(KNZA)--A dispute is developing between Jackson County and the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation over responsibility for maintaining roads and bridges within the reservation.

The Jackson County Commission has stopped maintaining roads within the reservation's 11-square-mile boundaries as of November first, citing budget constraints.

The county recently sent 233 letters to property owners notifying them of the change. Commissioners say the county has maintained some reservation roads for decades under various agreements with the Tribe, but now believes the Nation should assume those responsibilities.

Commissioners also say efforts to reach a memorandum of understanding with the Tribe have been unsuccessful.

However, the Prairie Band Potawatomi Tribal Council disputes the county's position, calling the letters factually incorrect and misleading.

In an October 30th statement, tribal officials said the Nation has not agreed to take over road maintenance and that Jackson County cannot unilaterally transfer those responsibilities.

The Tribe says it is working with state and federal officials to confirm the county remains responsible for maintaining the affected roads, which are used by tribal members and other area residents.

Meanwhile, the county is directing residents within the reservation boundaries to contact the Tribe's road and bridge department for assistance.