North Central Texas Council of Governments - by Tom Brewer

North Central Texas Council of Governments

Not many places in the United States can say that they have an entity that has tasked itself with actively and diligently pursuing ongoing efforts to improve the overall stability, health and well-being of the region they are appointed to maintain. Central Texas is very fortunate to have such an organization, it is called the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTOG), and they do a great job and provide a much needed service to the local communities.

The stated purpose of this organization is "to make studies and plans to guide the unified, far-reaching development of the region, eliminate duplication, and promote economy and efficiency in the coordinated development of the region." While this is a bold and commendable undertaking, it is also very daunting when you take into consideration that they oversee 16 counties as well as a number of cities located in and around the Dallas and Fort Worth vicinities.

It is no wonder that North Central Texas is so well-maintained compared to other major metropolitan areas around the country. The NCTOG concerns itself with a wide variety of aspects that impact the region under their authority. They have specific areas of focus that include:

* Agency Administration
* Community Services
* Emergency Preparedness
* Environment & Development
* Public Affairs
* Research & Information Services
* Transportation
* Workforce Development

These areas are in need of constant administration and improvement and the NCTOG steps in to help deliver whatever resources are needed to provide for the region. The NCTOG is a voluntary organization made up of members from the various local government agencies in the area.

Thanks to the efforts made by this agency and other local public and private organizations, it is no wonder that North Central Texas has been able to maintain strong local economies. This stability helps bring business to the area which in turn brings jobs to the region. The wide availability of employment opportunities brings workers and their families to the region which, in turn, helps maintain the strong Dallas-Fort Worth real estate market. The overall independence and stability of this part of the state is a real inspiration for other areas in the country that may be suffering from recent economical setbacks.