Many of you have approached me, expressing the need for accurate information about the closures initiated by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and their potential impact on Big Sandy. Will it affect the school lunch program, the Big Sand Medica Center, and the FSA? Let’s seek the facts together.
“According to the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, the Trump administration plans to shut down multiple Social Security offices, Border Patrol facilities, wildlife stations, and other buildings used for federal work across Montana—part of a massive cost-cutting campaign influenced by billionaire Elon Musk.”
“The DOGE website currently lists 10 office leases in Montana and 5 in Wyoming that it plans to end. DOGE, led by billionaire Elon Musk, says this is a cost-saving move for taxpayers. The terminated leases include the Border Patrol Facilities in Shelby, Montana, which DOGE says has already closed its office.”
According to the DOGE site, the Border Patrol in Shelby is just losing its lease. A different news agency says it’s closed down, while Zinke says it’s just downsizing. So, this is a perfect example of miscommunication around the state.
“The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is terminating leases for multiple Farm Service Agency (FSA) and Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) offices in Montana, including one in Big Sandy.” (I only read this once—so who knows!)
The truth is, I don’t want to publish opinions. I want to publish facts. It’s difficult because I only know one fact. I’m sure we will eventually learn the impact. For now, we know for a fact that the Big Sandy Senior Center will have a delay in payment. There was no indication of when they would be paid, only that it was delayed. Robin Coyer said, “I’m so glad we got some hamburger from the Pioneer Producers.” They will remain open.
I looked but could not find out if this summer Coal Banks Landing will have a Fish, Wildlife, and Parks employee. I’m also curious what this means for the Fort Benton office located near the Missouri River.
If you come across any factual information, not just rumors or opinions, please share it with me. Let’s keep each other informed. There are many questions, but not many answers.
