Employees Still Arguing with DeSantis Board Over Disney World Passes

Employees were set to receive a cash stipend as a replacement for the Central Florida Tourist Oversight District stripping away annual pass privileges. Here is the latest.

CFTOD

When the state of Florida dismantled the Reedy Creek Improvement District, they replaced it with the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District (CFTOD for short). Essentially, it is now the governing body for Disney World.

Any new construction, laws, or amendments Disney wants to make will now have to go through the CFTOD.

Of course, with Disney no longer its own governing body, some issues have popped up. This is not at all surprising, especially when you consider that the five board members were all appointed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.

Removal of Benefits

Recently, the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District submitted a referral to the Florida Inspector General regarding millions of dollars’ worth of perks and benefits that the former Disney-controlled Reedy Creek Improvement District funneled back to Disney.

Disney sent the CFTOD a bill for $492,382.96 for “Q1 FY22 Tickets.” That is not including merchandise, tickets, and hotel discounts. In the past, Disney used tax-payer money to provide RCID employee (NOT Disney Cast Members) benefits like season passes and merchandise/food/hotel discounts.

Many members of Reedy Creek services spoke out against the removal of their benefits. They cited that this new change is a “low blow” to the district’s public servants.

Replacement

Moving forward, the district will give employees a stipend of $3,000. This stipend can then be used to purchase annual passes if desired. They will issue it 90 days from the date of hire after the probationary period and then again annually.

However, some unionized members do not agree with the number of $3,000. In fact, they believe the number is closer to $5,000 per year. Not only did it include an annual pass for the employee, but also the spouse and up to three guests. Plus, it included substantial discounts on hotels and food.

“Under the current contract, the district cannot provide additional benefits without renegotiating the contract,” said Alexei Woltornist, a district spokesman. “Contract negotiations are currently underway, and we cannot comment further at this time.”

Do you think these union members will receive the full $5,000? Let us know in the comments below and share this post with a friend.

Source: Orlando Sentinel