1. In addition to such other advisory functions as may be agreed upon with the division, the regional advisory councils shall review and advise on programs and policies of the regional centers. The councils shall review, advise on, and recommend regional program budgets and shall report to the division director their findings as to their conformity with the regional plans before they are transmitted to the department to be considered for inclusion in the department budget request.

2. The regional councils may advise the department, the division and the regional centers on methods of operation and service delivery which will assure comprehensive services with the minimum amount of duplication, fragmentation and unnecessary expenditures. In making such proposals, the councils shall consider the most appropriate use of existing agencies and professional personnel providing residential facilities, day programs and other specialized services for persons with an intellectual disability or developmental disability in their regions.

3. The duties of the regional advisory councils shall include:

(1) Determining the disbursement of the cash stipend as established in section 633.180 and the family support loan as established in section 633.185;

(2) Providing direction and assistance to the regional center in the development of a family support plan based upon the needs in the region;

(3) Approval of the regional family support plan;

(4) Monitoring the implementation of the family support plan;

(5) Providing an annual written report to the department of mental health regarding the activities of the family support council.