Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk and members of the Henry Vilas Zoological Society announced an expanded partnership program Monday that will give more private support to the county's free zoo.
Since 2002, the Zoological Society has contributed $50,000 annually in addition to leading fundraising efforts to benefit Henry Vilas Zoo. Under the new partnership, the zoological society will greatly increase its financial assistance to cover operating costs for 2009-10.
""These historically difficult economic times require creative problem-solving, and our friends at the Zoological Society are so generously answering that call and making sure our zoo continues to receive the support it needs,"" Falk said in a statement.
Supervisor Chuck Erickson, a member of the Zoo Commission and a neighborhood representative, also expressed gratitude for the increase in funding.
""In these tight budget times, the Society is increasing contributions to help make this possible and we appreciate their support and leadership,"" Erickson said in a statement.
Falk also announced that Henry Vilas Zoo has received nearly 700,000 visitors this year, a 20 percent increase over 2008.
