NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) - The Audubon Nature Institute announced Wednesday (Dec. 17) that it was reopening membership sales at price points from earlier this year, but only through February.
New membership pricing will be announced in mid-January and take effect March 1, the institute said.
The brief delay in rate hikes comes after an outcry over a drastic membership price increase that was unveiled without fanfare in late November. Membership costs for a family of four nearly doubled overnight, from $220 to $425.
Audubon suspended the membership sales on Dec. 2 in response to the backlash.
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Audubon CEO Michael Sawaya said in a statement Wednesday, “We listened to feedback from community members in the New Orleans area and held a focus group that allowed for in-depth discussion about our prices. We understand the important role Audubon plays in New Orleans, and our leadership team will continue to listen and respond to our community.
“We want everyone to experience our attractions, learn about conservation, and appreciate the incredible animals in our care. We are evaluating our membership pricing to meet members’ needs while operating financially responsible parks and attractions in an environment of reduced tourism and rising inflation.”
The statement said the updated rates coming in March “will take into consideration rising operational costs, including food, veterinary care, utilities, insurance, and staffing, while remaining reasonably priced for families.”
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