Park and zoo officials asked the Michigan City Common Council on Aug. 19 for a supplemental appropriation from the park concession nonreverting fund to finish a capital upgrade to the Washington Park Zoo’s aviary — an exhibit staff said would allow year-round operation and reduce avian-flu and weather-related risks.

Shannon Eason, park superintendent, told the council the appropriation would come from existing cash balances and internal concession accounts; she said the request would not require additional citywide tax revenue. Zoo director Jamie Huss described the exhibit as one of the zoo’s most popular interactive displays, explaining that the current seasonal structure requires moving birds twice a year and closes in wet weather, and that “by having to enclose [the aviary]... it also can help increase revenue by making it a more off season exhibit.” Huss added that the aviary would meet USDA requirements and allow staff to reduce stress on the birds.

Council members and the public asked questions. One speaker made light-hearted remarks about birds; another asked for timing and details. After the presentation, the sponsor informed the council they were withdrawing the request for that meeting so the item can return on a future agenda; the ordinance was carried over to the next meeting for second reading and possible further cosponsors.

Ending: The council did not take final action on the requested appropriation on Aug. 19; staff said the project is near completion of engineering and that the funding request will be presented at a future meeting.