The fluoride debate drew attention, with multiple speakers questioning the safety of fluoride in the city’s water. A registered nurse, Nicole King, and several other residents argued against its inclusion, citing potential health risks and the need for informed consent. King emphasized the importance of residents being aware of the risks, describing fluoride as a neurotoxin and listing various health issues she associated with it, including learning disabilities and memory loss.

Dr. Joseph Lpo, a resident, supported King’s concerns, pointing out that 36 counties in the state are fluoride-free and expressing hopes for Leesburg to follow suit. A new mother living on Bell Oak Drive shared her anxiety over the neurotoxic effects of fluoride on her infant, urging for a renewed discussion on the matter. Various residents echoed these concerns, calling for more educational opportunities regarding fluoride’s health implications and questioning the rationale behind its continued use.

Mary Beth Harvey presented research linking fluoride exposure to neurobehavioral problems and potential impacts on children’s cognitive functions. She referenced studies suggesting that fluoride could affect children’s IQ and urged the commission to consider the growing advocacy for its removal from public water supplies. Robin Woods argued for the fundamental need for clean water.

As the public comment period concluded, the commission moved on to other agenda items, including the potential implementation of a reporting application, C Click Fix. Commissioners expressed reservations about the $20,000 annual cost, noting that it could translate to about $90 per submission if usage remained low. A commissioner remarked that the application seemed more useful for staff than for the general public, given the low engagement from residents.

Public comments further illustrated frustration with existing reporting methods and a lack of awareness about the application. One resident suggested that clearer marketing strategies, such as using utility bills or billboards, could enhance public awareness. Another emphasized the need for a more streamlined reporting process to address issues like dangerous intersections.

The commission also addressed a large-scale development proposal, the Leather Leaf Planned Unit Development (PUD). Dan Miller from Planning and Zoning presented plans for the annexation of land and the construction of 235 detached single-family residences, 48 paired villas, and 120,000 square feet of amenities. The proposal faced opposition due to concerns about increased traffic on already problematic roads. A commissioner noted that the development would increase traffic compared to the county’s current zoning, which would allow for only 15 units on the same property.

The commission reviewed the consent agenda and other routine items, including a purchase request for Bright View Landscape Services to maintain seven city areas for $582,000. A commissioner inquired about the specifics of additional areas for city landscape maintenance, highlighting gaps due to staffing shortages.