The Clarksburg Water Board on Tuesday debated the fluoridation of the local water supply.

Water Board members Paul Howe and Charles Thayer said several studies have linked long-term consumption of fluoride to chronic illnesses.

Howe said he has installed filters to remove both fluoride and chlorine from his drinking water at home.

Board President Al Cox cautioned against relying heavily on studies, noting that certain foods are either good or bad for you, depending on the latest study that comes out.

General Manager Dick Welch said the various regulatory agencies the board reports to recommend adding fluoride to the water supply.

Welch, Cox and board attorney Tim Stranko noted that the amount of fluoride in Clarksburg’s water is not enough to cause any harm.

Stranko offered to compile various scientific studies on the issue, and the board gave him the green light to do so.

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