Central Florida Tourism Oversight District Board Member Michael Sasso Resigns
After less than four months on the job, Central Florida Tourism Oversight District board member Michael Sasso has resigned from his position.
Sasso was appointed to the board by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis at the end of February 2023. Since then, the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District (CFTOD) has been steeped in controversy. Disney and DeSantis continue to battle over control of the special district.
Photo: Washington Examiner
Pending Litigation
In fact, in his capacity as a CFTOD board member, Sasso is being sued by the Walt Disney Company along with the rest of the board and Governor DeSantis.
Disney has argued that DeSantis decision to dissolve the Reedy Creek Improvement District was retaliatory, and thus unconstitutional. Additionally, Disney is seeking to enforce the binding agreements that it made with Reedy Creek in the waning days of that district’s existence. Those agreements gave Disney control over their land in Florida in perpetuity.
Photo: Fox Business
Subsequently, the CFTOD nullified the aforementioned agreements, arguing that they were unlawful.
The Reason For Sasso’s Resignation
Although mired in political controversy, Sasso’s resignation has little to do with the Disney lawsuit.
Instead, the board member is likely leaving his post because his wife Judge Meredith Sasso has been appointed to serve on the state Supreme Court.
With litigation between DeSantis and Disney still pending in state court, it is possible that Sasso resigned to avoid a conflict of interest.
With Sasso’s exit from the CFTOD, Governor Ron DeSantis will have to appoint a new board member. Sasso’s term was not set to expire until February 2027.
Photo: The Wall Street Journal
As always, continue to check back in with MickeyBlog. We will continue to update you on any news surrounding the former Reedy Creek Improvement District.
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