The Orlando Business Journal reported that Walt Disney World Parks & Resorts and the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District have settled a legal dispute filed last year in state court.
An email sent from Walt Disney World Communications on March 27 included a statement from President Jeff Vahle of Walt Disney World Resort:
“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. 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.”
Earlier this year, Judge Allen Winsor dismissed a federal lawsuit that Disney filed against Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis that alleged DeSantis retaliated against Disney by restructuring the Reedy Creek District after former Disney CEO Bob Chapek publicly criticized a controversial parental rights and school transparency law that was misnomered the “Don’t Say Gay” bill.
Winsor ruled that Disney lacked legal standing to sue DeSantis and the secretary of Florida’s Commerce Department for political retaliation.
In related news, earlier today, Gov. DeSantis announced the appointment of Craig Mateer to the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District. Mateer, of Orlando, is the founder of CCM Capital Group and was the founder and owner of Bags, Inc., which he sold to a publicly-held company in 2018. He was named the 2014 “CEO of the Year” by the Orlando Business Journal. Mateer earned his bachelor’s degree from Florida State University.
This appointment is subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.
