Home / Environment / Amarillo Zoo Saved by Nonprofit Deal
Amarillo Zoo Saved by Nonprofit Deal
11 Mar
Summary
- Amarillo Zoo will be managed by a nonprofit, Amarillo Zoo & Sanctuary, Inc.
- The lease agreement is for $1 per year, with a long-term lease of 20 years.
- The city may provide up to $900,000 in grant funding over six fiscal years.
The Amarillo Zoo has been granted a new lease on life through a partnership with Amarillo Zoo & Sanctuary, Inc. (AZS), a nonprofit organization established by the Wild West Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. This decision by the Amarillo City Council ensures the zoo's continued operation as a city-owned public asset.
Under the agreement, AZS will manage the zoo's daily operations, with a strong emphasis on conservation, education, and community programming. The city retains ownership of the land and animals, while AZS focuses on enhancements and modernization.
The financial terms include a symbolic lease payment of $1 per year for an initial 20-year term, with options for renewal. Additionally, the city plans to provide up to $900,000 in grant funding over six fiscal years to support the transition and improvements.
Stephanie Brady, founder of the Wild West Wildlife Rehabilitation Center and executive director of AZS, expressed optimism about the future. Plans include comprehensive veterinary exams, infrastructure updates, and the eventual expansion of enclosures, prioritizing animal welfare and enrichment. The goal is to minimize operational downtime and continue providing a positive experience for visitors.
