Greenwich To Remain Open In Event Of Government Shutdown: Camillo

GREENWICH, CT —House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s last-ditch effort to keep the federal government temporarily open collapsed Friday, thrusting many Americans into uncertainty, with possible paycheck interruptions, food assistance shortfalls and airport delays.

Greenwich First Selectman Fred Camillo said the town remains ready to meet the needs of its residents, and municipal offices will open on Monday as normal if there is a government shutdown.

Camillo on Friday met with several key town department heads about the looming possibility of a shutdown and what it means for individuals and non-profits that receive federal funding.

"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," Camillo said in a news release. "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.

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, a news release from Camillo's office said.

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 (SNAP) will not be impacted unless the shutdown is prolonged, according to the town.

A shutdown could mean longer waits for people who are applying for passports, firearms permits and clinical trials. Businesses that are closely connected to the federal government, including federal contractors or tourist services around national parks, could see disruptions and downturns.

See also: Federal Funding Bill Collapses, Shutdown Looms: Impact On Connecticut

Greenwich Director of Human Services (GDHS) Commissioner Demetria Nelson urged existing 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.

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, according to the town.

Fairbairn 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 Greenwich does receive some vaccines that are meant for people who are uninsured. The department does not anticipate a disruption in delivery or administration at this time, the town said.

Baisley said there could be a delay of federal funds associated with some grants if the shutdown happens, but most grants have already been received.

Camillo will continue to meet with town departments to ensure residents have access to what they need.