Dear Whangarei District Council,

I’m writing to request clarification on the council’s ongoing decision regarding water fluoridation. Given the recent developments and government directives, I would like to better understand the rationale behind the council’s position and its potential consequences for the community.

Firstly, I request copies of all official communications between the council and the Ministry of Health regarding this issue. This should include letters, emails, and any related documents that provide insight into the discussions and directives issued. Transparency is key, and it would be helpful for the public to have access to this information.

I understand that legal action may be pursued in response to the directive. Could the council clarify what legal steps are being considered, the possible outcomes, and how these proceedings might financially impact ratepayers? A breakdown of expected costs, including legal fees and associated expenses, would be greatly appreciated.

There have been reports suggesting that councillors could face fines or other penalties. Could you provide a detailed explanation of the specific legal implications for both individual councillors and the council as a whole? Additionally, are there any precedents in New Zealand where elected officials have been fined or penalized in a similar situation?

Lastly, I am interested in the decision-making process surrounding this issue. Was there any public consultation conducted before the decision was made? If not, is there an intention to engage with the community further before finalizing the council’s position? Given the significant public health implications, it would be reassuring to know how the views of the local community are being taken into account.

Yours faithfully,

Bertha Feller