In the event of a federal government shutdown, the Town of Greenwich will continue to be able to assist residents in need.
On Friday, First Selectman Fred Camillo met with several key Town of Greenwich department heads about the looming possibility of a shutdown and what it means for individuals and non-profits that receive federal funding.
“Greenwich remains ready to meet the needs of its residents,” Camillo said on Friday. “If the federal shutdown does happen it will not affect daily government business in Greenwich. We will remain fully open to the public with all Town employees reporting for work Monday morning. We understand residents may have questions and concerns and we are ready to respond and help any residents in need.”
Currently funding for the government is supposed to run out on Saturday, Sept. 30. If the United States Congress is not able to reach a deal on a new spending bill or a temporary extension the government will shut down effective Oct. 1.
The Town of Greenwich has received assurances that Social Security checks will continue to be issued by the federal government but there is the possibility of some delays. Medicare and Medicaid will also continue to run with seniors receiving full benefits during a shutdown because they are essential services.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program will not be impacted unless the shutdown is prolonged.
People will still be able to travel and get passports and visas if there is a federal government shutdown but there could be delays. Air traffic controllers, TSA officers and all active duty military personnel will be working without pay unless a deal can be reached by the Congress.
Town Director of Human Services Commissioner Demetria Nelson urged existing Greenwich Department of Human Services (GDHS) clients who require assistance with meeting their essential needs to contact their respective case managers. If Greenwich residents who are non-GDHS clients need assistance, they should call the GDHS Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 203-622-3800.
The Town of Greenwich does receive block grant money from the federal department of Housing and Urban Development but Town Director of Community Development Tyler Fairbairn said he does not anticipate an issue. He met with HUD earlier in the week and Greenwich’s action plan has already been approved with funds set to go to area non-profits even in the event of a shutdown.
Town Director of Health Caroline Baisley said the Town does receive some vaccines that are meant for people who are uninsured, her Department doses not anticipate a disruption in delivery or administration at this time. She said there could be a delay of federal funds associated with some grants if the shutdown happens but most grants have already been received.
First Selectman Camillo said he remains hopeful that the United States Congress will be able to act and prevent the shutdown. But if the Congress is not able to reach a deal, the Town of Greenwich is ready.
He will continue to meet with Town Departments to ensure residents have access to what they need.