Florida Board Accuses Disney of Bribing Previous Local Board with Gifts
Florida Board Accuses Disney of Bribing Previous Local Board with Gifts
The board appointed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to oversee Walt Disney’s theme parks accused the company of giving a previous local board and its employees millions of dollars’ worth of tickets, discounted hotel stays, merchandise, and other benefits that were “akin to bribes of public officials.”
Disney’s Treatment of District Employees
The report stated that for years, Disney treated district employees like Disney employees by providing complimentary annual passes and steep discounts, which were perceived as bribes. This led to the belief that the district’s employees prioritized the interests of Disney.
Establishment of Reedy Creek District
The state legislature established the Reedy Creek District in 1967 to support the development of Walt Disney World on 25,000 acres of land. It was created as a special purpose district to provide municipal services within a limited geography.
Report Findings and Reforms
The report found that the previous board was “inverted to serve Disney” and held voting control of the prior board of supervisors. The current board is not accusing the previous board of criminal activity but concluded that it was in need of reform.
Criticism from Disney and Future Legislation
Disney criticized the report as an “exercise in revisionist history” and stated that the report’s findings would factor into future legislation. However, Disney did not directly address the allegations in the report.
Collapsing Cooperation and Legal Disputes
Disney and Florida’s cooperation collapsed after Disney opposed a new state law, leading to legal disputes between the two parties. Disney sued Florida in federal court, claiming that the state government was punishing Disney for exercising its free speech rights.
Spending by Reedy Creek District
The report found that the Reedy Creek District spent tax money on employee perks, parties, and special events, including charges related to parties and celebrations by former District Administrator John Classe.
Disney’s Benefits and Expenses
The report claimed that Disney effectively “captured” the supervisors and district employees by “showering” them with gifts and lavish spending, including providing complimentary annual passes, discounts on cruises, hotel stays, merchandise, and food.
Conclusion
The allegations and legal disputes between Disney and the Florida government highlight the complex relationship between corporations and state authorities, raising questions about the influence of big companies on local governance.
