Kalona

A group of concerned citizens and dental professionals were present during the recent Kalona city council meeting to protect fluoride in the city water system in 2027 as the city previously announced intent to discontinue fluoridation.

Steven M. Levy, DDS, MPH, Iowa City, who is with UI Dept. of Dentistry, appealed to the council to continue the use of fluoride because of its many health benefits. He presented the council with a fact sheet on the fluoridation facts. A retired dentist who formerly operated the Iowa City water plant, also appealed to the council to not discontinue fluoridation.

Rachael Patterson-Rahn, RDH, spoke on behalf of local dentist. She is Dental Health Program manager for Lee County, Keokuk. She also urged the council not to discontinue fluoridation.

The city would vote on the discontinuation of Fluoride on January 20. This would allow for the city to meet the 90-day public notice. The council will have two options, such as directing staff to continue with the Fluoride micro-dosing at the new water treatment plant or to discontinue the micro-dosing.  

No action will be taken prior to January 20. 

Council action

The council held a public hearing on a proposal to enter into water revenue loan and disbursement agreement with the State Revolving Fund.

The city agreed with the Washington County Supervisors in regard to Veterans Day and having green lights on city owned and other public buildings throughout the county from Nov. 4 through the 11.    

While they acknowledged the receipt of quarterly funds, city Administrator Ryan Schlabaugh pointed out that the Washington County Riverboat Foundation recently adjusted its allocation of funds so that it was more favorable for rural areas of the county. Kalona has been receiving about $235,000 annually, but they cautioned that amount, which could be negatively affected by the opening of the casino in Cedar Rapids. The WCRF will continue to give 25% of its funds to cities in Washington county, with minor adjustments to each city.

The council approved the resolution to authorize the $1 million grant application for Wastewater and Drinking Water Treatment. If awarded, the grant would provide financial assistance for the wastewater treatment project, reducing the amount the city would need to borrow for the $7.5 million project.

Next meeting

The next Kalona city council meeting is Monday, November 16 at 6 p.m.