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Future of Your Zoo:
Propositions 202 and 203

City of Tucson Election November 7

Prop 202 & 203 is a citizen’s initiative to bring new animals and naturalistic habitats to the Zoo as well as repair and replace aging infrastructure in Reid Park Zoo.  This initiative would also provide critical funding for animal care and operational needs at Reid Park Zoo.

Don’t forget to drop off your ballot by Tuesday, November 7.

 

FAQ’s About Prop 202 & 203

Why are there two separate propositions?

Two separate ballot items must pass in order for the measures to take effect and are needed to accomplish a single goal:

1. Prop 202 measure authorizes a temporary (ten-year) increase in the sales tax and the creation of a dedicated fund for the Zoo in the City Charter
2. Prop 203 amends the City Code to implement the temporary sales tax increase.

What new features would be built if this passes?

The Zoo has a well-developed, bold ten-year master plan that includes larger, improved habitats to bring new species to Tucson for visitors to be amazed by. This also includes a hippo habitat, a new larger tiger habitat and a tropical discovery center featuring reptiles, amphibians, small mammals, and fish. This plan will give Tucson the great Zoo we truly deserve.

Additional features in the plan include an African safari lodge with opportunities for indoor seating and events, a tree-top playground where children could crawl in tree-top tunnels alongside lemurs, interactive feeding experience with tropical birds and more.

How would school children benefit?

This funding would provide free school field trips for all K-12 schools and will ensure that Reid Park Zoo can remain affordable for families to visit. Tucson families and children will continue to enjoy the Zoo as a safe, accessible, comfortable place to be outdoors for learning and wellbeing. This plan includes upgraded comfort for guests with improved gardens, new shade structures, and climate-controlled facilities.

Can these funds be used for any other purpose?

No, these funds are restricted for capital improvements, operations, and maintenance of Reid Park Zoo and cannot be diverted for any other purpose.

Who’s behind the campaign?

Reid Park Zoological Society, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and advocating for Reid Park Zoo, is the primary sponsor of the campaign and is also the primary contributor to the campaign committee.

Why was this put together?

Reid Park Zoo is part of the City of Tucson’s Park & Recreation Department. The Zoo is 50 years old. Years of tight municipal budgets, cuts in staffing and delayed capital improvements has the Zoo at a critical juncture, with repair and replacement needs now reaching critical levels. Major improvements must be made to meet modern zoo standards and improve the quality of life for our animals. Without these improvements, the Reid Park Zoo could lose its national accreditation and long-term ability to house certain species.

Have any other zoos done this?

Yes, supporters of this initiative are using Fresno, California as a model. Fresno Chaffee Zoo leaders have shared the great improvements and positive reception from the public with changes since the passage of ‘Measure Z’.

In addition, Kansas City and Albuquerque have recently passed sales-tax initiatives to support their zoos and many other locations such as San Diego, St. Louis and Chicago have had dedicated tax streams for their local zoos in place for decades.

How much is the sales tax? 

The proposed sales tax is one-tenth of one percent for ten years. This is an estimated cost of sixty-cents per month, only $7.20 per year, that would ensure the Future of Your Zoo.

 

 

 

 

 

For more information: visit www.futureofyourzoo.com