In this title the following words have the meanings indicated.
“Council” means a regional council of governments.
“Member” means a county or municipality that participates in a council.
By resolution, the governing body of any county or municipality may establish, organize, and participate in a council.
A council may include a county, city, or town outside the State.
A council may be established to:
study governmental problems of mutual interest and concern; and
make recommendations for review and action by its members.
The council shall consist of at least one representative from each member.
Each representative of a member shall be:
its elected chief executive; or
an individual from its governing body chosen by the governing body.
A member may withdraw from the council by resolution of its governing body.
A withdrawal may not take effect until at least 60 days after the adoption of the resolution.
A council may:
study governmental problems common to two or more of its members, including matters affecting:
economic conditions;
education;
environment;
health;
regional development;
safety; and
welfare;
promote cooperative arrangements and coordinate action among its members; and
make recommendations for review and action to its members and other public agencies that perform functions in the region.
A council may employ staff and consultants.
A council shall adopt bylaws that designate its officers and provide for the conduct of its business.
A council shall submit an annual report of its activities to its members.
Each member:
may appropriate funds to meet the expenses of the council; and
may make nonmonetary contributions, including personnel services, use of equipment and office space, and other necessary services, as part of the member’s financial support.
A council may accept grants and other monetary or nonmonetary contributions from the federal government, the State government, any other governmental unit, or any private source.
Subject to subsection (b) of this section, the State shall provide financial support to the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments operating under this title to assist the Council in carrying out its activities on the basis of 50% of the per capita contributions of the Maryland members of the Council.
The State contribution may not exceed an amount equal to the sum of $3,200 for each 50,000 residents in the Maryland counties and municipalities participating in the Council.
The Governor shall include the funding required in this section in the annual State budget.