06-08-09 PARC Committee - Laserfiche WebLink

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PARC 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