Amarillo City Council approved Tuesday a lease agreement for the Amarillo Zoo between the city and the non-profit entity Amarillo Zoo & Sanctuary, Inc. (AZS).
The agreement establishes a long-term partnership to enhance and modernize the zoo while preserving it as a city-owned public asset. The city retains ownership of the zoo, the land, and the animals. AZS will manage daily operations with an emphasis on conservation, education and community programming.
The initial lease term is 20 years, ending December 30, 2046. The agreement provides for three optional five-year renewal periods, contingent upon the lessee’s compliance with the lease and attainment of accreditation from either the Association of Zoos and Aquariums or the Zoological Association of America.
The lease payment is set at $1 per year. This nominal fee is intended to facilitate the operation of a robust public zoo that serves the community, rather than to generate revenue for the city. The city may provide up to $900,000 in grant funding over six fiscal years. This financial support is structured to assist during the initial transition period, with amounts decreasing as the nonprofit develops independent revenue sources.
The proposed schedule is: Fiscal Year 1: $150,000. Fiscal Year 2: $250,000. Fiscal Year 3: $200,00. Fiscal Year 4: $150,000. Fiscal Year 5: $100,000. Fiscal Year 6: $50,000.
This schedule does not create a multi-year financial obligation. Every dollar is subject to the annual appropriation process, and council retains full discretion each budget cycle.
The zoo is required to function as a community education facility. Existing programs, such as school field trips, camps, and outreach initiatives, are protected and may only be altered with council approval. Animal care standards are also specified. The city retains ownership of all animals currently at the zoo, and council maintains authority regarding the animals. A veterinarian with experience in zoological species must be available for routine care and emergencies.