Governor Ron DeSantis’ appointees approved a final agreement on Wednesday that resolves differences between Disney and the governing district of Walt Disney World. The conflict arose two years ago when Disney publicly opposed a state law critics called “Don’t Say Gay.”
The five board members appointed by DeSantis to the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District unanimously supported a 15-year development deal. In this agreement, the district commits to infrastructure improvements in exchange for Disney investing up to $17 billion in Disney World over the next 20 years.
In March, both parties agreed to halt litigation and focus on negotiating a new development agreement and comprehensive plan by next year.
Before DeSantis’ appointees took over, the district, which handles services like firefighting and planning, was under Disney supporters’ control.
Hector Hernandez flings cups of water on kids (Via Jim Moore/Getty Images)
Board member Brian Aungst stated at the meeting that the agreement establishes a stable framework for Disney and the board to collaborate effectively.
“This is a milestone we’ve all been anticipating,” Aungst remarked. “I remained very optimistic and confident we would reach this point because it was the right outcome.”
As part of the deal, Disney will contribute up to 100 acres of its vast property for district-controlled infrastructure projects. Additionally, the company must allocate at least half of its construction contracts to Florida-based firms and invest a minimum of $10 million in affordable housing in central Florida.
