Any two or more units of local government and universities may, at their option, by contract, create a Transportation Service Association through which they shall exercise all powers conferred by this Act. The powers of any Association created hereunder shall repose in and be exercised by a Board of Directors. Directors may be chosen in such manner and for such terms as the creators of the Association may determine. The Board of Directors may employ a manager of the Association and may employ and contract for a secretary, treasurer, technical experts and such other officers, agents and employees, permanent and temporary, as it may require, and shall fix and determine their qualifications, duties, and compensation.