Columbus Zoo could sue to reclaim misspent funds

Why it matters: While the zoo is a nonprofit, about 20% of its yearly revenue comes from a Franklin County tax levy. The scandal has diminished the zoo's reputation and sparked a state investigation.

By the numbers: A forensic audit says the zoo lost at least $631,000.

• Former chief financial officer Greg Bell settled for $132,000 and former director of purchasing Tracy Murnane settled for $11,000, slightly lower than the amounts the audit says they misspent, Keith Shumate, president of the zoo's board of directors, tells Axios.
• The audit says former director of marketing Pete Fingerhut misspent $57,000. The zoo will take legal action against him too if necessary.

What they're saying: "We are still in discussions and we are hopeful that we can reach a settlement with them without legal action," Shumate says.