Patrick yesterday fired back at ZNE officials for “exaggerating” fears of euthanization. “I do think that the public needs to know that the claim that animals in the zoo are going to be euthanized was false,” Patrick told reporters. “And I think, frankly, the zoo is going to have to take some responsibility for that.”
Fueled by supportive words from their legislative leaders, who pledged to help restore zoo funding, elected
officials in Stoneham yesterday reaffirmed an effort to override Gov. Deval Patrick’s veto of funds for the Franklin Park and Stone zoos.
“Surely there is some place else in the budget to find $4 million,” said Sen. Richard Tisei from inside the 104-year-old Stone Zoo.
Earlier in the day, House Speaker Robert DeLeo said the House will override the veto due to calls members have received on the issue. Senate President Therese Murray stated “it is likely” her members will do the same.
Patrick has proposed to slash funding for Zoo New England, which operates both facilities, from $6.6 million to $2.6 million. ZNE countered with claims that it would be forced to close the zoos and the state would be forced to euthanize some of the animals, but later indicated that would only be one of the options facing the state, but not a sure thing.
Stoneham-area leaders believe backing by Murray and DeLeo will prevent the zoos from shuttering their doors.
“He’s on board,” Rep. James Dwyer said of the Speaker. “He understands the importance of keeping the zoo open.”