Dear County Executive Curran:
I write regarding the urgent matter of the ongoing federal government shutdown and the resulting interruption of essential federal funding for critical county programs. For the reasons stated below, I believe it is imperative for the county to immediately undertake a thorough assessment of the potential impact of the continuing shutdown on county departments, programs and initiatives and upon the ability of the county to provide vital services to its residents.
As you know, Nassau is significantly reliant on federal funding in many areas of county operations. These funds sustain many of our local government initiatives and are instrumental in the provision of such programs as nutrition assistance, housing, public safety and emergency services for members of our community, to name a few.
It is indispensable for the administration and the legislature to have a comprehensive understanding of the potential ramifications of the shutdown in the immediate future (for example, over the next two months) and for the long term in the event of a prolonged crisis. It is equally crucial that we are equipped to alert members of the public to the potential detrimental effects of the federal shutdown on their lives and well-being so they can plan accordingly.
I strongly believe that the circumstances clearly call for a knowledgeable representative of the administration to address the public and their elected representatives on the impacts of the federal shutdown at the upcoming Public Safety Committee hearing (scheduled to take place on Monday, Jan. 28, 2019, at 10 a.m.). While we hope for the best, we must plan for the potential reality before us.
—Siela A. Bynoe
Nassau County Legislator, District 2
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