Dear Editor:

A national anti-vaccine organization is apparently behind the effort to remove fluoride from drinking water in the Boothbay region. While a few area residents may be the local face of the anti-fluoride movement, some of its funding comes from a wealthy Floridian, Joseph Mercola. Here’s what the New York Times reports about him:

“Researchers and regulators say Joseph Mercola, an osteopathic physician, creates and profits from misleading claims about Covid-19 vaccines.” (NYT, 10/06/2021) The Times reports that Mercola has amassed a fortune. Some of that wealth goes to the Fluoride Action Network (FAN) which seems to be helping the local Fluoride Opposition Committee. FAN is an out of state 501(C)(3), has a sophisticated website, and a director who is a seasoned promoter and fundraiser, as well as the official contact for the anti-fluoride movement in Maine.

Several local residents have taken up the effort to assure fluoride remains in our drinking water, protecting our citizens from unnecessary tooth decay. We are self-funded and believe removing a demonstrated, safe means of preventing tooth decay, in both children and adults, creates an unfair disadvantage for those who lack dental insurance or can’t afford dental care.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control states that putting fluoride in drinking water — which was done 18 years ago locally — is one of the most successful public health decisions in its history.

Now, anti-fluoride advocates, local but under the sway of outsiders, want to remove that protection. They are not acting for the public good. Vote yes and keep fluoride protection in the Boothbay region.

Judith Kildow

Lucian Laurie, Jr.

Jon Dunsford

Lee Corbin

Eric Hakanson

Sandra Hakanson

John F. Andrew, DMD