The operations of the council will be financed by funds appropriated by section 79A, Act 218, Session Laws of Hawaii, 1973, as amended by section 9, Act 218, Session Laws of Hawaii, 1974. An annual recommended budget for the council shall be prepared by its chairperson and submitted to the council for approval. Funds may be expended for staff services, administrative and operating costs, travel and per diem costs of council members and staff, hiring of consultants to assist in work program formulation, planning and research, publication of materials, and any other activities necessary and incidental to the effective operations of the council in fulfilling the purposes of this chapter.