Research


Administrative History

Articles 12-B and 5-G of the New York State General Municipal Law give affiliated municipalities the legal authority to create regional or metropolitan planning boards and joint-purpose municipal corporations. The state's regional planning boards or councils provide comprehensive planning for the coordinated growth and development of their regions. This involves conducting regional studies to assess needs; promoting the region's economic climate, environmental health, and recreational opportunities; and providing technical assistance to communities within the region.

Regional planning boards or councils are locally formed by the agreement of adjoining counties. The primary function of regional planning boards or councils is to study the needs and conditions of an entire region and to develop strategies that enhance the region's communities. Planning services provided by regional boards or councils include transportation, housing and community development, groundwater protection, water resource management, wastewater treatment, solid waste disposal, land use, and rural preservation planning. Information services provided by regional boards or councils include the operation of regional data centers, public education and information, and maintenance of regional Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Other services provided by regional boards or councils may include special services for low-income and aging populations, job training and employment services, economic development activities, and small business promotion.