ABQ City Council to vote on Zoo prices

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - Final action is expected on Monday night from the Albuquerque City Council on how much you will pay to get into the Zoo.

Councilors say the initial hike in admission prices put in place by Mayor R.J. Berry's Office was way too drastic. A bill, sponsored by City Councilors Ken Sanchez and Debbie O'Malley would back down the mayors increase. Adult admission would only see a one dollar increase while kids and seniors will again pay three bucks.

Councilors say the drastic increase could drive crowds away from visiting the Zoo, especially in a trying economy.
The mayor says the jump in fees is necessary because the 85-year-old facility is in need of expensive repairs and upgrades.

The city's Chief Operations Office says that lowering the increase in prices wouldn't help pay for the repairs to the zoo.

Councilors will meet on Monday night at 5 p.m. in the Vincent E. Griego chambers of City Hall.