Stefanik Cosponsors the Metropolitan Statistical Preservation Act

A recent announcement from the office of Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, announcing her position as a cosponsor of the Metropolitan Statistical Preservation Act, features quotes from the EDC’s own President, Jim Siplon, as well as local figures Rachel Seeber, Chairwoman of the Warren County Board of Supervisors and Michael Bittel, President of the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce. The announcement is pasted below and can be viewed here. 

Saratoga, N.Y. – Congresswoman Elise Stefanik is a cosponsor of the MSA Preservation Act, bipartisan legislation led by Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-SD) to protect more than 140 Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) from losing their classifications and eligibility for federal funding opportunities.

MSAs are substantially populated areas that, together with surrounding communities, have a high degree of economic and social integration. The North Country is currently home to two MSAs, Glens Falls and Watertown.

In January 2021, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued a notice and request for public comment on a set of recommendations from the Metropolitan and Micropolitan Statistical Area Standards Review Committee to revise certain requirements for communities to be classified as an MSA. Among other things, the recommendations would increase the minimum urban area population needed to qualify as an MSA from 50,000 to 100,000. As a result of this change, both Glens Falls and Watertown would no longer be considered MSAs.

“In order to support our North Country economy as it continues to rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic, it is imperative that these areas remain eligible for the federal resources that the MSA classification provides,” said Congresswoman Stefanik. “This important legislation will address the concerns that I have heard in conversations with several local elected officials and protect their access to crucial federal programs and grant opportunities.”

“Continuity in the critical MSA designation for Glens Falls and the surrounding region is fundamental to our efforts to grow and shape the economic future of the region, especially as the gateway to the Adirondacks. Being able to direct federal recovery and investment resources as well as tracking the influx of new residents and businesses are all facilitated by our ongoing MSA designation thanks to Rep. Stefanik and the other bill sponsors.” – Jim Siplon, President, EDC Warren County

“A radical change in designation will jeopardize programs and funding that are in process or in place. I applaud the Congresswoman’s efforts to maintain funding and avoid interruptions in critical planning for services by preserving our designation.” – Scott Gray, Chairman, Jefferson County Board of Legislators

“We are thankful for Congresswoman Stefanik’s advocacy on this important issue, as we agree that it is important economically and of course in terms of our regional identity that our beautiful and vibrant Warren County, which proudly includes the city of Glens Falls and numerous thriving towns and villages, continue to be considered a Metropolitan Statistical Area.” – Rachel Seeber, Chairwoman, Warren County Board of Supervisors

“Thank you much to Congresswoman Stefanik on her responsiveness on behalf of our region to ensure Glens Falls stays an MSA. Much of our Federal funding for our region would have been in jeopardy if not for this bill.” – Mike Bittel, President and CEO, Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce