HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-08-09 PARC CommitteePARC Committee
2009 South Bend Cammon Council
The June 8, 2009 meeting of the PARC Committee was called to order by its Chairperson, Council
Member Ann Puzzello at 4:31 p.m. in the Council Informal Meeting Room.
Persons in attendance included Council Members Dieter, Henry Davis, Jr., LaFountain, Puzzello,
Varner, Oliver J. Davis, Rouse and White; Mayor Stephen J. Luecke, Public Works Director Gary
Gilot, City Controller M. Catherine Fanello, Potawatomi Zoo Director Terry DeRosa, Marty
Wolfson, Martha Lewis, Rita Kopola, and Council Attorney Kathleen Cekanski-Farrand.
Council Member Puzzello noted that the Committee consists of Council Members Rouse, Oliver J.
Davis, Kirsits and herself, and that Martha Lewis is a citizen member.
Update on the Potawatomi Zoo:
Council Member Puzzello introduced Potawatomi Zoo Director Terry DeRosa. She noted that in
light of the upcoming review by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) of the Potawatomi
Zoo, she thought it would be important for the Committee to have an update on the improvements
and upgrades made to the zoo my Mr. DeRoasa.
Mr. DeRosa noted that the AZA was founded in 1924, and is dedicated to the advancement of
accredited zoos and aquariums in the areas of animal care, wildlife conservation, education and
science. AZA is America's leading accrediting organization for zoos and aquariums. The AZA
accredits only those institutions that have achieved rigorous standards for animal care, education,
wildlife conservation and science.
Mr. DeRosa stated that approximately $1.4 million has been earmarked for zoo improvements and
upgards. He noted that a 3-member AZA Team will be in South Bend next week for the review of
the Potawatomi Zoo.
Mr. DeRosa then presented apower-point presentation which highlighted the major improvements
made to the Potawatomi Zoo. He noted that he and his staff captured improvements during their
various phases to confirm and document each one. Mr. DeRosa then reviewed:
• Improvements to the Learning Center
• Upgrades to the Animal Exhibits
• Heating & ventilating system upgrades/replacements
• Separation of ventilation systems -one for the animals and one for people
• Installation of twenty (20) new doors and locks
• Upgrades to the Flamingo Building
• Upgrades to the Tiger Building
PARC Committee
June 8, 2009
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• Upgrades to the Winter Bird holding facilities
• Showed pictures of Takins from the San Diego zoo; bison; lions
• Extended several boardwalks
• Added bathrooms
• Extended the island for the chimps
• New Butterfly Garden
• Upgraded concessions which have increased revenue
• Implemented new graphics
• Installed signs about species survival and "way-finding"
• Implemented GFI upgrades
• Initiated a wireless PA system
• Upgrades to the Hay Barn
• Upgrades for water conservation - by using sensors there should be a 50% reduction in
water usage
Mr. DeRosa noted that the zoo is now doing their own composting and between $20,000 to $30,000
is projected to be saved. Compact will then be sold to local nurseries.
Mr. DeRosa listed each of the new exhibits which were introduced in 2007, 2008 and 2009.
Mr. DeRosa thanked the Council Members for the support.
Council Member Puzzello thanked Mr. DeRosa for his presentation, noting that in light of time
restrictions she is asking that questions be held for another time. She wished Mr. DeRosa and his
staff the very best next week with the ASA officials.
There being no further business to come before the Committee, Council Member Puzzello
adjourned the meeting at 4:53 p.m.
Re gectfully s miffed,
Mem er zello, Chairperson
PARC Committee