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CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (AP) — Members of Clarksburg's water board say health concerns were behind their vote to stop using fluoride in the city's water supply.
The board voted 2-1 late last month to discontinue the practice.
Water board members Paul Howe and Charlie Thayer told The Exponent-Telegram (http://bit.ly/1H7MDCO) they were concerned about fluoride's long-term health effects.
According to board records, it spent more than $21,800 adding fluoride to the water last year, while $16,768 had been spent through April.
Overall, $379,000 was spent on various chemicals last year to make water safe to drink. Many of them were more expensive than fluoride.
Most Americans drink water treated with fluoride. Supporters say fluoridated water reduces tooth decay and benefits low-income children and the elderly who do not have regular access to dental care.
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Information from: The Exponent Telegram, http://www.theet.com
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