Disney and a Central Florida tourism board, supported by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, have settled a lawsuit concerning control over the special governing district encompassing the Walt Disney World Resort.
Members of the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District voted to approve the settlement, marking the conclusion of a nearly two-year-long legal battle.
“We are glad that Disney has dropped its lawsuits against the new Central Florida Tourism Oversight District and conceded that their last-minute development agreements are null, void, and unenforceable,” said Bryan Griffin, DeSantis’ communications director. “No corporation should be its own government. Moving forward, we stand ready to work with Disney and the District to help promote economic growth, family-friendly tourism, and accountable government in Central Florida.”
The dispute originated from Disney’s opposition to Florida’s Parental Rights in Education Act, commonly known as the “Don’t Say Gay” bill, leading the DeSantis administration to revoke the special Disney-controlled tax district granting the company autonomy over its theme parks in the area.
“We are pleased to put an end to all litigation pending in state court in Florida between Disney and the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District,” stated Walt Disney World President Jeff Vahle.
“This agreement opens a new chapter of constructive engagement with the new leadership of the district and serves the interests of all parties by enabling significant continued investment and the creation of thousands of direct and indirect jobs and economic opportunity in the State,” Vahle added.
The settlement concludes all ongoing litigation between Disney and the board in Florida state court.
The board, appointed by DeSantis in the new Central Florida Tourism Oversight District following the dissolution of the Disney-controlled Reedy Creek Improvement District, filed a lawsuit last year to invalidate agreements favoring Disney made by the former board.
“The Central Florida Tourism Oversight District was created to bring public accountability and transparency to one of Florida’s most important destinations,” stated the board’s vice chair Charbel Barakat. “We’re proud of the landmark work the District has accomplished and look forward to what lies ahead. With this agreement, we’re eager to work with Disney and other businesses within Central Florida to make our destination known for world-class attractions and accountable governance.”