Jul 12, 2009 5:14 pm US/Eastern
Patrick Raps Zoo Operator On Shutdown Threat
BOSTON (WBZ) ―
Gov. Deval Patrick sharply criticized the operator of the
Franklin Park Zoo for spreading what he called "inaccurate and incendiary information" about the possible closing of the zoo.
Officials at Zoo New England warned legislators in a letter last week that they might have to
close the zoo and the Stone Zoo in Stoneham because of state budget cutbacks. They said as many as 200 animals might have to be destroyed.
"In the midst of an economic crisis like this one, when families and businesses alike are making sacrifices, we would all do well to remain level-headed and focused on solutions.," the governor's spokesperson Lyle Sullivam said in a statement on Sunday. "The administration looks forward to working with Zoo New England and their supporters to find one."
Over the weekend, Zoo New England backed off on the possibilty of destroying animals, saying none will be euthanized.
Patrick has cut state funding for the zoos to $2.5 million from $6.5 million.
The Patrick administration says Zoo New England could stay in business by making tough budget cuts, such as consolidating the Franklin Park and Stone zoos.
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