TARCOG was established in 1968 by local initiative. In 1969, the state legislature authorized the creation of regional development commissions and designated TARCOG as Substate Planning District Twelve. TARCOG was later designated as the region's Area Agency on Aging, the Economic Development District, and the Local Development District. TARCOG is funded by contributions from local governments and federal and state agencies. TARCOG's mission is to assist local governments in improving the quality of life for the region's residents.