• 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 aff ordable regional public transportation services
• Translate local plans and projects into reality by helping secure fi nancing, navigate complex state and federal requirements and maintain project financing in an accountable and transparent manner
• Offer gap fi nancing, 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
Functions