ZooTampa moves closer to $75 million funding agreement with Hillsborough County for expansion and upgrades

ZooTampa is nearing a $75 million funding agreement with Hillsborough County to expand and upgrade the zoo.Hillsborough County Commissioners voted 4-3 on Wednesday to move forward with finalizing the agreement.A public hearing is set for later this month.Watch report from Julie Salomone: ZooTampa moves closer to funding agreement for upgradesUnder the agreement, Hillsborough County would provide ZooTampa with $75 million in CIT funds. The money comes from Hillsborough County's half-cent sales tax."As part of our master planning process, we will be addressing some of our older areas specifically the area in Asia. This area was developed in the late 80s, early 90s. It's a bit dated. It still provides excellent care for the animals but as we move forward, we want to continue to advance our care and expand on our programs," said Chris Massaro, Chief Zoological Officer with ZooTampa.The county would provide ZooTampa with $5 million annually for 15 years. ZooTampa would match that investment