Former State Employee Fired for Leaking Plans to Develop Florida State Parks
Former Florida state employee, James Gaddis, has made headlines after being fired for leaking information about controversial plans to build golf courses and hotels in the state’s pristine parks. Gaddis, who described himself as an “ethical whistleblower,” said he felt compelled to make the public aware of the proposals, despite facing consequences for his actions.
Working as a cartographer for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Gaddis was tasked with drawing up conceptual maps for the development plans, which included building golf courses, pickleball courts, 350-room hotels, and more in nine state parks across Florida. The proposals sparked outrage and protests, leading to Governor Ron DeSantis calling the initiative “half-baked” and withdrawing the plans.
After leaking the information, Gaddis was placed on administrative leave and subsequently fired for violating department policies. Despite the repercussions, Gaddis has been hailed as a hero on social media, with a GoFundMe page raising over $100,000 to support him and his 11-year-old child.
The incident has shed light on the importance of whistleblowers in holding government agencies accountable and protecting the environment. Gaddis’ actions have sparked a conversation about the balance between development and conservation in Florida’s natural habitats.
