In an interview with the Orlando Business Journal, Disney Parks Chairman Josh D’Amaro commented on the recent government takeover of the Reedy Creek Improvement District by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Far from dismantling the special taxing district, Florida Republicans instead bestowed upon DeSantis the ability to hand-pick the five Board Members that will oversee the renamed Central Florida Tourism Oversight District. Here’s what D’Amaro had to say about the takeover:
The reality is we work with different people around the world at our different theme parks. So we know how to work with different people. For all those reasons, I have to look at the situation of where we are going — I believe in where we are going — and I hope the board sees the same.
If that new board understands the value that gets created here and how it positively impacts the Central Florida community, I think they will be aligned with our vision and will carry on the Reedy Creek soul that’s been in place.
Will there be noise on the outside? Will there be different points of view that we may not like? Sure.
…we are not going to get distracted.
Of course, the entire takeover of the Reedy Creek Improvement District was sparked by Disney’s public stance against DeSantis after then-CEO Bob Chapek originally wanted to stay quiet. That same stance hasn’t been publically reiterated by current leadership despite even more controversial bills being proposed in the Florida legislature.
Disney has chosen not to fight the takeover of the Reedy Creek Improvement District.
As always, keep checking back with us here at BlogMickey.com as we continue to bring you the latest news, photos, and info from around the Disney Parks!
You mean the state’s takeover. DeSantis is only the governor
DeSantis _is_ the state. As exemplified by his packing of the district board with cronies and donors.