Dear Editor:

I have a 50-year history with the wonderful community of Boothbay. My wife and I are excited to be raising our young daughter here as year-round residents. I’m writing in support of continuing to fluoridate our community water supply.

From the CDC: “Most water contains some fluoride but usually not enough to prevent cavities. Community water systems can add just the right amount of fluoride to local drinking water to prevent cavities. Community water fluoridation is recommended by nearly all public health, medical, and dental organizations. It is recommended by the American Dental Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, U.S. Public Health Service, and World Health Organization.”

Fluoride in U.S. public water systems has helped prevent tooth decay for generations across the country. Across the U.S., 73% of the population on Community Water Systems receive fluoridated water. Across Maine, 80% of Mainers on public water systems have the benefit of fluoridated water. In Boothbay, it has been added to the water supply safely for 18 years.

So why should we change now? Is there any indication that our water system has been broken for the past 18 years?

My grandparents lived here full time from 1973 until their deaths (at 97 and 104) - they showed no signs of suffering from fluoride. Many of our neighbors have enjoyed similarly long and healthy retirements. It appears to me that the water system, far from being broken, is working very well (although those few weeks in summer with the algae taste could be improved).

For the health of our overall community, and especially the dental health of our community’s children … to help the community to retain and attract young families who value the widely accepted public health best practices … to lower our cavities and dental bills … to honor the age old saying “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”... please vote yes to keep fluoride in the public water supply.

Jeff Bauer

East Boothbay