HONOLULU -- The Honolulu City Council passed a bill Wednesday that would prevent chemicals, such as fluoride, in Oahu's water.

The measure before council members would prohibit unnecessary chemicals in Oahu's water supply. Health organizations were against the bill, saying fluoridated water helps prevent tooth decay.

"The position I take is backed by both the (Hawaii Dental Association), as well as the American Dental Association," said Donna Ikeda of HDA.

"There is no question that dental disease is a serious problem in Hawaii, and it's been proven of over 50 years of research that water fluoridation is cost effective," said Stacy Evans of the Hawaii Medical Services Association.

Supporters of the measure, or opponents of fluoridation, say it should be up to individuals to practice good dental hygiene.

"We are not saying that fluoride does not prevent tooth decay. We're just saying we'd like the opportunity to be able to apply it ourselves," Carol Lent said.

Others say fluoride may save teeth, but damage other things.

"They're poisonous to plants. It would eventually affect the growth of any vegetables, by the way, whether they be organic or whatever, as long as they're using the city water," said Dean Okimoto of Nalo Farms.

Supporters also say adding fluoride would spoil a pure drinking water supply. They got a sympathetic ear from some council members.

"I want to drink pure water. I don't want chemicals in there that has -- there's some doubt as to what, you know, what kind of bad effects it might have or not," Councilman Gary Okino said.

In the end, the council voted 7-2 in favor of the bill. With the council's approval, the bill now goes to Mayor Jeremy Harris' office, where it will await his signature.