Who are councils of government (COGs) and regional councils (RCs) accountable to?

Councils of government (COGs) and regional councils (RCs) are primarily accountable to local units of government. These entities are designed to facilitate cooperation and coordination among local governments within a specific region. Their main role is to support local governmental operations by addressing regional issues that may be beyond the capacity of a single municipality to tackle effectively. This includes planning for infrastructure, public safety, transportation, and other community services.

By being accountable to local governments, COGs and RCs ensure that they are reflecting the needs and priorities of the communities they serve, which enhances regional collaboration and fosters effective governance at the local level. This connection allows local officials to participate in decision-making processes that directly impact their jurisdictions, creating a platform for shared resources and coordinated responses to challenges.

The other options do not capture the primary accountability structure of COGs and RCs. While these organizations may collaborate with state governments, federal agencies, or private organizations in various capacities, their core responsibility lies with the local governments they represent.