ATHENS — Realizing a need for public financing, the North Alabama Zoological Society is seeking a place on the ballot to make the North Alabama Zoo a reality.
Society officials said they have had community meetings and fundraising efforts over the last four years to bring “A zoo for you, North Alabama” to life.
In collaboration with Limestone County leaders, NALZS said it has spent more than a year and a half developing a comprehensive funding proposal for Phase 1 of the zoo project. The proposal was based on research into other funding models for “family enrichment facilities” throughout the country, the organization said.
According to the release, NALZS said public funding would be essential for the large-scale nature of this project. Organizers said, in the news release, they approached Limestone County leadership about establishing a zoo in the area, and there have been “several conversations with members” regarding public funding for the project.
The group said, though, a small number within the leadership are hesitant to put the project up for a referendum.
“We are deeply grateful for the leaders and coalition members who support this project and the democratic process,” said NALZS past board chair Keeley Sykes. “While we work to gain legislative support, we are passionate about giving the county residents an opportunity to exercise their right to vote on matters that impact their community.
“As a longtime Limestone County resident, I know our constituents believe in the transformative potential of having our own zoo, and their testimonies, thoughts, and wishes deserve to be heard. We remain hopeful and will continue to work tirelessly to bring this opportunity to the public to decide.”
For more information, visit www.NALZS.org.
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