How Will the Sequester Impact TE?

The federal budget sequester began March 1, but its actual impact on local programs is not yet clear. Here's a quick rundown of where things currently stand:

Tredyffrin/Easttown School District

TESD Business Manager Art McDonald did not speculate on the possible impact of the sequester on local schools. In an email Thursday, he said only that his office has not received any official information regarding funding cuts.

Chester County

County Commissioner Ryan Costello examined the impact of the sequester on Facebook Tuesday, and urged his constituents not to buy into alarmist rhetoric:

There would/will be some reductions in housing, human services and public health programs, but Chesco is well-positioned relative to other Counties and States on dealing with the impacts. Further, it's very difficult to speculate on how it specifically will impact any particular program or project (non-defense related, that is).

Chester County Intermediate Unit

Mary Curley, Communications Director at the CCIU, said the sequester threatens about $2 million in federal funding to programs like Head Start, migrant education and Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement programs (IDEA).

"There are over 400 children in our Head Start program in the county, and about 1,500 students in our migrant education program. We provide special education services to about 5,000 students in the county," Curley said. "So naturally, we're concerned, but we don't know the full effect at this point."

Valley Forge National Historical Park

Seasonal employees might not be hired this year if funding is reduced, but the National Parks Service will attempt to keep full-time employees from being furloughed or otherwise affected. The cuts and personnel reductions could result in suspension of programs or closed facilities, e.g. locked restrooms.