In January of 1967, local elected officials in El Paso County  joined together to form the El Paso Council of Governments.  This organization was initiated to further intergovernmental cooperation and coordination in the planning, development and delivery of governmental services within El Paso County, Texas.

In 1971, the counties of Hudspeth, Culberson, Jeff Davis, Presidio and Brewster were included in the organization to form a truly “Regional” body, and the organization was renamed West Texas Council of Governments.   In 1987, by vote of the membership, Doņa Ana County, New Mexico and the local governments within were included as full members and the name of the organization was changed to the Rio Grande Council of Governments (RGCOG).

The RGCOG is a voluntary association of local units of government who work together to address issues of common concern and to pursue opportunities of common benefit.

While the RGCOG work program changes from year to year, depending upon federal, state, regional and local priorities, the framework of the organization and basic mission have not changed.  The fundamental purposes of the RGCOG are included in the Local Government Code, the RGCOG By-laws and policy positions established by the Board of Directors and membership over the years.

Purpose of the Rio Grande Council of Governments

The Rio Grande Council of Governments (RGCOG) shall provide a regional forum through which local governments can address issues and develop solutions that contribute to intergovernmental cooperation, improved coordination of activities and promote programs which make the region a better place to live, work and play.

To accomplish these purposes the RGCOG will:

1.      Operate as a service organization to local governments providing competent, professional and responsive assistance, upon request, to address local and regional needs

2.      Act as a regional coordinating body for the promotion of comprehensive plans for growth and development.

3.      Develop and promote cooperative policies on state and national issues affecting the economic health and progress of this region.

4.      At the request of local governments, serve as a representative of these entities in matters that they determine have regional and local impact.

5.      Develop and implement programs, projects and activities that the membership determines to be beneficial to local or regional interests.