MO SB1002

Establishes "The Kansas City Zoological District" as a political subdivision composed of eligible counties that meet specific population criteria, including counties with 600,000-700,000 inhabitants, 184,000-188,000 inhabitants, 73,700-73,800 inhabitants, or 82,000-82,100 inhabitants.

Authorizes eligible counties to create or join the district by county governing body resolution or voter petition (5% of electors), with final approval requiring a majority vote on a ballot question allowing a retail sales tax not to exceed one-quarter of one cent.

Creates the Kansas City Zoological District Sales Tax Trust Fund administered by the state treasurer and director of revenue, with funds distributed monthly to the district and kept separate from state funds.

Establishes a governing commission composed of one member from each participating county's governing body, one member from Kansas City's Parks and Recreation Board, and five members from Friends of the Zoo, Inc.'s executive committee, with defined terms and conflict-of-interest requirements.

Grants the commission authority to own, operate, and maintain zoological facilities; borrow money after five years for facility improvements (subject to voter approval); and provide financial support to zoological activities while clarifying it cannot manage or control the Kansas City Zoo itself.