What SEMCOG doesSEMCOG's mission is solving regional problems — improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the region’s local governments as well as the quality of life in Southeast Michigan.

 
Essential functions

• SEMCOG assists local governments in planning for common needs and in recognizing regional opportunities.
• SEMCOG facilitates cooperation among local governments, educational institutions, and state and federal agencies for mutual benefit.
• SEMCOG advocates for changes in public policy when state or federal legislative action is necessary.

Accountabilities
SEMCOG was established in 1968 as a regional planning partnership in Southeast Michigan. We are is accountable to local governments who join as members. Membership is open to all counties, cities, villages, townships, intermediate school districts, community colleges, and public universities in Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, St. Clair, Washtenaw, and Wayne Counties. Citizens are represented at SEMCOG through their local elected officials. Funding for SEMCOG is provided by federal and state grants, contracts, and membership fees.

Responsibilities
SEMCOG supports local planning through its technical, data, and intergovernmental resources. SEMCOG's plans improve the quality of the region's water, make the transportation system safe and more efficient, revitalize communities, and spur economic development.

As the region's designated Metropolitan Planning Organization, SEMCOG is responsible for regional transportation planning. 

Under the federal Water Pollution Control Act and the Clean Air Act, SEMCOG is the designated planning agency for both water and air quality.

SEMCOG is responsible for specific housing and land use planning elements as authorized by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

As the Michigan State Single Point of Contact (SPOC), SEMCOG reviews federal grant applications for a variety of local, regional, and state projects in relation to regional plans and policies.

Decision making 
All SEMCOG policy decisions are made by local elected leaders, ensuring that regional policies reflect the interests of member communities. Participants serve on one or both of the policy-making bodies — the General Assembly and the Executive Committee. Prior to policy adoption, technical advisory councils provide the structure for gaining input on transportation, environment, community and economic development, data analysis, and education. These advisory councils are made up of broad-based representation from local governments, the business community, environmental organizations, and other special-interest and citizen groups.