The Regional District is governed by a Board of Directors composed of thirteen members, one from each of the five Electoral Areas and one from each of the eight municipal councils. In the unincorporated areas the Regional District's Board of Directors serves as the local government much the same as a municipal council would.

The Regional District provides a broad range of services within its boundaries. Services provided vary widely and many are partnerships of municipal and non-municipal areas within the region. Only those areas receiving a particular service are taxed for the service.

Some examples of these services include: solid waste management , general administration , community and regional planning & development , building inspection , sewage collection and treatment, animal control, recreation & culture , libraries, fire protection , economic development, public transit  and cemeteries.