Feb. 28--Orange County lawmakers agreed Wednesday to support an effort by Reedy Creek Improvement District firefighters to gain a measure of leverage over the Walt Disney World-controlled government.
The county's legislative delegation voted unanimously to send a bill to Tallahassee that would require both the Reedy Creek firefighters' union and district management to abide by recommendations of an independent mediator whenever contract negotiations reach an impasse.
While both sides are currently required to use a mediator when contract talks stall, the subsequent recommendations are not binding. The final authority instead rests with Reedy Creek's board of supervisors, whose members are all hand-picked by Disney. Reedy Creek firefighters lack any ability to influence board elections.
"What's special about Reedy Creek is that our public employees don't get that final check and balance," said Rep. Joe Saunders, D-Orlando.
The measure which will now head to the full state Legislature, faces a much tougher road in Tallahassee. Disney says it has not yet taken a position on the legislation, though it has not ruled out doing so in coming weeks.
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