The Detroit Zoo Seeks a Millage Renewal on the August Ballot
Are voters ready to extend a millage when many feel overburdened and over taxed?
On this August 2nd primary ballot, voters in Oakland, Macomb and Wayne will be asked whether to renew a 10-year millage for the Detroit Zoo. The millage extension would cost about $10 per home.
The millage currently provides the Detroit Zoo with one third of its current operating budget. Ron Kagan, executive director and CEO of the Detroit Zoo is quick to point out to that this would not raise the current tax.
The Detroit Zoo currently serves 1.5 million people per year. According to Kagan there has been an increase of 500,000 visitors in the past ten years.
In recent years the Detroit Zoo has built several high-profile exhibits such as the Arctic Ring of Life that allows for close encounters with polar bears, as well as this year’s grand opening of the new state-of-the-art penguin facility.
“This is not simply about having a wonderful place to visit… part of our mandate is to save wildlife from extinction,” says Kagan.
In addition to having over 30 conservation programs, The Detroit Zoo also operates the largest amphibian conservation program as well as the largest penguin conservation center in the world.
Click on the audio player above to hear the entire conversation with Ron Kagan.
