In 1970 the state was divided into 26 planning regions and in1974 there was a consolidation of the planning regions and WCNDD was organized. In 1978 the statewide organization was known as the Nebraska Association of Regional Councils (NARC). By 1981 there were 9 planning regions and 2 of those had disbanded and ceased to exist.

Recently, the state has worked to help to re-establish the development districts and now has statewide coverage with 8 districts. There is also an effort underway to re-activate the districts as a group known as the Nebraska Regional Officials Council (NROC) which was the successor to NARC.

WCNDD staff continually attend learning sessions and participate in certification processes in order to gain essential program knowledge.  That knowledge and expertise can then be passed on to our members through the help of strategic planning and grant writing to match applicable programs with community needs.  Staff strive for excellence in providing first-class community and economic development to member communities and counties.