April 29, 2024

Oleson Park Zoo’s future remains uncertain

FORT DODGE — A public session held in Fort Dodge on Wednesday affirmed that the future of Oleson Park Zoo remains unclear.

It was revealed at a meeting with residents, city officials and Friends of the Oleson Park Zoo representatives that there is no plan to upgrade the zoo or an estimate on how much such a plan may cost.

“If you’re going to go out and ask for money, you’re going to have to have more to talk about,” said Roy Chase, a resident who attended the session.

City Councilman Terry Moehnke said that he’s pleased that the Friends of the Oleson a volunteer group that manages the animal attraction, and the Parks, Recreation and Forestry Commission are currently working together on a plan after a “little bit of divide” in the past.