Three members of the public used the council's three-minute public comment period during the budget hearing to press the council on city priorities and to make a local naming proposal.

Caleb Pierre, who identified himself as an Orange County resident and a member of the Party for Socialism and Liberation, told the council he does not believe Orlando is prepared for more intense hurricanes. He said emergency management and the hurricane disaster fund combined amount to about $2.50 per person when divided across the city population as he estimated it, and contrasted that with his view that the Orlando Police Department receives more than 30% of the city's budget. "The city of Orlando is openly prioritizing its oppressive police department over the needs of the people," Pierre said, and urged a centralized emergency-preparedness system and proactive infrastructure investments to reduce flood impacts.

David Lewis of West Lucerne Circle spoke as a renter and said the 6.65-mill rate is "way too high" and threatens housing affordability. Lewis suggested lowering the millage to 6.20 mills and outlined several budget trimming proposals with estimated savings: a 10% reduction in nondepartmental funds ("about $10$11 million"), a 4% reduction in contractual services ("about $3 million"), a 4% cut to other operating expenses ("about $3 million"), a 70% reduction in travel and conferences (about $860,000), and delaying non-safety vehicle replacements and cosmetic fleet/facility projects (a 5% reduction estimated at $2 million). He also proposed 7% cuts across executive offices, the mayor's office, council administration and communications staff.

Jonathan Blount urged recognition of public art downtown and proposed naming a new art pocket at Robinson as Thomas Chapman Park and suggested another park named for Geraldine Thompson on South Street. He described the downtown murals as part of a successful effort to brighten the city's core.

These remarks were offered during the public comment period of the budget hearing and did not result in immediate council action. The council proceeded to adopt the millage and budgets as presented elsewhere on the agenda.