John Ball Zoo

Rule Changes

Receives renewed millage funding

Kent County voters approved a 10-year renewal of the property tax that funds John Ball Zoo and the Grand Rapids Public Museum. The millage pays for animal care, artifact preservation, exhibits, infrastructure and school programs.

Updated 2 hours ago

Money Moves

Jason Jacobs named CEO; Rob VerHeulen is interim CEO until Dec. 7

Jason Jacobs starts as John Ball Zoo's chief executive on Dec. 7, after a five-month nationwide search that drew dozens of candidates. He has more than 25 years of zoo leadership experience, with roles at Lion Country Safari in Florida, the Sacramento Zoo and Reid Park Zoo in Arizona.

Updated 7 days ago

New Capabilities

As of September 2026: Operates captive breeding program in Grand Rapids, Michigan

The Poweshiek skipperling butterfly was down to nine known individuals in the United States in 2022. After captive breeding programs released more than 1,300 butterflies in 2025, surveyors this summer counted over 100 on a single walk at Michigan restoration sites.

Updated Sep 11