Dear Editor:

The Boothbay Region Water District (BRWD)’s official position on the upcoming fluoridation referendum is “neither for nor against.” However, the undersigned residents of the Boothbay region are opposed to fluoridation of the public water supply and encourage voters to vote “No” to end water fluoridation.

In the early 2000’s, by regional vote, the BRWD was mandated to maintain a level of fluoride in its drinking water as specified by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services, Center for Disease Control.

Since that time, due to both our extensive experience with handling and adding fluoride to our water supply and the large amount of information available about the safety and efficacy of ingesting fluoride in drinking water, we think it is important that the public reconsider this decision made over 18 years ago. All experts agree that the most effective method for preventing tooth decay is topical application of fluoride combined with a healthy diet and good oral hygiene.

Despite statements from some local advocates, the sodium fluoride added to our drinking water supply is not a naturally occurring mineral found in Adams Pond and Knickerbocker Lake.

The sodium fluoride BRWD uses is imported from China and is derived as a by-product in the manufacture of phosphate fertilizer. In its pure state, sodium fluoride – an odorless, white crystalline powder – is a very toxic chemical requiring specific training for handling, special personal protective gear, and tight, secure control of pure chemical in storage. At present, there are no North American sources for sodium fluoride.

As a group, we are well aware of the toxicity of this substance and how body size, body state and ingestion volume will affect every individual’s dosage. As dedicated community members, we want the community to have the purest, safest water we can.

We encourage voters to vote “No” to end water fluoridation.

Dale Harmon, Boothbay

Sue Mello, Boothbay

Marcia Wilson, Boothbay

Weston Alley, Boothbay

Trevor Morin, Boothbay

Shawn Simmons, Boothbay

John Orne, Edgecomb

Hunter Arsenault, Boothbay Harbor

Aaron Durgan, Boothbay Harbor

Stephen Reny, Boothbay

Troy Gauthier, Boothbay