Attleboro To Fund Capron Park Zoo Through FY2027

In Attleboro, Capron Park Zoo will remain open for Fiscal Year 2027 as the city moves to cover costs for next year while it seeks longer-term funding options.

According to CBS Boston, Attleboro Mayor Cathleen DeSimone's proposal to potentially close the public zoo, which has been in the city for nearly 90 years, drew backlash. DeSimone's plan would have removed the zoo and transformed the space into preserve land with an animal rehabilitation center.  

"The transformation plan is now off the table as we will fund the zoo in FY27 using free cash," Mayor DeSimone said in a statement shared with CBS Boston. "When the Council approves the zoo budget later this spring, they will do so knowing and accepting the use of free cash."

A subsequent news release from the city clarified what was meant by "free cash": "Free cash represents unspent funds from the prior fiscal year that become available as revenue in the current fiscal year."

According to DeSimone, Attleboro is facing a $2.5 million budget deficit, which will likely lead to more layoffs of city employees.

"It is important to know that because the budget deficit is largely driven by an 8.4% increase in health insurance costs, we will unfortunately need to lay off some city employees heading into FY27," DeSimone said in a statement. "Funding the zoo on the general fund in FY27 would result in more layoffs."

According to an NBC 10 NEWS WJAR report, city officials said the zoo will continue normal operations beyond Sept. 7 and will remain open with regular admission. A previously discussed plan to offer limited free weekend openings in September and October is not moving forward at this time.