According to a report from the grand jury, the current model for managing the Los Angeles Zoo seems outdated and ineffective.
Membership numbers have taken a significant hit. The count dropped from 36,914 in April 2025 to 28,440 by February 2026, which is a loss of about 23% or 8,474 members in less than a year.
The commission has urged the city to consider adopting a public-private partnership, suggesting that the financial burden is too great for the city to bear alone.
This recommendation comes amid an ongoing legal battle with the Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association over a substantial $50 million donation.
For nearly five decades, GLAZA has played a crucial role in financing various zoo operations, including exhibits, conservation efforts, and community outreach.
However, this partnership is now in jeopardy. The grand jury emphasized that the group’s financial assistance is vital for the zoo’s operations but noted that their collaboration has soured, primarily due to legal disputes.
“When that belief led to litigation, the future of our zoo was put in jeopardy,” the report states. “Our relationship with GLAZA is currently in ruins, hit by a major lawsuit in Los Angeles Superior Court.”
The zoo’s struggles are becoming increasingly apparent to visitors, with multiple exhibits, including the lion and bear enclosures, currently closed for necessary renovations.
Last year, the zoo transferred its last two elephants, Billy and Tina, to another facility after years of criticism regarding their welfare. Animal rights activists had raised concerns about their living conditions and health for quite some time.
Additionally, federal inspections have flagged numerous maintenance issues within animal enclosures, citing rust and peeling paint, further compounding the zoo’s challenges.
Previous assessments pointed out a significant shortfall in funding and staffing, which hampers even basic repairs. Despite this, the city has set aside $34 million for zoo operations, with a portion allocated for animal care.
Still, many wonder if this funding is sufficient to turn the tide for the zoo. There are calls for city leaders to seek a new partner experienced in managing such facilities by next April, or risk further decline.
This warning aligns with broader concerns about various institutions throughout Los Angeles, particularly as the downtown area continues to struggle with serious issues.
