§ 17. Additional powers and duties of the district.

(a)

Without in any manner limiting or restricting the general powers created by this Subtitle, the district shall have power:

(1)

To adopt and have a common seal and to alter the same at pleasure;

(2)

To sue and be sued;

(3)

To make rules and regulations for the conduct of its business;

(4)

Subject to the provisions of Section 12(a) hereof and subject to the review and approval in whole or in part by the respective governing bodies of the counties, to make and enter into all contracts or agreements as the Commission may determine which are necessary or incidental to the performance of its duties and to the execution of the powers granted under this Subtitle.

(5)

To accept loans and grants of money or materials or property at any time from the United States of America or the State of Maryland or any agency or instrumentality thereof;

(6)

In the name of the district, and on its behalf, to acquire, hold and dispose of its contract or other revenues;

(7)

To exercise any power usually possessed by private corporations, including the right to expend, solely from funds provided under the authority of this Subtitle, such funds as may be considered by the Commission to be advisable or necessary in the performance of its duties and functions;

(8)

To employ engineers, attorneys, other professional experts and consultants, and general and clerical employees as are necessary, and to prescribe their powers and duties and fix their compensation. The Commission may not establish any merit, retirement or pension systems, but the County Councils of Montgomery County and Prince George's County may, subject to appropriate agreements with the Commission, include employees of the district in the retirement or pension system of either county, as may be agreed upon;

(9)

To do and perform any acts and things authorized by this Subtitle under, through, or by means of its own officers, agents and employees, or by contracts with any persons; and

(10)

To execute any and all instruments and do and perform any and all acts or things necessary, convenient or desirable for the purposes of the district or to carry out the powers expressly given in this Subtitle.

(Laws 1965, Ch. 870, Sec. 1; Laws 1963, Sec. 83A-17; Laws 1992, Ch. 22)