National Cemetery not affected by federal shutdown

As the federal government shutdown, which began Tuesday, Oct. 1, continues, some federally affiliated sites in Bourbon County have been affected, but others have not.

The National Cemetery at Fort Scott continues to operate as normal, according to Debbie Williams, administrative officer of the Leavenworth National Cemetery Complex, which includes Fort Scott.

"It might be, if this furlough continues, we're still going to operate as normal, maybe with more limited staff," Williams said. "But we're still going to provide the same type of services."

The interment schedules may be limited in the coming weeks, she said. "The schedules might be limited, but right now everything is normal, at least for the next couple of weeks."

Because there are only three employees at the Fort Scott cemetery, "Nobody should feel any effect at Fort Scott," Williams said.

During the shutdown, the United State Department of Agriculture office, located at 1515 S. Judson, is closed, as well as the Fort Scott National Historic Site. While the buildings are locked, and because there is no fence or wall, visitors are still able to walk the grounds. Brochures are available in front of the Visitor's Center door for cell phone tours.

Other federal offices, such as the U.S. Post Office, continue to operate.