Erie Zoological Society urges council to approve transfer to Erie Events as stakeholders press for financial plan

Leaders of the Erie Zoological Society and dozens of supporters told City Council that a proposed transfer of the Erie Zoo's stewardship to Erie Events offers a path to long-term stability, but council members said they need detailed plans and financial information before approving any transfer.

Ruka Jansi, president and CEO of the Erie Zoo, said the Zoological Society has cared for the zoo for more than 60 years and supported a partnership with Erie Events because that group manages regional public assets and can provide "stronger infrastructure, deeper investment and long term strategic support." Jansi said the society has operated "on a shoestring budget for decades" and backed a transition intended to preserve education, conservation and community programs.

Supporters in the audience, including volunteers and donors, urged swift action. "We believe the transitioning of ownership of the zoo from the city of Erie to Erie Events is the best path forward for us, to sustain long term stability, growth, and relevance in our community," Jansi said.

Councilmembers acknowledged the need to preserve the zoo but repeatedly said they required more detail before finalizing any transfer. Council President Witherspoon and other members asked for: a site plan and financial pro forma, a timeline and plan for reaccreditation of the zoo's exhibits, and additional clarity on what property is included in the proposed transfer.

Council President Schauff and Council President Pro Tem (remarks) described the request as covering roughly 106 acres and named specific properties the proposal would include: Glenwood Golf Course, the Flow Fabrizio Ice Rink, Glenwood Park (including pavilions and playground), the Horseshoe Courts, Marsh Street and property east of Glenwood Park Avenue. Council said it would convene additional meetings with Erie Events, the Zoological Society, county stakeholders and the administration to answer outstanding questions.

Separately, council advanced a related capital item on first reading: Council File 16-5-24, an ordinance appropriating $500,000 from unanticipated revenue for an otter exhibit upgrade at the zoo, a subgrantee project funded as a pass-through from a Pennsylvania RACP grant. The first reading was adopted on a 7-0 vote; final passage will require a subsequent full vote.

Council members and attendees emphasized urgency: several said the zoo is in "crisis mode" without a clear plan B. Council member Brzezinski urged a broad, regional convening and invited the county executive to participate. Councilmember Nelson and others said the council would meet soon with zoo board leadership; Councilmember Verity reported Jeff Beach, chair of the zoo board, had requested a meeting and that she planned to meet him in the coming days.

No final transfer vote occurred at the meeting. Council members directed staff and stakeholders to provide the requested financials, a timeline for accreditation steps, and operational plans before any transfer or final action.

The discussion followed multiple public comments earlier in the meeting supporting the zoo and urging community investment.