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Supervisor Daly introduces ordinance to reframe San Francisco Zoo as rescue‑focused facility and add oversight committee
Summary
Supervisor Daly introduced an ordinance to reclassify the San Francisco Zoo as a facility primarily for rescued wildlife and to create a zoo animal‑welfare oversight advisory committee; proponents cited recent animal welfare incidents and called for stronger accountability of the Zoological Society under the existing lease.
Supervisor Daly introduced draft legislation proposing an amendment to the Park Code to establish the San Francisco Zoo as a facility that “primarily houses rescued wildlife, domestic and exotic animals” and to create a Zoo Animal Welfare Oversight Advisory Committee to advise the Department of Recreation and Parks.
Daly framed the proposal as a response to a series of animal‑welfare incidents at the zoo and described structural oversight gaps in the current management arrangement. The draft would require the city to review the five‑year lease extension and to form an advisory committee to engage Recreation and Parks on ongoing welfare and management concerns. Daly said the measure aims to ensure the zoo’s mission and operations better protect animal welfare and reduce risks that have previously led to high‑profile events requiring board action.
The proposal was introduced for future committee consideration; Supervisor Daly said he expected a “spirited” public debate and pledged hearings on institutional responsibilities and the lease’s terms. Supporters in public comment reiterated concerns about enclosure quality and the zoo’s management. The Board did not take a final vote at this meeting; the item was introduced and referred to committee for detailed review.
