BELTON, Texas — As Congress remains deadlocked on federal spending, agencies in Central Texas say the effects of a government shutdown could soon ripple through housing programs, social services and local economies.
Jim Reed, executive director of the Central Texas Council of Governments , said the agency has enough reserve funds to keep housing payments flowing for about one to two months, but beyond that, the shutdown could stall critical support for families, seniors and landlords.
“Our landlord payments went out yesterday, so we’re good for another 30 days,” Reed said. “We estimate that next month’s payments should go out without a delay, so we’re probably good for the next 60 days. Beyond that, landlords would definitely start feeling the pinch.”
The council, which coordinates se