ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — The Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, which has undergone significant changes since being taken over by Gov. Ron DeSantis’ appointees, saw the departure of its board chairman on Wednesday. Martin Garcia, who had been openly critical of Disney, stepped down from his position.
Garcia’s exit follows the recent departure of the district’s administrator, Glen Gilzean, who accepted an appointment by DeSantis as interim elections supervisor in Orange County. This move came at half of Gilzean’s previous salary of $400,000.
There was no response from Martin Garcia when asked for comment on his departure.
In a statement, DeSantis’ communications director, Bryan Griffin, expressed gratitude towards Garcia for successfully overseeing the transition of the district from a Disney-supported governing body to one controlled by DeSantis’ appointees.
Griffin mentioned that Garcia had focused on transparency and eliminating corporate welfare within the district.
DeSantis also recommended Stephanie Kopelousos, a former senior advisor, to be appointed as the district’s new administrator. Kopelousos previously served in various capacities in Florida governors’ administrations.
Griffin stated, “We are pleased to have her lead the District as it enters a new phase in ensuring fairness and transparency for businesses operating in Central Florida.”
Since the change in leadership last year, the district has experienced staff turnover and legal challenges. The district provides essential services such as firefighting and planning and was traditionally controlled by Disney supporters for many years.
The conflict between DeSantis and Disney escalated in 2022 when Disney publicly opposed a state law known as “Don’t Say Gay.” This law prohibited discussions on sexual orientation and gender identity in early grades and was supported by DeSantis. As a result, DeSantis took control of the district through legislative action and appointed a new board of supervisors.
Disney filed a lawsuit against DeSantis and his appointees, alleging violation of their free speech rights. The lawsuit was dismissed by a federal judge in January, with Disney appealing the decision.
Another lawsuit regarding the control of the district is still ongoing in state court in Orlando.
This week, a settlement was reached between Florida education officials and civil rights groups regarding the “Don’t Say Gay” legislation. While the law remains in effect, the agreement clarifies that it does not prohibit discussions on LGBTQ+ topics or prevent anti-bullying measures based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
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Mike Schneider, The Associated Press
