Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has appointed Craig Mateer to the board of the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District. This is the district where most of Walt Disney World Resort resides. Mateer replaces Martin Garcia, who resigned as chairman of the board earlier this month. Under Florida state law, the governor now appoints members to the board of directors for the former Reedy Creek Improvement District.
Mateer is the founder and CEO of CCM Capital Group. This is a company that focuses on hospitality, real estate, and logistics services. He was also the founder of the luggage handling business Bags Inc. In 2018, he sold this business for $275 million.
The Central Florida Tourism Oversight District board is set to meet on Wednesday. During this meeting, they will be discussing hiring a replacement for former administrator Glen Gilzean. Gilzean was appointed as the interim Orange County elections supervisor by Governor DeSantis. The Governor is also recommending Stephanie Kopelousos to replace Gilzean. Gilzean earned $400,000 in the role.
Mateer was previously appointed by Governor DeSantis to the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority in March 2021 and a year later he was appointed to the Florida Board of Governors. Mateer is a graduate of Florida State University and also a generous donor to Governor DeSantis’ campaigns for both governor and president. He also donates to the Florida Republican Party.
Governor DeSantis announced Mateer’s appointment to the board with a press release on Tuesday night. The appointment will require Senate approval.
