The Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority stopped adding fluoride to its drinking water six years ago. But when you turn on the tap you’re still getting some naturally occurring fluoride.

Earlier this month the Water Authority board approved funding to once again start adding fluoride to the water supply.

But local government advocates weren’t happy with the way it was done. Peter St. Cyr, executive director of the New Mexico Foundation for Open Government said the board didn’t get public input before approving a budget item 3-2 to add fluoride earlier this month.

“The budget was on the agenda and this was a budget number and that’s how they brought it in,” said St. Cyr. “But it has been a program that they’ve welcomed public comment in the past so it was surprising that they didn’t do it originally this year.”

Now the Water Authority board is essentially going to take a re-vote after the board’s chair decided to get public input before making a final decision.

“I think that it helps to build trust in the government when the public is allowed to participate in the shaping and forming and directing of public policy,” St. Cyr said.

You can make your voice heard during the June 21 board meeting. A final vote is set for the following meeting in August. For more information, click here.

* Original article online at http://www.kob.com/albuquerque-news/albuquerque-bernalillo-county-water-utility-authority-seeking-input-before-final-fluoride-vote/4499634/