(a) The board may appoint an executive director to serve at the pleasure of the authority.
(b) The executive director is exempt from all civil service provisions and shall be paid a salary established by the board.
(c) The executive director may appoint staff or retain consultants as necessary to carry out the duties of the authority.
(d) All contracts approved and awarded by the executive director shall be awarded in accordance with state laws generally applicable to local agency procurements and contracts, subject to the provisions of this chapter. Awards shall be based on price or competitive negotiation, or on both of those things.