(a) General rule.--The governing bodies of municipalities may appropriate funds for the purpose of contributing to the operation of the commission. The commission may, with the consent of all the governing bodies, also receive grants from the Federal or State governments or from individuals or foundations and shall have the authority to contract therewith. The commission may appoint such employees and staff as it deems necessary for its work and contract with planners and other consultants for the services it may require. The commission may also perform planning services for any municipality which is not a member thereof and may charge fees for the work. The commission may also prepare and sell maps, reports, bulletins or other material and establish reasonable charges therefor.

(b) Planning assistance.--The commission may provide planning assistance and do planning work, including surveys, land use studies, urban renewal plans, technical services and other elements of comprehensive planning programs, for any municipalities within the region. For this purpose, the commission may, with the consent of all the governing bodies, accept any funds, personnel or other assistance made available by the Federal or State government or from individuals or foundations, and, for the purposes of receiving and using Federal or State planning grants for provision of urban planning assistance, the commission may enter into contracts regarding the acceptance or use of the funds or assistance.