Section 6.11. Functions

The Governor’s Advisory Council on Rural Affairs (Council) shall:

(1) Seek to build and foster inclusive, collaborative partnerships and networks of diverse individuals and organizations to improve the coordination and effectiveness of Federal, State and other programs, services and actions affecting rural areas in this Commonwealth. To this end, the Council shall serve as a liaison to Federal, State and local government agencies to ensure that programs affecting rural Pennsylvanians are effectively utilized and that benefits are available to all rural citizens.

(2) Foster expanded economic and social opportunities for this Commonwealth’s rural residents. In this regard, the Council and its partners shall identify opportunities for and impediments to expansion and develop strategies for taking advantage of opportunities and overcoming impediments. The Council shall develop, review and recommend policies to the Governor to promote expanded economic and social opportunities for rural Pennsylvania.

(3) Serve as a vehicle for collective advocacy on behalf of this Commonwealth’s rural communities and their residents.

(4) Promote intergovernmental cooperation.

(5) Promote community-based problem-solving strategies which include all ideas, resources and expertise without regard to traditional distinctions among units, agencies or levels of government. Further, these strategies anticipate inclusion in the problem-solving process, all individuals, organizations and agencies with contributions to make for the advancement of the common good.

(6) Advise the Governor, agencies, organizations and other entities on issues affecting rural communities and their residents.

(7) Serve as a resource for private and nonprofit organizations on rural issues, programs and available sources of technical and financial assistance.