Approve and authorize the Chairman to execute an agreement with the Central Florida Zoological Society, Inc., in the amount of $300,000 for the FY2021/22 funding allocation for marketing, advertising, maintenance, enhancements, repairs, and improvements. Countywide (Tricia Johnson, Deputy County Manager)

The Seminole County Board of County Commissioners has approved funding for the Central Florida Zoological Society, Inc. for more than 16 years. 

The Central Florida Zoo is a not-for-profit corporation organized under Chapter 617 of the Florida Statutes and was first established in 1923 as the Sanford Zoo.

As one of the most notable attractions in Seminole County, the Zoo: 

• Provides annual passes to approximately 7,000 households; 
• Employs more than 100 staff members for guest services, animal care, education, facilities, horticulture, public safety, and administration; 
• Cares for 350 individuals, representing 100 species of inverts, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals; and 
• Is home to a “Kaboom” playground special play area and hosts popular events including Brews Around the Zoo, the Zoo Boo-Bash, and the returning Asian Lantern Festival in partnership with Tianyu Arts & Culture, Inc.

The Zoo generated $5.4 million in annual revenues during FY2019/20 through promotional events, annual passes, donations, educational programs, and gate-related income. 

TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL RECOMMENDATION

The Zoo presented their annual grant application at the April 15, 2021, Tourist Development Council meeting. The Zoo requested $300,000 for FY2021/22, consistent with the FY2020/21 grant awarded by the County. 

The Tourist Development Council recommended approval for funding up to a total maximum sum of $300,000 for the annual funding allocation for marketing, advertising, maintenance, enhancements, repairs, and improvement. 

INTENDED USE OF FUNDS

The intended use of the proposed $300,000 will be for marketing efforts, including radio, television, print, and digital advertising, as well as improvements to the Silvery Cheeked Hornbill and Amur Leopard exhibits.

FUNDING HISTORY 

FY2020/21         $300,000

FY2019/20         $390,500

FY2018/19         $355,000

FY2017/18         $325,000

FY2016/17         $325,000

FY2015/16         $225,000

FY2014/15         $225,000

FY2013/14         $225,000

FY2012/13         $225,000

FY2011/12         $225,000

FY2010/11         $225,000

FY2009/10         $225,000

FY2008/09         $300,000

FY2007/08         $300,000

FY2006/07         $300,000

FY2005/06         $270,000

FY2004/05         $270,000

FY2003/04         $270,000

The amount requested, $300,000, is budgeted in the FY2021/22 Tourism Development budget for advertising, maintenance, enhancements, repairs, and improvements. 

Approve and authorize the Chairman to execute an agreement with the Central Florida Zoological Society, Inc., in the amount of $300,000 for the FY2021/22 funding allocation for marketing, advertising, maintenance, enhancements, repairs, and improvements.