Cameron Park Zoo Bond Resolution

October 22, 2019

Cameron Park Zoo Bond Resolution

WHEREAS, the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce is charged with strengthening, growing, and diversifying the regional economy, and attracting and retaining talented, creative individuals, and

WHEREAS, communities offering a high quality of life enjoy a competitive advantage in retaining and growing their existing businesses and industries, attracting new business investment, and attracting and retaining talented, creative individuals, and

WHEREAS, community assets like the Cameron Park Zoo play a critical role in enhancing the livability of our community, thus complementing efforts to strengthen, grow, and diversify our regional economy and attract and retain talented, creative individuals, and

WHEREAS, the Cameron Park Zoo opened in 1993 and currently features 1,628 animals and 70 exhibits on 52 acres in beautiful Cameron Park, and

WHEREAS, the Cameron Park Zoo attracted 361,000 visitors in 2018, making it the second most popular local tourist attraction, and

WHEREAS, since its opening, Cameron Park Zoo has attracted more than 4.9 million guests, with 51% of these guests coming from over 50 miles away, generating more than $13 million dollars in spending in the local economy, and

WHEREAS, the proposed $14.5 million dollar bond will fund a new, state-of-the-art Education and Veterinary Complex that will meet the immediate and future needs of the zoo and feature facilities, equipment, and services required for the very best in animal healthcare and welfare, and innovative technology to maximize learning and entertainment potential including live-streaming veterinary procedures, conservation messages from in situ scientists, and augmented reality or other interactive forms of video entertainment; the remodeling of the Hoofstock Barn, an AZA requirement; a remodeling of the commissary; and, the addition of a new exhibit featuring one of the most fascinating and popular animals in the world – the African Black Footed Penguin, and

WHEREAS, with previous bonds rolling off, the bond would be tax neutral, meaning there will be no additional tax impact for homeowners; residents will not see an increase in property taxes;

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce supports the Cameron Park Zoo bond and encourages the citizens of McLennan County to vote in favor of the bond.

Adopted this 16th day of October, 2019 by the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.