Riverbanks Zoo fans can breathe a sigh of relief. 

Lexington County Council voted this week, to pass the 2019-2020 budget with the zoo fully funded at $1.3 million. 

An initial proposed cut of $500,000 was to make money available for public works, fire and EMS services.  

"Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens have an economic impact of over $148 million a year, with tourism and local income and state and local taxes," said zoo CEO Tommy Stringfellow. 

A reduction in county funding may have forced an increase in admission rates, fewer free admission days and cuts in programs and jobs to make up for the loss of revenue, he said.  

The council has discussed asking property taxpayers on next year’s ballot about money for the zoo.

Lexington County contributes about 7% of the zoo’s funding each year.

The county's tax money contribution comes to about $6 from each household.