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Congressman Latimer warns some local federal projects may be at risk after continuing resolution
Summary
Rep. George Latimer told the Town of Rye council that a continuing resolution averted a federal shutdown but leaves uncertainty for earmarks and member‑item funding; he invited the town to send a memo listing federal grants so his office can follow up.
Congressman George Latimer gave a brief update to the Town of Rye council on March 20, stating that a continuing resolution passed in Congress prevented a government shutdown but left unresolved questions about funding for certain programs and earmarks.
Latimer said the continuing resolution keeps the government open but that some funding commitments previously made to local projects are being reviewed under the new administration. "I was not supportive of the resolution, but it passed," he said, adding that litigation and administrative decisions could alter how earlier commitments are honored. He urged the town to compile any federal awards or pending applications in a memo so his office can monitor them.
Council members pressed Latimer about specific local proposals they feared were vulnerable. Chair (speaker 1) and Pamela Jaffe (speaker 2) noted a $4,000,000 grant for Rytown Park that had been on senators’ lists and a separate FEMA stormwater application of approximately $4,000,000. Latimer asked staff to provide references and said he would reach out to senators’ offices and House administration to check whether those projects remain eligible. "If there's anything that affects the town in all of that, do let me know," Latimer said.
Latimer also described the broader federal picture: potential cuts to department budgets, ongoing court challenges to certain executive actions, and the possibility that the upcoming debt‑ceiling negotiations could dominate congressional attention. He noted his committee assignments (small business and foreign affairs) and offered to work with the town where committee jurisdiction aligns with local interests.
Why it matters: Rye officials rely on a mix of federal grants and local partnerships for capital projects and park improvements. The congressman's offer to track town‑identified federal funds gives local officials a pathway to seek continuity for previously approved allocations and to refile or reapply where needed.
What’s next: Latimer asked Rye staff to provide two lists — (1) projects with approvals or letters of commitment and (2) projects still in the pipeline — so his office can follow up. The council said it will prepare and send those materials for his review.
Sources: Remarks and Q&A during the Town of Rye council meeting, March 20, 2025. All quoted material is attributable to Congressman George Latimer (speaker 8) and council members identified during the meeting.
