Poughkeepsie – The chairman of the Poughkeepsie Joint Water Board wants answers as to why health officials want to resume the introduction of a fluoride-type chemical in the water supply.

Some two years ago, the chemical was halted because of a mechanical problem.

Now, water board Chairman Frank Mora said it should be left out. “My research into it has shown that it does not do what the American Dental Association and all of the proponents of it says it does, which is protect your teeth and cause less cavities, etc., but what it does do, among other things, is cause dental fluorosis in mostly children,” he said. Those are permanent white marks or brown stains on the teeth and it’s also hazardous to people’s health.”

Mora said he has asked Dutchess County Health Commissioner Dr. Michael Caldwell for answers to specific questions and has yet to receive them.