HomeMy WebLinkAbout6.i. Approve MDH Variance Request for Reduced Fluoride LevelsI:\City Clerk\Agenda Items\Approved Items\20150901 CC Authorize MDH Variance Request - Fluoride Levels.docx
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
City Council Meeting: September 1, 2015
AGENDA ITEM: Approve MDH Variance Request for
Reduced Fluoride Levels
AGENDA SECTION:
Consent
PREPARED BY: Patrick Wrase, PE, Director of Public
Works / City Engineer AGENDA NO. 6.i.
ATTACHMENTS: Variance Request APPROVED BY: ddj
RECOMMENDED ACTIONS: Motion to Authorize a Variance Request to the Minnesota
Department of Health to Reduce Fluoride Levels in Drinking Water
ISSUE:
The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) recommends all municipal public water suppliers submit a
variance to allow reduced levels of fluoride in the drinking water, as recommended by the Department of
Health and Human Services.
BACKGROUND:
On April 27, 2015 the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) finalized new guidance which
recommends reduced levels of fluoride in drinking water (from 1.2 mg/L down to 0.7 mg/L). This new
guidance was based on scientific assessments to balance the benefits of preventing tooth decay while
limiting any potential negative effects of fluoride consumption, specifically dental fluorosis (tooth
discoloration).
The MDH has begun the process to make changes to MN Rule 4720.0030, which states that fluoride
content should be maintained at an average concentration of 1.2 mg/L. Until the rule has been revised,
water suppliers are encouraged to apply for a variance to reduce the fluoride to the amount recommended
by the DHHS.
In order to reduce the levels of fluoride in Rosemount drinking water, a simple manual adjustment to the
chemical feed equipment is necessary. There is no cost associated with this change, but the MDH
anticipates that water suppliers will reduces fluoridation chemical expenses by approximately $8.00 per
million gallons of water produced. Based on average water usage over the past five years, the City will save
approximately $7,000 per year in chemical costs.
SUMMARY:
Staff recommends Council authorize a variance request to reduce fluoride levels in drinking water.