Animal sanctuary goes before Boulder City Council

Lisa Snedeker

Tuesday, Feb. 2, 1999 | 10:37 a.m.

Jonathan Kraft wants to make Boulder City a little wilder.

The founder and executive director of Keepers of the Wild, a nonprofit, exotic animal sanctuary in Las Vegas, and his entourage made a presentation to the City Council during a workshop Monday.

Kraft has submitted a proposal to operate an exotic animal sanctuary within the city limits.

"We're seeking to build and expand an interactive animal park with natural habitats that people can come visit," the former magician-turned-animal caretaker said. "We're not part of a stage production or a breeding program."

The City Council will officially consider the Boulder City Wild Animal Sanctuary proposal at its Feb. 9 meeting.

Kraft is asking city leaders to change the zoning and use permits on about 150 acres off U.S. 95 to establish a sanctuary as well as an educational and recreational facility.

Keepers of the Wild is dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of abused, neglected and unwanted exotic animals, including lions, tigers, leopards, cougars, wolves, bison, birds and reptiles, Kraft said.

Keepers of the Wild, at 4800 W. Dewey Drive, is home to more than 100 animals.

But Kraft said he needs to relocate in order to expand and continue his rescue of exotic animals. He also rescues local wildlife misplaced by encroachment of construction of their natural habitats and adopts show business animals who have lost their ability to perform.

"At its present location, Keepers of the Wild is unable to house any additional animals, and is limited on space for development of the educational facility," according to an executive summary given to the council. "Additional land is required to provide a more natural environment and habitat for the animals, as well as for the development of the educational and entertainment facility dedicated to public awareness and enjoyment."

The initial phase of development would involve 30 acres, 28 full-time employees and cost about $2 million, Morgan Lamb, development director for the project, said.

Councilman Robert Kenneston expressed concern about funding sources for the project and its projected water needs.

Lamb said there are numerous corporate and philanthropic organizations willing to donate funding.

"We also believe there is funding out there through certain loans," he said.

Water use for the facility would be minimal, Lamb added.

Councilman Bryan Nix voiced his concern about additional traffic entering and exiting the facility from an already congested U.S. 95.

Mayor Bob Ferraro suggested the Keepers of the Wild representatives work with city staff to finalize a proposal to the council.

Lamb said his organization wants to find out if the city has any interest in the sanctuary.

"We don't want to prolong the process if it's not," he said.