E. Reports to Committee
Zoo Report
Staffing and General Operations - Zoo has had 97% retention rate over last 5 years
.6 Zookeeper FTE position filled internally, opens a 1.0 FTE Zookeeper position which
we can fill from last recruitment
.6 Zoo Attendant FTE positions still waiting on applicants from ER
Lead Vet Tech 1.0 FTE position also waiting on applicants from ER
Veterinarian 1.0 FTE position closes Friday 2/9/24
DEAI updates - Have filled some LET zoo attendant, clerk and vet tech positions, have
had success with more diverse recruitment and hirings. Education is partnering with the
Nelson Institute to host a one day Neurodivergent class funded by the Nelson institute.
Animal Welfare updates - Polar bear Bo was moved to Louisville. Smoothest and
fastest procedure and crating so far. He will be paired to breed with an orphan bear
from Alaska which if successful will be the first time and add new genetics to the polar
bear population which has less than 50 bears in the united states
Orangutan procedure this week.
We have two new female rock hyraxes, and a female red panda coming also a female
capy has come to be with our male.
Starting up with CLR in spring to do construction documents
Operations updates - AZA application for accreditation materials is due March 1st. We
prepare for this for over a year. It is a tremendous effort by our entire staff.
Fixing up capy and otter back holding and putting in some new doors throughout the
zoo
The safety committee is helping identify issues in the zoo to prioritize
Joseph met with the neighbors and these meetings are going well to continue
communication
Talked about finished Strategic plan and core values and how all staff worked on core
values and were part of process for strategic plan. Over 900 people filled out strategic
plan survey and all zoo commissioners were invited and/or contributed to the final
version.
Financial updates - Joseph will have 2023 year end numbers in March
F. Future Meeting Items and Dates
The next meeting will a hybrid meeting on March 5, 2024 starting at 8am.
G. Public Comment on Items not on the Agenda
None
H. Such Other Business as Allowed by Law
None
I. Adjourn
A motion was made by EVERS, seconded by JUSTUS, that the Zoo Commission
meeting be adjourned. The motion carried unanimously.
Respectfully submitted by Ronda Schwetz, pending approval from the Zoo Commission.
