Second chance for Elgin zoo

Supporters of the Lords Park Zoo in Elgin bought themselves a little more time Wednesday to find ways to help pay for and keep three bison, four elk and seven deer beyond the end of 2009.

City leaders, who must cut $4 million in expenses by the end of the year, didn't make any promises to keep the zoo afloat but said they were willing to listen.

The Friends of the Lords Park Zoo now have time to form a not-for-profit group, pursue grants and secure donations to help pay for the maintenance and upkeep for the next five years.

In the spring, city officials scaled back the petting zoo component at the zoo, a move that saved about $30,000.

They are considering moving the larger bison, elk and deer to other locations in an effort to save $80,000.

Elgin Mayor Ed Schock said city officials didn't expect the group to pay for 100 percent of the costs.

"If it's something we can live with I think we'll make every effort to keep it open," he said.

About 30 people showed their support for the zoo at Wednesday's council meeting.

"These animals are the city of Elgin's pets," said resident Candy Renard. "Our responsibility to them should outweigh this temporary budget problem."

The city has used early retirement, layoffs, higher fees and cut some festival spending, including the July 4 fireworks, in an effort to control costs.

Councilman David Kaptain said a lot of residents were disappointed that the city axed the fireworks without giving businesses and residents a chance to raise money to keep the display.

"I didn't feel that we gave the public a chance to respond and raise funds. I don't want that to happen again," he said. "They deserve a chance to do that."

Other council members said they wanted to look at the zoo's future in the context of larger budget cuts, which likely will be discussed in October.

"We have to make some serious cuts," said Councilman Robert Gilliam.

For more information, visit lordsparkfarmzoo.org.

Zoo: Talk on larger budget cuts coming in October