The Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland was created as a cooperative planning and development agency to foster the economic development of the Southern Maryland region, which includes the counties of Calvert, Charles and St. Mary's. The purpose of the Tri-County Council is to serve as a forum for the resolution of region-wide issues and the attainment of regional goals. The members of the Council include all of the elected officials of Southern Maryland; especially the County Commissioners from each County, State Delegates and State Senators as members of the Maryland General Assembly.
The Council serves as an information and data source, engages in regional planning, serves as an advocate for the region's interests and priorities at the Federal and State level, and develops programs to meet region-wide needs and goals.
Within the Tri-County Council's Regional Strategy, high technology development is emphasized as a means to enhance economic growth in Southern Maryland. The region is uniquely positioned to attract high technology firms due to the existence of the Patuxent River Naval Air Station and the Naval Surface Warfare Center at Indian Head. High technology industries such as software and information technology and defense engineering, research, and testing provide quality jobs; require education and training; and create opportunities for entrepreneurs. The Council supports those projects that develop the necessary infrastructure needed to attract and retain high technology companies.