December 6, 2017

the building. Landscaping would include lawn areas; one or two trees might require replacement. A new 12 ft. wide concrete walkway would lead up to the building and around to one of the outdoor holding areas. To the north of the exhibit, there would be a small new retaining wall approximately 2 ft. to 3 ft. in height to compensate for slope in the area. Mr. Piga concluded his testimony. Chairman Bagoff asked the Board if they had questions for Mr. Piga. Councilwoman McCartney asked if the expansion would include new animals. Mr. Piga stated the upgrades were for the existing animals. Mr. Weston asked for clarification regarding the size of the proposed addition, it looked like the proposal was to double the size of the existing building. Mr. Piga stated the current building was approximately 950 sq. ft.; the addition was 1,356 sq. ft. Mr. Weston asked if new exterior lighting was proposed. Mr. Piga stated any new lighting would be for security to the rear of the building. He confirmed any new lighting would be full cut off. Mr. Eben asked for clarification regarding the height of the proposed retaining wall on the north side of exhibit; would the Public be able to walk in that area. Mr. Piga stated the height would be approximately 3 ft.; visitors would not have access to area. Mr. Eben asked if a railing was needed on top of the retaining wall. Mr. Piga answered no. Mr. Eben asked about the Zoo Master Plan; Mr. Fleder stated the Master Plan was scheduled to be completed in the early part of 2018. Mr. Cardoza asked Mr. Piga to confirm there were currently six dens for six leopards. Mr. Piga stated there were six dens; he was unable to confirm the current number of leopards. The Public Advocate had no questions for Mr. Piga. Chairman Bagoff asked the Public if they had questions for Mr. Piga. The following members of the Public approached the podium to question Mr. Piga: Robert Rashkes, 35 Oak Crest Road, West Orange Sally Malanga, 57 Ridge Road, West Orange Robert Daniel, 2B Buckingham Road, West Orange In response to questions from the Public, Mr. Piga stated three trees would be removed; no additional visitor seating was planned; the total square footage of the Exhibit was approximately 3,900 SF; the building would be approximately 2,300 SF. He stated he worked with the Zoo Director and referred to the AZA (Association of Zoos and

total square footage of the Exhibit was approximately 3,900 SF; the building would be approximately 2,300 SF. He stated he worked with the Zoo Director and referred to the AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums) regulations to determine to size of the improvements. He described the existing exterior leopard habitat.