The following is the author’s opinion and analysis: My relationship with Reid Park dates back to when I was fortunate enough to work with Gene Reid on my student project that led to the creation of the Rose Garden in the 1960s. In the years that followed, I watched the Reid Park Zoo grow from Randolph Children’s Zoo to a nationally respected leader in conservation and education.
As a businessman and philanthropist, I am proud to serve on the board of directors of the Reid Park Zoological Society. A key role society plays is the careful use of every dollar it receives, especially voter-approved tax revenues. These funds are and will continue to be used to ensure that Reid Park Zoo meets the highest standards of animal care and conservation education while providing a safe and engaging natural area for families to interact with animals and with each other. Here are the highlights of how your tax dollars have been used over the past few years:
A full-time vet was hired and a state-of-the-art health clinic opened. The clinic is a teaching hospital for University of Arizona veterinary students who work with the zoo’s veterinary team for hands-on experience.
Outdated infrastructure has been repaired to improve guest safety and animal comfort: broken handrails have been replaced, windows and nets have been updated, filter systems for healthy water have been upgraded, and features such as more shade for living spaces have been added. These repairs help the zoo provide the best of life for our animals and are critical to maintaining its AZA accreditation.
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