Sequestration Could Impact Greenwich

As the federal financial faceoff continues in Washington, its effects can be felt here in Greenwich.

The Head Start program run by the Greenwich-based Family Centers will soldier on with its programs for pre-school children despite the possible loss of federal money as the federal sequestration continues.

According Family Centers Communications Director William Brucker, " ... cuts have been made to the Head Start program. Unfortunately, Family Centers’ program in Greenwich will receive a five percent cut, which equates to about a $17,000 loss in funding." Brucker added, "We are not planning to make any changes to our classrooms for the 2012-2013 school year, as all of our spots are currently filled and we will not disrupt a child’s education mid-year."

There are 34 students enrolled in the program that is taught by six teachers, according to Brucker. "All of us at Family Centers are hopeful this issue is resolved in the very near future and that the funding will be fully restored."

Brucker added, "Should sequestration continue, we are looking at next steps.  While we are unsure what those steps are at this point, they may include additional fundraising on our part or making some cuts at the program level."

Police Chief James Heavey said, "As of now we have not been made aware of any impact to our department.  As sequestration continues it may have an effect on current grant proposals we have submitted including one for the training of  marine section officers." He added, "We currently have a grant for electronics but so far we do not think it will be effected."

Greenwich Board of Education Communications Director Kim Eves said, "We do not have any details yet on what the impact might be for the district. We are closely following the conversations to understand the impact."

A message seeking comment about cuts to federally-funded health programs including flu shots and HIV testing was left Friday with Greenwich Health Director Caroline Baisley.