Zoo director Lynda Collrin tells CHSJ news they're not asking council for a specific dollar figure, because it's up to council to decide how much they should or could spare. Collrin says although Quispamsis didn't sponsor the zoo last year, in 2010 they had given them $5,000. She says just like any other non-profit, they did feel a hit when they didn't received sponsorship last year, but the zoo doesn't owe huge sums of money and all their bills are paid.
Collrin telling council around 20% of people who visit, volunteer and sponsor the zoo are from Quispamsis. As a way of thanking sponsors, the zoo will also include the sponsors logo on their letterhead, website, facebook, and on display at the zoo.
The zoo recently received full accreditation and a 95% grade for high quality of animal care, finances and overall management from the Canadian Accredited Zoos and Aquariums.
Deputy Mayor Libby O'Hara tells CHSJ news with all the major projects happening in town, they're being very careful with taxpayers dollars for the upcoming budget.
The request has been sent to their finance department.
Recently Rothesay Mayor Bill Bishop admitted he's hesitant to include the zoo in their next budget, saying he's worried about their financial situation.