Section 27A. The commission may hold hearings, may enter into contracts with individuals, organizations and institutions for services furthering the objectives of the commission's program; may enter into contracts with local or regional associations for cooperative endeavors furthering the commission's program; may accept gifts, contributions and bequests of funds from individuals, foundations and from federal, state or other governmental bodies for the purpose of furthering the commission's program; may make and sign any agreements and may do and perform any and all acts which may be necessary or desirable to carry out the purposes of sections twenty-six to twenty-seven B, inclusive. The commission may request from any department, division, board, bureau, commission or agency of the commonwealth, or any municipal historical commission, such assistance and data as will enable it properly to carry out its powers and duties.