Wilmington Weekly with Matt Purkey
Wilmington Weekly is a local podcast focused on Wilmington, Ohio City Council and how local government decisions actually work. Hosted by former Council President, Matt Purkey, the show provides context, explains process, and helps residents better understand what’s happening at city hall and why it matters.
Wilmington Weekly with Matt Purkey
Episode Ten - Special Episode - Public Works, Recycling, and Fluoride (3/9/26)
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In this special episode, Matt takes a closer look at the March 9 Public Works Committee meeting and two issues that could be headed to full council.
First, curbside recycling. The city’s own survey showed strong reported use across all four wards, yet the committee discussion moved quickly toward eliminating the program. This episode breaks down what the survey actually said, how the financial argument was framed, what alternatives were raised in the meeting, and why the discussion felt narrower than it should have.
Second, fluoride. A 2024 legal memo from former law director Dickman says Wilmington cannot stop fluoridating its water on its own under current Ohio law. That changes the conversation from a simple policy preference to a question of legal authority and public process.
This is a special episode outside the usual schedule because both issues moved fast enough to deserve a closer look.
To watch the meeting, visit - https://boxcast.tv/channel/x1jps4n28nlgtaozsv5y?b=fiti4zef2mgu3cynwide
