DeSantis' Disney district takeover sparks leadership exodus and chaos

Oct 30, 2023 in "Reedy Creek Improvement District"

Posted: Monday October 30, 2023 3:00pm ET by WDWMAGIC Staff

In what marks a significant upheaval to the former Reedy Creek Improvement District, over thirty employees have resigned from the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, the governing entity responsible for Walt Disney World. This mass exodus includes almost half of its senior leadership and follows Florida Governor Ron DeSantis' controversial takeover of the district, raising serious concerns about operational stability and political influence.

 

Previously known as the Reedy Creek Improvement District, CFTOD has seen departures at every level - from the district administrator and chief financial officer to crucial roles in public works, procurement, and facilities management.

In an article published by long-time Reedy Creek observer Jason Garcia Seeking Rents, who obtained employee exit interviews in a public records request, one former manager with a 30-year career at Reedy Creek wrote that DeSantis' political appointees "show a severe lack of trust for employees" and made his work "uncomfortable," "stressful," and "demoralizing." Another manager wrote that the transition has been "very negative." And a department director called the new leadership "unqualified and incompetent."

A former executive assistant went even further saying, "The legacy of this special district is being destroyed by those who have been placed in power here. The Board of Supervisors and the new District Administrator could care less about the work that needs to be done for the taxpayers. They claim transparency and bridge building, I see non-transparency and bridge burning."

DeSantis' Political Maneuvering, Lawsuits and Presidential Bid

The root of this disruption traces back to Governor DeSantis' decision to assert control over the district, perceived by many as retaliation against Disney. The entertainment giant had openly criticized a so-called "Don't Say Gay" anti-LGBTQ+ law championed by DeSantis and halted campaign contributions, drawing the governor's ire. In a swift legislative move, DeSantis gained the power to appoint the board of supervisors, installing allies and loyalists who quickly ousted existing executives.

The CFTOD board sued Disney in a Florida state court in May 2023, following Disney's federal lawsuit against CFTOD board members and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.

Disney claims in its lawsuit filed in a federal court that there has been "A targeted campaign of government retaliation-orchestrated at every step by Governor DeSantis as punishment for Disney's protected speech now threatens Disney's business operations, jeopardizes its economic future in the region, and violates its constitutional rights."

Impact on Employees and Operations

Former employees have painted a grim picture of the current work environment, describing it as toxic, demoralizing, and stressful. The new leadership, criticized for its inexperience and lack of qualifications, has been accused of fostering a climate of distrust and incompetence. These factors have not only affected morale but also raised questions about the district's ability to efficiently manage services critical to the Walt Disney World Resort.

Strategic Hires and Alleged Political Motives

In the midst of this turmoil, the DeSantis-appointed board has been active in positioning allies in key roles. High-profile hires include District Administrator Glen Gilzean, appointed with a $400,000 salary, and Paula Hoisington, a former DeSantis transition team member, now Chief of Staff. The board has also awarded lucrative contracts to firms with close ties to DeSantis, including a $1 million no-bid contract for a new telecoms system. As this news surfaced, CFTOD cancelled a planned board meeting this month, with the next session scheduled to take place on Wednesday, November 15, 2023.

Operational Challenges and Public Perception

The district is currently grappling with significant operational challenges. Recent job postings in facilities management highlight the gaps left by the mass resignations. Critics argue that these vacancies hinder the district's ability to deliver essential services like fire protection, trash collection, and building inspections, potentially impacting operations at Walt Disney World.

The Shift from Efficiency to Political Arena

Under the previous management, the Reedy Creek Improvement District was known for its efficiency and detailed project scrutiny despite criticisms over its unique status and Disney's influence. However, the transformation into the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, now under DeSantis' control, marks a shift from a well-run administrative body to a politically charged arena.

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Sirwalterraleigh1 hour ago

Arlen spectre syndrome…there is no known cure

JohnD1 hour ago

What political affiliation is he today? Anyone know? I can't keep up.

Sirwalterraleigh1 hour ago

If you believe recycling the same handful of people through positions with money influence is “healthy”… …what’s Charlie crist up to? 🤔

MisterPenguin1 hour ago

"I, as governor, will not be appointing myself as senator." "I, popular movie star, will not be in the next MCU movie."

JohnD1 hour ago

I don't see it happening. He already made clear his finishing out his term as Governor. Besides, he's an executive. I don't think Senate is his style, although he served in the House a few terms. If he lobbies for anything it would be AG. He's well suited for that as a former JAG officer. If not, he ran for President a few months in 2023-2024 to bolster his credentials. He leaves office in January 2027 as one of the best known Governors in the nation, ready to run in 2028 for President. Disney is no longer an issue for him. He's serving out his term.

Sirwalterraleigh1 hour ago

Well I highly doubt he’s gonna go take DWI cases in dade county Government seems to be rather addictive

jpeden1 hour ago

Based on the statement that I posted earlier I’d be very surprised if he did that. That type of statement doesn’t come out by accident or without him knowing about it.

JoeCamel1 hour ago

cough *scott* cough

ToTBellHop1 hour ago

He’s a term-limited governor who still sees a future POTUS in the mirror every morning. If he wants to be relevant enough to stage another campaign in 2028, he will want to be in Washington. And, if he never becomes POTUS, his “consolation” prize could be a 40-year career in the US senate since he’s still in his 40s. I’d be surprised if he doesn’t pick himself. Politicians want long-term jobs. That’s why so many former Governors become Senators.

Tom P.1 hour ago

How so? This is the constitutional and legal process for replacing sitting Senators. It has happened many, many times before. How is that a circus?

Stripes2 hours ago

To be clear, Disney is very happy with the current district board and particularly the new district administrator. They could not be more effusive in their praise for Kopelousos.

JohnD3 hours ago

I'm just saying she is more likely than himself. Not that he would appoint her. If he appointed someone already in office, then provisions would have to be made to fill that vacant position. She was only "elected" as a running mate. So easier to appoint her and appoint someone else to be Lt. Gov.

LAKid533 hours ago

Why would he appoint her? If it's not himself, I'd think he'd want someone within his inner circle.

JohnD3 hours ago

I think that's highly unlikely. More likely is the Lt. Gov. appointed Senator. As for relations, I think we're over that hurdle. Things have settled down. Seems "business as normal" to me.