Resident urges council to keep fluoride in Pasco water to protect children

PASCO, Wash. — A Pasco resident urged the City Council on Aug. 4 to continue fluoridating the public water supply, saying the additive protects low‑income children who cannot otherwise access dental care.

Amber Wade told the council she has seen the health consequences of poor dental care and that fluoride in drinking water is a simple, equitable public-health measure. Wade said some Pasco children have little access to dental care and rely on water fluoridation for protection against tooth decay and the systemic health problems it can cause.

She framed the request as protecting vulnerable residents and opposed removing fluoride from the water supply. No council action on fluoridation followed at the meeting; Wade’s comments were submitted for the public record.

Ending: The council acknowledged the public comment; there was no motion or ordinance on fluoridation during the Aug. 4 meeting.