The Florida Commission on Ethics announced Wednesday that there is probable cause to believe Kissimmee Mayor Jackie Espinosa and her family illegally received funds from a city grant program. The finding follows an investigation into the Business Boost 2.0 initiative, which was funded by federal pandemic money launched in September 2025. According to the commission's press release, three businesses linked to Espinosa collected $50,000 through this specific program.
Deadlock on Impeachment Proceedings
This state-level finding comes shortly after a contentious local political battle. Last month, the Kissimmee City Commission took up the same issue during a special meeting attended by more than 150 residents. The commission was deadlocked in a 2-2 vote regarding whether to proceed with articles of impeachment against Espinosa, who was elected in 2024. Because of this tie, no action was taken at that time, leaving the mayor in office while state ethics officials continued their review.
Specific Allegations and Legal Timeline
The probable cause finding stems from a closed-door meeting held on Aug. 28 by the commission. While Espinosa’s office did not immediately respond to requests for comment, she previously acknowledged in interviews that her businesses received city grant money but denied any wrongdoing. The ethics order gives Espinosa until Sept. 16 to request a public hearing on these specific allegations.
Separate Complaint Dismissed
In a separate complaint filed against the mayor, the commission found no probable cause regarding an allegation that she failed to report a gift over $100. The press release stated that Espinosa merely "had disclosed the gift on the wrong form, based on the advice of the City Attorney." This distinction highlights the specific nature of the current ethics violation findings compared to other administrative errors, a story we covered in Florida Attorney General Investigates Fauci Over Pandemic Claims.
Background from Special Prosecutor Report
The probe began after complaints were filed by Kissimmee residents in March. A July 23 report by Special Prosecutor Mayanne Downs found probable cause that Espinosa violated city ethics codes by participating in official actions to fund and expand the grant program while her family businesses collected money from it. The report noted that Espinosa claimed she was only warned not to take the funds after they were already disbursed.
Mayor's Response
Espinosa announced on social media prior to the commission’s decision that she would speak out on the allegations, stating, "So much will be revealed. Timing is our best ally." However, she indicated she would only speak with select reporters rather than holding a traditional press conference, citing concerns about sensationalism overshadowing her position.
