I think this zoo has a lot of potential. Even if it was for just native (colder climate species). They should save the money for a pavilion type building to house some warmer climate animals.
I visit the Greater Vancouver Zoo practically every other week, as it is 20 minutes from my home and my wife and I (and our newborn daughter) consider it a great 2-hour walk. However, it is as basic as it gets. There are about 35 different species of hoofstock, but all the enclosures are large fields with wire fences around them. The highlights are the 1.2 acre hippo exhibit and the 1.5 acre grizzly bear enclosure. I agree that with a lot of money it could become a truly wonderful establishment.
I just want to mention this is actually a zoo that has a very large amount of potential being in B.C. the conservation programs could be almost endless. I would even consider going to Vancouver just to visit this place. All it needs is some money and like you said snowleopard it could be a wonderful establishment!
