OARC Mission
Incorporated in January 1992, the mission of OARC is to advance regional issues and to advocate for regionalism and the Councils of Government (COGs) to the public and private sector.
OARC Purpose
- Assist the COGs in strengthening their capabilities to serve their local government members
- Provide a forum for the regular exchange of information and ideas among the COGs and their member local governments
- Educate other governmental entities, public and private organizations and the general public about services rendered by the Councils
- Represent the Councils and member local governments before agencies of the legislative and executive branches of both the state and national governments
COG Functions
- Foster regional collaboration among local governments, business interests and community representatives, as well as coordinate intergovernmental partnerships among federal, state and local officials
- Craft comprehensive regional development strategies that result in local job creation and wealth creation initiatives
- Prepare locally-driven metropolitan transportation plans and investment programs, as well as deliver quality and affordable regional public transportation services
- Translate local plans and projects into reality by helping secure financing, navigate complex state and federal requirements and maintain project financing in an accountable and transparent manner
- Offer gap financing, start-up assistance and expansion capital to entrepreneurs and businesses struggling to secure traditional bank financing
- Help local communities comply with federal and state terrorism and emergency preparedness requirements, as well as provide leadership and coordination services to help address rural fi re protection needs
- Deliver and administer essential human service programs, such as housing ownership and rehabilitation, elder care and youth development services
- Secure and leverage resources to build and upgrade basic public infrastructure, while remaining strong stewards of the state’s diverse and changing environment