NIACOG is a voluntary association of local governments established for the purpose of promoting intergovernmental cooperation and strengthening local units of government. By working collectively through the Council of Governments, cities and counties can share professional and technical services they could otherwise not afford. Unlike municipalities and counties, NIACOG is not a unit of government, has no power to tax, or to enact or enforce laws. NIACOG's basic financial support comes from participating units of local government. Any of the counties or incorporated communities within the eight county region can belong to NIACOG. Membership is obtained by adopting a single article of agreement and is maintained through payment of annual dues. Dues are based on a per capita rate for the resident population. Representation of the member units of government is reflected in the NIACOG Board of Directors, which is the overall decision and policy-making body. The NIACOG Board of Directors is a 25 person body; each of the eight counties elect or appoint two elected officials and one non elected individual as delegates. There is also one minority representative selected from the region. The Board meetings are held the second Monday of each month at various locations throughout the region. These meetings help to provide a forum for continuing communication among local governments. All meetings are open to the public. The North Iowa Area Council of Governments is a service oriented agency geared to assist member units of government and their affiliated groups. NIACOG is organized to meet daily and long term operational and planning needs for efficiency and effectiveness of the units of government. NIACOG programs are a reflection of the needs of its members. Groups which have received assistance include city and county governments,school districts, local development corporations and community based groups.