Miami-Dade Commissioner Raquel Regalado on Fluoride Vote and FIFA Funding

Miami-Dade Fluoride Vote

• 💧 Miami-Dade County's tap water may become fluoride-free for the first time in three generations following an 8-2 commission vote.
• ⚠️ Commissioner Raquel Regalado was one of two dissenting votes, emphasizing the importance of process and scientific discourse.
• 🔬 Regalado argues the vote bypassed committee review, public hearings, and scientific evidence, calling it a political move.
• 🏛️ The county provides water to other municipalities, which will now decide individually whether to retain fluoride, with contractual obligations to supply it if requested.
• ⚖️ Regalado suggests that decisions about water additives like fluoride should be handled at the state or federal level, citing federal regulations and potential state preemption.

Water Safety and Regulation

• ✅ Miami-Dade County water meets all federal and state regulations and is safe, according to Commissioner Regalado.
• 🌐 The federal government, not the county, regulates water and air quality standards.
• 📈 The US federal government reduced the amount of fluoride allowed in water 10 years ago, contrary to claims that laws haven't changed since the 1950s.
• 🚫 Regalado advocates for a scientific conversation and community participation, not decisions based on "Googled" information.

FIFA Funding Discussion

• ⚽ Regalado supported the allocation of an additional $10.5 million for FIFA, citing Miami-Dade County's commitment and the need for investment in economic development.
• 💰 She views this as a return on investment, particularly for hotels and local businesses during the event's off-peak season.
• 🤝 The county is the only state participant without state money, and Regalado urges state partners to contribute.
• 📈 While acknowledging potential issues with past events like Copa, she believes the ROI for FIFA makes sense for the district she represents.