The regional planning commission may conduct all types of research studies, collect and analyze data, prepare maps, charts and tables, and conduct all necessary studies for the accomplishment of its other duties; it may make plans for the physical, social and economic development of the region, and may adopt by resolution any plan or the portion of any plan so prepared as its official recommendation for the development of the region; it may publicize and advertise its purposes, objectives and findings and may distribute reports thereon; it may provide advisory services on regional planning problems to the local government units within the region and to the other public and private agencies in matters relative to its functions and objectives, and may act as a coordinating agency for programs and activities of such local units and agencies as they relate to its objectives. All public officials shall, upon request, furnish to the regional planning commission, within a reasonable time, such available information as it requires for its work. In general, the regional planning commission shall have all powers necessary to enable it to perform its functions and promote regional planning. The functions of the regional planning commission shall be solely advisory to the local governments and local government officials comprising the region.