A majority of the members of the council shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of any business or the exercise of any power of the council. The commissioners of agriculture and markets, commerce, energy, environmental conservation, health, transportation, the chairman of the public service commission and secretary of state may, by official authority filed in their respective agencies, and with the water resources planning council, designate a deputy or other officer to exercise his powers and perform his duties, including the right to vote, on the council. The council may also establish for itself bylaws for the conduct of its affairs.