In 1969 the County Legislatures of Allegany, Cattaraugus, and Chautauqua Counties of New York State adopted a resolution creating Southern Tier West as a regional planning board (specialized unit of local government) under the authority of Article 12B of the New York State General Municipal Law.

Our MISSION is to help coordinate and enhance planning and development activities in Allegany, Cattaraugus, and Chautauqua Counties so as to promote social, physical, and economic development in these counties.  Southern Tier West seeks to improve the quality of life for the region's people and assure that the "people of the Southern Tier West region have access to adequate occupational, educational, and recreational opportunities; environment; health care services; housing; public safety; and transportation.