The purpose of the Mendocino Council of Governments is to assist local governments in planning to address common needs, cooperating for mutual benefit, and coordinating for sound regional, community, and intercommunity development.

Acting as the Regional Transportation Planning Agency, MCOG disburses state and federal funds for transportation and provides regional planning. Occasionally the Council serves as a regional forum.

MCOG is responsible for preparing the Regional Transportation Plan, and funded projects are to be consistent with the Plan. Projects involve planning, capital improvements, rehabilitation and maintenance, public transit fleet replacement, and multi-modal facilities.