(a) The board of waterworks or sewerage commissioners, constituted and appointed as provided in this part and referred to in this part as the “board”, has the power to take all steps and proceedings and to make and enter into all contracts and agreements necessary or incidental to the performance of its duties and the execution of its powers under this part, subject only to limitations on matters requiring approval by the governing body of the city or town in question.

(b) From and after its first meeting, the board shall act in an advisory capacity to the governing body of the city or town in all matters pertaining to the financing of the enterprise and the acquisition of any or all parts of the proposed works or extensions to the works by purchase, condemnation or construction, and it is the board's duty to collect and furnish all necessary data and information, and to recommend such appropriate action by the governing body as may appear to the board to be necessary from time to time.

(c) Subject to and after approval by the governing body of the city or town, the board shall have the power, and it shall be the board's duty, to proceed with all matters pertaining to construction, extensions, improvements and repairs necessary to proper completion of the works. After completion and acceptance of the works by the board, and approval of such acceptance by the governing body of the city or town, the board shall have the power, and it shall be its duty, to proceed with all matters and perform everything necessary to the proper operation of the works and collection of charges for service rendered, subject only to the limitation of funds available for operation and maintenance. To this end, the board may employ such employees as in its judgment may be necessary and may fix their compensation, all of whom shall do such work as the board shall direct. The board shall have power to employ engineers and attorneys whenever in its judgment such services are necessary.