The commission shall plan and direct the carrying out of an economic development and expansion program for the county or region. The program shall include, but not be restricted to, the following activities:

    (a) Investigation and study of conditions affecting the economy of the area, technical studies and statistical research and surveys necessary or useful for the expansion of the economy, and the collection and dissemination of such information.

    (b) Recommendations to the board or boards of supervisors for the study and elimination of restrictions, barriers and burdens imposed by law or otherwise, which may adversely affect or retard the development and expansion of area industry, commerce or agriculture.

    (c) Study and advise the board or boards of supervisors, industry and interested organizations and associations as to means and methods of providing financing for economic expansion in the county or region.

    (d) Promotion and encouragement of the expansion and development of markets for products of the county or region.

    (e) Publicizing of the material, economic and cultural advantages of the county or region.

    (f) Conduct research and make recommendations to the board or boards of supervisors for the general purpose of guiding and accomplishing a coordinated and efficient development of the county or region in accordance with present and future needs and to best utilize the county’s or region’s resources.