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Gov. DeSantis, Disney Expected to Reach Agreement In Reedy Creek Debacle

by
Sonu Shukla
on
9/25/2022
Gov. DeSantis, Disney Expected to Reach Agreement In Reedy Creek Debacle

In recent months, Florida residents have found themselves embroiled in the battle over the Reedy Creek Improvement District. 

The District’s official website shares the following information about its operations:

…[Reedy Creek is] a progressive form of government, created in 1967 by a special Act of the Florida Legislature, the purpose of which is to support and administer certain aspects of the economic development and tourism within District boundaries. 

The District encompasses the entirety of Walt Disney World Resort, overseeing land use and environmental protections, and providing fire protection, emergency medical services, potable water production, treatment, storage, pumping & distribution, reclaimed water distribution, chilled and hot water systems, wastewater services, drainage and flood control, electric power generation & distribution, and waste disposal.

The District also regulates the EPCOT Building Code.

In April 2022, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill that would dismantle Disney’s special tax district. At the time, The Washington Post noted that “Disney said its goal as a company was for the law to be repealed or struck down — a statement that infuriated DeSantis.”

DeSantis and the entertainment company were already at odds over the controversial HB 1557 bill, with many believing the Republican governor intentionally went after the House of Mouse. 

Now, however, on the heels of Florida’s November 8 gubernatorial election, it seems that DeSantis and House Republicans may be backing away from fully dismantling Reedy Creek. 

According to Rep. Daniel Perez (R-Miami), who is expected to become Speak of the House next year, Disney and the state government are approaching a solution to satisfy all parties. He recently told Orlando NBC affiliate WPTV:

"The one thing that I can tell the audience is that the conversations of Reedy Creek have always been there, and they're still continuing today. We'll try to put a bow to that conversation in the near future," he said. "As for the timetable on that, it's still uncertain. But the conversations have continued. There is some progress to be made, but we will definitely, I think, we'll reach a solution sometime soon."

After months of drama for both Orange County, Florida residents and Disney fans around the world, it seems that a conclusion to the Reedy Creek debacle might finally be in sight, putting an end to the potential tax problems the proposed dismantlement could cause for locals. 

What do you think about Reedy Creek?

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Sonu Shukla

Sonu Shukla

Sonu Shukla is a CPA, accountant, and tax preparer based in Orlando, FL. Sonu Shukla can assist you with your tax preparation and planning needs. Sonu is more than just another accountant in Orlando, Florida; he is a small business owner himself. It is a position in life that grants him the perspective and insight to emphasize with his clients, bringing them the best service possible. A Certified Public Accountant and a Certified Financial Planner, Sonu possesses the skills, education and experience to demonstrate unerring business acumen and passionately planned financial strategies. Being proactive is key for Sonu, tailoring highly efficient tax plans for his small business clients, all in a one on one environment where he and the client can bounce ideas around until every detail is worked out.

SONU SHUKLA, CPA, P.A.
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