Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Regional Commission (RC)?
 A Regional Commission is a quasi-governmental regional planning organization created and managed under Georgia law by their member local governments. Georgia's RDCs perform many functions, but essentially develop, promote, and provide comprehensive planning and development services that seek to make Georgia and its many local communities better places to live and work. They provide professional technical assistance to state and federal agencies as well as quality growth and development.

Do Regional Commissions constitute a separate layer of government?
No, RCs serve their local governments. They depend on variety of funding sources and have no taxing, legislative, or regulatory authority.

How are Regional Commissions funded?
RCs are funded by per capita dues from county members, State and Federal funds, grants, and special projects.

Who determines the Regional Commission program of work?
The member local governments drive the RCs programs but the RC is mandated to carry out certain efforts in order to receive federal and state funds. Local governments determine the final program of work by approving a slate of projects and programs that include locally requested projects as well as state and federal programs. Annual Work Program is adopted by the RCs Council in concert with the annual budget.

What types of contracts do RCs receive and with what types of agencies?
A primary function of RCs is to create partnerships with state and federal agencies for funds that benefit the member local governments. The following are a few examples of some existing partnerships:

  • Georgia Department of Community Affairs - Planning
  • Georgia Department of Human Resources - Workforce Investment, Census Studies
  • Georgia Department of Natural Resources - Historic Preservation
  • Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Environmental Protection Division - Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL)
  • Georgia Department of Transportation - Planning, Transit Programs
  • Economic Development Administration - Economic Development Strategies
  • U.S. Department of Homeland Security - Local Security
  • Federal Emergency Management Agency - Hazard Mitigation

Do other States have Regional Commissions?
Yes, according to the National Association of Development Organizations, there are more than 500 regional planning and development organizations operating under a variety of different names in 47 states.