In a surprising development this November, Walt Disney World Resort has installed a new tribute to the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District at Magic Kingdom Park. This municipal area spans the former Reedy Creek Improvement District, which Disney had controlled since 1967.
The Central Florida Tourism Oversight District Takes Over
The Reedy Creek Improvement District gave Disney authority over the development and operation of its parks, hotels, and other resort offerings in Central Florida. However, after a public dispute between former Disney CEO Bob Chapek and Governor DeSantis, the Florida government moved to dismantle the district, leading to the formation of the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District.
Governor DeSantis’s push for this change came in the wake of Disney’s outspoken opposition to the Parental Rights in Education Act, which critics dubbed the “Don’t Say Gay” law. The fallout from Disney’s public stance sparked a series of legislative changes that fundamentally altered the governance of Walt Disney World Resort. Following the dissolution of Reedy Creek, DeSantis appointed a new board to oversee the area, taking control of the district that once gave Disney significant autonomy.
Disney’s Response
In the months following the changes, Disney attempted to sue DeSantis for retaliating against constitutionally protected free speech. However, a federal judge dismissed the case.
Ever since, Disney has largely maintained its neutral stance, remaining quiet on matters related to DeSantis. However, a recent update issued by Walt Disney World Resort seems to signal a shift in how the company is positioning itself in the wake of the governance changes.
According to BlogMickey, Disney has installed a tribute to the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District Fire Department inside Magic Kingdom Park. The tribute, a barrel labeled “Fire Chief Eric Ferrari, Lost Boys Fire Brigade,” has been installed in Fantasyland near the Peter Pan’s Flight and Prince Charming Regal Carrousel attractions.
Fantasyland Prop Updated with New Central Florida Tourism Oversight District Fire Chief
Fantasyland Prop Updated with New Central Florida Tourism Oversight District Fire Chief
byu/dejablu82 inWaltDisneyWorld
While Disney has not made a direct statement about the tribute or its significance, the move signals a certain level of acknowledgment towards the district that now oversees the land where Walt Disney World Resort sits.
Reaction from Fans
The update has sparked a mix of reactions among Disney Parks fans, many of whom have expressed frustration with the growing influence of the state government over Disney’s operations.
“The district is still a ridiculous name,” said Reddit user u/TheRealFiremonkey. “It’ll always be RCID to me.”
Do you call the municipality that encompasses Walt Disney World Resort the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District or the Reedy Creek Improvement District? Disney Fanatic would love to hear from you in the comments!
