WHAT’S GOING ON AT THE EL PASO ZOO? 
Taxpayer dollars are flowing into the zoo, but problems keep piling up under Zoo Director Joe Montisano (2019-present). His salary? 
$152,762 – that’s 195% higher than the average city employee and 32% more than the average Zoo Director in Texas! 
$152,762 – that’s 195% higher than the average city employee and 32% more than the average Zoo Director in Texas! You’d think with Montisano’s background—having been the director of the Great Lakes Aquarium in Minnesota and the executive director of the Wildlife Safari in Oregon—he’d know how to manage zoo safety systems. But it’s not going well at the El Paso Zoo.
Here’s what we’ve uncovered:
MISMANAGEMENT BY ZOO DIRECTOR 
Took over 30 days to bill for zoo events
Never asked for proof of insurance, even though he was responsible
Failed to submit required documents
Created his own volunteer program, breaking the agreement
Never provided a capital project plan
WHERE’S THE MONEY GOING? 
$200K requested for woodchips 
—but where is the Doo from the Zoo composting plan?
—but where is the Doo from the Zoo composting plan?Asked for more money for renovations 
Despite the budget increase, major issues remain
ANIMAL & STAFF SAFETY ISSUES 
Penguin exhibit’s ozone system isn’t working properly – a system that keeps water safe from bacteria 
Staff isn’t properly trained to handle it
No safety alarms for the ozone system – Montisano said: “You’ll pass out if you breathe it.”
ACCREDITATION AT RISK 
The AZA raised red flags about zoo management and animal care
Losing accreditation could lead to fewer animals, fewer resources, and a damaged reputation for El Paso
WHERE’S THE ACCOUNTABILITY? 
Montisano has been silent on the issues
News outlets have asked for an interview, but the city says he’s “not available.” 
