Oklahoma City Zoology Trust
Regular MeetingOklahoma City, OK · April 9, 2025
Agenda
By The City of Oklahoma City Office of the City Clerk at 4:06 pm, Apr 07, 2025
OKLAHOMA CITY ZOOLOGICAL TRUST
Meeting Agenda
Zoo Administration Building, Savanna Conference Room
April 9, 2025 - 4:00 p.m.
OKLAHOMA CITY ZOOLOGICAL TRUST MEMBERS
Vicki Howard, Chairperson Lee Cooper, Councilperson, Ward 7
Jon Trudgeon, Vice-Chairperson Dustin Fredrick
Pama Palmer, Secretary Aimee Salalati
David Holt, Mayor Derek Albro
Heather Ross, Surrogate to the Mayor
Craig Freeman, City Manager Dwight Lawson, PhD, Executive Director/CEO
LaShawn Thompson, Surrogate to the City Manager
INFORMATION ABOUT OKLAHOMA CITY ZOOLOGICAL TRUST MEETINGS
The Oklahoma City Zoological Trust meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at 4:30 p.m. in the Zoo
Administration Building, located at 2000 Remington Place, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73111. Free parking
is available in the Zoo parking lot.
It is the policy of the Oklahoma City Zoological Trust to ensure that communications with participants and
members of the public with disabilities are as effective as communications with others. Anyone with a
disability who requires an accommodation, a modification of policies or procedures, or an auxiliary aid or
service in order to participate in this meeting should contact the Zoo at 405-425-0231 as soon as possible, but
not later than 48 hours (not including weekends or holidays) before the scheduled meeting. The Zoo will give
primary consideration to the choice of auxiliary aid or service requested by the individual with disability. If
you need an alternate format of the agenda or any information provided at said meeting, please contact the
Zoo at 405-425-0231 at least 48 hours prior to the scheduled meeting.
ADDRESSING THE OKLAHOMA CITY ZOOLOGICAL TRUST
Citizens may address the Trust on certain items by signing up to speak and providing the agenda item number,
their reason for appearing, and their address, but all comments must be relevant to the item. Citizens may
also address the Trust at the end of the agenda under “Citizens to be heard.” Please contact the Zoo at 405-
425-0231 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting, and leave a message that includes your name, the agenda item
number, and the reason you would like to speak. Staff will submit requests received to the Chair. Please limit
your comments to three (3) minutes or less.
The Chair or presiding officer may, in his or her discretion, prohibit a person from addressing the Trust, or
have any person removed from the Auditorium, if that person commits any disorderly or disruptive behavior.
Disorderly conduct includes, but is not limited to, any of the following: speaking without being recognized by
the Chair or presiding officer; continuing to speak after notice that the speaker’s allotted time has expired;
presenting comments or material not relevant to the item under discussion; failing to comply with the lawful
instructions of the Chair or presiding officer; or engaging in other conduct, activity, or speech that delays,
disturbs, interferes, or disrupts the effective or timely conduct of the meeting, or is otherwise violent,
threatening, abusive, obscene, or jeopardizes the safety of self or others. A person may also be subject to
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arrest and removal from the Auditorium for violation of Oklahoma City Municipal Code 2020, § 3081 –
Disorderly conduct and/or violation of 21 Okla. Stat. § 280 – Willfully Disturbing, Interfering with or
Disrupting State Business, Agency Operations or Employees.
TRUST ACTIONS
Official action can be taken only on items which appear on the agenda. The Trust may adopt, approve, ratify,
deny, defer, recommend, amend, strike, or continue any agenda item. Other actions may also be taken.
When more information is needed to act on an item, the Trust may refer the matter to the Executive
Director/CEO or the Municipal Counselor. The Trust may also refer items to standing committees of the
Trust for additional study.
Under certain circumstances, items are deferred to a specific later date or stricken from the agenda entirely.
CONSENT DOCKET
Items listed under “Consent Docket” are usually approved as a group with the proper motion from a member
of the Trust. Members of the Trust may request discussion or separate action on any item on the Consent
Docket.
For more information about the Oklahoma City Zoological Trust, please call 405-424-3344.
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AGENDA
I. Meeting Minutes
A. Minutes of February 26, 2025, Oklahoma City Zoological Trust
Meeting ................................................................................................................................... Pages 4-6
II. Staff and/or Committee Updates
A. Financial Report of February, 2025 .................................................................................. Pages 7-10
III. Items for Individual Consideration
A. Final Acceptance of Project MZ-0060 Zoo Orientation Plaza and
Africa- Themed Savannah Exhibits and placing the maintenance bond
into effect ............................................................................................................................ Pages 11-12
B. Memorandum of Understanding between the Oklahoma City
Zoological Trust and the Oklahoma City Water Utilities Trust for the
Installation of a Sewer Main; Project No. SC-1166...................................................... Pages 13-16
C. Resolution of the Oklahoma City Zoological Trust accepting the
donation of 2025 Subaru Solterra; Approving transfer of vehicle title;
Authorizing and directing the Executive Director/CEO of the
Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden to confirm the donation,
and register and insure the vehicle; and thank the Oklahoma
Zoological Society and Bob Moore Subaru for the donation ..................................... Pages 17-19
D. Resolution of the Oklahoma City Trust Zoological waiving
competitive bidding and authorizing the sole source purchase of
HVAC System component replacement and installation from Trane
U.S. Inc., estimated cost $308,000 May 1, 2025 Through December 31,
2025 ..................................................................................................................................... Pages 20-22
E. Reject bids, Project MZ-0079, Oklahoma City Elephant Shade
Structure .............................................................................................................................. Pages 23-27
IV. Items from Trustees
V. Staff Reports
A. Executive Director’s Report
a. RFQ for Cat Forest
VI. Citizens to Be Heard
VII. Adjournment
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JOURNAL OF
TRUST PROCEEDINGS
FEBRUARY 26, 2025
Trustees Present: Vicki Howard, Chairperson
Jon Trudgeon, Vice-Chairperson
Pama Palmer, Secretary
Heather Ross, Surrogate to the Mayor
LaShawn Thompson, Surrogate to the City Manager
Lee Cooper, Councilperson, Ward 7
Aimee Salalati
Staff Present: Dwight Lawson, Executive Director/CEO
Trevor Leonard, COO
Rebecca McReynolds, Vice President of Finance/CFO
Greg Heanue, Vice President of Marketing/CMO
Tammy Burnett, Vice President of Organizational Development
Jennifer D’Agostino, Director of Animal Programs
Mandy Heaps, OZS Director
Dahrenda Mitchell, Director of Guest Experience
Kate Winters, Executive Assistant
Others Present: Christopher Hall, Assistant Municipal Counselor, City of Oklahoma City
Hannah Gibson, Assistant Municipal Counselor, City of Oklahoma City
Bailee Richards, Assistant Municipal Counselor, City of Oklahoma City
Agenda Topics
I. Receive Minutes
A. Minutes of January 8, 2025
APPROVED. Moved by Trustee Jon Trudgeon. Seconded by Trustee Lee Cooper.
AYES: Trustees Vicki Howard, Jon Trudgeon, Pama Palmer, Heather Ross, LaShawn Thompson, Lee Cooper,
Aimee Salalati.
II. Receive Staff and/or Committee Updates
A. Financial Reports of December, 2024 & January 2025.
CFO, Rebecca McReynolds, provided information on the financial report of December 2024 & January 2025.
MOVED To Accept Both Months. Moved by Trustee Jon Trudgeon. Seconded by Trustee Pama Palmer.
AYES: Trustees Vicki Howard, Jon Trudgeon, Pama Palmer, Heather Ross, LaShawn Thompson, Lee Cooper,
Aimee Salalati.
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Oklahoma City Zoological Trust
February 26, 2025
Page 2 of 3
III. Items for Individual Consideration
A. Amendment No. 1 Revocable Permit between the Oklahoma City Zoological Trust and the Oklahoma Monarch
Society.
CEO, Dwight Lawson, presented the Amendment to the Revocable Permit with the Oklahoma Monarch Society.
MOVED. Moved by Trustee Jon Trudgeon. Seconded by Trustee Pama Palmer.
AYES: Trustees Vicki Howard, Jon Trudgeon, Pama Palmer, Heather Ross, LaShawn Thompson, Lee Cooper,
Aimee Salalati.
B. Plans to be advertised for bids, Project MZ-0079, Oklahoma City Elephant Shade Structure.
Dwight Lawson explained plans for the Elephant Shade Structure Project.
MOVED AS AMENDED. Moved by Trustee Jon Trudgeon. Seconded by Trustee Pama Palmer.
AYES: Trustees Vicki Howard, Jon Trudgeon, Pama Palmer, Heather Ross, LaShawn Thompson, Lee Cooper,
Aimee Salalati.
C. Resolution authorizing the Executive Director/CEO of the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden (Zoo), sub-
ject to the advice and approval of the Municipal Counselor or designee, to have settlement authority not to exceed
$15,000 for actions, claims, or lawsuits of or against the Oklahoma City Zoological Trust (Trust), whether said
action, claim, or lawsuit arises from the Zoo’s operation, or whether the action, claim, or lawsuit arises from em-
ployment, tort, or any other context, and for the executive Director/CEO to have authority to executive paperwork
to effectuate the same; and authorizing the Municipal Counselor, the Municipal Counselor’s Designee, or outside
counsel, subject to the advice and approval of the Municipal Counselor or designee, to do all things reasonable
necessary to settle, release, prosecute, defend, or initiate legal proceedings regarding actions, claims, or lawsuits of
or against the Trust, when in the best interests of the Trusts and in consultation with the Executive Director/CEO,
in an amount not to exceed $15,000, and to have authority to execute paperwork to effectuate the same. Resolution
Settling Minor Claims.
Dwight Lawson presented the Resolution and Assistant Municipal Counselor, Christopher Hall, provided additional
information.
MOVED. Moved by Trustee Jon Trudgeon. Seconded by Trustee Pama Palmer.
AYES: Trustees Vicki Howard, Jon Trudgeon, Pama Palmer, Heather Ross, LaShawn Thompson, Lee Cooper,
Aimee Salalati.
IV. Items from Trustees
A. Trustees Howard and Ross welcomed Lee Cooper.
V. Staff Reports
A. Animal Care – Eastern collared lizards are a new addition in Oklahoma Trails. Our meerkat mob has three new
pups and they should be able to utilize their outside habitat soon. One of our giraffes successfully volunteered for
a blood draw and our male zebra, Mars, had an abscess on one of his feet taken care of.
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Oklahoma City Zoological Trust
February 26, 2025
Page 3 of 3
B. Capital Projects – Glamping tent coming along nicely and expected to be completed around the first of March. We
are getting ready for upcoming work in Cat Forest to simplify and condense area. The well house project is underway
with an estimate time of completion by the end of March. Lots of work being done updating the Zoo Amphitheatre
facilities and a Shore to Sea update was shared.
C. Conservation and Education – The Sri Lankan Elephant Project recently received a grant to help fund the work
being done there. The new two-year old program is doing well at the Nature Explorers Preschool. A red panda
study is under way to help visibility.
D. Human Resources – Turnover is a little over 14% currently, our highest since 2020. Our volunteer program is
growing with a new volunteer position called Wild Guides.
E. PR & Marketing – While attendance was low for January we are ahead of where we were last year. Our discount
programs continue to be taken advantage. Visitor surveys continue to return with high satisfaction marks. New
museum exhibit is open. Homeland is sponsoring spring break and will participate in hiding the golden eggs as well
as selling the Zoo Plus Bracelets.
F. OZS Update – Currently at 143% of revenue goal. Our upcoming fundraisers include Zoo Employee Campaign,
Zoo Lovers Day, Spring Appeal, and the Zoo Gala. Shared overview of OZS’s Grant Program.
VI. Citizens to be Heard.
A. None.
VII. Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Trust, the Chairperson declared the meeting adjourned at 5:29pm.
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MEMO
To: Oklahoma City Zoological Trust
From: Dwight Lawson, Rebecca McReynolds
Date: April 9, 2025
FY-25 Financial Summary as of February 28, 2025
FY- 25 FY- 25 Variance FY- 24 Variance Act- Variance
Attendance: Actuals Budget Amount Variance % Actuals Last Year %
Current Month 37,301 38,000 (699) -1.8% 66,250 (28,949) -43.7%
Year to date 590,479 583,000 7,479 1.3% 575,428 15,051 2.6%
Operating Revenue:
Current Month $672,811 $810,031 ($137,220) -16.9% $874,237 ($201,426) -23.0%
Year to date 8,644,931 8,714,548 (69,617) -0.8% 7,767,693 877,238 11.3%
Per-Capita Revenue for the month was $18.04. Year to date per capita revenue is $14.65 which is $0.30 less than the budget of $14.95.
Other Revenue:
Current Month $737,078 $639,638 $97,440 15.2% $652,450 $84,628 13.0%
Year to date 2,652,856 2,035,646 617,210 30.3% 2,078,699 $574,157 27.6%
Operating Expenses:
Current Month 1,816,179 1,852,411 ($36,232) -2.0% 2,090,227 ($274,048) -13.1%
Year to date 15,730,904 16,662,830 (931,926) -5.6% 14,770,222 960,682 6.5%
Operating Profit (Loss):
Current Month ($406,289) ($402,743) ($3,546) 0.9% ($563,540) $157,251 -27.9%
Year to date ($4,433,117) ($5,912,636) 1,479,519 -25.0% ($4,923,829) 490,712 -10.0%
Sales Tax Revenue:
Current Month $1,531,617 $1,642,013 ($110,396) -6.7% $1,538,463 ($6,846) -0.4%
Year to date 12,243,502 12,565,805 (322,303) -2.6% 12,348,322 (104,820) -0.8%
Net Income (Loss):
Current Month $1,125,328 $1,239,270 ($113,942) -9.2% $974,923 $150,405 15.4%
Year to date 7,810,385 6,653,169 1,157,216 17.4% 7,424,493 385,892 5.2%
Annual YTD Budget
Capital/Other: Budget Expenses Remaining %
Capital Improvements $500,000 $191,050 $308,950 61.8%
Remaining to
OZS Fundraising: Annual Budget YTD Income Goal %
2024 Events/Fundraising/Endowments $1,546,390 $3,043,334 ($1,496,944) -96.8%
2024 Zoo Support 1,473,383 1,117,960 355,423 24.1%
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OKLAHOMA CITY ZOOLOGICAL TRUST
FY 2024-25 Capital Projects
Department Project Name Budget YTD Exp Balance Status
Ambassador Animals Outdoor Habitats 17,500.00 10,843.42 6,656.58 In Process
Birds Overwintering Brooder Boxes 1,000.00 - 1,000.00 Not Started
Events Picnic Table Replacement 10,000.00 - 10,000.00 Under Review
Guest Experience Plaza Storage 5,500.00 1,624.24 3,875.76 In Process
Guest Experience Guest Experience Carpet 25,057.67 21,989.67 3,068.00 Complete
Hort/Grounds Green Works 10,000.00 - 10,000.00 Not Started
Hort/Grounds Zero Turn Mowers 8,000.00 - 8,000.00 Not Started
Maintenance Boardwalk Repairs 50,000.00 62,061.83 (12,061.83) In Process
Maintenance Roof Replacement 50,000.00 - 50,000.00 Not Started
Maintenance Concrete Repair 50,000.00 - 50,000.00 Not Started
Maintenance HVAC 100,000.00 21,834.58 78,165.42 In Process
Maintenance Cat Forest Floor 25,000.00 7,395.00 17,605.00 In Process
Maintenance Great Escape Floor 25,000.00 - 25,000.00 Not Started
Technology ACME Box Office Windows 45,000.00 19,719.55 25,280.45 In Process
Technology ACME Hardware Refresh 25,000.00 27,581.65 (2,581.65) In Process
Technology CIP Mobile App 50,000.00 18,000.00 32,000.00 In Process
Contingency 2,942.33 - 2,942.33
Total CIP Budget 500,000.00 191,049.94 308,950.06
Other: Contingency Fund $500,000
Department Project Name Budget YTD Exp Balance Status
Education Vinyl Padded Folding Chairs 4,800.00 4,728.53 71.47 Complete
Hort/Grounds Tree, Plants & Signage 25,000.00 9,410.00 15,590.00 In Process
Maintenance Vehicles 50,000.00 55,800.00 (5,800.00) Complete
Administration Director Vehicle 64,490.89 64,490.89 - Complete
Security ERT Shotguns 7,500.00 4,445.00 3,055.00 In Process
Maintenance Finalize AZA Inspection Repairs 67,498.27 67,498.27 - Complete
Maintenance Elephant Fan Replacement 24,380.00 22,398.10 1,981.90 Complete
Maintenance Cat Forest Siding Replacement 111,535.46 128,435.46 (16,900.00) Complete
Maintenance Hail Storm Repairs 100,000.00 6,084.50 93,915.50 In Process
Maintenance Gas Line Repairs - - - Complete
Maintenance HVAC - Vet Hospital 45,000.00 44,972.99 27.01 Complete
Maintenance Contingency - Small Cat Glass 9,600.00 9,699.00 (99.00) Complete
Maintenance Stingray Bay 2,000.00 1,961.82 38.18 In Process
Total CIP Budget 511,804.62 419,924.56 91,880.06
Balance Available: (11,804.62)
Master Plan/Capital Projects Planned Expenses Balance Status
Master Plan Africa/Savana/Entry Plaza 34,948,760.00 35,291,560.74 (342,800.74) Wrapping up punch list
Master Plan Shore to Sea 26,000,000.00 4,000,742.59 21,999,257.41 Bids rejected - project redesign
Master Plan WellLines/Pump Houses/Tower 1,200,000.00 58,960.18 1,141,039.82 Bid accepted
Master Plan Oklahoma City Aquarium 507,800.00 424,906.69 82,893.31 Planning stage
Master Plan African Plateau Phase 1 281,400.00 - 281,400.00 Not started
Master Plan Reptile/Jungle Gym 2,189,996.00 - 2,189,996.00 Not started
Capital Project Solar Lighting-Elephant Bldg 275,000.00 - 275,000.00 Not started
Capital Project Elephant Shade Structure 100,000.00 4,047.50 95,952.50 Demo in process
Capital Project Splash Pad Remodel - - - Not started
Capital Project Amphitheater Improvements 150,000.00 186,107.14 (36,107.14) In process
Capital Project Gayla Peevey Statue 93,800.00 70,350.00 23,450.00 In process
Total 65,746,756.00 40,036,674.84 25,710,081.16
Grants Budget Expenses Balance Status
Grant Asphalt Project 250,000.00 - 250,000.00 Awarded - FY 2025
Grant Carport and EV Purchases 282,096.00 - 282,096.00 Awarded
Grant OG&E Community Solar Project - - - Not Awarded
Grant Rubber Footing Upgrades - - - Not Awarded - May Reapply
Grant Worm Bins 5,000.00 2,302.84 2,697.16 Awarded
Total 537,096.00 2,302.84 534,793.16
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OKLAHOMA CITY ZOOLOGICAL TRUST
INCOME STATEMENT SUMMARY
FOR THE EIGHT MONTHS ENDING 2/28/2025
CURRENT MONTH YEAR TO DATE
ACTUAL BUDGET LAST YR ACTUAL BUDGET LAST YR
REVENUES:
ADMISSIONS $159,556 $191,122 $298,342 $2,536,647 $2,357,055 $2,103,485
ANIMAL SHOW ADMISSIONS 5,993 6,803 7,164 69,899 104,368 82,078
ANIMAL FEEDINGS 9,335 11,281 12,894 156,863 173,076 97,842
FOOD & BEVERAGE/VENDING 29,510 40,607 52,128 696,014 722,989 624,524
CATERING/RENTALS 4,664 71,560 5,615
CONCERTS 255,666 210,000 195,847
RIDES 9,588 17,500 20,802 178,428 268,493 205,253
MERCHANDISE COMMISSION 14,071 21,264 34,245 316,526 326,227 279,133
STROLLER/RENTALS/WILD ENC 12,815 24,968 22,645 296,778 383,061 296,225
EDUCATION 216,102 173,007 128,953 459,662 564,400 270,015
PROMOTIONS 11,370 15,262 5,848 2,192,095 1,969,147 2,072,763
MEMBERSHIP 199,818 286,652 284,156 1,400,512 1,446,017 1,433,422
OTHER 4,654 16,902 7,059 85,842 118,153 101,493
TOTAL OPERATING REVENUE 672,811 810,031 874,237 8,644,931 8,714,548 7,767,693
COST OF GOODS SOLD 0 0 0 0 0 0
GROSS MARGIN $672,811 $810,031 $874,237 $8,644,931 $8,714,548 $7,767,693
100.00% 100.00% 100.00% 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%
OPERATING EXPENSES:
SALARIES 880,407 936,685 1,206,946 7,704,104 8,209,816 7,207,086
BENEFITS 269,909 264,490 288,808 2,206,175 2,197,469 2,097,123
SUPPLIES 60,875 120,127 66,522 499,456 573,109 389,879
UTILITIES 81,394 89,795 86,440 545,907 718,360 595,474
OUTSIDE SERVICES 236,163 223,565 178,948 1,504,245 1,594,475 1,454,234
ANIMAL CARE 111,476 95,709 114,479 690,696 765,791 629,291
OTHER 175,955 122,039 148,084 2,580,321 2,603,810 2,397,135
TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSE 1,816,179 1,852,411 2,090,227 15,730,904 16,662,830 14,770,222
OTHER REVENUES:
LEASES 599,068 570,522 570,086 1,386,051 1,357,505 1,357,069
CONTRIBUTIONS 9,653 9,116 7,876 71,094 108,141 60,900
INTEREST 128,357 60,000 74,488 1,195,711 570,000 660,730
TOTAL OTHER REVENUE 737,078 639,638 652,450 2,652,856 2,035,646 2,078,699
OPERATING INCOME (LOSS) (406,291) (402,742) (563,541) (4,433,117) (5,912,636) (4,923,830)
TRANSFERS
NET INCOME (LOSS) ($406,291) ($402,742) ($563,541) ($4,433,117) ($5,912,636) ($4,923,830)
Page 9 of 27
OKLAHOMA CITY ZOOLOGICAL TRUST
BUDGET ANALYSIS
FOR THE EIGHT MONTHS ENDING 2/28/2025
CURRENT MONTH YEAR TO DATE
ACTUAL BUDGET LAST YR ACTUAL BUDGET LAST YR
REVENUES:
GUEST EXPERIENCE $240,868 $313,544 $448,220 $4,251,155 $4,335,270 $3,688,540
GROUP EVENTS 0 4,664 0 255,666 281,560 201,462
OTHER 431,944 491,823 426,016 4,138,111 4,097,717 3,877,693
TOTAL OPERATING REVENUE 672,811 810,031 874,237 8,644,931 8,714,548 7,767,693
OPERATIONAL EXPEND BY DIVISION:
ADMINISTRATIVE 342,717 374,417 365,321 3,147,946 3,309,290 3,177,984
ANIMAL 427,349 418,832 555,139 3,449,536 3,683,866 3,287,501
MARKETING & INTERPRETIVE SVC 186,374 110,348 110,617 1,890,247 1,893,759 1,728,317
BUILDING & GROUNDS 478,988 557,120 619,490 3,806,904 4,224,713 3,566,497
EDUCATION 89,606 83,945 80,015 680,357 731,651 502,009
VISITOR SERVICES 118,764 155,926 148,991 1,516,905 1,555,937 1,298,405
VETERINARY 172,381 151,821 210,654 1,239,009 1,263,613 1,209,509
TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSE 1,816,179 1,852,411 2,090,227 15,730,904 16,662,830 14,770,222
NET OPERATING REVENUE (1,143,368) (1,042,380) (1,215,990) (7,085,973) (7,948,282) (7,002,529)
OTHER REVENUE:
SALES TAX FUND REVENUE 1,531,617 1,642,013 1,538,463 12,243,502 12,565,805 12,348,322
CONTRIBUTIONS 9,653 9,116 7,876 71,094 108,141 60,900
OTHER REVENUE 727,425 630,522 644,574 2,581,762 1,927,505 2,017,799
TOTAL OTHER REVENUE 2,268,695 2,281,651 2,190,912 14,896,358 14,601,451 14,427,021
NET REVENUE BEFORE DEPRECIATION
AND CAPITAL EXPENDITURES $1,125,327 $1,239,271 $974,922 $7,810,385 $6,653,169 $7,424,492
OPERATING REVENUE/EXPENSE RATIO 37.05% 43.73% 41.82% 54.96% 52.30% 52.59%
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TO: Chair and Trustees of the Oklahoma City Zoological Trust
FROM: Dwight Lawson, Executive Director/CEO
DATE: April 9, 2025
SUBJECT: Final Acceptance of Project MZ-0060 Zoo Orientation Plaza and Africa-
Themed Savannah Exhibits and placing the maintenance bond into effect.
Background: The Zoo Orientation Plaza and Africa Exhibits is a renovation of 11 acres,
which includes new Africa themed animal holding buildings, animal exhibits,
food and beverage, retail and a renovation of the existing pachyderm building.
The Contract was awarded on March 24, 2021, and was substantially
completed on August 17, 2023.
Fidelity and Deposit Company of Maryland is the surety company for the two-
year maintenance bond. Bond No. 09375511 will remain in effect until the
contractor and surety have fulfilled all responsibilities under the maintenance
bond.
Architect:
Peckham Guyton Albers & Viets, Inc. dba PGAV Destinations
Contractor:
Timberlake Construction Co., Inc.
Final Inspection:
January 13, 2023. Timberlake, PGAV Architect, EXP Engineering, Owner
Representative and Zoo Staff were in attendance. All agree that the project has
been completed according to the plans and specifications and as to the
remaining punch list.
Final Claim:
$280,862.30
Final Construction Cost:
$29,443,032.16
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Source of Funds:
OKC Zoo Sales Tax, Bonds, Historic Tax Credits, and Private Donations.
Recommendation: Project be accepted and the maintenance bond be placed into effect.
Page 12 of 27
TO: Chair and Trustees of the Oklahoma City Zoological Trust
FROM: Dwight Lawson, Executive Director/CEO
DATE: April 9, 2025
SUBJECT: Memorandum of Understanding between the Oklahoma City Zoological Trust
and the Oklahoma City Water Utilities Trust for the Installation of a Sewer
Main; Project No. SC-1166.
Background: The Oklahoma City Zoological Trust (Zoo) and the Oklahoma City Water
Utilities Trust (OCWUT) wish to enter into this Memorandum of
Understanding (MOU) to facilitate the installation of a sewer main and to
define the financing and construction of the project.
The City of Oklahoma City (City) owns and operates, and OCWUT leases and
finances, a sewer system that serves the Oklahoma City and greater Oklahoma
City area. A portion of the sewer main is needed to make a connection to an
existing sanitary sewer system without loss of serviceability of functionality to
the adjoining system.
The Zoo will finance the construction of the sewer installation and be
reimbursed by OCWUT for all construction costs after project acceptance.
If the MOU is approved, the MOU will go before the OCWUT Trustees for
approval and City Council for concurrence.
Recommendation: Memorandum of Understanding be approved.
Page 13 of 27
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE OKLAHOMA
CITY ZOOLOGICAL TRUST AND THE OKLAHOMA CITY WATER
UTILITIES TRUST FOR THE INSTALLATION OF A SEWER MAIN,
PROJECT NO. SC-1166
THIS AGREEMENT (“Agreement”) is entered by and between The Oklahoma City
Zoological Trust, hereinafter referred to as “Zoo,” and the Oklahoma City Water Utilities Trust,
hereinafter referred to as “OCWUT”.
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, The City of Oklahoma City “Oklahoma City” owns and operates and
OCWUT leases and finances a sewer system (“Oklahoma City Sanitary Sewer System”) that
serves Oklahoma City and the greater Oklahoma City area; and
WHEREAS, Zoo is performing certain exhibit improvements along the northwest shore of
Northeast Lake (Project No. MZ-0069); and
WHEREAS, a portion of sewer main is needed to make a connection to an existing
sanitary sewer system; and
WHEREAS, the connection will allow the redundant sewer mains and manholes
downstream to be abandoned and removed without any loss of serviceability or functionality to
the adjoining sanitary sewer system; and
WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of Zoo and OCWUT to cooperatively facilitate the
installation of the said portion of sewer main and abandonment of associated sewer facilities,
Project No. SC-1166, Sanitary Sewer Extension and Abandonment (“Sewer Installation”) that
will maintain full capacity and serviceability in accordance with Oklahoma City standards,
policies, and procedures; and
WHEREAS, the parties now desire to enter into this MOU for the purpose of funding
the Sewer Installation; and
WHEREAS, Zoo will fund and provide construction services for the Sewer Installation in
accordance with Oklahoma City and OCWUT standards.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT JOINTLY resolved and agreed by Zoo and OCWUT
that:
1. AUTHORIZATIONS. The Zoo authorizes the Executive Director/CEO or designee
of the Zoo to act on its behalf as provided herein and OCWUT authorizes the General
Manager or designee of OCWUT to act on its behalf as provided herein.
2. DESIGN. OCWUT will provide the design and specifications and finance the costs
and expenses for the design of the Sewer Installation to the Zoo.
3. SOLICITATION OF BIDS. After OCWUT provides the design and specifications to
Page 14 of 27
1
the Zoo, the Zoo will advertise and solicit bids for the Sewer Installation in accordance with
the Oklahoma Competitive Bidding Act.
4. AWARD OF CONTRACT. Zoo will receive bids and award the contract for the
Sewer Installation (“Contract”) to the lowest and best responsible bidder (now “Contractor”)
as agreed to by Zoo and OCWUT.
5. CONTRACT MANAGEMENT AND ADMINISTRATION. Zoo will provide
contract management and administration in accordance with the Oklahoma Competitive
Bidding Act and Oklahoma City standards.
6. CHANGE ORDERS AND AMENDMENTS. Zoo will provide OCWUT all change
orders and amendments for the Sewer Installation for review and approval by OCWUT prior
to implementation.
7. PROJECT ACCEPTANCE BY ZOO AND OCWUT. When the Contractor claims
the Sewer Installation is complete, the OCWUT inspector will attend the final inspection,
affirm construction of the Sewer Installation in accordance with the OCWUT design and
specifications, and create a punch list for the Contractor to complete before acceptance by Zoo
and OCWUT. Upon affirmation from the OCWUT inspector that the Sewer Installation is
complete in accordance with OCWUT design and specifications, and any change orders and
amendments, and all punch list items have been completed, the Sewer Installation will be
submitted to Zoo and OCWUT for acceptance.
8. MAINTENANCE BOND. Upon acceptance the Maintenance Bond will be placed
into effect.
9. OWNERSHIP. Upon acceptance by Zoo and OCWUT, the Sewer Installation will
be owned by OCWUT and Oklahoma City will be responsible for operation and
maintenance.
10. AS BUILTS. After acceptance of the Sewer Installation by Zoo and OCWUT, the
Contractor will submit to Zoo and OCWUT as-built plan drawings within thirty (30) days.
11. FINANCING. The Zoo will finance the construction of Sewer Installation.
12. REIMBURSEMENT BY OCWUT. After acceptance of the Sewer Installation by
Zoo and OCWUT, Zoo will tender an invoice to OCWUT for all construction costs paid to
the Contractor, also including any change order and amendment for the Sewer Installation.
Within thirty (30) days of tender of invoice, OCWUT will reimburse Zoo for the invoiced
costs.
Page 15 of 27
2
APPROVED by the Oklahoma City Zoological Trust and SIGNED by the Chairperson
this ____________day of __________________________, 2025.
ATTEST: OKLAHOMA CITY ZOOLOGICAL TRUST
_____________________________ _____________________________________
Secretary CHAIRPERSON
Reviewed for form and legality
_____________________________
Assistant Municipal Counselor
APPROVED by the Oklahoma City Water Utilities Trust and SIGNED by the Chairman
this ____________day of __________________________, 20_____.
ATTEST: OKLAHOMA CITY WATER UTILITIES
TRUST
_____________________________ _____________________________________
Secretary CHAIRMAN
CONCURRED by the City of Oklahoma City and SIGNED by the Mayor this
____________ day of __________________________, 2025.
ATTEST: THE CITY OF OKLAHOMA CITY
_____________________________ _____________________________________
City Clerk MAYOR
Reviewed for form and legality
_____________________________
Assistant Municipal Counselor
Page 16 of 27
3
TO: Chair and Trustees of the Oklahoma City Zoological Trust
FROM: Dwight Lawson, Executive Director/CEO
DATE: April 9, 2025
SUBJECT: Resolution of the Oklahoma City Zoological Trust accepting the
donation of 2025 Subaru Solterra; Approving transfer of vehicle title;
Authorizing and directing the Executive Director/CEO of the
Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden to confirm the donation,
and register and insure the vehicle; and thank the Oklahoma
Zoological Society and Bob Moore Subaru for the donation.
Purpose: The Oklahoma Zoological Society (OZS) has contracted with Bob
Moore Subaru to purchase a new 2025 Subaru Solterra to donate to
the Oklahoma City Zoological Trust (Trust) for a tax deduction or
credit; and upon accepting the donation of the Subaru, the Trust will
need to obtain title, register, and insure the vehicle; and the Trust
would like to formally acknowledge and thank OZS and Bob Moore
Subaru for the donation.
This Resolution allows the Oklahoma City Zoological Trust to accept
the donation of 2025 Subaru Solterra, to approve the transfer of
vehicle title, to authorize and direct the Executive Director/CEO of
the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden to confirm the
donation, and to register and insure the vehicle; and thank the
Oklahoma Zoological Society and Bob Moore Subaru for the
donation.
Recommendation: Resolution be approved.
Page 17 of 27
RESOLUTION
RESOLUTION OF THE OKLAHOMA CITY ZOOLOGICAL TRUST
ACCEPTING THE DONATION OF 2025 SUBARU SOLTERRA;
APPROVING TRANSFER OF VEHICLE TITLE; AUTHORIZING AND
DIRECTING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR/CEO OF THE OKLAHOMA
CITY ZOO AND BOTANICAL GARDEN TO CONFIRM THE DONATION,
AND REGISTER AND INSURE THE VEHICLE; AND THANK THE
OKLAHOMA ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY AND BOB MOORE SUBARU
FOR THE DONATION.
WHEREAS, the Oklahoma Zoological Society (OZS) has contracted with Bob
Moore Subaru to purchase a new 2025 Subaru Solterra to donate to the Oklahoma City
Zoological Trust (Trust) for a tax deduction or credit; and
WHEREAS, upon accepting the donation of the Subaru, the Trust will need to
obtain title, register, and insure the vehicle; and
WHEREAS, the Trust would like to formally acknowledge and thank OZS and
Bob Moore Subaru for the donation.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY the Oklahoma City Zoological Trust to
accept the donation of 2025 Subaru Solterra, to approve the transfer of vehicle title, to authorize
and direct the Executive Director/CEO of the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden to confirm
the donation, and to register and insure the vehicle; and thank the Oklahoma Zoological Society
and Bob Moore Subaru for the donation.
Page 18 of 27
ATTEST: OKLAHOMA CITY ZOOLOGICAL TRUST
________________________ _______________________________________
Trust Secretary Chairperson
Reviewed for form and legality.
_________________________________
Assistant Municipal Counselor
Page 19 of 27
TO: Chair and Trustees of the Oklahoma City Zoological Trust
FROM: Dwight Lawson, Executive Director/CEO
DATE: April 9, 2025
SUBJECT: Resolution of the Oklahoma City Zoological Trust waiving
competitive bidding and authorizing the sole source purchase of
HVAC System component replacement and installation from Trane
U.S. Inc., estimated cost $308,000 May 1, 2025 Through December
31, 2025.
Purpose: The Great Escape indoor habitat requires the replacement of HVAC
System and Trane U.S. Inc. has existing HVAC systems in Zoo
buildings, such as the Cat Forest, Scratch Restaurant, and Lion
Overlook. Replacement and installation of the components must be
compatible with existing air handler and venting network and the
compatibility of Trane HVAC System components and installation in
the Great Escape indoor habitat is essential for the functionality of
the existing Trane systems.
It is recommended that competitive bidding is waived and authorize
the sole source purchase of HVAC System Component Replacement
and Installation from Trane U.S. Inc., estimated cost $308,000, May
1, 2025 through December 31, 2025.
Recommendation: Resolution be approved.
Page 20 of 27
RESOLUTION
RESOLUTION OF THE OKLAHOMA CITY
ZOOLOGICAL TRUST WAIVING COMPETITIVE
BIDDING AND AUTHORIZING THE SOLE SOURCE
PURCHASE OF HVAC SYSTEM COMPONENT
REPLACEMENT AND INSTALLATION FROM TRANE
U.S. INC., ESTIMATED COST $308,000, MAY 1, 2025
THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2025.
WHEREAS, the Oklahoma City Zoo (“Zoo”) Great Escape indoor habitat requires the
replacement of HVAC System; and
WHEREAS, Trane U.S. Inc. (“Trane”) has existing HVAC systems in Zoo buildings,
such as the Cat Forest, Scratch Restaurant, and Lion Overlook; and
WHEREAS, replacement and installation of the components must be compatible with
existing air handler and venting network; and
WHEREAS, Trane Controller needs to integrate into existing Trane systems in satellite
building locations; and
WHEREAS, the compatibility of Trane HVAC System components and installation in
the Great Escape indoor habitat is essential for the functionality of the existing Trane systems.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Trustees of the Oklahoma City
Zoological Trust that they do hereby waive competitive bidding and authorize the sole source
purchase of HVAC System Component Replacement and Installation from Trane U.S. Inc.,
estimated cost $308,000, May 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025.
Page 21 of 27
ATTEST: OKLAHOMA CITY ZOOLOGICAL TRUST
________________________ _______________________________________
Trust Secretary Chairperson
Reviewed for form and legality.
_________________________________
Assistant Municipal Counselor
Page 22 of 27
TO: Chair and Trustees of the Oklahoma City Zoological Trust
FROM: Dwight Lawson, Executive Director/CEO
DATE: April 9, 2025
SUBJECT: Reject bids, Project MZ-0079, Oklahoma City Elephant Shade
Structure.
Purpose: On February 26, 2025, the Trust authorized the issuance of bids to
go out to bid for Project No. MZ-0079, to build permanent and
durable shade structures for our elephant yards. They are sunshade
devices, with three sails in each grouping.
The Trust previously approved the final estimate for the Project at
$200,000 and upon evaluation of the bid packets received, the total
bid amount submitted to complete the Project was approximately
$481,811.56, which significantly exceeded the final estimated cost and
is not otherwise budgeted for by the Trust. Staff recommends it
would be in the best interest of the Trust to reject all bids for Project
No. MZ-0079, Oklahoma City Elephant Shade Structure.
Recommendation: Bids to be rejected.
Page 23 of 27
MZ-0079 - Elephant Shade Canopies
Bid Committee Bid Tab
Bid MZ-0079 Ended at 04/02/2025 10:00 AM CDT
The City of Oklahoma City and Trusts - Elephant Shade Canopies
Generated by: City Clerk
Summary
Company Downey Contracting, LLC
Bid Number MZ-0079
Item Grouping BASE BID - $339,529.00
ADD ALTERNATE 1 - $319,388.00
Total Bid $658,917.00
Company The PlayWell Group, Inc. #6
Bid Number MZ-0079
Item Grouping BASE BID - $162,308.74
ADD ALTERNATE 1 - $319,502.82
Total Bid $481,811.56
Company Terra Construction LLC
Bid Number MZ-0079
Item Grouping BASE BID - $205,777.00
ADD ALTERNATE 1 - $171,320.00
Total Bid $377,097.00
Date
Bid Number MZ-0079
Elephant Shade Canopies
Creation Date 03/10/2025 08:44 AM CDT
Start Date 03/12/2025 10:00 AM CDT
End Date 04/02/2025 10:00 AM CDT
Award Date Not Awarded Yet
Line Item Summary
MZ-0079 Elephant Shade Canopies
Supplier Downey Contracting, LLC
Supplier Number 1243224
Unit Price $339,529.00
Quantity/Unit 1 / Lump-Sum
Total Price $339,529.00
Product Code SP-1
Supplier Product Code
Supplier Notes
Unit Price $319,388.00
Quantity/Unit 1 / Lump-Sum
Total Price $319,388.00
Product Code SP-2
Supplier Product Code
Supplier Notes
04/02/2025 10:30 AM CDT Page 24 of Page
27 1 of 3
MZ-0079 - Elephant Shade Canopies
Supplier The PlayWell Group, Inc.
Supplier Number 2836302
Unit Price $162,308.74
Quantity/Unit 1 / Lump-Sum
Total Price $162,308.74
Product Code SP-1
Supplier Product Code
Supplier Notes includes permitting cost and payment and performance bond
Unit Price $319,502.82
Quantity/Unit 1 / Lump-Sum
Total Price $319,502.82
Product Code SP-2
Supplier Product Code
Supplier Notes includes permitting and payment and performance bond
Supplier Terra Construction LLC
Supplier Number 2824988
Unit Price $205,777.00
Quantity/Unit 1 / Lump-Sum
Total Price $205,777.00
Product Code SP-1
Supplier Product Code
Supplier Notes
Unit Price $171,320.00
Quantity/Unit 1 / Lump-Sum
Total Price $171,320.00
Product Code SP-2
Supplier Product Code
Supplier Notes
Supplier Totals
Supplier Downey Contracting, LLC
Supplier Number 1243224
Total Bid Price $658,917.00
Bid Contact Sheila Stovall
sstovall@downeycontracting.com
4054785277
Address 3217 NE 63rd ST
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, 73121
United States
Supplier Notes
Supplier The PlayWell Group, Inc.
Supplier Number 2836302
Total Bid Price $481,811.56
Bid Contact Maria Powell
info@playwellgroup.com
800-726-1816
Address 203A State Highway 46 East
BOERNE, Texas, 78006
United States
Supplier Notes includes permitting cost and payment and performance bond
includes permitting and payment and performance bond
04/02/2025 10:30 AM CDT Page 25 of Page
27 2 of 3
MZ-0079 - Elephant Shade Canopies
Supplier Terra Construction LLC
Supplier Number 2824988
Total Bid Price $377,097.00
Bid Contact Karen S Waldrop
kwaldrop@terraconstruction.com
(405) 720-8088 ext. 10
Address 7429 NW 84th Street
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, 73132
United States
Supplier Notes
04/02/2025 10:30 AM CDT Page 26 of Page
27 3 of 3
The Bid Committee met in the
Municipal Building - City Clerk’s Conference Room
200 N. Walker, 2nd Floor, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
AT 10:00 A.M. OR LATER
THE BID COMMITTEE DOES NOT REJECT OR ACCEPT BIDS. The Bid Committee’s
preliminary determination is not conclusive of the validity, regularity, completeness or legality of
any bid. THE ORIGINATING DEPARTMENT SHALL CAREFULLY EXAMINE AND
EVALUATE ALL OPENED BIDS. Questions regarding bid defects or irregularities should be
directed to the City Clerk’s Office at (405) 297-2391.
Miranda Crawford Hannah Adams Randall Daniel
City Clerk Designee Purchasing Agent Designee City Auditor Designee
Potential Bid Defects Noted:
#1 Anti-collusion affidavit not properly notarized
#2 Bid Security or Bid Bond missing
#3 Bid Security or Bid Bond incorrect awarding agency
#4 Bid Security or Bid Bond insufficient amount
#5 Business relationship affidavit not properly notarized
#6 Bidder not prequalified
Originating Department shall:
1. Carefully examine and evaluate all opened bids, including a review of potential defects
noted by the Bid Committee; and
2. Contact your legal representative prior to recommending contract award based on a bid
with any potential or perceived irregularity or defect; and
3. Prepare a memorandum to City Council/Trust with recommendations regarding contract
award, listing all bids opened and noting any defects; and
4. Attach a copy of the Bid Committee’s Bid Tabulation with the agenda item recommending
contract award.
Page 27 of 27