(a)
(1) This chapter shall be liberally construed in conformity with its intent.
(2) To this end, it shall not be necessary to comply with the general provisions of other laws dealing with public facilities, their acquisition, construction, leasing, encumbering, or disposition, including particularly, without limitation, bidding and appraisal requirements.
(b) All acts and activities of a water authority performed pursuant to the authority of this chapter are legislatively determined and declared to be essential governmental functions.