Local services unaffected by shutdown

By Mary Goldmeer
Mail

As the federal government shutdown continues, local officials say most city services remain unaffected though some residents may feel the effects through delayed federal services or furloughs.

“There were no impacts for the city in the 2019 government shutdown and currently no impacts with this shutdown,” said Corrinne Holiday, digital communications deputy director for the city of Goodyear.

Litchfield Park reports a similar situation.

“Litchfield Park does not receive federal funding and was not affected by the 2019 government shutdown,” said City Manager Matthew Williams. “While federally funded services nationwide may be affected, Litchfield Park residents can rely on the high standard of service they have come to expect, now and throughout the duration of the government shutdown.”

Arizona is home to about 34,460 federal civilian workers, including approximately 10,701 in Congressional District 7 that includes Goodyear and parts of Litchfield Park, according to a Congressional Research Service report filed in September. While essential federal employees remain on the job, many are working without pay. Others have been furloughed, which could ripple into the local economy.

Here are some of the ways the shutdown may affect residents locally:

• Federal employees: Many are facing furloughs or delayed paychecks, which may reduce local consumer spending and put financial stress on households.
• Federal assistance programs: Programs such as SNAP and WIC are still operating, but benefit delays or disruptions could occur if the shutdown continues. Housing assistance, including Section 8 vouchers, may also be delayed.
•  Delays in federal services: Passport applications, small business loans and IRS services may be slowed or paused. Social Security, Medicare and veterans benefits are still funded, but support and processing may be delayed.
• Air travel: TSA agents and air traffic controllers are considered essential and remain at work, but without pay. Prolonged shutdowns can lead to staffing shortages, longer wait times or delays at airports.

Officials said residents should not expect disruptions to local emergency or city services at this time. Most municipal governments in the area do not rely directly on federal funding.

Visit congress.gov for more information and to contact elected officials.