BONDS TO PROTECT ANIMAL HEALTH AND SAFETY; CONSERVE, RECYCLE WATER
QUESTION: Shall Zoo protect animal health and safety; conserve, recycle water; issue $125 million in general obligation bonds; require independent audits?
If the bonds are approved, they will be payable from taxes on property or property ownership that are not subject to the limits of Sections 11 and 11b, Article XI of the Oregon Constitution.
SUMMARY: Measure will:
- Provide more humane care for animals: update four outdated and undersized enclosures with larger, more natural and safer spaces.
- Protect animal health and safety: modernize Zoo's substandard 45 year old animal clinic determined deficient by the American Zoo Association.
- Increase access to conservation education: provide more space for summer camps, classes and hands-on learning for kids, adults, and families.
- Improve water quality: replace the Zoo's 1950's sewer system, reducing pollution by separating sewage from storm water, harvesting runoff for reuse.
- Conserve, reuse water: install water recycling filtration systems; replace leaking, worn-out plumbing, irrigation systems, saving 11,000,000 gallons of water annually.
- Improvements will meet sustainability standards.
Accountability requirements include:
- Internal audits
- Annual independent financial audit published in newspaper
- Citizens' oversight committee to monitor spending and recommend project modifications if needed
Bond cost estimate less than 9 cents per $1,000 assessed value per year. The average home owner in the region pays $1.40 a month. Bonds mature in 21 years or less.
EXPLANATORY STATEMENT
The Oregon Zoo is committed to the conservation of endangered species and their habitats–both locally and around the globe–while at the same time providing adults and children with one-of-a kind recreational experiences and hands-on-learning about wildlife and conservation.
It is the oldest zoo west of the Mississippi ; during its 50-year history at the current location, key parts of the Zoo have become old, out-of-date and worn out.
The Zoo bond measure will update and replace old exhibits and facilities, increase access to conservation education, and replace utility systems to reduce water and energy use and lower operating costs.
More Humane Conditions for Elephants
Outdoor space will increase from 1.5 to 6 acres, adding watering holes, shade structures, large trees, and boulders, providing more outside exercise and offering a more natural environment.
Protecting the Health of Polar Bears
Provide cooler temperatures and more humane conditions by removing concrete and adding land and pool space.
More Humane Enclosures for Apes and Monkeys
A renovated exhibit will replace the current cage-like conditions with larger indoor and outdoor areas, adding running water and more natural conditions.
Dedicated Space for Conservation Education
Replace two 12 year old modular trailers, a former storage space, a basement and leased off-site space with new presentation, classes and camp space for the over 100,000 children and adults attending annually.
Condors
Provide an on-site Condor exhibit.
Protect Animal Health & Safety
Replace the substandard 45-year old animal hospital and quarantine buildings with facilities meeting modern standards.
Save Water, Reduce Water Pollution, Improve Water Quality
Since most of the zoo's pipes, plumbing and irrigation systems also date back to the 1950s and '60s, many are outdated, leaking and well past their useful lives. The most expensive utility cost at the 55-acre zoo is water, and leaking pipes, run-off, inadequate filtration systems, and lack of water storage all contribute to wasting water and increasing costs. Replacing the sewer system and separating sewage from storm water will reduce pollution, improve water quality and save costs. Adding modern water filtration and recycling systems to the hippo and penguin pools will save over 11,000,000 gallons of water every year.
Cost of the Bonds
The $125 million general obligation bond measure will cost taxpayers less than 9 cents per $1,000 of assessed value per year. For the average home owner, the cost will be $1.40 per month, $16.80 per year. The bonds will be repaid in no more than 21 years.
Public Accountability Plan
A citizen oversight committee will be established to periodically review progress on project improvements, monitor spending, and consider and recommend project modifications to account for inflationary increases in construction costs. Internal audits and an independent financial audit performed annually and published in the local newspaper will maintain public accountability.
Submitted by:
Daniel B. Cooper
Metro Attorney
Metro
ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
ZOO VOLUNTEERS, VETERINARIANS, & BIOLOGISTS
ACT TO PROTECT ANIMAL HEALTH & SAFETY,
PROVIDE MORE HUMANE CONDITIONS
When the 50-year-old Oregon Zoo started showing signs of wear-and-tear, concerned citizens came together to form a plan.
For the last two years the 21-member volunteer Oregon Zoo Foundation Board has worked with Zoo leadership, the Metro Council, Zoo veterinarians, animal biologists and scientists, and community leaders to develop a plan for the future of the Zoo.
To protect and maintain animal health and safety, maintain humane conditions, and improve conservation education, the Oregon Zoo Foundation Board is asking voters to approve the Zoo Measure 26-96.
The Zoo Measure 26-96 will:
- Protect animal health and safety with an updated veterinary and quarantine facility.
- Provide more humane conditions for elephants, polar bears, monkeys and chimpanzees.
- Provide more opportunities to learn about conservation.
- Upgrade the Zoo's 1959 water and energy systems to save energy and water.
We believe the Zoo Measure 26-96 is critical to maintaining and improving animal health and safety. A small investment now will improve animal care, conserve water and energy, and help maintain quality experiences for children and adults.
THE VOLUNTEER OREGON Z00 FOUNDATION
MEMBERS URGE YOUR SUPPORT
Jon R. Kruse
Kregg Hanson
Carter MacNichol
Cam Henderson
Isaac Regenstreif
Mark M. Loomis
Brian Newman
Erik Nelson
Daniel Jarman
Keith Parker
Cindy McPike
Craig Wright, MD
Michael D. Baele
Penny Serrurier
Pamela Leavitt
Timothy P. Chapman
Ex officios:
Metro Councilor Robert Liberty
Metro Councilor Carlotta Collette
Tony Vecchio, Oregon Zoo Director
(This information furnished by Jon R. Kruse, Oregon Zoo 2008 Campaign)
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by Multnomah County, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth of any statements made in the argument.
ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
ZOO VETERINARIANS URGE YOUR SUPPORT OF
MEASURE 26-96 TO
PROTECT ANIMAL HEALTH & SAFETY
Imagine walking into a medical clinic that is cramped and small with poor lighting and plumbing. The walls and doors are rusting and crumbling, and the air ventilation system is wheezing.
That's the way the Association of Zoos (AZA) found the Zoo's 46-year-old veterinary hospital and quarantine facility.
The AZA noted the Zoo's facilities as substandard and deficient.
Overall, the 46-year-old animal clinic and quarantine spaces are too small, outdated and worn. They lack modern controls for minimizing disease transmission.
These facilities are especially hard on large animals like zebras and giraffes. Zookeepers struggle to move large animals in and out all the while trying to protect them from floors that can damage the animals' feet.
The Zoo Measure 26-96 will provide funding to meet AZA standards by updating the veterinary and quarantine buildings to protect Zoo animals health and safety.
Please vote Yes to Protect Animal Health & Safety
at the Oregon Zoo.
Dr. Mitch Finnegan, Oregon
Zoo Veterinarian
Barbara Cain, MS, DVM
Margot I Monti, CVT, Oregon
Zoo Veterinary Technician
Dr. Lisa Harrenstien, Oregon
Zoo Veterinarian
(This information furnished by Jon R. Kruse, Oregon Zoo 2008 Campaign)
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by Multnomah County, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth of any statements made in the argument.
ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
A Letter From Zoo Volunteers
Dear Voter:
We love the Zoo. We love it so much that many of us have been Zoo volunteers for years . We do a million different things at the Zoo. Some of us help visitors, give tours, and teach kids. Others volunteer by preparing food for the animals, cleaning out exhibits and helping the zookeepers with the animals.
There are over 2,000 of us volunteering 168,000 hours annually. We are one of the largest volunteer forces in the country.
Each of us knows firsthand what a great Zoo we have.
But we also see firsthand the outdated exhibits and facilities that need attention.
Over the years, we've seen generations of families learn about animals and conservation through one-of-a-kind experiences at the Zoo.
And, every day we watch a child, or an adult, discover an animal they've only seen in a book or on television. It is always a different experience than they expected.
Your support now will help us keep a great Zoo for animals, kids, families and future generations.
Please join us in supporting Measure 26-96.
Judy Post, Zoo Volunteer, 22 Years
Jane Duncan, Zoo Volunteer, 10 Years
Anne Darrow, Zoo Volunteer, 9 Years
Sandy Sodorff, Zoo Volunteer, 12 Years
Judith Harthun, Zoo Volunteer, 1.5 Years
Ann B. Warren, Zoo Volunteer, 4 Years
Nellie Goddard, Zoo Volunteer, 1 Year
Carol T. Russo, Zoo Volunteer, 1 Yr.
Harmony Stillwell, Zoo Volunteer, 3 Years
Kathy Kenyon, Zoo Volunteer, 13 Years
Phoebe Skinner, Zoo Volunteer, 6 Years
Michael D. Peden, Zoo Volunteer, 1 Year
Renee T. Peden, Zoo Volunteer, 1 Year
Roger Williams, Zoo Volunteer, 5 Yrs.
Pamela M. Philpot, Zoo Volunteer, 1 Year
Nancy Parr, Zoo Volunteer, 16 Years
Nancy L. Gunter, Zoo Volunteer, 14 Yrs.
Gail Holcomb, Zoo Volunteer, 1 Year
Kim M. Voyle, Ph.D., Zoo Volunteer, 5 Yrs.
Brian Averill, Zoo Volunteer, 4 Years
Eric Meese, Zoo Volunteer, 21 Years
Sandy Armstrong, Zoo Volunteer, 11 Years
(This information furnished by Jon R. Kruse, Oregon Zoo 2008 Campaign)
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by Multnomah County, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth of any statements made in the argument.
ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
VETERINARIANS & ZOOKEEPERS URGE
MORE HUMANE CONDITIONS FOR ELEPHANTS
The Oregon Zoo's largest stars have outgrown their home. Six 10,000 pound animals are squeezed into 1.5 acres. Built in 1959, the elephants' indoor and outdoor spaces are worn, cramped and out-of-date.
Through extraordinary care, observation, and public education our Zoo has led the nation in protecting Asian elephants. We are committed to providing the best treatment possible for the animals in our care.
That's why we're asking for your help.
As zookeepers, we are constantly learning more about the elephants' needs. We know now just how important it is for these large animals to explore and interact with each other and with nature. And we now know that the current facilities, both inside and outside, are simply inadequate.
The Zoo Measure 26-96 will change that. We will be able to provide more space and improve the elephants' habitat. The space, increased to 6 acres, will be less concrete and more natural with watering holes, shade structures, large trees and boulders, and more room to roam.
Please help provide the elephants with more humane conditions by voting YES on the Zoo Measure 26-96.
Bob Lee, Senior Elephant Keeper
Oregon Zoo
Ursula Buhert, DVM, PhD, Elephant Expert
Dimas Dominguez, Elephant Keeper
Oregon Zoo
Jeremy Kirby, Elephant Keeper
Oregon Zoo
Jeb Barsh, Elephants
Oregon Zoo
Mike Keele,
Chair of AZA Elephant Species Survival Program
(This information furnished by Jon R. Kruse, Oregon Zoo 2008 Campaign)
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by Multnomah County, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth of any statements made in the argument.
ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
DR. MATTHEW MABERRY,
THE ZOO'S FIRST VETERINARIAN,
SUPPORTS ZOO MEASURE 26-96
In 1962, before Packy the elephant was born, I spent three months sleeping on the hay in the elephant barn waiting for the delivery. Forty-six years ago, we were still learning about elephant care and handling. A lot has changed since then.
Today, the Oregon Zoo is a national leader in Asian elephant protection and conservation. The elephant spaces, which were state-of-the-art in 1960, we now know need to be larger for the animals' health, safety and wellbeing.
The Oregon Zoo's work and reputation bring in over 1.5 million visitors annually. But the present facilities have aged. The veterinary clinic and quarantine facilities are 45 years old and rated substandard by the Association of Zoos. They are outdated and risk the safety and health of the animals, staff and the zookeepers who care for them.
The Oregon Zoo has earned a national reputation for protecting threatened and endangered species. We have a responsibility to change and update as we learn more about the needs of the animals in our care. The Zoo Measure 26-96 provides more humane conditions and better healthcare for the animals by replacing outdated exhibits and facilities.
The Oregon Zoo is a great zoo. I'm proud of the Zoo and its tradition of excellent care for its animals. The Zoo measure 26-96 is the investment necessary to protect animal health and safety and keep it a Zoo we can be proud of.
Join me in voting yes on Zoo Measure 26-96.
Dr. Matthew Maberry
Oregon Zoo Veterinarian, 1958-1973
(This information furnished by Jon R. Kruse, Oregon Zoo 2008 Campaign)
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by Multnomah County, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth of any statements made in the argument.
ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
An Elephant Reserve is Crucial!
The Oregon Humane Society believes that a humanely run zoo can be a unique source for conservation and wildlife education. However, the welfare of all zoo animals is paramount. The Oregon Zoo has an important role in our community, but many improvements are long overdue. The animals need more humane conditions and none more so than the Elephants. In all fairness we must provide substantially more room for seven elephants than the current 1.5 acres. The current elephant facilities are seriously outdated and simply unacceptable to a humane community. Measure 26-96 will provide funds to quadruple the elephants' zoo exhibit space and create a more naturalized and stimulating setting within and outside of the zoo proper. The Oregon Humane Society believes that the planned off-site elephant respite facility should be MEASURE 26-96's top funding priority. If we are to be responsible we must provide these animals with the very best accommodations.
Polar bears are also in dire need. Anyone who has witnessed the zoo polar bears' patterns of meaningless, repetitive movements knows that it's time to give them a more humane space in which to live. Measure 26-96 will provide larger and more humane accommodations promoting their return to more natural behavior.
Primates, too, need better living conditions. The current facility is plain, sterile and unnatural. Measure 26-96 will expand the primate home into an enriching environment as well.
These animals need our help. We must provide them with more spacious and healthy conditions, or move them to another facility that can. The current situation is unacceptable and we applaud the zoo for acknowledging change is needed. Portland is one of the most humane communities in the nation its time to make a choice on the behalf of the animals at the zoo - either fund these critical improvements or find a new home for the Elephants, Polar Bears and Primates.
Please, for the animals' sake, vote YES on 26-96.
(This information furnished by Sharon Harmon, Executive Director, Oregon Humane Society)
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by Multnomah County, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth of any statements made in the argument.
ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
Measure 26-96 Protects Animal Health & Safety
Chris Pfefferkorn, General Curator, Oregon Zoo
Elephants:
They're too crowded. The elephant barn is bursting at the seams and the outdoor space is too small. The Zoo Measure 26-96 will provide more indoor and outdoor space, more options for outside access, and a more natural and stimulating environment for the elephants.
Polar Bears:
They're too hot. The current polar bear exhibit is a concrete bowl which reaches over 100 degrees in summer. Measure 26-96 will give the polar bears more space; chilled water; a safer, more natural habitat; and better, cooler conditions.
Hippos:
They need clean water. To protect hippos from harmful bacteria, zookeepers must drain, clean and disinfect the 36,000 gallon hippo pool on nearly a daily basis. Measure 26-96 will install a modern water filtration and more natural conditions that will keep the hippos healthy.
Monkeys and Apes:
They need an updated home. The zoo's primates live in one of the oldest, outdated facilities at the zoo. The exhibit is plain, sterile and cage-like. Measure 26-96 will give the primates a larger, more enriching and more natural habitat .
Go to www.OregonZoo2008.com for project details.
REPLACE OLD, WORN, OUTDATED EXHIBITS
TO PROTECT ANIMAL HEALTH & SAFETY
Please vote YES on Zoo Measure 26-96.
(This information furnished by Jon R. Kruse, Oregon Zoo 2008 Campaign)
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by Multnomah County, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth of any statements made in the argument.
ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
PROTECT THE HEALTH OF POLAR BEARS
ROBERT BUCHANAN,
PRESIDENT OF POLAR BEARS INTERNATIONAL
AMY CUTTING,
ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBER,
POLAR BEARS INTERNATIONAL
SENIOR KEEPER, NORTH AMERICA EXHIBITS OREGON ZOO
DAVID SHEPHERDSON,
SCIENTIST AND POLAR BEAR EXPERT
As the world's largest land predators––up to 1400 pounds of pure blubber, fur, and muscle––polar bears need space, long views and cool conditions.
The current polar bear exhibit is at the Oregon Zoo is a concrete bowl. Designed years ago primarily to contain the bears, it is almost entirely concrete. On the hottest summer days, the exhibit temperatures soar above 100 degrees.
The outdated space is not only hot, the surfaces are too hard and the pools and living space are too small. And, the space, both land and pools, do not meet standards established for zoo polar bears.
Zookeepers have done a good job of providing enrichment for the bears, but stereotypy (a pattern of persistent fixed and repeated mindless movements, such as pacing) has been observed in the Zoo's polar bears.
The Zoo Measure 26-96 will:
- reduce exhibit temperatures
- provide a larger and more natural space, and
- provide a larger and cooler pool.
The proposed space, water quality and housing conditions will meet or exceed standards established for zoo polar bears.
With more space and more natural conditions, Measure 26-96 will provide better, more humane conditions for the Oregon Zoo's polar bears.
Please VOTE Yes on Measure 26-96.
(This information furnished by Jon R. Kruse, Oregon Zoo 2008 Campaign)
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by Multnomah County, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth of any statements made in the argument.
ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
After 47 years, it's the Monkeys' turn...
You know we have a great Zoo and that most of the exhibits are top notch. But not every exhibit is what it should be-- a few are just old and outdated.
And one of the most outdated?
It's not hard to find. It is a cage, with wire mesh. Built in 1959, it is plain, sterile, and was designed primarily for keeping clean.
And, it is home to some of the most intelligent and complex animals at the Zoo.
It's where monkeys, chimpanzees, and other primates spend a lifetime.
Although the zookeepers work tirelessly to care for these complex creatures, there's no running water, no forest canopy, no interactions with other animals; all conditions we've learned make a difference for the animals.
The Zoo Measure 26-96 provides a more humane exhibit for apes and monkeys The rebuilt exhibit would fix clogged plumbing, improve air circulation, and provide larger and more natural indoor and outdoor spaces for chimpanzees, mandrills and other monkeys and apes.
After 47 years, it' is time to provide a more humane home for primates.
Vote YES on Zoo Measure 26-96.
Dave Thomas, Senior Primate Keeper
Oregon Zoo
Asaba Mukobi
Oregon Zoo Primate Keeper
Tony Vecchio
Former Primate Keeper
(This information furnished by Jon R. Kruse, Oregon Zoo 2008 Campaign)
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by Multnomah County, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth of any statements made in the argument.
ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
WHAT DO PENGUINS & HIPPOS HAVE IN COMMON?
They use a lot of water at the Oregon Zoo.
Hippos love water. They rest in the water, play in the water, sleep and eat in the water. But, to protect the hippos from harmful bacteria in the water, the Zoo must drain, disinfect and refill the 36,000-gallon hippo pool and two holding pools nearly every day.
Each year, the hippo exhibit uses nearly 6 million gallons of water.
Installing a modern water filtration system at the hippo exhibit will cut water usage by 80% and save 4.6 million gallons of water each year.
Bu using more natural materials and installing a water filtration system we can protect the hippo's health, provide better conditions and save water.
Penguins are snappy dressers, but it takes work to look that good. They need water. Lots and lots of running water: 25,000 gallons every day, seven days a week. This running water is required to keep the exhibit pool clean, reduce surface scum and protect the penguins from harmful bacteria.
The penguinarium uses 9 million gallons of water a year, but it doesn't need too. A modern filtration system that filters and recycles water for the 25,000-gallon penguin pool will reduce water usage by 80 percent, saving more than 7 million gallons of water a year.
Voting YES on Measure 26-96 will save over 11 million gallons of water a year at the Oregon Zoo.
(This information furnished by Jon R. Kruse, Oregon Zoo 2008 Campaign)
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by Multnomah County, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth of any statements made in the argument.
ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
THE OREGON LEAGUE OF CONSERVATION VOTERS
& SIERRA CLUB
Urge a YES vote to:
Reduce Water Pollution
Save Water
Save $
The Need:
• The Zoo's water systems are a half-century old.
• Water is the Zoo's most expensive utility cost.
• Leaking pipes, run-off, inadequate filtration systems and lack of water storage all contribute to wasting water and increasing costs.
• The 1950s water system discharges storm water into the sanitary system, which not only wastes water and increases costs, but also contributes to reducing downstream water quality.
The Zoo Measure 26-96 will:
1. Install a sustainable/efficient water distribution system.
2. Install water filtration systems to save millions of gallons of water.
3. Replace leaking, worn-out plumbing and irrigation systems.
4. Upgrade the zoo's sewer systems, and improve water quality by separating sewage from storm water
The Zoo Measure 26-96 will save over 11 million gallons of water annually, provide better water conservation and improve water quality.
Please join us in voting YES on Zoo Measure 26-96.
(This information furnished by Jon R. Kruse, Oregon Zoo 2008 Campaign)
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by Multnomah County, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth of any statements made in the argument.
ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
The Zoo is a Leader in Sustainability
Measure 26-96 Specifies Sustainable
and Green Practices
Because the Zoo cares so much about animals and their habitats we set a high standard for ourselves to reuse, recycle and reduce our impact on the environment.
Today, the Zoo:
- Composts most of its animal manure for use by the Zoo, Hoyt Arboretum and Washington Park in gardens and landscapes. In one year diverted 90 tons of food waste from landfills;
- Reuses and recycles water for irrigation;
- Monitors and manages its energy consumption;
- Recycles construction waste, computer and copier cartridges, kitchen cooking oil, electronics, polystyrene, bubble wrap and yard debris;
- Encourages alternative commuting for employees.
All of the updates, modifications and improvements in the Zoo Measure 26-96 reflect the Zoo's commitment to:
- Protecting the environment,
- Conserving water and energy, and
- Applying sustainability and green business practices.
Specific sustainable and green business practices in Measure 26-96 include:
- Using recycled materials in walls, floors and windows.
- Installing on-site energy generation (a combination of solar panels, microturbines and absorption processes) to reduce energy consumption and the Zoo's carbon footprint.
- Modernizing its water distribution system, saving water, costs and improving water quality.
PLEASE VOTE YES ON THE ZOO MEASURE 26-96.
(This information furnished by Jon R. Kruse, Oregon Zoo 2008 Campaign)
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by Multnomah County, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth of any statements made in the argument.
ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
THE ZOO MEASURE 26-96 PROJECT LIST
• Provide more humane conditions for elephants.
• Protect animal health and safety by modernizing the Zoo's substandard 46-year-old veterinary and quarantine facilities.
• Protect the health of polar bears.
• Provide more humane enclosures for apes and monkeys.
• Increase conservation education opportunities.
• Improve water quality , save water & energy.
• Allow public viewing of the threatened condors.
• Save water and improve conditions for hippos
• Save water and costs at the penguinarium.
All for $1.40 a month for the average homeowner.
For more information about each project visit
www.OregonZoo2008.com
(This information furnished by Jon R. Kruse, Oregon Zoo 2008 Campaign)
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by Multnomah County, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth of any statements made in the argument.
ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
KEEP THE OREGON ZOO A COMMUNITY TREASURE
For over 50 years at the Oregon Zoo, generations of families have learned about animals and conservation through hands-on learning and recreational experiences like Packy's birthday, Zoo keys and the Zoo train. Our Zoo provides thousands of kids and families with conservation education opportunities and leads the nation in protecting threatened and endangered species like Humboldt penguins and Asian elephants.
After 50 years some key exhibits and facilities are old, worn, and outdated. A small investment now will protect animal health and safety, provide more humane conditions and ensure that the Zoo can continue to provide these unique learning opportunities.
Please join us in supporting the Zoo Measure 26-96.
*For the full list of over 350 supporters of Zoo Measure 26-96 go to www.OregonZoo2008.com
PARTIAL LIST:
David Bragdon, Metro Council President
Sandy Armstrong
Rex Ettlin, Environmental Education Association of Oregon
Joey M. Harp
Travel Portland
Nancy Parr
Carmen Hannold
Rob Drake, Mayor of Beaverton
Jim Gilbert
Lori Ford
Kelly Vanderzanden
Rick Horton
Randy Leonard, Portland City Commissioner
Jim Desmond
Krista Swan
Kathryn Harrington, Metro Councilor
Keith Parker
Denny Doyle, Beaverton City Councilor
Kyle Chisek
Lexie Harris
Ann Littlewood, former zookeeper & author
LIUNA LOCAL 483
Jennifer Larkin, Teacher
Metro Councilor Robert Liberty
Ric Barton
Dick Schouten , Washington County Commissioner
Portland Japanese Garden
Metro Councilor Carlotta Collette
Mike Keele, Packy's former keeper
(This information furnished by Jon R. Kruse, Oregon Zoo 2008 Campaign)
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by Multnomah County, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth of any statements made in the argument.
ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
$1.40 a month is not a lot to pay to improve the health and living conditions of animals at the Zoo
There are many worthy measures on the ballot, but the Zoo Measure 26-96 will have an enormous effect at a minimal cost. The average homeowner will pay about $1.40 a month, or $16.80 a year.
Here's what a $1.40 a month buys:
- More humane care for elephants, primates, polar bears and hippos by updating four outdated and undersized enclosures with larger, more natural and safer spaces.
- Better animal health and safety by modernizing the Zoo's substandard 46-year-old veterinary and quarantine facilities.
- More opportunities for conservation education by providing more space for summer camps, classes and hands-on learning.
- Improved water quality by updating the 1950s-era sewer system.
Required Independent Oversight:
An independent citizen oversight committee will monitor spending. The projects will be subject to internal audits as well as an annual independent financial audit, which will be published in the local newspaper.
This is an investment worth making.
Vote YES on Zoo Measure 26-96.
Nancy Parr, Zoo Volunteer, 16 Years
Anne Darrow, Zoo Volunteer, 9 Years
Sandy Sodorff, Zoo Volunteer, 12 Years
Nancy L. Gunter, Zoo Volunteer, 14 Yrs.
Sandy Armstrong, Zoo Volunteer, 11 Years
Jane Duncan, Zoo Volunteer, 10 Years
Kathy Kenyon, Zoo Volunteer, 13 Years
Eric Meese, Zoo Volunteer, 21 Years
Judy Post, Zoo Volunteer, 22 Years
(This information furnished by Jon R. Kruse, Oregon Zoo 2008 Campaign)
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by Multnomah County, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth of any statements made in the argument.
ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
Tough Accountability Provisions Guaranteed
In these economic times, it's important for taxpayers and citizens to know their money is spent wisely and as promised.
The Zoo Measure 26-96 requires:
• A citizens' oversight committee will review progress on the project improvements and monitor spending.
• The oversight committee will consider and recommend project modifications if inflationary increases in construction costs exceed current budget estimates.
• An independent accounting firm will perform an annual financial audit of bond spending.
• The results of the annual audit will be published in local newspapers.
Measure 26-96 ensures our tax dollars will be spent as promised: to protect animal health and safety, provide more humane conditions and conserve water.
It deserves your support.
Jon R. Kruse
Kregg Hanson
Carter MacNichol
Cam Henderson
Isaac Regenstreif
Mark M. Loomis
Brian Newman
Erik Nelson
Pamela Leavitt
Keith Parker
Danial Jarman
Craig Wright, MD
Cindy McPike
Penny Serrurier
Michael D. Baele
Timothy P. Chapman
Citizen Volunteers of the Oregon Zoo Foundation Board
(This information furnished by Jon R. Kruse, Oregon Zoo 2008 Campaign)
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by Multnomah County, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth of any statements made in the argument.
ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
Governor Kitzhaber Supports the Zoo Measure 26-96
I was honored to serve Oregon as governor for two terms. But the best job I've ever had is being a dad. With all its natural treasures, Oregon is a wonderful place to raise a child. But another important Oregon treasure is the Oregon Zoo, one of the state's great places for families, adults and kids.
For years Logan and I have been regular visitors to the Zoo...we started out on the Zoo train, visiting Packy, collecting Zoo keys and petting animals in the Zoo farm.
Now we're part of the thousands of kids and families who are learning about wildlife and conservation through hands-on experiences at the Insect Zoo, the Butterfly Lab, Birds of Prey presentations and zoo camps.
As important as the Zoo is to Logan and me, it also is important to Oregon . The Zoo is a leader in protecting Oregon's threatened and endangered species and habitats including native butterflies, turtles, rabbits and birds like the Condor or Thunderbird, last seen in Oregon over 100 years ago.
Our Zoo is a great Zoo, but key exhibits and facilities are worn and out of date. With a small investment now we can ensure a great Zoo for animals and future generations of Oregonians.
Let's take care of it for our children's sake.
Please join me in voting Yes on the Zoo Measure 26-96.
Governor John Kitzhaber
(This information furnished by Jon R. Kruse, Oregon Zoo 2008 Campaign)
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by Multnomah County, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth of any statements made in the argument.
DON'T BE FOOLED BY THE ZOO!
For voters who care about animals, DON'T BE FOOLED!!!
This bond measure does not “measure up” for the animals, especially the elephants. AND, there is NO BINDING ACCOUNTABILITY!
Show the Oregon Zoo that you are NOT ignorant about the suffering of elephants in captivity and that you hold it accountable for the elephants in its keep:
VOTE NO on Measure 26-96.
If you vote YES on this measure, you are prolonging woefully inadequate conditions for the Oregon Zoo elephants. This measure's plans do NOT solve the space needs of the Oregon Zoo elephants. Money needs to be spent for an off-site space with hundreds of acres and/or for sanctuary living, since this is the HUMANE course of action for captive elephants. Money would be ill-spent on this measure's band-aid fix to the painfully unnatural conditions and limited space at our small, urban Oregon Zoo.
IF Oregonians really do “love” their elephants, they will not be blind to the bullhook wounds, punctures, arthritis, “dominance and punishment” control techniques, severe foot disease, degenerative joint disease, ankus wounds, abscesses, lameness, nail disease, ulcers, chronic pain, anemia, bloating, stereotypic pacing/rocking, toe fractures, tusk fractures, emaciation, renal failure, deep lacerations, pressure sores, and deaths endured by these captive elephants.
Elephants need approximately two square miles, or 1280 acres, to come anywhere near meeting their biological and social needs. We CAN do better than this bond measure's measly 6 acres for elephants (and not all the elephants will even have access to the full 6 acres!)
Tell the Oregon Zoo NO NEW EXHIBITS should be created until sanctuary conditions are provided for the elephants, and the other large animals in its keep.
Get informed. Visit www.elephants.com
Don't be fooled! Vote NO!
Jane Frances Bicquette
(This information furnished by Jane Frances Bicquette)
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by Multnomah County, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth of any statements made in the argument.
ARGUMENT IN OPPOSITION
Taxpayers of the Portland/Metro Area: Consider this before voting to give the zoo $125 million
Broken Promises:
- In 1986 taxpayers passed a bond to fund new African Exhibits including lions, but the lion exhibit was never built.
- In 1996 the voters approved a bond for more than $30 million to build new exhibits (without mention of eliminating any). Again, it was to include a new lion exhibit that was never built.
Poor decision regarding animal care:
- In April 2004, the zoo said they would have to close the Insect Zoo, the Center for Species Survival and would have to eliminate the night keeper position to save money. The night keeper's duties included cleaning, feeding and shifting some or all of the elephants at midnight . Dry clean floors are of paramount importance to the proper care of elephants' feet. In the end, the only change was the controversial elimination of the night keeper position.
If humane care for the elephants is truly the zoo's goal, they should adopt Protected Contact, a less dangerous management method which is already practiced with the bull elephants. The Free Contact method requires the use of elephant hooks/ankus (commonly referred to by zoo staff as guides) and under some circumstances for the safety of elephant staff and perhaps the public, an electric cattle prod.
As a zookeeper of 34 years, simply throwing money at a new exhibit and not improving the elephants' welfare by going to the more humane method of Protected Contact, in my view, calls for a NO vote.
Phil Prewett
Animal Keeper at Oregon Zoo since 1984
(This information furnished by Phil Prewett, Zookeeper Oregon Zoo)
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by Multnomah County, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth of any statements made in the argument.
ARGUMENT IN OPPOSITION
Metro Bond 26-96 deserves a NO vote.
The zoo claims this $125 million bond measure will provide “more humane care” for elephants and other animals. But no amount of money can buy humane care as long as the zoo:
- Uses physical punishment and force on elephants. This has led to abuse, including the vicious beating of Rose-Tu in 2000. The zoo was fined $10,000, but zoo records indicate other elephants have suffered from abuse in years since.
- Denies adequate space to elephants, earth's largest land mammal, which naturally walks tens of miles daily. The proposed addition of a few acres to the elephant exhibit is too little to make a meaningful difference for these massive animals.
- Disrespects elephants' strong family bonds. The zoo has separated elephant babies from their mothers and shipped them to other zoos and circuses. The zoo stated that the newest calf will also likely be sent away.
A NO Vote on Measure 26-96 helps the elephants. A NO Vote holds the zoo accountable for its treatment of all animals. A NO Vote forces the zoo to commit to humane practices.
Zoo Director Tony Vecchio stated, “We don't have humpback whales in captivity, because we can't replicate the wild conditions. . . . Elephants aren't living the same life as they would in the wild. No zoo animal is. The decision is, can we provide enough to make their lives comfortable, worthwhile, enriched?” (Willamette Week, 9/28/02 )
The answer is no. As long as Oregon Zoo continues inhumane practices, Portland 's elephants won't get the quality of life they deserve.
Your NO vote tells the zoo you want a plan that reflects Portland 's progressive values and guarantees humane care and conditions for all animals. Until the zoo presents a forward-looking plan that guarantees humane care, Vote No on Measure 26-96.
For a list of zoo professionals, elephant scientists and others who are united in opposition to this bond measure, see www.helpelephants.com.
(This information furnished by Matt Rossell, In Defense of Animals)
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by Multnomah County, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth of any statements made in the argument.