Martin Garcia is the Latest Administrator to Exit the CFTOD
As the special district celebrates its one-year anniversary, changes continue to be afoot at the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District (CFTOD).
Last week, district administrator Glen Gilzean left his post after being appointed by the Orange County Supervisor of Elections. Then, earlier this week, Ron DeSantis tapped his long-time adviser, Stephanie Kopelousos, to replace Gilzean.
Photo: Florida Chamber of Commerce
Now, Martin Garcia, who has served as chairman of the CFTOD, is also leaving the special district.
DeSantis Thanks Garcia For His Service on the CFTOD
While neither Garcia nor the CFTOD responded to requests for comment, Bryan Griffen, a spokesman for the governor, thanked Garcia for his service.
Photo: Scott Gustin on Twitter
“We thank and greatly appreciate Martin Garcia for his full year of service to the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, having successfully navigated the transition from the former Reedy Creek District and developed a new district focused on transparency and the elimination of corporate welfare,” Griffin said in an email.
Garcia was initially appointed to his position on the CFTOD board in February 2023. His term was set to run through 2027.
Photo: Fox News
Unlike Gilzean, who was being paid a $400,000 annual salary for his work as the CFTOD administrator, Garcia’s role on the board was unpaid.
Update on Gilzean
Speaking of Gilzean, the long-time DeSantis ally told Spectrum News 13 that he plans to resign from the district on a “seamless transition.” The administrator refused to speculate how long that process could take as he didn’t want to “get ahead of the board.”
Ron DeSantis and Glen Gilzean. Photo: Central Florida Urban League
The task of filling Garcia’s spot on the CFTOD board will now fall to DeSantis. Any nominee by the governor will then have to be approved by the legislature.
