Florida Ethics Panel Censures Mayor Espinosa Over Grant Conflicts

The Florida Commission on Ethics approved a $2,000 fine for Kissimmee Mayor Jackie Espinosa on Friday.

The commission voted unanimously to accept a joint resolution agreement. This action formally censors Espinosa and resolves a case involving city grant funds. The panel cited a violation of state law regarding conflicts of interest.

The fine comes three days after Espinosa was arrested. State investigators charged her with grand theft and fraud. The charges involve $50,000 in grants from the city's Business Boost 2.0 program. These funds went to businesses owned by the mayor and her relatives.

City records reviewed by FOX 35 Orlando show how the money was distributed. Four businesses in a building owned by the mayor received $10,000 each. Three other grants totaled $50,000. Her husband's business, The Real Estate Gallery, received $15,000. The Kissimmee Diner received $15,000 before closing five months later. Andanse LLC, a company owned by the mayor, received $20,000.

Espinosa was released from jail after posting a $70,000 bond on Thursday night. She told reporters that the incident required voters to go to the polls on November 3. She said the constituents of Kissimmee would be okay. The mayor and her husband did not respond to follow-up requests for comment.

Lillian Evans, one of three complainants, attended the Friday hearing. She told the commission in a letter that the fine was too lenient. A commissioner cut off her attempt to speak during the meeting. Evans said she felt relief that the city was addressing the issue. She stated that the mayor needs to pay for what she did with the city's money.

The city said Espinosa remains mayor unless she resigns or is removed. The city charter does not specify what happens when a mayor is arrested. Governor Ron DeSantis has the authority to remove elected officials. His office has not yet announced a decision on her position.