Press Releases
GREENWOOD, IND., December 10, 2025 — Indiana American Water acknowledges the passage of Ordinance 2025-OR-18, titled “An Ordinance of the Common Council of the City of Charlestown, Indiana to cease the addition of fluoride to the municipal water supply,” by the Charlestown City Council, on Nov. 3, 2025, directing the cessation of fluoride treatment to the municipal water supply.
As of Dec. 1, 2025, Indiana American Water responded to the Ordinance and amended its water treatment operations and formally removed the fluoride additive from its Charlestown water system.
“Indiana American Water is committed to being a trusted community partner by delivering safe, clean, reliable, and affordable drinking water to our customers,” said Barry Suits, President, Indiana American Water. “We add fluoride only when required or requested by state or local regulations. When those regulations change—as with Charlestown’s new ordinance—we promptly adjust our treatment processes to remain in full compliance.”
Most of the water produced at Indiana American Water’s Charlestown treatment facility serves the Charlestown community, with 4 percent of its daily production sold to neighboring Marysville-Otisco Nabb Water Corporation.
Indiana American Water’s Water Quality Reports, published annually, confirm that all Indiana systems meet or surpass federal and state drinking water standards.
Alternative Sources for Fluoride
According to the CDC, fluoride helps protect teeth from cavities at every age, and it’s especially important for children because it strengthens developing teeth and reduces the risk of decay later in life. The agency recommends:
- Brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice a day to keep teeth strong.
- Asking your dentist, doctor, or pediatrician whether your child needs an oral fluoride supplement, such as drops, tablets, or lozenges. These can help ensure children get the protection they need while their teeth are forming.
- Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings to maintain oral health and catch problems early.
About American Water
American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to more than 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations. American Water's 6,700 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company’s national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders. For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.
About Indiana American Water
Indiana American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, is the largest regulated water utility in the state, providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable water and wastewater services to approximately 1.5 million people.
For more information, visit amwater.com/inaw and join Indiana American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.
Media Contact:
Joel Reuter
External Affairs Manager
Indiana American Water
P: (317) 885-2434
E: joel.reuter@amwater.com