Major budget cuts are being made at Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in response to the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.
In a statement from Henry Doorly on Thursday, the zoo said they've made the "difficult decision to furlough and eliminate positions at the Zoo."
In the statement, zoo officials say all furloughed employees will retain their health benefits and have been notified. The furloughs are in addition to salary reductions, a hiring freeze and non-animal related expense reductions. These moves have allowed to zoo to cut their budget by 36%.
The zoo's President and CEO Dennis Pate says that decisions affecting staff are very difficult and not made lightly. "While this has been difficult, we take some solace knowing that our actions to date have reduced the spread of the disease and helped assure the continued financial health of the Zoo.”
The zoo has been closed since March 16th due to the COVID-19 crisis, a closure that has resulted in a projected revenue loss estimated up to $26.1 million by the end of the year. Officials says 91% of their operating income comes from admission, membership and sales such as concessions, gift shops, rides, and events.
The statement goes on to say that, "Zoos, including Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, that employ more than 500 people did not qualify for the Paycheck Protection Program included in the CARES Act. We want to offer a heartfelt thank you to our community that has continued to support us through this difficult time by purchasing their membership, which go directly to caring for the over 30,000 animals."
Extensive planning is already taking place by Zoo staff to reopen at a future date to be determined.
Due to the projected revenue shortfall, the Omaha Zoo Foundation has launched an Emergency Fund campaign to support Zoo operations. Members of the community who would like to support can visit the Zoo’s website, OmahaZoo.com.