FAQ

CALM Zoo provides valuable educational and economic benefits to the community, serving more than 40,000 children annually. Additional funding would expand programming for all age groups and support the creation of dedicated learning centers focused on science-based curriculum. Visitors would also benefit from infrastructure upgrades, including heating and cooling centers, new zoo attractions, interactive enclosures, and a cafe and quick-service restaurant open to the public. 

All funds will support CALM Zoo and are subject to spending disclosures, audits, and oversight. They will enhance educational programming by creating more opportunities for children to learn beyond the classroom. In addition, the funds will improve animal habitats and guest facilities with upgraded veterinary care, and support long-term maintenance and infrastructure improvements, as outlined in our Master Plan, available on our Website. 

CALM Zoo is currently collecting petition signatures to qualify this measure for the Kern County 2026 ballot. By signing, you’re supporting the measure being added to the ballot so that all voters have the opportunity to weigh in. During the 2026 election, Kern County voters will decide whether to vote yes or no on the measure.

CALM Zoo is gathering signatures for a countywide initiative. To qualify the measure for the 2026 ballot, CALM aims to collect 29,730 signatures by June 2026.

No, signing the petition simply means you want the measure to appear on the 2026 ballot for voters to consider. It doesn’t mean you’re voting yes. If the measure qualifies for the ballot, you’ll still have the choice in the 2026 election to vote yes or no.

The measure CALM Zoo is proposing would provide funding solely for the zoo. It would support enhanced educational programming, upgrades to animal habitats and guest facilities, and long-term maintenance and infrastructure. The measure could not be used for any other governmental purposes or programs.