In Tallahassee, Florida, a former state employee, James Gaddis, who disclosed information regarding proposed developments of golf courses and hotels in the state parks, has allegedly been terminated from his position. Despite his dismissal, Gaddis, self-identified as an “ethical whistleblower,” expressed no regrets about bringing the plans to the public’s attention, as reported by the Palm Beach Post. Gaddis stated, “I just happen to be a guy in the middle of all this and the clock was ticking, and I figured someone has to step up to the plate and stop the madness.”
Working as a cartographer at the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Gaddis claimed he was instructed to create conceptual maps for projects such as building golf courses, pickleball courts, 350-room hotels, and more at nine state parks spanning from Miami to the Panhandle. Feeling uneasy about developing expansive infrastructures in Florida’s unique and environmentally significant areas, Gaddis reached a breaking point. He described his discomfort while mapping out the proposals for developments in delicate habitats, some of which hold global rarity.
Gaddis detailed his decision to compile a summary of the plans on his work computer and disseminate the information, which ultimately led to public outrage and demonstrations against the proposals. Subsequently, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection withdrew the contentious plans under mounting pressure. Governor Ron DeSantis criticized the initiative, deeming it as “half-baked” and “not ready for prime time.”
Following the disclosure of the information, Gaddis was placed on administrative leave on August 30th, receiving a dismissal letter the next day for violating departmental policies. The Department of Environmental Protection spokesperson did not offer a statement in response to inquiries.
Gaddis, a single father to an 11-year-old, has garnered support and praise on social media platforms for his actions, with opponents of the development plans hailing him as a hero. A GoFundMe campaign established by Gaddis has surpassed $100,000 in donations as of Tuesday afternoon. His annual salary, based on a state salary database, is listed at $49,346.04.
