Amarillo City Council approves zoo lease with nonprofit

The Amarillo City Council unanimously approved a long-term lease allowing Amarillo Zoo & Sanctuary, Inc., a nonprofit formed by staff of the Wild West Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, to manage daily operations while the city retains ownership of the zoo, land and animals.

The Amarillo City Council voted unanimously to let Amarillo Zoo & Sanctuary, Inc. (AZS), a nonprofit created by staff at the Wild West Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, take over day-to-day management of the Amarillo Zoo. The decision follows months of discussion and strong public support as officials worked to avoid a possible shutdown. Under the agreement the city retains ownership of the zoo, the land and the animals while AZS focuses on conservation, education and community programming. AZS representatives said volunteers and staff training have been underway since December to prepare for the transition. Key details: - The lease payment is set at $1 per year; the initial term is 20 years with three optional five-year renewals, for a maximum of 35 years, contingent on lease compliance and accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums or the Zoological Association of America. - The city may provide up to $900,000 in grant funding over six fiscal years to assist during the transition; any payment is subject to annual appropriation and council discretion. - The city will continue to own the property and animals while AZS will manage daily operations with emphasis on conservation, education and community programming. - Existing education programs, including school field trips, camps and outreach, may only be altered with city council approval, and a veterinarian experienced with zoological species must be available for routine care and emergencies. - AZS said volunteers have been assisting at the zoo since December; six team members received training in Waco and the group has made connections with regional zoos and professionals. Summary: The agreement is intended to keep the Amarillo Zoo operating while moving management to a community-led nonprofit that plans upgrades, accreditation efforts and expanded programming. The city retains ownership and oversight, and any transition funding will depend on yearly budget decisions and council approvals. AZS has outlined steps such as comprehensive veterinary exams, procurement of new systems and pursuit of accreditation. Undetermined at this time.