The City of Jackson at risk of losing millions in federal funding due to the U.S. Office of Management and Budget wanting to change the definition of a Metropolitan Statistical Area from an area with a population of 50,000 to 100,000.

Jackson and it’s surrounding townships meet the 50,000 population threshold, but fall short of the proposed higher limit.

Jackson receives $1.6m yearly in federal funds because of it’s present metropolitan status. The funds are used for Community Block Grants, road repair, downtown investment and parks.

Battle Creek, Bay City, Midland, Monroe and Niles-Benton Harbor are also at risk of losing their metropolitan designation.

Jackson Mayor Derick Dobies said in a letter of opposition to the Office of Management, “For nearly 50 years, Jackson’s impoverished residents have relied on the use of CDBG to provide decent housing, a suitable living environment and economic opportunities.”