The exercise of the powers granted by this chapter will be in all respects for the benefit of the people of this State, for the increase of their commerce, welfare and prosperity, and for the improvement of their health and living conditions, and as the operation and maintenance of a project by the Authority or its agent or a lessee will constitute the performance of an essential public function, neither the Authority nor its agent nor the lessee shall be subject to provisions of the Constitution of the State required to pay any taxes or assessments upon or in respect of a project or upon any property acquired or used by the Authority or its agent, or the lessee, under this chapter or upon the income therefrom, and any bonds or notes issued under this chapter, their transfer and the income therefrom, shall at all times be free from taxation of every kind by the State and by the municipalities and other political subdivisions in the State.