Fluoridation of water toppled in local referendum
After much discussion, Lake Cowichan residents have voted against the fluoridation of drinking water in a referendum held during the local municipal elections last weekend.
The numbers resounded an overwhelming displeasure in fluoridation. 335 Lake Cowichan residents were opposed to fluoridation, compared to just 147 who were for it.
“Obviously, the public has spoken in favor of doing without fluoridation,” said town administrator, Joe Fernandez.
Town council must now pass a resolution to legalize the new change and put the motions forward to begin the process of change. Fluoride will likely begin being absent in Lake Cowichan drinking water some time in January.
“The council decided to let the public decide on which way to go,” added Fernandez.
Although newly elected CVRD Area I director, Pat Weaver was focused on her own campaign when the referendum surfaced, she’s slightly upset with the decision.
“It’s a good thing not a bad thing,” said Weaver, citing dental health as one of the major pros of fluoridation.
The Gazette will follow-up on the outcome of the fluoride referendum in next week’s issue.
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