fluoride from drinking water.

The surgeon general calls it "public health malpractice" to fluoridate water, citing research that suggests exposure to high levels of fluoride can cause lower IQ in kids. National experts say there is not enough data to determine if the lower level present in most U.S. water supplies has the same effect.

Research has generally shown that fluoridated water at recommended levels is safe. But many experts and a judge say more research is needed to better understand whether and when risks kick in.

Adding low levels of fluoride to water has long been considered one of the greatest health achievements. Now comes an analysis of previously published research that concludes a link with intelligence.

Health experts testify on the importance of keeping the mineral in the water supply, but "health freedom" backers dominate the public discussion before the commission vote.

Early voting starts Wednesday in Hernando County, and Brooksville residents will have the opportunity to vote on whether they want to continue to have…