By Owen Skornik-Hayes, KOAA The Pueblo Zoo could close within two to three years if it does not secure stable funding to combat rising costs and city budget cuts, according to zoo leadership. A ballot initiative is proposed for one-sixth of a cent sales tax, which equates to about 17 cents for every $100 spent in Pueblo. The tax would sunset after five years and help sustain operations, animal care and facility maintenance across the 20-acre property. “We are continuing to fall behind if we have continued cuts,” said Abbie Krause, executive director of the Pueblo Zoo. Krause said the facility has faced financial cuts for two consecutive years due to the city’s financial struggles, with more cuts expected on the horizon. “We’re looking to get the zoo on more predictable, stable funding for the safety of our animals and for the future of the zoo,” said Krause. While the city owns the buildings and grounds, the Zoological Society runs the zoo. Staff members are not on city salaries or benefits.…