Residents press commission on affordability, transparency and development decisions

During the public-comment portions of the session, multiple residents raised concerns about affordability, transparency and past city spending decisions.

Roger White told commissioners that a 2014 vision document’s neighbor-focused language is missing from the 2024 draft and urged the city to treat taxpayers as neighbors rather than customers. Donna Dove thanked staff for responses to a resident-submitted budget and volunteered to help make the budget more "resident friendly," offering to participate in development of outreach and explanatory materials. "I would be very pleased and honored to help," Dove said.

Several speakers challenged the city over recent purchases and project choices. Dana Taylor, a business owner, said she supports first responders but criticized the purchase terms for the Blue Water Jewelers property and questioned the location and necessity of the proposed replacement fire station on Anastasia Boulevard, asking whether a site along State Road 312 might serve more calls. "You don't simply go back to the taxpayers and ask for more money," Taylor said.

Other commenters defended investments in safety and services. BJ Kalady argued that non-ad valorem assessments are necessary to capture revenue from institutions that do not pay property taxes and urged residents to contact the property appraiser on homestead exemptions if they have concerns.

Commissioners thanked participants, encouraged earlier engagement through workshops and said staff has worked to secure grants to leverage limited reserves. They acknowledged that some residents find the budget hard to follow and said they will pursue clearer presentation and outreach.