Pete’s Safari, a local zoo, is asking City of Grand Island to work together to stay open

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (KLKN) — After nearly two months, a locally, family owned petting zoo in Grand Island is still trying to work with city officials to stay open. Family, friends and supporters of Pete’s Safari call out to the City of Grand Island to work collaboratively to keep the local exhibit open.

Over 7,300 people have signed the petition to preserve the family attraction.

The City of Grand Island responded to the conversation when the petition and call for action started.

“The City’s objective is not to close businesses or prevent community attractions from operating,” they wrote. “Rather, the City’s responsibility is to apply adopted regulations ensuring public safety, protecting neighborhoods and providing fair and consistent treatment for all residents and businesses.”

In the petition, Pete’s Safari is asking the mayor and city council to find practical solutions to help them stay open and abide by regulations.

They state that visits to the zoo generate economic activity including gas, restaurant meals, hotels and more. Along with that, they write that they are not asking the city to ignore regulations but for the city to collaborate with them.

The owners state they operate under federal oversight through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and ask the city to take into consideration the necessity to comply with federal inspection requirements.

Pete’s Safari is asking residents, visitors and the community to sign the petition and reach out to city officials.

Kierra Petersen, daughter of the owners, said her parents have made a difference in the community.

“Even if things don’t go the way we hope, I want my parents to see just how many people stand behind them,” Peterson said. “I want them to know that their work mattered, that they made a difference, and that they didn’t go down without a fight.”

The City of Grand Island has not released further comment on the situation, but previously stated that because the matter involves City Codes and/or State Law, the City cannot provide further information.

COURTESY: KIERRA PETERSEN