It is anticipated that this chapter will usually be utilized to finance a distribution system where the source of supply is without the district, and not under its control, and that individuals within the district will pay water rent to a municipality or corporation without the district. It is intended that the trustees may so operate the utility as will best serve the users, and they are expressly authorized to buy and sell water, to fix the rates to consumers and make all contracts reasonable or necessary to accomplish the purpose of this chapter and to carry on all the operations incident to maintaining and operating said utility and to the procuring and furnishing of water to the consumers in the district. If the development of a source of supply is within the means of the district, the trustees may install wells, tanks, meters, and any other equipment properly pertaining to operate the utility.