The board or joint board of county commissioners shall have authority to hire expert consultants to provide information and assistance and gather information as required; to issue subpoenas, and compel the attendance and testimony of witnesses, and the production of papers, books and documents; and to cause a stenographic or other record made of the proceedings. The expense shall be a proper charge against the county general fund and, when there are two or more counties involved, the expense shall be prorated to the counties in proportion to area.

L. 1963, ch. 509, § 8; June 30.