Fluoride
SJWC has historically maintained a neutral position on the issue of fluoridation. Our primary goal is to provide water that meets or exceeds all applicable federal and state water quality regulations. The company does not currently fluoridate its water supply although very low levels of naturally occurring fluoride are present in the water supply.
California law (Assembly Bill 733) requires that water systems with more than 10,000 connections fluoridate their supply if funding for capital and ongoing operation and maintenance of the system is provided by a source other than the utility or its customers. The Health Trust and the California Dental Association have approached SJWC and expressed a willingness to seek the necessary funding to fluoridate our water supply. We have participated with the Health Trust to evaluate the regulatory, operational, financial, and technical challenges associated with fluoridating a large, technically complex urban water system. As required to comply with all drinking water laws and regulations, SJWC will fluoridate the water supply if the necessary outside funding is provided.
Drinking water fluoridation is a controversial public policy issue and customers have expressed strong viewpoints on both sides. SJWC has recommended to the Health Trust, as well as other organizations evaluating fluoridation, to employ a transparent public process that allows an opportunity for all to be heard on an equal and objective basis as part of any implementation. We have also recommended the evaluation of alternative fluoride delivery methods be conducted by public health experts to ensure that the optimal public health and most economical solution is achieved.
For almost 145 years, SJWC has provided exceptional customer service and amassed an outstanding water quality record. We will continue to participate constructively with the Health Trust and other organizations on this issue and provide more information as it becomes available.
More resources on fluoride are available below. For questions regarding dental health, including information on fluoride supplements, please consult your dental care provider.