In addition to other functions, powers and duties vested in it by this act or by any other law, the department shall, through the Office of Community Services:

(a) Render advice, guidance and information to local officials with respect to the governmental problems of the particular communities which they represent;

(b) Assist local officials in bringing specific governmental problems to the attention of the appropriate State, Federal or private agencies;

(c) Collect, collate and disseminate information pertaining to the problems and affairs of local government, including information as to all available State, Federal and private programs and services designed to render advice and assistance in furtherance of community development projects and other activities of local government;

(d) Carry on and encourage research on the problems and affairs of local government, including, but not limited to, local taxation, fiscal affairs, governmental organization, community planning and development, purchasing, and intergovernmental co-operation;

(e) Render advice and assistance to local governments concerning joint service agreements, regional compacts, and other forms of intergovernmental co-operation;

(f) Advise the commissioner on local governmental problems and affairs, and proposed legislation pertaining thereto;

(g) Render advice and assistance in the preparation and review of model ordinances and charters; and

(h) Render advice and assistance with respect to the establishment and maintenance of programs for the training of local government officials and other personnel.

L.1966, c. 293, s. 17.