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PROPOSED INTERAGENCY AGREEMENT AMENDMENT
Department(s): Office of the General Superintendent
Other Part(ies): Chicago Zoological Society, Brookfield, Illinois
Request: To amend an agreement between the Forest Preserves of Cook County (the “Forest Preserves”) and the Chicago Zoological Society (the “Zoo” or “CZS”) to temporarily expand the area of Forest Preserves property designated for Zoo purposes
Good(s) or Service(s): Maintenance and operation of a zoological park on lands of the Forest Preserves, commonly known as the Brookfield Zoo Chicago
Agreement Period: Original 4/8/1986 - 4/7/2026; Board Approved Extension 4/8/2026 - 4/7/2027
Proposed Agreement Extension: N/A
Fiscal Impact: N/A (other than funding through annual budget appropriation)
Accounts: N/A
Agreement Number(s): N/A
District(s): 16
Summary: On 10/22/2024, CZS unveiled its Next Century Plan (see Board Item No. 24-0307), with a goal of revolutionizing animal habitats and spaces; embracing sustainable practices; transforming guest experience and accessibility; and expanding contributions to environmental education and conservation sciences. CZS now desires to use additional Forest Preserves land for parking to accommodate visitors to the Zoo. Pursuant to Board Item No. 26-0328, the Board of Commissioners has temporarily designated additional land for Zoo purposes, totaling approximately 3.37 acres in Brookfield Woods. Accordingly, the parties intend to enter into the proposed amendment to temporarily expand the area of Forest Preserves property designated for Zoo purposes in accordance with Board Item No. 26-0328. Final amendment is subject to legal review and approval.
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