They also include transportation facilities other than the state highway system, facilities, and projects. The term does not include schools or health care facilities. The bill specifies how the councils form districts and what their powers are with regard to the assets, which include funding them. Council members can only vote to establish a district when authorized to do so by the legislative bodies of their respective towns. Two or more councils can jointly operate a district.
Districts are subject to the Freedom of Information Act.
The council cannot directly employ staff to operate regional assets but can enter into contracts with municipalities and other organizations for their operation and financing. A town does not incur an obligation or liability in connection with the district unless its representative on the council voted to do so. The guidelines and procedures must encourage cooperative ventures and partnerships. Each council can negotiate cooperation and support agreements with the owners and operators of eligible regional assets. The council must conduct public hearings and meetings on proposed agreements and revisions to agreements.