The East Central Iowa Council of Governments (ECICOG) is an intergovernmental council established in 1973 under Chapter 28E and provided for under Chapter 28H of the Code of Iowa. Governed by a board of directors comprised of elected officials and private citizens, ECICOG was created to promote regional cooperation and to provide professional planning services to local governments in Benton, Cedar, Iowa, Johnson, Jones, Linn, Tama, and Washington Counties (all services are not offered in all counties). A portion of our operations are supported by a per capita assessment paid by these counties.Since its creation, ECICOG has become recognized as an ideal vehicle for addressing planning issues that require a regional perspective. Cities and counties benefit from the assistance of our staff in their efforts to promote community and economic development, improve housing stock in the region, manage solid waste, and meet the transportation needs of the area.With the ECICOG offices centrally located in Cedar Rapids, our professional staff is available to assist local officials and concerned citizens in exploring ways to make their communities a better place to live. ECICOG board members may also be contacted for more information on the advantages of regional cooperation and coordination.