FRANKFORT, Ind. -- The City of Frankfort has announced the resignation of its parks department superintendent after nearly 80 birds, two deer and two chickens died at its petting zoo within the last five months. According to a news release, Parks Department Superintendent Joel Tatum resigned on Tuesday. The City of Frankfort shared "its gratitude for Mr. Tatum's contributions to the Parks Department during his tenure," while confirming that Frankfort Police Chief Scott Shoemaker and Park Supervisor Christie Martin would assume temporary control of the title. Frankfort cited by USDA after 78 birds die at petting zoo “I appreciate Chief Shoemaker for stepping up to help the Parks maintain operations over the next several days,” said Frankfort Mayor Judy Sheets. “I am confident in both Christie and Chief Shoemaker to continue the daily operations until the Board of Public Works and I discuss the future of the Frankfort Parks Department later this week.” FOX59/CSB4 originally reported on Jan. 13 that the City of Frankfort was cited by the U.S. Department of Agriculture after 78 birds died at its petting zoo between July 8 and Dec. 10, 2024. The USDA report outlined that no veterinary exams or necropsies were conducted to learn more about what may have caused the deaths. Previous reporting indicated the inspection officer also reported several other violations at the petting zoo. These included: No proof of an active contingency plan An exposed dig barrier in a twilight exhibit, which could cause the three foxes housed there to escape, be trapped or be injured A cooler meant to store fruits and vegetables accumulating debris, such as tree leaves and molded vegetables Three chickens walking outside of their designated enclosure Mayor Sheets said at the time that she was working with her administration, the parks department and Tatum to review the petting zoo's animal care protocols. Frankfort Parks Department investigating dead deer, chickens at TPA Park Zoo On Jan. 16, the City of Frankfort also confirmed that a deer and two chickens were found dead in a barn at the Frankfort Parks Department Zoo. Another deer that was found to be in "distress" was transported to the Purdue University Animal Hospital where it later died due to a seizure, according to Mayor Sheets. Mayor Sheets confirmed an autopsy was scheduled for the deer and chickens to determine the exact cause of death. "I assure you that I will continue to investigate all that has happened at the TPA Park Aviary and Petting Zoo in this past week. I intend to investigate from the administration down. I want to know about our protocols, our procedures, what we have done wrong and where have we not been able to do our job," Mayor Sheets said. The search for an interim park superintendent is now underway.