$2,000: Florida Ethics Panel Fines Kissimmee Mayor

The Florida Commission on Ethics approved a $2,000 civil fine and a public reprimand for Kissimmee Mayor Jackie Espinosa at its October 23 meeting. The commission voted unanimously to accept the joint resolution agreement, which also includes a formal censure for the mayor.

The ethics panel found that Espinosa violated Section 112.3137 of the Florida Statutes. The statute prohibits an official from having an employment or contractual relationship with an entity that does business with her agency. The ruling concludes a long-running dispute over the distribution of city funds during the pandemic.

This decision follows Espinosa’s arrest early Wednesday on charges of grand theft and fraud. Prosecutors allege she helped design and expand the City of Kissimmee's Business Boost 2.0 program while seeking grants for businesses linked to herself or her relatives. City staff had reportedly raised ethical concerns about the awards, which the mayor allegedly disregarded.

The arrest affidavit details how the $50,000 in grants was distributed. Four businesses renting space in a building owned by the mayor each received $10,000. Three separate grants totaling $50,000 went to businesses owned by Espinosa or her family. The Real Estate Gallery, owned by her husband, received $15,000. The Kissimmee Diner, which closed five months after receiving $15,000, was later replaced by a different business. Andanse LLC, owned by the mayor and leased to her and a family member, received the largest share at $20,000.

Lillian Evans, one of three individuals who filed formal ethics complaints against the mayor, argued the $2,000 penalty was too low. Evans attended the hearing but was prevented from speaking after a commissioner cut off her initial attempt. She told the commission that the city deserved accountability for the money taken from its residents.

Espinosa posted a $70,000 bond on Thursday night and was released from jail. She addressed reporters briefly, urging residents to vote on November 3 and assuring them that the city would be okay. Her legal team and husband have not yet responded to media inquiries regarding the arrest and allegations.

The city of Kissimmee stated that Espinosa remains mayor unless she resigns, is removed, or is suspended. The city charter does not explicitly define procedures for an arrested mayor. Governor Ron DeSantis holds the authority to remove an elected official from office, and his office has been contacted for comment on the situation.