Dear Editor,

As President of the Friends of the Charles Paddock Zoo, I wanted to clarify some information included in a recent letter to the editor from Rolfe Nelson regarding the zoo’s name change. While we understand that people may feel strongly about this topic, I’d like to note that the Friends organization is not involved in the actions or positions described in that letter.

Specifically, the Friends of the Charles Paddock Zoo is not part of any campaign with the Bishop Family, is not seeking a ballot measure, and does not endorse or oppose city council or mayoral candidates. We are also not considering “legal or other steps” as mentioned.

In fact, our board has voted to change our own organization’s name to the Central Coast Zoo Foundation in support of the zoo’s transition to the Central Coast Zoo, as I shared our position at the City Council meeting on June 24.

We remain focused on our mission: supporting and growing our community’s zoo and its animals. We appreciate all who share a passion for the zoo, and we look forward to continuing to build broad community support as we enter this exciting new chapter.

Angela Cisneros
President, Friends of the Charles Paddock Zoo