Ten years ago voters in Fresno County overwhelming approved Measure Z, a sales tax of one-tenth of one percent. We write this as .1%. That's small!
Measure Z has resulted in more than $100 million. That money has been used to improve and develop a zoo which, prior to Measure Z, was in dire circumstances. With Measure Z, Chaffee Zoo is turning into one of the nation's better zoos. In fact, I have heard comparisons to Monterey Bay Aquarium. Chaffee Zoo won't ever be as large as the San Diego or Columbus zoos. But Chaffee Zoo will give you the experience with the animals that the Monterey Bay Aquarium provides with sea life.
So who wouldn't want that type of facility in our community? I know of a vocal few. What are their problems? Two brothers don't want to see anything impede on the original Roeding Park trees, although they don't live in Fresno, nor do they visit Roeding Park. One is upset the dog park will be relocated from the eastern side of Roeding Park to the western side. And one appears to hate any growth at Chaffee Zoo, and has made false accusations against many good people in her quixotic quest to stall all things zoo.
What's the truth? The trees will be better cared for in the zoo's footprint than in other parts of Roeding Park. The dog park will not be removed, just relocated. And there have been many very good people who have helped make the Fresno Chaffee Zoo a reality. There are more animals at the zoo. They are better cared-for by competent and caring staff. Exhibits are not just new and exciting. They are award winning exhibits. Families are flocking to the zoo. We are having fun! Tourists are staying an extra day in Fresno, spending their money at our zoo. +
From now until the election, I will be posting information about Chaffee Zoo, Measure Z, the benefits of the expansion and what will happen if we renew Measure Z for another 10 years. I will debunk the misrepresentations made by the vocal few and offer you many reasons to vote YES on Measure Z.
Doug Larsen
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