(a) The Department of Health and Social Services, in addition to other powers possessed by it, may preserve the public health within all incorporated towns and within 1 mile of the water supply thereof.
(b) The Department of Health and Social Services may also make and enforce orders in local sanitation matters, when in the judgment of the Department of Health and Social Services such action is necessary for the protection of the public health and the local boards of health have neglected or refused to act with sufficient promptness or efficiency, or when or where such local board has not been established. All expenses so incurred shall be paid by the city, or town or county for which services are rendered upon bill presented to the treasurer of such city, town or county by the Department of Health and Social Services.